Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, Pat McFadden, is expected to outline the UK government’s strengthened approach to cyber security during a keynote address at next week’s CyberUK
conference in Manchester.
Following a surge in cyber attacks on UK retailers, McFadden led a high-level briefing with national security officials and National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) CEO Richard Horne to coordinate the government’s response. He emphasized that businesses must treat cyber security as a top priority.
“These attacks need to be a wake-up call for every business in the UK,” McFadden will say. “Cybercriminals are relentless, and the impact of their actions is felt by working families across the country. Just as we lock our homes and cars, we must protect our digital front doors.”
The NCSC is working closely with affected organisations to assess the threats and provide expert advice. Business leaders are being urged to follow the guidance available on the NCSC website to prevent and respond to potential attacks.
In his upcoming speech, McFadden will stress the government’s support for businesses:
“We are ready to support you. The NCSC is here to help with advice and guidance to strengthen your cyber resilience.”
He will also detail upcoming legislative measures under the Cyber Security and Resilience Bill, which aims to modernise the UK’s cyber defence strategy. The bill will:
Give the Technology Secretary new powers to direct regulated organisations to improve cyber defences
Require over 1,000 private IT providers to enhance their data and network security
Mandate broader cyber incident reporting to the NCSC to improve threat analysis
Additionally, McFadden will highlight the recently introduced Cyber Governance Code of Practice, which helps business leaders manage digital risks. It covers areas such as building robust cyber strategies, cultivating cyber-aware workplace cultures, and implementing rapid response plans for incidents.
Small businesses are also encouraged to use the NCSC’s Small Business Guide and engage with the Cyber Local scheme, which provides regionally focused support and funding to build local cyber skills. Photo by jaydeep, Wikimedia commons.