Tory MP in fiery clash with former MI6 director over Huawei – 'Takes one lousy password!’

The UK is set to decide whether it will allow the use of equipment made by technology giant Huawei in implementing its 5G network later on today. The decision has sparked debate and wedged a gap between those who think using the equipment would allow the Chinese government to spy on the UK, and those who say the necessary checks would prevent it.

Among those who are sceptical of the equipment is Conservative MP, Damian Green, who says China is too much of a threat to use what he calls “state” equipment.

Mr Green clashed with former director of operations and intelligence for MI6, Nigel Inkster, over the issue, with Mr Inskter arguing that MI6 would ensure the equipment be safe for use.

Mr Green said: “Lets strip away some of the falsehoods here.

“The idea that Huawei is in any way independent of the Chinese state is clearly not true.

“We know that on a daily basis, the Chinese state is trying to damage the integrity of our internet.”

Here, Emily Maitlis, Newsnight’s presenter, made reference to MI6’s insistence that they would check Huawei technology for signs of spyware.

Mr Green replied: “That’s all great, we were doing that for ages, but nevertheless the Parliamentary system was closed down for a time a couple of years ago by Chinese hackers who were effectively acting on behalf of the Chinese state.”

Here, Mr Inkster cut him off, and said: “They didn’t need Huawei, and they don’t nee Huawei to spy on us.

JUST INWarning Boris Johnson could hand sovereignty with 5G plans

Mr Green argued: “There’s a balance of risk here.

“Do we want to make it easier for the Chinese to do all the spying on us that they do now?

“And, this is what the experts are only guessing about – what they could be doing with 5G when it comes, the internet of things, controlling driverless cars and so on.”

The case against Huawei in the UK is also being argued in the US, with Trump officials lobbying the UK to exclude it on the grounds of national security.

Despite this, Huawei has repeatedly insisted that it would never take orders from the Chinese government.

Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, is chairing a meeting of the National Security Council at which the decision will be made.

Although, its decision may not be announced immediately.

Reports and speculation suggest Mr Johnson might choose to ban Huawei from the “core” parts of the network only.

The core carries out essential functions, such as authenticating subscribers and sending voice and data between devices – it sometimes being described as the “brain” or the “heart” of a network.

Mr Johnson has consistently said he wants a system that delivers “consumer benefits” without compromising national infrastructure security.

He is also keen not to damage the UK’s relationship with other intelligence agencies.

source: express.co.uk