West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin today urged Security Minister James Brokenshire to visit Malvern’s emerging cyber security hub. The newly-appointed Minister last week confirmed a £650m investment programme to help protect the country from online threats. There are a handful of new companies working in Malvern carrying out vital work to prevent private and public sector bodies from online attack. Defence giant QinetiQ has also placed cyber-security as one of its key priorities as it starts to rebuild its Malvern business. The MP named three companies – QinetiQ, Deep-Secure and Edge Seven as local leaders in this field and extended the invitation during questions to the Home Office in the House of Commons. The Security Minister said: “I certainly do pay tribute to the work of many companies around this area. Private industry does have a vital role and I will certainly have a look at the companies and the work that they do and as appropriate, direct a visit.” Speaking after the exchange, Harriett added: “There are many impressive small and medium sized companies springing up in and around Malvern carrying out nationally important work.” FULL TEXT: Harriett Baldwin (West Worcestershire) (Con): The Minister with responsibility for security will know that West Worcestershire contains companies such as QinetiQ, Deep-Secure and Edge Seven, which do important work in cyber-threat resilience. Can he find time in his busy diary to visit that important cyber-hub? The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department (James Brokenshire): The Government recognise the importance of delivering cyber-security and protecting the country from online threats. We have therefore announced a £650 million transformative programme. As part of that, I pay tribute to the work of many companies. Private industry has a vital role to play and I shall certainly look at the details of my hon. Friend’s companies and their work, and, as appropriate, arrange a visit. | Hansard