An defence official has revealed that the MoD is currently looking into the potential security risks associated with Chinese-made cars, while staff have been told to refrain from talking about classified information in any cars.
Security Advice for MoD Personnel
In a recent appearance on LBC, a defence minister addressed claims that MoD staff have been told not to discuss secret material while travelling in China-made cars.
The minister said that the ministry is “looking into” cars from China within its fleets, but emphasised that safety is a concern in every contemporary vehicles.
We have a collection of thousands of vehicles in the Ministry of Defence and Chinese ones represent a very small number.
However whether you’re traveling in a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, what we’ve asked our people is not to plug MoD technology into their car, not to have discussions at a secret level in any car, because of the increasing threats of eavesdropping that are present in every single automobile, to only have those confidential conversations in protected areas. That’s a wise and sensible thing for anyone worried about safety.
When it was put to him that it would be prudent for the ministry to cease using all Chinese vehicles, Pollard replied: That is exactly what we’re investigating at the moment.”
Wider Security Background
This revelation follows claims from Scandinavian countries have alerted the UK to the presence of multi-purpose shutdown mechanisms in Chinese electric buses, which could enable the Chinese government to switch off buses and cause disruption to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russian intelligence vessel was reportedly directing laser beams at Royal Air Force aircrew, labeled a “highly dangerous” act by defence officials.
This wider security situation highlights the importance of robust protocols and vigilance in every areas of government activities, from transport usage to discussions habits.
