An defence official has stated that the MoD is actively examining the possible security risks associated with Chinese-made vehicles, and staff have been instructed to refrain from talking about classified matters in all cars.
Security Advice for MoD Personnel
During a recent appearance on LBC, a defence minister commented on reports that Ministry of Defence staff have been instructed not to discuss classified information while riding in China-made vehicles.
He said that the ministry is “investigating” cars from China within its fleets, but noted that security is a concern in all contemporary vehicles.
We have a collection of tens of thousands of cars in the MoD and Chinese ones account for a very small number.
However regardless of if you’re traveling in a vehicle from China or a car from another country, our instruction to our staff is not to plug MoD devices into their vehicle, not to have discussions at a secret classification in any car, because of the growing threats of eavesdropping that are present in all vehicle, to restrict those secret conversations in protected areas. This is a wise and reasonable thing for everyone concerned about security.
After it was put to him that it would be wise for the MoD to cease using every Chinese vehicles, Pollard responded: ‘That’s exactly what we are looking into at the present time.”
Broader Defence Background
The revelation follows claims from Norway and Denmark have warned the United Kingdom to the presence of multi-purpose shutdown mechanisms in Chinese buses, which could allow China to switch off buses and cause disruption to transport systems.
Furthermore, a Russian intelligence vessel was reportedly shining laser beams at Royal Air Force aircrew, labeled a “extremely risky” action by defence officials.
This wider security environment underscores the importance of robust protocols and vigilance in all areas of government activities, from vehicle usage to discussions habits.
