Former BP chief John Browne is stepping down early as the UK chairman of Huawei ahead of the British government banning the company from the country’s 5G networks later on Tuesday, according to a report by the Sky News.
The report said Browne had given notice in the last few days that he would step down from the board of Huawei UK in September, six months earlier than his tenure was due to end.
"When Lord Browne became chairman of Huawei UK's board of directors in 2015, he brought with him a wealth of experience which has proved vital in ensuring Huawei's commitment to corporate governance in the UK," Reuters reported citing a Huawei spokesperson.
"He has been central to our commitment here dating back 20 years, and we thank him for his valuable contribution," the Huawei spokesperson said.
In January, an original decision by the UK restricted Huawei's market share to 35% but allowed it to remain a part of the non-core elements of the network.
The British government is expected to take final decision on the future 5G network today, further restricting the involvement of Huawei.
Boris Johnson will chair a meeting of the National Security Council later before the Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden makes a statement to parliament.