A number of influential Conservative MP’s are reportedly going to attempt to pass a law next week that will ensure that the UK’s telecoms networks which will include Britain’s soon to be built 5G network do not contain any Huawei equipment after 2022. Although Boris Johnson’s plan entails a limited role for Huawei some Conservative MPs are fearful that allowing Huawei any role in the project will compromise national security. These comments have been mirrored by many in the US such as Ted Cruz who argued that “4 eyes were better than 6”, these comments hint at the removal of Britain from the 5 eyes intelligence-sharing network.
The group of Tories involved in the bill include the former cabinet ministers Iain Duncan Smith, Damian Green, Owen Paterson and David Davis. On Tuesday the group attempt to push the bill via an amendment to the government’s bill on the project. However, the amendment which is seeking to ban national telecoms operators from using equipment from any high-risk vendors could be problematic for other projects. One example of this is that BT has used Huawei equipment in its fixed-line networks, including high-speed broadband infrastructure.
The rebels who are proposing the amendment are unsure how many MPs will support their amendment, but one claimed as many as 40 Conservatives could back them. This could be sufficient to inflict a defeat on the government in the House of Commons. Ian Duncan Smith said in Westminster Hall on Wednesday evening “We’re in a mess and the only way to get out of that mess is to ensure that Huawei reduces from its present position, not to 35 per cent that the government wants, but simply down to zero per cent.”
The FT are reporting claims from one senior Tory MP who is opposed to Huawei involvement that there have been private assurances to some Conservatives about a “pledge of zero involvement” although confirmation has yet to come from ministers. Huawei has repeatedly stated it is a private company and is not controlled by the Chinese Communist Party.
UNN is a truly alternative news organisation delivering live shows, articles, outside broadcasts and so much more! We desperately need your support to continue each month and you can support our work by Clicking Here Now and SUBSCRIBING to show your support for Real News!
Current Affairs Correspondent | My name is Oliver Down I am 22, and a staunch brexiteer. I am a Bristolian lad who studied politics in Leicester. I believe in free speech and accurate journalism and I won’t be afraid to give you “the other side” of the story!
[sibwp_form id=4]
