A defense official has confirmed that the MoD is actively examining the potential security risks associated with Chinese-made cars, while staff have been advised to avoid discussing secret matters in all vehicles.
Security Guidance for MoD Staff
In a recent appearance on a radio station, Luke Pollard addressed reports that Ministry of Defence officials have been told not to discuss classified material while travelling in Chinese vehicles.
He explained that the ministry is “investigating” cars from China within its vehicle pools, but noted that safety is a concern in all modern cars.
Our department has a collection of thousands of cars in the MoD and those vehicles represent 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 to avoid connecting Ministry of Defence technology into their car, to avoid having conversations at a secret level in any car, due to the increasing threats of eavesdropping that are present in every single automobile, to only have those secret talks in protected areas. This is a wise and sensible thing for everyone concerned about safety.
After it was suggested that it would be prudent for the MoD to stop using every Chinese vehicles, Pollard replied: That is precisely what we are looking into at the moment.”
Broader Security 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 allow the Chinese government to disable buses and bring chaos to transport systems.
Furthermore, a Russia intelligence vessel has been shining lasers at Royal Air Force pilots, labeled a “highly dangerous” act by defence officials.
The broader security situation highlights the significance of strong measures and vigilance in all areas of government activities, from transport use to discussions practices.
