FT News Briefing Monday, December 9
Dec 9, 2019
Beijing has mandated the removal of foreign tech from government offices, stirring international concern. The FBI investigates a shooting at a US naval base as a possible terrorist act. Meanwhile, doubts emerge in the UK about Boris Johnson's Brexit promises, particularly regarding Northern Ireland's critical role. With the UK general election approaching, the Democratic Unionist Party faces pressure as rising nationalism and Brexit concerns challenge their political standing. The complex interplay of these issues raises questions about the future of peace in Northern Ireland.
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China's Tech Independence
- China's government is mandating the replacement of foreign computer equipment and software in all government offices and public institutions within three years.
- This push for domestic technology mirrors similar actions by the U.S. against Chinese tech companies like Huawei.
Pensacola Shooting Investigation
- The FBI is investigating the Pensacola naval base shooting as a terrorist attack, despite the White House's reluctance to label it as such.
- This difference in approach highlights the ongoing tension between the FBI's assessment and President Trump's stance on Saudi Arabia.
Brexit Timeline Skepticism
- UK officials are skeptical of Boris Johnson's Brexit promise of a clean break from the EU by December 2020.
- Concerns center around the feasibility of implementing the new customs arrangements for Northern Ireland within the proposed timeframe.