A defense minister has stated that the MoD is currently investigating the potential threats associated with Chinese cars, and staff have been advised to avoid discussing secret matters in any vehicles.
Safety Guidance for Defence Staff
During a recent interview on a radio station, a defence minister commented on claims that Ministry of Defence officials have been instructed not to discuss secret information while travelling in Chinese cars.
He explained that the ministry is “examining” Chinese vehicles within its vehicle pools, but noted that security is a concern in every modern cars.
We have a fleet of thousands of cars in the MoD and those vehicles represent a very small number.
However whether you’re driving a vehicle from China or a car from another country, our instruction to our people is to avoid connecting Ministry of Defence devices into their vehicle, not to have discussions at a secret level in any vehicle, due to the increasing risks of eavesdropping that are present in every single automobile, to restrict those secret conversations in secure locations. This is a prudent and sensible thing for anyone concerned about security.
After it was put to him that it would be prudent for the ministry to cease using every cars from China, Pollard responded: That is precisely what we are looking into at the present time.”
Broader Defence Context
The revelation follows reports from Scandinavian countries have warned the United Kingdom to the presence of multi-purpose shutdown mechanisms in Chinese-made electric buses, which could allow China to disable public transport and cause chaos to public transit.
Additionally, a Russia intelligence vessel was reportedly directing laser beams at Royal Air Force pilots, labeled a “extremely risky” act by government representatives.
This broader defence environment underscores the importance of strong protocols and vigilance in every aspects of official activities, including vehicle use to discussions habits.
