Tory MPs have warned of “widespread and strong unease” on the backbenches about yesterday’s decision to let Chinese firm Huawei help build the 5G network.
Damian Green, the former de facto deputy prime minister, said a Conservative rebellion was possible unless further assurances were given that the company’s role would be reduced over time.
The Government was braced for criticism from the US as Secretary of State Mike Pompeo flew to Britain this afternoon for a two-day visit, including talks with Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab and Boris Johnson.
The White House made clear it was “disappointed” but No 10 was relieved that there was no direct attack from Donald Trump.
Mr Green told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme there could be trouble when legislation to regulate Huawei’s involvement in 5G is put to a vote in the Commons.
He said: “One of the things that frankly surprised me was the breadth of opposition to the current stance of the Government on the Conservative backbenches.”
Some MPs claim there could be 40 or 50 rebels in a vote.
