An defense official has revealed that the MoD is currently examining the possible security risks posed by Chinese-made cars, and personnel have been told to avoid discussing classified information in all vehicles.
Security Guidance for MoD Personnel
During a recent interview on a radio station, a defence minister addressed reports that MoD officials have been told not to talk about secret material while travelling in Chinese cars.
He said that the MoD is “investigating” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, however noted that safety is a concern in every modern cars.
We have a fleet of tens of thousands of vehicles in the Ministry of Defence and those vehicles represent a very small number.
However whether you’re driving a Chinese car or a non-Chinese car, our instruction to our people is not to plug Ministry of Defence devices into their car, to avoid having discussions at a secret classification in any vehicle, due to the growing threats of surveillance that are present in all vehicle, to restrict those secret talks in secure locations. This is a wise and reasonable thing for everyone concerned about safety.
After it was put to him that it would be wise for the ministry to cease using all cars from China, Pollard responded: ‘That’s exactly what we are looking into at the present time.”
Wider Defence Background
The announcement follows claims from Norway and Denmark have warned the UK to the existence of dual-use shutdown mechanisms in Chinese-made electric buses, which could enable the Chinese government to disable buses and cause disruption to public transit.
Furthermore, a Russia intelligence vessel has been directing lasers at Royal Air Force pilots, described as a “highly dangerous” action by defence officials.
The broader defence situation underscores the significance of robust measures and vigilance in all areas of government operations, from vehicle use to discussions habits.
