Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill (Seventh sitting)

Debate between Kanishka Narayan and Freddie van Mierlo

Committee stage
Tuesday 24th February 2026 Public Bill Committees

[Kanishka Narayan]

My hon. Friend is absolutely right to recognise the shared sense on the principle of reforming the Computer Misuse Act. Although I am not in a position to give him a specific timeline, I absolutely take into account his recognition that the work needs to proceed at pace. Having held an industry engagement recently on specific proposals, with more than 75 attendees from a range of cyber-security organisations, the Home Office is now reviewing specific feedback as a particular proposal. The question is not whether we will reform the Computer Misuse Act, but simply how.

[Freddie van Mierlo]

I am grateful to the Minister for his reassurances on the ongoing review of the Computer Misuse Act. On that basis, I would like to say that I will withdraw the new clause.

[Kanishka Narayan]

Just—

--- Later in debate ---

[Kanishka Narayan]

I thank the shadow Minister for his recognition of our shared approach on this question. Reform of the Computer Misuse Act is led by the Home Office. I have given my personal commitment to ensuring that reform, but I will also write to him and members of the Committee with as much detail as possible on the timeline to ensure that we are moving fast on it.

In that spirit, I thank hon. Members for their work on this question of the amendment to the Computer Misuse Act and use this opportunity to thank you, Ms McVey, the entire Committee staff and hon. Members for their expertise and perhaps for their sense of fun as well. I thank all staff members, in particular the Bill team in the Department, which has been fabulous throughout the entire process.

[Freddie van Mierlo]

I beg to ask leave to withdraw the clause.

Clause, by leave, withdrawn.

Bill, as amended, to be reported.