An defense official has confirmed that the MoD is actively investigating the possible security risks posed by Chinese cars, and staff have been advised to avoid discussing classified matters in all cars.
Security Guidance for MoD Personnel
In a recent interview on a radio station, a defence minister commented on reports that MoD staff have been told not to talk about secret material while riding in China-made cars.
The minister said that the MoD is “looking into” cars from China within its vehicle pools, but noted that security is a issue in every contemporary cars.
Our department has a fleet of thousands of vehicles in the MoD and those vehicles represent a very small number.
However regardless of if you’re driving a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, our instruction to our staff is to avoid connecting Ministry of Defence technology into their vehicle, to avoid having discussions at a classified classification in any vehicle, due to the increasing threats of eavesdropping that exist in every single automobile, to only have those confidential talks in secure locations. That’s a wise and reasonable thing for anyone worried about security.
After it was put to him that it would be wise for the ministry to cease using all cars from China, Pollard replied: That is precisely what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Broader Security Context
This announcement comes as reports from Norway and Denmark have warned the United Kingdom to the existence of dual-use shutdown mechanisms in Chinese buses, which could enable China to switch off public transport and bring disruption to public transit.
Furthermore, a Russia spy ship was reportedly directing laser beams at RAF aircrew, described as a “extremely risky” act by defence officials.
The broader defence situation underscores the significance of strong protocols and vigilance in all areas of government activities, including transport use to discussions practices.
