A defense minister has revealed that the MoD is currently examining the potential security risks posed by Chinese-made cars, while staff have been told to avoid talking about classified matters in any vehicles.
Security Guidance for Defence Staff
During a recent interview on a radio station, Luke Pollard addressed claims that Ministry of Defence officials have been instructed not to talk about secret information while travelling in Chinese vehicles.
He explained that the ministry is “investigating” cars from China within its fleets, but noted that security is a issue in every modern vehicles.
We have a fleet of thousands of cars in the MoD and Chinese ones account for a very small number.
However whether you’re traveling in a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, what we’ve asked our people is not to plug MoD devices into their car, not to have discussions at a secret classification in any car, due to the growing risks of eavesdropping that exist in all vehicle, to only have those confidential conversations in protected areas. This is a wise and sensible thing for anyone worried about safety.
After it was suggested that it would be prudent for the ministry to cease using every cars from China, the minister replied: ‘That’s precisely what we are looking into at the present time.”
Broader Security Context
This revelation comes as claims from Norway and Denmark have warned the United Kingdom to the existence of multi-purpose kill switches in Chinese-made buses, which could enable the Chinese government to switch off public transport and bring disruption to transport systems.
Furthermore, a Russian intelligence vessel was reportedly shining lasers at Royal Air Force aircrew, labeled a “extremely risky” action by defence officials.
This broader defence environment highlights the significance of robust measures and vigilance in all aspects of government operations, from transport usage to discussions practices.
