A defence official has confirmed that the MoD is actively investigating the possible security risks associated with Chinese cars, while staff have been advised to avoid discussing classified matters in any vehicles.
Security Advice for MoD Personnel
In a recently aired interview on LBC, Luke Pollard commented on claims that Ministry of Defence staff have been told not to discuss classified information while travelling in Chinese vehicles.
The minister stated that the MoD is “examining” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, however stressed that safety is a concern in every modern cars.
Our department has a collection of thousands of cars in the Ministry of Defence and Chinese ones account for a tiny fraction.
But regardless of if you’re traveling in a Chinese car or a car from another country, what we’ve asked our staff is to avoid connecting MoD technology into their car, to avoid having discussions at a secret level in any vehicle, due to the growing threats of surveillance that are present in all vehicle, to only have those confidential conversations in protected areas. This is a wise and reasonable thing for everyone concerned about safety.
After it was suggested that it would be prudent for the ministry to stop using all cars from China, the minister replied: That is precisely what we’re investigating at the moment.”
Broader Defence Background
The announcement comes as claims from Scandinavian countries have warned the United Kingdom to the presence of dual-use kill switches in Chinese-made buses, which could enable China to switch off public transport and bring disruption to public transit.
Furthermore, a Russian intelligence vessel has been directing lasers at Royal Air Force aircrew, labeled a “highly dangerous” action by government representatives.
The wider security environment underscores the significance of strong protocols and vigilance in all areas of government activities, from transport usage to discussions habits.
