Pat McFadden responds to Oliver Dowden's speech on Britain's economic security

Pat McFadden MP, Shadow Secretary of State in the Cabinet Office, responding to Oliver Dowden's Chatham House speech on Britain's economic security, said:

“In a changing world it is right that Government reassesses risks and the necessary responses. Trade policy and security policy are linked, and we must consider technology as a crucial multi use resource.  

“Of course we want to trade openly with the rest of the world but there will be certain capabilities and parts of our infrastructure where we have to put security first in the national interest.  

“This Government's approach to national security, in particular its approach to our engagement with China, has been marred by inconsistencies and has left the UK vulnerable to threats such as the recently reported cyberattacks on our democratic institutions.

“Labour would ensure the UK would make the most of the fantastic technology and innovation we have while maintaining and bolstering our national resilience.”