The government has published detailed proposals to strengthen protection for Britain's undersea telecommunications cables, electricity interconnectors and energy pipelines, including prison sentences of up to 14 years for intentionally damaging critical infrastructure.
A White Paper published on 22 October 2026 proposes new criminal offences, tougher penalties, additional security duties for subsea telecommunications operators and powers for ministers to require protective action where national security is at risk.
Proposed prison sentences and unlimited fines
The proposed criminal framework distinguishes between intentional, reckless and grossly negligent conduct. The maximum prison sentences under consultation are 14 years for intentional conduct, 10 years for reckless conduct and two years for grossly negligent conduct, alongside unlimited fines. The proposals also address non-physical interference, including certain cyber activity, and obstruction of repair operations.
The government argues that the Submarine Telegraph Act 1885 is outdated and does not adequately address modern fibre-optic communications or the risks to energy infrastructure.
Government powers and operator responsibilities
Under the proposals, subsea telecommunications cable providers would face statutory duties to identify, manage and report security risks. Ministers would also gain a targeted power to direct operators to take specified protective steps when necessary and proportionate for national security.
A separate proposed regulatory framework would cover fibre-optic sensing technology, which can detect activity at sea but may also generate sensitive information.
Concern about hostile activity
According to the government's official announcement, subsea cables carry approximately 99% of the UK's international data traffic, while undersea pipelines provide a substantial share of its gas supply. Ministers cited suspicious Russian activity around critical undersea infrastructure as one reason for reviewing the law.
The government has referred to an April operation in which British forces and allies tracked Russian submarines surveying subsea cables. That account is attributed to ministers; publication of the White Paper does not establish that a new act of sabotage has occurred.
Consultation open until January
The White Paper contains 72 consultation questions. The public consultation opened on 22 October 2026 and closes at 11:59pm on 14 January 2027. The government will consider responses before deciding on the final legislative approach.
The proposals are not yet law. The proposed offences, penalties, operator duties and ministerial powers would require legislation and may change following consultation.
In a written statement to Parliament, ministers said the reforms are intended to modernise protections for infrastructure essential to the UK's security, economy and everyday services.