An defence minister has revealed that the MoD is currently examining the possible security risks associated with Chinese-made cars, and personnel have been instructed to refrain from discussing secret matters in all vehicles.
Safety Guidance for Defence Staff
During a recently aired interview on LBC, a defence minister addressed claims that Ministry of Defence officials have been told not to talk about classified material while travelling in Chinese vehicles.
The minister explained that the ministry is “looking into” cars from China within its fleets, however noted that safety is a issue in all contemporary cars.
We have a collection of tens of thousands of vehicles in the MoD and those vehicles account for a very small number.
However regardless of if you’re traveling in a vehicle from China or a car from another country, what we’ve asked our people is to avoid connecting MoD technology into their car, not to have conversations at a secret classification in any car, because of the growing threats of surveillance that exist in every single automobile, to restrict those confidential talks in protected areas. This is a wise and sensible thing for everyone worried about safety.
When it was put to him that it would be prudent for the ministry to cease using all cars from China, Pollard responded: That is precisely what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Wider Defence Context
This revelation follows reports from Norway and Denmark have warned the UK to the existence of multi-purpose shutdown mechanisms in Chinese buses, which could allow the Chinese government to switch off public transport and cause disruption to transport systems.
Furthermore, a Russian spy ship was reportedly directing lasers at Royal Air Force aircrew, labeled a “highly dangerous” act by government representatives.
This broader defence situation underscores the importance of strong measures and caution in every areas of official activities, including transport use to discussions habits.
