An defense official has stated that the MoD is currently investigating the possible threats posed by Chinese-made vehicles, and staff have been instructed to avoid discussing classified information in any vehicles.
Security Guidance for MoD Staff
In a recent interview on LBC, a defence minister commented on claims that MoD officials have been told not to discuss secret information while riding in China-made vehicles.
He said that the MoD is “investigating” cars from China within its vehicle pools, however emphasised that safety is a issue in all modern cars.
We have a fleet of thousands of vehicles in the MoD and those vehicles represent a tiny fraction.
But whether you’re driving a Chinese car or a non-Chinese car, what we’ve asked our staff is to avoid connecting MoD technology into their car, to avoid having discussions at a secret level in any car, because of the increasing risks of eavesdropping that are present in every single automobile, to only have those confidential conversations in protected areas. That’s a wise and reasonable thing for anyone concerned about safety.
After it was put to him that it would be prudent for the ministry to cease using every Chinese vehicles, Pollard responded: ‘That’s precisely what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Broader Security Context
This revelation comes as claims from Norway and Denmark have alerted the United Kingdom to the existence of multi-purpose shutdown mechanisms in Chinese electric buses, which could allow the Chinese government to switch off public transport and bring disruption to public transit.
Additionally, a Russia spy ship has been shining lasers at RAF aircrew, described as a “highly dangerous” act by government representatives.
This broader defence environment highlights the importance of strong measures and caution in all areas of official activities, including vehicle usage to communication practices.
