Theresa May and her senior ministers have approved the participation of Huawei in some “non-core” parts of Britain’s 5G data network, but have banned the Chinese company from participating in sensitive “core” parts of the project.
The controversial decision, taken on Tuesday at the National Security Council, comes as Philip Hammond, chancellor, prepares to travel to China to promote Britain’s participation in Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative.
The decision to give Huawei limited access to the development of Britain’s 5G network, first reported in the Daily Telegraph, was taken despite warnings about the security risks from ministers including Gavin Williamson, defence secretary.