Britain’s IT security has been lagging behind the EU for years, according to Cybersecurity minister Feryal Clark. She mentioned that new laws to bridge this gap may take up to two more years to be enforced.
In a recent interview with the Mirror, Clark highlighted the impact of cyber attacks on public services, citing the delays caused by a cyber attack on the NHS last year. She shared a personal story about her mother’s postponed hip replacement surgery, emphasizing the significant consequences of such disruptions.
Clark stressed the importance of protecting essential services like water, electricity, and energy from cyber threats. She announced the upcoming Cyber Security and Resilience Bill, which aims to align the UK with EU cybersecurity standards.
While acknowledging the delay in implementing these measures, Clark emphasized the need to prioritize cybersecurity to safeguard businesses and public services. The bill will provide statutory requirements for businesses and grant the Technology Secretary powers to update legislation swiftly in response to emerging threats.
Cyber threats have cost the UK economy billions and caused disruptions to businesses and individuals. The National Cyber Security Centre has dealt with numerous incidents, underscoring the urgency of enhancing cybersecurity measures.
The new bill will enhance protection for critical national services and supply chains, encompassing around 1,000 service providers. By addressing cybersecurity gaps, the government aims to fortify defenses against cyber attacks and ensure the resilience of essential services.