An defence official has confirmed that the Ministry of Defence is actively investigating the possible threats associated with Chinese cars, and personnel have been told to avoid discussing secret information in all vehicles.
Security Guidance for Defence Personnel
In a recent interview on a radio station, a defence minister commented on claims that Ministry of Defence officials have been instructed not to discuss classified material while riding in Chinese vehicles.
The minister said that the MoD is “investigating” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, however stressed that security is a concern in all modern cars.
Our department has a fleet of tens of thousands of cars in the MoD and Chinese ones represent a tiny fraction.
But regardless of if you’re traveling in a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, what we’ve asked our people is not to plug MoD devices into their car, not to have conversations at a secret classification in any car, because of the growing risks of eavesdropping that exist in all vehicle, to restrict those confidential talks in protected areas. This is a prudent and reasonable thing for everyone concerned about security.
After it was put to him that it would be prudent for the ministry to cease using all Chinese vehicles, Pollard replied: That is precisely what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Wider Security Background
This announcement comes as reports from Scandinavian countries have warned the UK to the existence of dual-use shutdown mechanisms in Chinese-made buses, which could allow China to switch off public transport and cause chaos to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russia spy ship has been directing lasers at Royal Air Force aircrew, described as a “highly dangerous” action by government representatives.
This wider security situation underscores the importance of robust measures and vigilance in every aspects of official activities, from transport use to discussions habits.
