UK Telecommunications

Simon Jupp Excerpts

Tuesday 28th January 2020 Commons Chamber

[Dominic Raab]

My right hon. Friend is right to say it is a balanced consideration, and the two key factors that have informed the 35% figure are the need for diversity of supply in the market and the need to ensure the security of the network. The quicker we can bring more trusted homegrown alternatives into play, the swifter we can review the 35% cap and reach the point at which we reduce our reliance on high-risk vendors. That is the equation we are addressing.

[Simon Jupp (East Devon) (Con)]

Can the Secretary of State confirm that any decision to ban Huawei outright would result in possible trade retaliation by China?

[Dominic Raab]

There would be that risk, but it is not the basis on which the decision has been made. We have looked at the evidence and consulted partners across the board, and we have come to the right decision for the United Kingdom both on the issue of investment in 5G and, critically, on the right focused approach to protect our infrastructure.