Business Secretary Greg Clark sets out new powers to upgrade UK national security rules

The UK has a proud and hard-won reputation as one of the most open economies in the world. A large part of our economic success stems from our belief in open international trade and our support for foreign direct investment, with international investment creating 76,000 jobs last year.

An open approach to international investment must include appropriate safeguards to protect our national security – particularly in a world where the threats faced by global economies are evolving – and in a small minority of investments there are national security considerations which should be scrutinised.

The National Security and Investment White Paper, announced today (Tuesday 24 July) by the Business Secretary Greg Clark, sets out how the government will upgrade its powers to scrutinise investments and address the risks that can arise from hostile parties acquiring ownership of, or control over, businesses or other entities and assets that have national security implications.