Source · Select Committees · Human Rights (Joint Committee)
Recommendation 36
36
Accepted
The UK’s response to TNR would benefit significantly from more structured and consistent coordination across...
Conclusion
The UK’s response to TNR would benefit significantly from more structured and consistent coordination across government departments. Currently, responsibilities related to TNR are dispersed across the Home Office, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, the National Crime Agency (NCA), and the intelligence and security services. While each plays a vital role, the absence of a formalised mechanism for collaboration can lead to consistent responses and support for individuals at risk. We welcome the recent announcement of the State Threats Joint Unit, which is intended to enhance the UK’s capacity to respond to hostile state activity. (Conclusion, Paragraph 96)
Government Response Summary
The government accepted the committee's conclusion regarding the need for more structured coordination on TNR across government. It stated that a dedicated team has been established within the Home Office to act as the central point of coordination for the UK's overarching TNR strategy.
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
1. We agree with the Committee’s findings that structured and consistent coordination across government is key to countering TNR, and it has been a priority to ensure our approach is joined up across departments, with formalised mechanisms for collaboration. The UK’s strategic approach to TNR has been shaped by the comprehensive review undertaken by the Defending Democracy Taskforce. The Defending Democracy Taskforce coordinates and drives forward a whole-of-government response to the full range of threats to our democracy. It comprises Ministers and senior officials from multiple government departments, alongside representatives from law enforcement, the Parliamentary authorities, and the UK Intelligence Community. 2. Collaboration across Government, law enforcement and agencies is essential in countering TNR. The TNR Review - in bringing together a wide range of government departments and agencies to ensure full coherence in our response - is a good example of the depth of this collaboration. This review brought together officials from lead government departments, law enforcement, the intelligence and security services, and civil society partners to build a shared understanding of the threat and evaluate the UK’s existing response. 3. As announced in the Security Minister’s Written Ministerial Statement on 14 May, a dedicated team has now been established within the Home Office to act as the central point of coordination for TNR across government. This team will oversee the UK’s overarching strategy on TNR, working with departments, operational partners, and civil society to ensure that our response remains proportionate, protective and evidence led.