The Chinese spy saga this week in the news reminded me of another headline “’Pakistani Spies’ in the Houses of Parliament” in the Telegraph not so long ago.
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside some of the brightest minds and most cutting-edge companies in the world. This past week I met with more. Standing in Parliament, representing the UK Government and introducing predominantly Israeli tech companies to the UK ecosystem, surrounded by some of the most brilliant minds in cybersecurity, I can’t help but reflect on the journey that brought me to this moment. Two decades ago, I began this work—supporting innovators, fostering entrepreneurship, and helping build a stronger, safer Britain. And I can say, without hesitation, that working with these cyber companies—companies dedicated to defending our nation in the digital age—is among the most important work of my career.
For me, this isn’t just a professional milestone. It’s personal.
Those are cyber companies dedicated to keeping our country safe from evolving threats. Their work isn’t just impressive—it’s essential. In a world where digital threats grow more sophisticated by the day, these firms stand as the first line of defence. Supporting them is, without a doubt, among the most important work I’ve done in my career.
A Commitment to Security and Progress
This isn’t the first time I’ve been called to work at the intersection of security and public service. Thirty years ago, I had the honour of working in the U.S. Congress with Congressman Eliot Engel, focusing on counter-proliferation efforts. Back then, the threats were different, but the mission was the same: protect people, ensure stability, and create a safer world. Again the same two countries I mentioned at the start of this article were involved.
Today, the battlefield has shifted to cyberspace. But the stakes are just as high, and the urgency just as real. From safeguarding critical infrastructure to protecting sensitive data, the companies I work with are tackling some of the most complex challenges of our time. They represent the best of Britain’s entrepreneurial spirit and ingenuity.
A Joy and a Duty
Working with these innovators is more than a professional duty—it’s a joy. Their resilience and creativity inspire me every day. They remind me that while threats will always evolve, so too will our capacity to rise and meet them.
As a Dealmaker for the Department for Business, I’ve had the privilege of helping these companies scale, thrive, and make Britain a global leader in cybersecurity. It’s a role I take seriously because their success is our nation’s success.
The Road Ahead
As I look to the New Year, I remain committed to this work—not just as a responsibility, but as a passion. Together, we’re building a safer, stronger Britain. It’s a legacy I’m proud to be a part of, and one that I hope inspires others to innovate and protect.
Because keeping Britain safe isn’t just a job—it’s a calling. And I’m honoured to answer it. The work we’re doing here—right now—matters. It matters for Britain’s security. It matters for our economy. And it matters for our place in the world.
It’s been said that the measure of a nation is how it rises to meet its challenges. Well, the challenges of our time are here. And with the brilliant people I’ve had the privilege of working with, I have no doubt Britain will rise to meet them.
Together, we’re building a safer, stronger, more secure nation. And I’m proud to be a part of it. Let’s keep going. Let’s keep building. And let’s keep Britain safe.
