The British government may be moving closer to reversing its decision to include Huawei in its 5G rollout.
Huawei has been under increasing pressure globally amid accusations that it helps the Chinese government spy on governments and organizations around the world. While all Chinese corporations are required to cooperate with the government, Huawei has been accused of having far closer ties with the Chinese intelligence community than most companies.
Despite ongoing US pressure to exclude Huawei, the British government initially opted to include the Chinese firm in a limited capacity. Recent events, however, have forced the UK to reconsider. US officials have repeatedly warned that including Huawei would force the US to revisit sharing intelligence and military assets with the UK. The US has also taken efforts to restrict Huawei’s supply of semiconductors.
It appears the increased pressure is having an impact. According to The Guardian, Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden told a defense committee that an emergency review was nearly finished and would likely result in a change of policy.
“Given that those sanctions are targeted at 5G and extensive, it is likely to have an impact on the viability of Huawei as a provider for the 5G network,” Dowden told the MPs.
If the UK does reverse course, it will be a significant blow to Huawei, while providing US official with a major win.
