Source · Select Committees · Foreign Affairs Committee
Recommendation 38
38
Deferred
It is our view that the Government has created an unnecessarily fragmented approach to countering...
Recommendation
It is our view that the Government has created an unnecessarily fragmented approach to countering foreign information manipulation and interference, with no one department or associated body taking overall leadership. This has created a system which seems to prioritise discussion and bureaucracy over action. A more effective model already exists. In 2016, the Government established the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), within GCHQ, bringing together government, intelligence agencies and the private sector into one organisation, providing expert advice and guidance on cyber security. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) 90 has significantly strengthened the UK’s understanding of, and the response to, the most important cyber threats domestically and internationally. (Conclusion, Paragraph 180)
Government response summary AI-generated
The government partially agrees, noting that the Rycroft Review also highlighted fragmentation issues. It will take the Committee's suggestion for an NCSC-like model into account alongside the Rycroft Review conclusions and lessons from allies, without committing to specific action yet.
Summary of the government's response below — read the verbatim text to verify.
Government Response
Deferred
HM Government · verbatim extract
Deferred
Partially agree. The Rycroft Review has reported on the barriers facing the Government when it comes to adopting a fully joined-up approach to countering foreign information threats. We recognise these conclusions and have been working across Government to strongly cohere the government’s approach to address this pressing national security challenge. We note the Committee’s suggestion, and will take it into account alongside the conclusions of the Rycroft Review, and the lessons we can learn from our allies, including those highlighted by the Committee.
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