2 Acknowledged

The Bill in its current form does not provide sufficiently clear guidance on how national...

Conclusion
The Bill in its current form does not provide sufficiently clear guidance on how national security should be understood. This is likely to hinder targeted application of the new law, with adverse repercussions for the UK’s national security and economy.
Government Response Summary
The government acknowledges the committee's observation by reiterating its deliberate decision not to define ‘national security’ in the Bill, citing the need for flexibility to respond to evolving risks.
Paragraph Reference
20
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government Acknowledged
As I explained at Report Stage, the Bill does not seek to define ‘national security’. That is deliberate as I believe it is right that the government of the day should be able to respond rapidly to technological, economic, geopolitical and any other changes which may affect our national security. The nature of the risks we face will continue to evolve over time and
Source
Committee Foreign Affairs Committee
Inquiry The FCDO’s role in blocking foreign asset stripping in the UK
Report Sixth Report: Striking the balance: Protecting national security through foreign investment legislation 19 Jan 2021 HC 296
View on Parliament website
Addressee Bodies
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
Timeline
Recommendation age 5.5 yrs
Report published 19 Jan 2021