Boris Johnson on Cyber Security
Boris Johnson, during his time as Prime Minister, viewed cyber security as a crucial component of national defence and economic stability, often linking it to international relations and technological advancement.
His government emphasized increasing the UK's offensive and defensive cyber capabilities to counter state-based threats, particularly from actors like Russia. This focus manifested in policy initiatives aimed at bolstering digital resilience across critical sectors.
Under Johnson's premiership, a key element of the cyber strategy involved the Online Safety Bill, which sought to impose a statutory duty of care on online companies. While this was primarily focused on content, it touched upon the operational security and responsibility of major technology platforms.
Context
As Prime Minister, Boris Johnson led the government responsible for the National Cyber Strategy and the associated National Cyber Force. This placed cyber security firmly within the remit of national security, defence, and economic competitiveness.
Johnson's administration operated against a backdrop of increasing awareness of state-sponsored cyber attacks, which informed his government's commitment to enhancing the UK's overall digital posture.
Actions Taken
- LegislationThe government announced the Online Safety Bill, which would empower Ofcom to block particular websites and impose a statutory duty of care on online companies.
- Foreign Policy OversightDuring his time as Foreign Secretary, Johnson would have overseen the UK's approach to international cyber governance and threats.
Sources2
* This is not an exhaustive list of sources.