Skip to main content

Proceeding contribution from Malcolm Rifkind (Conservative) in the House of Commons on Monday, 21 November 2011. It occurred during Debate on Intelligence and Security Committee.


Intelligence and Security Committee

There may be some truth in what my hon. Friend says, and obviously these matters must be taken on board. Given his comments, I will make the general point that we should realise that cyber technology can be a threat and an opportunity for this country and others. One need only think of the use of what has become known as the Stuxnet malware, which temporarily prevented the Iranians continuing with uranium enrichment, which might lead to nuclear capability. If that happened—obviously, the information available is limited—it is a positive example of how such technology might prevent military conflict or a war ever taking place. Technology is not peculiar to one side of the debate or the other, but we must protect our secrets and our information. I strongly endorse my hon. Friend's comments.


Secondary information

Type
Proceeding contribution
Reference
536 c68 
Session
2010-12
Chamber / Committee
House of Commons chamber
Subjects
Disclosure of information Counter-terrorism Cooperation Consultants Cybercrime Finance Intelligence services GCHQ Intelligence and Security Committee Judicial review National security Parliamentary scrutiny Staff Espionage Olympic Games 2012 Mohamed, Binyam Defence Intelligence
Link
View this Proceeding contribution on www.publications.parliament.uk