The report suggests the fallout from the UK decision to ban Huawei from its next-generation wireless network could amount to more than just a diplomatic spat. The government is trying to revive Britain’s reputation as a country open for business following its departure from the European Union, while China has warned Johnson it will face consequences if the U.K. treats it as a “hostile partner.”
In a separate report that may irk the White House, the Observer newspaper said the government privately told Huawei the decision stemmed partly from US pressure. British officials reportedly gave the impression that it could be reviewed if President Donald Trump fails to win a second term.
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is set to visit London this week, with China and a US-UK trade deal among the topics up for discussion.