The UK govt has decided to ban Huawei’s 5G network equipment, a decision came after a report by the National Cyber Security Centre regarding Huawei’s involvement in the nation’s infrastructure. The UK’s ban on Huawei 5G networks is a significant U-turn by Prime Minister Boris Johnson and a substantial victory for the Trump administration.
The decision signifies a reversal from the government’s previous stance which was outlined in January to allow equipment to be used in the country’s 5G infrastructure, but with certain restrictions, putting Huawei in a position to obtain a 35 percent market share and restricting its use in core network components or geographically sensitive areas.
Oliver Dowden, the UK’s Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media, and Sport, expressed deep concern over the loss this action may cause by stating that the decision “will delay our rollout of 5G by a year” and that the “cumulative cost of this and earlier restrictions announced against Huawei earlier in the year could reach £2bn.”
“This has not been an easy decision, but is the right one for the uk telecom networks, for our national security and our economy, both now and indeed in the long run” he added
The United States government has also identified the Shenzhen-based corporation as a potential threat to national security. The British government claims China may be conducting espionage via the 5G network. However, China has rejected all allegations.
The decision to ban Huawei 5G equipment from British networks represents a significant reversal by Johnson. It carries the risk of escalating the ongoing tension between the United Kingdom and China at a particularly delicate time. China has warned Johnson that there will be “consequences” if the United Kingdom regards China as a “hostile partner.”
Huawei is the world’s largest telecom provider and second-largest phone manufacturer, but it is presently experiencing difficulties due to continued opposition from the U.K. and U.S. governments. The United Kingdom government has ordered the elimination of all Huawei 5G equipment by 2027.
