UK threatens subsea cable saboteurs with 14 years behind bars

The UK government has proposed extensive reforms to legislation dating back to 1885, aiming to impose stricter penalties for damaging subsea cables and pipelines. These critical infrastructure components carry around 99% of the UK's international data traffic and supply 74% of its gas. Currently, the Submarine Telegraph Act 1885 allows for a maximum £100 fine for culpable negligence in damaging cables.

However, these outdated laws are seen as insufficient to deter modern-day saboteurs. The government plans to introduce up to 14 years in prison and unlimited fines for intentional damage, as well as new legal duties for telecoms operators to identify and manage security risks. The measures also grant ministers the power to direct companies and repair providers to take necessary and proportionate protective actions.

Russia is a key focus for the UK authorities, who recently discovered a Russian submarine operation near critical undersea infrastructure. The government aims to regulate fiber-optic sensing technology, which could pose security risks if sensitive data is compromised. The proposed changes follow warnings from Parliament's Joint Committee on the National Security Strategy, which stated that Britain was inadequately prepared for a coordinated attack on its subsea infrastructure.

The 12-week consultation on the plans is currently underway, with the government deciding how to proceed based on the feedback received.