An defense official has confirmed that the MoD is actively investigating the possible threats associated with Chinese cars, and staff have been instructed to avoid discussing classified information in all vehicles.
Security Advice for Defence Personnel
In a recently aired appearance on a radio station, Luke Pollard addressed claims that Ministry of Defence officials have been instructed not to talk about classified information while riding in Chinese cars.
He stated that the MoD is “investigating” Chinese vehicles within its vehicle pools, however stressed that safety is a concern in all modern vehicles.
Our department has a fleet of tens of thousands of vehicles in the Ministry of Defence and Chinese ones represent a very small number.
But whether you’re traveling in a vehicle from China or a car from another country, what we’ve asked our people is to avoid connecting Ministry of Defence technology into their car, not to have discussions at a secret classification in any vehicle, due to the growing risks of eavesdropping that exist in every single vehicle, to only have those secret talks in protected areas. This is a wise and reasonable thing for anyone concerned about security.
After it was put to him that it would be wise for the ministry to stop using all cars from China, the minister responded: ‘That’s exactly what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Wider Defence Context
This revelation comes as claims from Scandinavian countries have warned the UK to the existence of dual-use kill switches in Chinese electric buses, which could enable China to disable public transport and cause disruption to public transit.
Furthermore, a Russian spy ship was reportedly directing lasers at RAF pilots, labeled a “highly dangerous” action by government representatives.
The wider security environment underscores the importance of strong measures and vigilance in every areas of government activities, from vehicle use to discussions practices.
