World

UK phone firms demand clarity over Huawei

June 12, 2019 5:47 am

The UK risks losing its position as a world leader in mobile connectivity, Britain’s mobile operators are warning.

In a draft letter to Cabinet Secretary Mark Sedwill, seen by the BBC, operators will urge the government to clarify its position over Huawei.

The letter asks for an urgent meeting between industry leaders and the government to discuss their concerns.

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Operators say they can’t invest in infrastructure while uncertainty over the use of Chinese technology persists.

The companies are planning to send the letter to government as soon as this week.

They are concerned at the government’s inability to decide whether Huawei technology will be approved for use in new 5G networks.

A government spokesperson said: “The security and resilience of the UK’s telecoms networks is of paramount importance. We have robust procedures in place to manage risks to national security and are committed to the highest possible security standards.