Huawei allowed limited access to UK’s 5G networks as Britain defies US pressure

Huawei, which has already been blocked in other key markets including Australia and Japan, gave a measured response to the decision.

“Huawei is reassured by the U.K. government’s confirmation that we can continue working with our customers to keep the 5G roll-out on track. This evidence-based decision will result in a more advanced, more secure and more cost-effective telecoms infrastructure that is fit for the future. It gives the U.K. access to world-leading technology and ensures a competitive market,” Victor Zhang, vice president at Huawei, said in a statement.

Andy Purdy, the U.S. chief security officer at Huawei, said the U.K.’s decision was not necessarily a big win for the company, as the U.K. has always taken a measured approach since it began operating in the country over 15 years ago.

“Frankly, we don’t really see this as a win per se, this is a very small step and a process that began 15 years ago with the U.K., they have taken a very measured, a very somber approach to risk mitigation so they can get the benefits of technology,” Purdy told CNBC’s “Squawk Box” on Tuesday.

Purdy did say that the 35% cap is a “very significant limitation.”

Article source: https://www.cnbc.com/2020/01/28/huawei-uk-chinese-firm-allowed-limited-access-to-uk-5g-network.html