An defense minister has revealed that the Ministry of Defence is actively looking into the possible security risks posed by Chinese-made cars, while personnel have been advised to avoid talking about classified information in any vehicles.
Security Guidance for MoD Personnel
In a recent interview on a radio station, Luke Pollard addressed claims that MoD officials have been instructed not to talk about classified material while travelling in China-made cars.
The minister explained that the MoD is “investigating” cars from China within its fleets, however noted that safety is a issue in every modern cars.
We have a collection of tens of thousands of cars in the MoD and those vehicles account for a very small number.
However whether you’re driving a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, our instruction to our people is not to plug MoD devices into their car, to avoid having conversations at a secret classification in any kind of vehicle, due to the growing threats of surveillance that are present in all automobile, to only have those secret conversations in protected areas. That’s a wise and sensible thing for everyone worried about safety.
When it was put to him that it would be prudent for the MoD to stop using all Chinese vehicles, the minister responded: That is precisely what we are looking into at the moment.”
Broader Security Background
This revelation comes as reports from Norway and Denmark have warned the UK to the presence of dual-use shutdown mechanisms in Chinese-made electric buses, which could allow China to switch off buses and bring chaos to public transit.
Additionally, a Russia intelligence vessel has been directing laser beams at RAF aircrew, described as a “extremely risky” action by government representatives.
This wider defence situation highlights the importance of strong protocols and vigilance in all aspects of government activities, from transport usage to discussions practices.
