After a series of cyber attacks linked to Chinese spies, the UK government contemplates reclassifying China from a ‘challenge’ to a ‘security threat’, sparking a debate over potential economic and trade impacts.
The UK government has taken a stronger stand against China following a series of cyber attacks, leading to a debate over China’s classification from a ‘challenge’ to a ‘security threat’. This move came after it was confirmed that Chinese spies were responsible for cyber attacks on the Electoral Commission and several MPs and peers. Cabinet ministers, including the Education Secretary Gillian Keegan and Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden, have acknowledged the threat China poses, with Dowden hinting at a reclassification of China to ‘threat’. However, this has sparked concerns within the Cabinet regarding potential economic and trade impacts.
The accusations against China include a global hacking operation targeting government institutions, stealing trade secrets, and suppressing critics. The US has charged seven Chinese hackers, and New Zealand reported a state-sponsored cyber attack on its parliament in 2021. The UK specifically highlighted the involvement of Chinese hackers in an attack on the Electoral Commission that exposed personal data of millions of voters. Despite China’s denial of these allegations, the UK government has assured that measures are being taken to secure future elections from cyber threats.
Chancellor Rishi Sunak defended the UK’s stance on China, stating it was firmer than many Western allies. This comes amidst criticisms of the government’s strategy, particularly concerning Chinese investments in the UK. The Foreign Office has taken diplomatic steps by summoning the Chinese embassy’s charge d’affairs to address the cyber activities attributed to Beijing.
In a significant move, the UK government announced sanctions against several Chinese individuals and a company linked to the Advanced Persistent Threat 31 (APT 31) group, affiliated with the Chinese state. These sanctions, which include asset freezes and travel bans, were a response to the cyber attacks on UK political figures. The Foreign Secretary emphasised the role of sanctions in protecting national interests and sending a clear message to those involved in malicious activities.
As the UK continues to address these cyber security challenges, the government’s approach to handling relations with China and safeguarding national interests remains under scrutiny. The imposition of sanctions and the potential reclassification of China as a ‘security threat’ mark pivotal points in the evolving dynamics of cybersecurity and international politics.
