No made-in-China cameras in government buildings: UK amid security concerns

UK-China: UK minister Oliver Dowden said in a written statement to parliament that the decision was taken following a review of “current and future possible security risks.”

The UK government has instructed its various departments to not install surveillance cameras manufactured by Chinese firms at its buildings. This comes amid reports of security risks posed by Chinese companies as part of a cyber tactics adopted by Beijing.

UK-China: Fallen leaves lie in Downing Street in London. (AP)

UK minister Oliver Dowden said in a written statement to parliament that the decision was taken following a review of "current and future possible security risks associated with the installation of visual surveillance systems on the government estate."

"The review has concluded that, in light of the threat to the UK and the increasing capability and connectivity of these systems, additional controls are required," Oliver Dowden said.

“Departments have therefore been instructed to cease deployment of such equipment onto sensitive sites, where it is produced by companies subject to the National Intelligence Law of the People’s Republic of China,” the review submitted by Dowden stated, according to Sky News.

"Since security considerations are always paramount around these sites, we are taking action now to prevent any security risks materialising," the statement added.

Moreover, the existing cameras made by Chinese companies will also be immediately taken down from the government facilities and the departments have also been instructed to disconnect them from all systems.

Earlier, US implemented such a ban as government organisations were ordered not to use any cameras made by Hikvision, Dahua, and other Chinese firms.