UK must prepare for infrastructure attacks by hostile states, says Streeting
Defence secretary Wes Streeting said the UK should prepare for hostile states to disrupt everyday infrastructure, describing the risk as “state-sponsored terrorism”. He called for households and businesses to consider how they would cope with cyber-attacks, payment systems going offline and supply chains breaking down, as well as natural emergencies.
Streeting spoke at the opening of a Rheinmetall tank gun barrel factory in Telford, built as part of efforts to speed up rearmament amid Russian threats. He pointed to sabotage incidents in Europe and said the government had indicated that people may be advised to stock up on tinned food and prepare for emergencies. He also said defence spending is set to rise, with plans for it to reach 3.5% of GDP in next year’s spending review.
In short
- Streeting urged the UK to prepare for infrastructure disruption by hostile states.
- Cyber-attacks could affect payments and supply chains.
- Defence spending is planned to reach 3.5% of GDP.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Preparing households and businesses for cyber-attacks, sabotage or supply disruptions could reduce harm and help essential services recover quickly. Supporters may argue that Russia’s actions and reported sabotage incidents in Europe make these risks credible, and that stronger defence spending and public preparedness are prudent safeguards.
The case against
Critics may accept that the risks exist while questioning whether dramatic warnings and higher defence spending are the best response. They could argue that such measures carry substantial costs and may divert resources from other needs, while public advice should be proportionate, specific and backed by clear evidence about likely threats.
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