Deputy prime minister unveils National Risk Register

Deputy prime minister Oliver Dowden has published the National Risk Register, which outlines the risks facing the UK.

The register includes 89 threats that would have a significant impact on the UK’s safety, security or critical systems at a national level.

Threats listed include disruption to energy supplies following the invasion of Ukraine, malicious uses of drones to disrupt transport and other critical operations and threats to undersea transatlantic telecommunications cables used for internet and communications.

Other threats on the list include international terrorist attack, Northern Ireland related terrorism, strategic hostage taking and assassination of a high-profile public figure. There is also a section on cyber attacks which could affect the health and social care system, transport sector or telecommunications systems.

Dowden said: "This is the most comprehensive risk assessment we’ve ever published, so that government and our partners can put robust plans in place and be ready for anything.

"One of those rising risks is energy security. We’ve installed the first turbine at the future world’s largest offshore windfarm, which will provide secure, low-cost and clean energy for the British people - enabling us to stand up to Putin’s energy ransom."

Deputy national security advisor, Matt Collins, said: "A comprehensive understanding of the risks we face is critical to keeping the UK safe.  This edition of the NRR, based on the Government’s internal, classified risk assessment offers even more detail on the potential scenarios, response and recovery options relating to the risks facing the UK; ranging from terrorism to conflicts and natural disasters."

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