Envoy Urges 'independent' Huawei Decision In UK

China's ambassador in London says Britain can and must work with mainland technology giant Huawei in developing its 5G telecoms network.

Writing in the Sunday Telegraph newspaper, Liu Xiaoming urged the British government to make independent decisions, despite security concerns about the technology.

He said Huawei had a good track record on security, and called on London to make what he called the right decision - based on its national interests and long-term national development.

In an apparent oblique swipe at US warnings of the risks of using Huawei 5G technology, Liu said Britain should resist pressure and make up its own mind.

While it was understandable to have security concerns about 5G, this should not be allowed to incite fear, he added.

Allowing Huawei a reduced role in building its 5G network puts Britain at odds with Washington which has told allies not to use its technology at all because of fears it could be a vehicle for Chinese spying. Huawei has categorically denied this.