An defence minister has stated that the MoD is actively looking into the potential security risks associated with Chinese-made cars, while staff have been told to avoid discussing secret matters in all vehicles.
Security Guidance for MoD Personnel
In a recently aired appearance on a radio station, a defence minister addressed claims that Ministry of Defence staff have been instructed not to talk about classified information while travelling in China-made vehicles.
The minister said that the MoD is “investigating” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, however emphasised that security is a issue in all modern cars.
We have a collection of thousands of vehicles in the MoD and Chinese ones account for a very small number.
But whether you’re driving a vehicle from China or a car from another country, our instruction to our staff is not to plug MoD technology into their car, not to have discussions at a secret level in any kind of car, because of the growing risks of surveillance that exist in every single automobile, to only have those confidential talks in secure locations. This is a prudent and sensible thing for anyone concerned about safety.
When it was put to him that it would be prudent for the ministry to stop using all cars from China, Pollard responded: That is precisely what we are looking into at the present time.”
Wider Security Context
The revelation comes as reports from Scandinavian countries have warned the United Kingdom to the existence of dual-use shutdown mechanisms in Chinese buses, which could enable China to switch off buses and bring disruption to public transit.
Additionally, a Russia intelligence vessel has been shining lasers at RAF pilots, labeled a “extremely risky” act by defence officials.
The wider defence situation highlights the importance of robust protocols and vigilance in all aspects of official operations, from vehicle use to discussions habits.
