Source · Select Committees · Defence Committee
Recommendation 24
24
Paragraph: 131
The Government has faced pressure to remove Huawei more quickly than by 2027.
Recommendation
The Government has faced pressure to remove Huawei more quickly than by 2027. The evidence we have received would suggest that a quicker timescale could result in signal blackouts, delay the 5G rollout significantly and cost both operators and the economy greatly. For the time being we consider the plan for a removal by 2027 to be a sensible decision. Should pressure from allies for a speedier removal continue or should China’s threats and global position change so significantly to warrant it, the Government should, however, consider whether a removal by 2025 is feasible and economically viable. The Government should also be alert to the fact that other factors may warrant an earlier removal despite the risk of costs or delays.
Paragraph Reference:
131
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
The Government recognises that there may be pressures to remove Huawei from 5G networks before 2027; however, we have provided this advice after taking into account our specific national circumstances and how the risks from these sanctions are manifested in the UK. To go further and faster beyond a 2027 target would add considerable further costs and delays to rollout of the 5G network. As the Committee notes, working to a shorter timetable for removal would mean a greater risk of actual disruption to mobile telecoms networks.