A defense official has confirmed that the Ministry of Defence is actively examining the possible security risks posed by Chinese-made cars, and personnel have been instructed to avoid talking about classified matters in all vehicles.
Security Guidance for MoD Staff
During a recent interview on LBC, Luke Pollard commented on claims that MoD staff have been told not to discuss secret information while riding in Chinese cars.
He said that the ministry is “examining” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, however noted that security is a issue in all contemporary cars.
Our department has a collection of tens of thousands of vehicles in the Ministry of Defence and those vehicles represent a very small number.
But whether you’re traveling in a Chinese car or a non-Chinese car, our instruction to our people is to avoid connecting MoD technology into their car, not to have conversations at a secret classification in any kind of car, due to the increasing risks of eavesdropping that are present in every single automobile, to restrict those secret talks in secure locations. This is a wise and reasonable thing for anyone worried about safety.
When it was put to him that it would be prudent for the MoD to cease using all Chinese vehicles, Pollard responded: That is precisely what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Broader Security Background
This announcement follows claims from Norway and Denmark have warned the UK to the existence of dual-use kill switches in Chinese buses, which could allow China to disable public transport and bring disruption to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russia spy ship was reportedly shining laser beams at RAF pilots, described as a “highly dangerous” act by government representatives.
This wider security environment highlights the significance of robust protocols and caution in every areas of official activities, including vehicle use to discussions practices.
