An defence minister has revealed that the MoD is actively investigating the possible security risks associated with Chinese cars, while staff have been told to avoid talking about classified information in all vehicles.
Safety Guidance for Defence Staff
In a recently aired appearance on LBC, a defence minister commented on claims that MoD staff have been told not to discuss classified material while travelling in Chinese vehicles.
He explained that the MoD is “investigating” cars from China within its fleets, but noted that security is a concern in every contemporary cars.
We have a fleet of thousands of vehicles in the MoD and those vehicles account for a very small number.
But whether you’re traveling in a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, our instruction to our staff is not to plug Ministry of Defence devices into their vehicle, to avoid having discussions at a classified classification in any car, because of the growing threats of surveillance that exist in every single vehicle, to restrict those confidential talks in protected areas. This is a wise and sensible thing for everyone worried about security.
When it was suggested that it would be wise for the ministry to stop using every Chinese vehicles, Pollard replied: ‘That’s exactly what we are looking into at the moment.”
Wider Defence Context
This announcement follows reports from Norway and Denmark have alerted the UK to the existence of dual-use shutdown mechanisms in Chinese electric buses, which could enable the Chinese government to switch off public transport and bring disruption to transport systems.
Furthermore, a Russian intelligence vessel was reportedly shining lasers at Royal Air Force aircrew, described as a “extremely risky” action by defence officials.
This broader security situation underscores the significance of strong measures and vigilance in all areas of official activities, from vehicle use to discussions practices.
