Gov snubs Trump and confirms Huawei can be used in 5G networks

Boris Johnson risks wrath of Trump after defying demand to ban Huawei

Huawei and other "high-risk" vendors will be allowed to contribute to the UK's 5G network, the government has confirmed.

Certain manufacturers, including Huawei, will be excluded from "sensitive, core" parts of the network, the government said, and also restricted to a presence of no more than 35 per cent "in the periphery of the network".

Prime minister Boris Johnson chaired a National Security Council meeting where the guidance for network operators was decided.

The government referred to the restrictions as part of a "tough new telecoms security framework", which it said will be legislated at the earliest possible opportunity.

Ciaran Martin, chief executive of the National Cyber Security Centre, said: This package will ensure that the UK has a very strong, practical and technically sound framework for digital security in the years ahead.

"The National Cyber Security Centre has issued advice to telecoms network operators to help with the industry rollout of 5G and full fibre networks in line with the government's objectives.

"High-risk vendors have never been - and never will be - in our most sensitive networks.

"Taken together, these measures add up to a very strong framework for digital security."

The government's decision comes despite the US pressuring its allies to ban Huawei from infrastructure.

Huawei VP Victor Zhang said: "Huawei is reassured by the UK government's confirmation that we can continue working with our customers to keep the 5G rollout on track. This evidence-based decision will result in a more advanced, more secure and more cost-effective telecoms infrastructure that is fit for the future. It gives the UK access to world-leading technology and ensures a competitive market.

"We have supplied cutting-edge technology to telecoms operators in the UK for more than 15 years. We will build on this strong track record, supporting our customers as they invest in their 5G networks, boosting economic growth and helping the UK continue to compete globally.

"We agree that a diverse vendor market and fair competition are essential for network reliability and innovation, as well as ensuring consumers have access to the best possible technology."

Network providers including Vodafone and Three have acknowledged the government's decisions and said they will be assessing the move, without revealing if Huawei is part of their plans.