39 Deferred

To ensure a whole-of-society approach, the Government should establish a public-facing National Counter Disinformation Centre.

Recommendation
To ensure a whole-of-society approach, the Government should establish a public-facing National Counter Disinformation Centre. The UK’s National Counter Disinformation Centre should be placed on a statutory footing, be subject to oversight by Parliament, and be directed to understand, identify and combat foreign information manipulation and interference campaigns being directed against the UK and its interests. The National Counter Disinformation Centre should be similar to Sweden’s Psychological Defence Agency, Ukraine’s Center for Countering Disinformation, and France’s Vigilance and Protection against Foreign Digital Interference service (VIGINUM). (Recommendation, Paragraph 181)
Government Response Summary
The government partially agrees, acknowledging the need for a joined-up approach, but defers action by stating it will note the suggestion and take it into account alongside the conclusions of the Rycroft Review and lessons from allies.
Government Response
Deferred
HM Government Deferred
Partially agree. The Rycroft Review has reported on the barriers facing the Government when it comes to adopting a fully joined-up approach to countering foreign information threats. We recognise these conclusions and have been working across Government to strongly cohere the government’s approach to address this pressing national security challenge. We note the Committee’s suggestion, and will take it into account alongside the conclusions of the Rycroft Review, and the lessons we can learn from our allies, including those highlighted by the Committee.
Addressee Bodies
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
Timeline
Recommendation age 0.3 yrs
Report published 27 Mar 2026