16 May 2019

Britain will allow Huawei Technologies a restricted role in building parts of its 5G network as it seeks a middle ground in an unpleasant row between the US and China over the next generation of communications technology.

Huawei, the world’s biggest producer of telecom equipment, is under intense scrutiny after the US told allies not to use its technology because of fears it could be a vehicle for Chinese spying.

“It’s essential that we get the balance right, ensuring that our networks are built in a way that is secure against interference from whatever source, but also are competitive,” said chancellor Philip Hammond.