The UK has reasserted its stance on "checks and balances" regarding China, particularly with claims that Chinese hackers are compromising vital infrastructure. This heightened rhetoric follows reports of an impending visit by the British foreign secretary to China, indicating that the UK remains challenged in creating a consistent policy towards the country, as noted by Chinese experts.
Upon the Labour government's assumption of power in July, senior officials have been made aware of potential breaches to supply chains and critical systems thought to be linked to Chinese hackers. Reports indicate that these cyber activities extend beyond previously disclosed incidents involving Parliament and the Defense Ministry. Such insights were shared anonymously due to the sensitivity of national security discussions.
The timing of the report is significant as it emerges just before the anticipated visit of Foreign Secretary David Lammy to China, aimed at fostering a less confrontational relationship and reigniting discussions on trade and investment. This visit, however, has yet to be officially confirmed by Chinese authorities.
Under the current Labour administration, the UK is adopting a "balanced" approach toward China, which involves both engagement and pushing back on issues such as human rights and cybersecurity. According to Cui Hongjian, a professor from Beijing Foreign Studies University, this strategy not only aims to exert pressure on China but also to address negative sentiments surrounding the UK's China policy in recent years.
British officials have expressed a desire to revise the previous government's aggressive position that characterized China as a significant challenge, particularly in terms of accepting Chinese investments. Furthermore, the strained UK-China relationship has impeded bilateral investment and limited the UK's global influence, as pointed out by Cui. He emphasized that many issues may remain unresolved without effective communication with China, highlighting the Labour government's struggle to form a consistent policy in light of its recent accusations against Chinese hackers.
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