To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent discussions he has had with his US counterpart on cyber security; and what assessment he has made of the merits of taking steps in co-operation with the US administration to prevent cyber attacks. (286948)

There have been no recent discussions between my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary and his US counterpart on cyber security.

The Cabinet Office currently provides the lead for policy on cyber security and has, supported by representatives from across Government, continued to engage closely with the US administration during the development of the UK's recently published Cyber Security Strategy which, in addition to other key areas, addresses the importance of cyber attack prevention. As the strategy explains, the security of cyber space is a transnational issue and, as such, working with international partners, including the US, is essential to achieving the UK's strategic cyber security objectives.