TikTok clean up

over concerns around potential cyber attacks.

In a statement to parliament, Mr Dowden said there "could" be a risk to how government data and information is used by the app.

He said that while TikTok use is "limited", banning it is good cyber "hygiene" ­ and brings the UK in line with the US,

Canada and the EU.

TikTok has been under increasing scrutiny over its security and data privacy, with concerns it could be used to promote pro ­ Beijing views or gather user datasomething TikTok strongly denies.

TikTok said it was "disappointed" with the government's decision.

MORE than 1,000 Passport Office workers will go on strike for five weeks over a dispute about jobs, pay and conditions.

Members of the Public and Commercial Services (PCS) union working across England, Scotland and Wales will take part in the action from April 3 to May 5.

Those working in Belfast are being balloted and could also join the strike.

PCS general secretary

Mark Serwotka said the dispute was over an imposed 2% pay rise not being increased any further by the government. He added the strike action had come about because "ministers have failed to hold any meaningful talks with us, despite two massive strikes and sustained, targeted action lasting six months".

He went on to say that the government was "ignoring our members" over their pay concerns but this would not make them "go away".

The union warned the action is likely to have a "significant impact" on the delivery of passports ahead of summer.