The UK government has launched a new review of cyber security to improve trust and confidence among business leaders in existing and emerging technologies in response to the increasing sophistication of cyber threats.
In a speech at the UK-France Cyber Proliferation Conference, Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden emphasized the significant growth of the UK’s cyber security industry, which has generated over £10bn in revenue and £5bn in exports. Dowden highlighted the government’s recognition of the industry’s potential for growth and its role in enhancing online and offline safety. He also announced the appointment of Stephen McPartland MP (Conservative – Stevenage) to lead an independent review, reflecting the government’s commitment to reshaping the narrative and market incentives surrounding cyber security.
The review, led by Mr McPartland, will involve a team comprising government officials, IT and security experts, and independent researchers. It will primarily focus on investigating the potential economic opportunities that cyber security can offer and promoting trust in technology, particularly in areas such as generative artificial intelligence (AI), with the goal of facilitating faster digitization and maintaining global competitiveness. The review also aims to bolster support for good cyber security practices, raise awareness of cyber security issues and tools, and minimize costs for businesses and consumers.
The McPartland Review aligns with the government’s long-term vision of establishing the UK as a technology superpower and complements the National Cyber Strategy 2022. Additionally, the UK, in collaboration with the French government, hosted the Pall Mall Declaration event, which brought together representatives from over 30 countries and the tech industry to address the proliferation of commercial spyware and “hackers-for-hire.” The goal of the event was to establish an international agreement, the Pall Mall Declaration, to regulate the use of such technology and provide guidelines for oversight and safeguards.
Policy Paper: McPartland review of cyber security and economic growth – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
