5
Not Addressed
Many cable landing stations are vulnerable to attack.
Recommendation
Many cable landing stations are vulnerable to attack. The Government and operators must take the risk of state-backed sabotage seriously, including against targets in Europe. (Conclusion, Paragraph 47)
Government Response Summary
The government's response discusses the need for a UK-based and UK-flagged repair ship, which does not address the committee's recommendation about the vulnerability of cable landing stations or taking the risk of state-backed sabotage seriously.
Government Response
Not Addressed
Government Response
Not Addressed
HM Government
Not Addressed
The Government agrees that there needs to continue to be a UK-based and UK-flagged repair ship for the foreseeable future. A UK based and UK flagged repair ship enables rapid response to cable breaks in UK waters, sufficient repair capacity when required and provides a strategically deployable capability during an emergency. We are currently exploring a range of options that also provide ongoing value for money for the taxpayer. We will set out our plans in more detail in due course.
Source
Inquiry
Undersea cables
Report
1st Report - Subsea telecommunications cables: resilience and crisis preparedness
19 Sep 2025
HC 723
Addressee Bodies
Cabinet Office
Timeline
Recommendation age
0.9 yr
Report published
19 Sep 2025