An defence minister has stated that the MoD is currently examining the possible threats associated with Chinese-made cars, and staff have been instructed to avoid discussing secret matters in any cars.
Safety Guidance for MoD Personnel
During a recent appearance on a radio station, Luke Pollard addressed claims that MoD staff have been told not to talk about classified information while travelling in Chinese cars.
The minister said that the ministry is “investigating” cars from China within its vehicle pools, but emphasised that safety is a issue in every contemporary cars.
Our department has a collection of tens of thousands of cars in the Ministry of Defence and those vehicles account for a very small number.
However whether you’re driving a vehicle from China or a car from another country, what we’ve asked our people is to avoid connecting MoD devices into their vehicle, not to have discussions at a classified level in any kind of vehicle, due to the increasing risks of eavesdropping that exist in all vehicle, to only have those confidential conversations in secure locations. This is a prudent and sensible thing for anyone worried about security.
After it was suggested that it would be prudent for the ministry to cease using every Chinese vehicles, the minister responded: That is precisely what we’re investigating at the moment.”
Broader Security Context
The announcement comes as claims from Norway and Denmark have warned the United Kingdom to the presence of multi-purpose shutdown mechanisms in Chinese-made buses, which could enable China to switch off public transport and cause chaos to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russia intelligence vessel has been shining lasers at RAF aircrew, described as a “extremely risky” act by defence officials.
This wider security situation highlights the significance of strong protocols and caution in all areas of official activities, from vehicle use to discussions practices.
