An defence official has stated that the MoD is currently examining the possible threats associated with Chinese cars, while staff have been instructed to refrain from discussing classified information in all cars.
Safety Advice for Defence Staff
In a recent appearance on a radio station, Luke Pollard addressed claims that MoD staff have been instructed not to talk about secret information while travelling in China-made vehicles.
The minister said that the MoD is “looking into” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, however stressed that security is a issue in every modern cars.
Our department has a fleet of thousands of vehicles in the Ministry of Defence and Chinese ones represent a very small number.
But whether you’re traveling in a Chinese car or a car from another country, our instruction to our staff is to avoid connecting Ministry of Defence technology into their car, not to have discussions at a classified level in any vehicle, because of the growing risks of eavesdropping that exist in every single vehicle, to only have those secret talks in protected areas. That’s a wise and sensible thing for anyone worried about security.
After it was put to him that it would be prudent for the MoD to cease using all cars from China, Pollard replied: That is exactly what we are looking into at the moment.”
Broader Security Context
This announcement follows claims from Norway and Denmark have warned the UK to the existence of dual-use shutdown mechanisms in Chinese buses, which could allow China to disable buses and bring disruption to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russian intelligence vessel has been shining lasers at Royal Air Force aircrew, labeled a “extremely risky” action by government representatives.
The broader defence situation underscores the significance of robust measures and vigilance in every areas of government activities, from transport usage to discussions habits.
