Conservative MP Tim Loughton leads calls for sanctions against Chinese officials in response to cyber-attacks on the UK Electoral Commission and data breaches affecting millions of voters, as the government faces criticism for its handling of the issue.
Amid concerns of escalating Chinese interference in the United Kingdom’s political system, Conservative MP Tim Loughton has advocated for the imposition of sanctions against senior Chinese officials. Citing specific instances, including cyber-attacks on the Electoral Commission and the personal data of 40 million voters, lawmakers express a pressing need for a robust response to deter Beijing’s activities targeting the UK. Allegations include the targeting of 43 MPs and peers, with the hack beginning in August 2021 but only detected in October 2022.
Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden, in light of these events, is expected to address Parliament regarding the Chinese involvement in these cyber-attacks. Additionally, the government has been critiqued for its delayed response, with calls for sanctions not only over cyber-attacks but also regarding human rights abuses in Hong Kong. The discussions extend into the reform of UK spying laws through the Investigatory Powers (Amendment) Bill, aiming to bolster security measures against such intrusions.
Tim Loughton, a member of the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China, stresses the importance of a firm stance against China, highlighting the need for serious repercussions for their actions and encouraging a dialogue based on international norms and laws. The call for sanctions and a stronger approach reflects growing concerns among UK politicians over China’s assertiveness and the threat it poses to the UK’s democratic processes. Junior Energy Minister Andrew Bowie reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting the UK from cyber threats, amidst criticisms of the government’s slow response and the ongoing debate on how to balance economic relations with security concerns.
