TikTok’s future under ‘scrutiny’ in Britain after US passes bill for BAN app
TIKTOK will come under “scrutiny” in Britain after the US cleared the way to ban it on security grounds.
Rishi Sunak is under pressure to follow America in the crackdown on the Chinese app.
Washington’s House of Representatives has passed a landmark bill that would give Beijing-based company ByteDance six months to sell the social media site or block it completely.
It led to calls for a similar ultimatum in Britain, with ex-Tory minister Lord Bethell demanding the Prime Minister “prioritize our national security”.
Downing Street has already banned TikTok from government devices after concerns were raised about data security.
Yesterday, Sunak’s spokesman said the app remains a “personal choice” for Britons but that security experts will “keep an eye on all these issues”.
He added: “It is clearly a matter for US lawmakers in terms of today’s bill. For our part, ensuring the security of UK data is a priority for the government.
“Our experts will continue to monitor threats to our data and we will not hesitate to take action as necessary to protect our national security.”
Tory peer Lord Bethell yesterday backed US lawmakers who are taking steps to block the influence of the Chinese state.
He said: “The lack of transparency and respect for normal business practices has raised questions about surveillance, influence peddling and harmful algorithms.
“As a society, it is time to address these concerns and prioritize our national security and the safety of our children.”
TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chou yesterday emphasized that the data on his platform is “free from outside manipulation.”