The UK government, led by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, faces a balancing act in responding to Chinese cyber-attacks, aiming to protect national security while minimizing impact on trade relations.
The UK government is currently navigating its response to a series of Chinese cyber-attacks targeting British institutions and individuals. Former Chancellor and the current Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, has pledged a cautious approach to any new measures against China, stressing the importance of avoiding unintended consequences for trade relations. This approach comes amidst revelations of Chinese malign cyber activities and calls within the UK for a tougher stance towards Beijing.
The Foreign Office has considered elevating China’s risk level under the National Security Act which would necessitate the registration of activities deemed threatening to UK safety and interests. However, opinions within the government vary, with some advocating for more stringent actions against China, while others urge caution due to economic considerations.
Concerns have also been raised about the presence of Chinese goods in the UK market, with former Tory leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith calling for consumer awareness and governmental action against products associated with issues like slave labour. In response to critiques of its stance on China, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak defended the UK’s position as robust, especially when compared with other Western nations. Sunak has highlighted the UK’s actions against Chinese-owned companies and cyber threats as examples of the UK’s firm approach.
Tensions between the UK and China have further escalated following the summoning of a senior Chinese diplomat to the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO), condemning China’s involvement in cyber-attacks against British democracy. Despite the imposition of sanctions on entities linked to China’s cyber operations, some Conservative party members have criticized the government’s response as insufficient.
As the UK considers designating China as an “epoch-defining challenge” in its integrated review, there is an ongoing debate within the government regarding the balance between safeguarding national security and maintaining beneficial trade relationships with China. The situation underscores the complexities of addressing foreign cyber espionage while navigating international trade dynamics.
