US fumes as UK gives 5G network deal to Chinese tech giant, Huawei

The United States has expressed concern and disappointment at the decision of the United Kingdom to allow Chinese tech giant Huawei to have a role in the UK’s 5G network.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had warned that Huawei equipment posed a spying risk, adding the US “won’t be able to share information” with nations that used it, but UK Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab has denied that.

To address the concerns, Pompeo is flying into Britain for talks, with plans to also meet UK Prime Minister, Boris Johnson. Although the US State Department says Mr Pompeo’s visit was an opportunity to “reaffirm the special relationship following the UK’s departure from the EU and discuss ways to broaden and deepen trade ties”.

But the case of Harry Dunn is also expected to be discussed, after Washington refused the UK’s request for the extradition of Anne Sacoolas – an American diplomat’s wife suspected of causing his death by dangerous driving.

After his visit, Mr Pompeo will fly to Ukraine on Thursday.

Ahead of Tuesday’s National Security Council decision on Huawei, the US had warned that giving the firm a role in 5G could allow the Chinese government a “back door” into the telecoms network through which they could carry out espionage or cyber attacks.

But the UK said the firm will be barred from sensitive locations, such as nuclear sites and military bases and its share of the market will be capped at 35%.

Following the announcement, Mr Johnson spoke to President Donald Trump to explain the decision and try to allay US concerns.

A Trump administration official said the US was “disappointed” with the decision.