What's happened
Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden is considering blocking British investments in emerging technologies in hostile countries to prevent potential threats to UK security. He warns of the security risks of globalisation and plans to strengthen the UK's economic defences. Measures will be unveiled to restrict trade and investment with China to counter threats to the UK's open economy.
Why it matters
The UK's consideration of blocking investments in hostile countries and strengthening economic defences is crucial for safeguarding national security and countering potential threats from adversarial nations. These measures aim to protect the UK's interests in the face of rising geopolitical tensions and economic vulnerabilities.
What the papers say
The Guardian reports that the UK government is contemplating restricting British investments in emerging technologies in hostile countries to prevent financing projects that could undermine national security. The Independent highlights Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden's warning about the security risks of globalisation and the need to bolster the UK's economic defences. Politico emphasizes the unveiling of measures by Deputy Prime Minister Dowden to curb trade and investment with China amid unprecedented threats to the UK's open economy.
How we got here
The UK government's move to consider blocking investments in hostile countries and enhancing economic defences follows concerns about potential threats to national security and economic stability. The focus on emerging technologies and trade restrictions with China reflects a broader strategy to mitigate risks posed by geopolitical tensions and vulnerabilities in the global economy.
Common question
More on these topics
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The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, commonly known as the United Kingdom or Britain, is a sovereign country located off the northÂwestern coast of the European mainland.
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Oliver James Dowden, CBE is a British politician who, since February 2020, serves as HM Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport.