U.K., Oct. 22 -- UK Parliament issued the following news:
Responding to the publication of a White Paper announcing proposed news measures to protect critical undersea infrastructure, including undersea cables, Chair of the Joint Committee on the National Security Strategy, Matt Western MP said:
“Critical undersea infrastructure in the UK is facing serious and evolving threats that require a strong response from Government. The legislation covering attacks on undersea cables was written in a different age and it is right that a White Paper has been brought forward to bring it up to date, recognising the risks the Joint Committee on the National Security Strategy highlighted in our 2025 report.
“Ensuring a strong deterrent will be vital as part of a robust range of measures the UK will need to have in place to protect itself. We will be watching next steps closely, including the forthcoming statutory framework, to ensure the Government delivers what it promises.”
The Joint Committee’s report published in September 2025 warned that the UK’s undersea internet cable network was a strategic vulnerability and described security preparation as inadequate. It called for stronger deterrence measures with punishments for malicious damage to undersea cables, including legal provisions. Further recommendations included scaling up monitoring schemes, speedier data sharing with law enforcement, and a greater focus on “direct physical interdiction and prosecution” of suspicious vessels and crew.
Further information
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Image: House of Commons/Roger Harris
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