A defense minister has confirmed that the MoD is actively investigating the possible threats associated with Chinese-made vehicles, while personnel have been told to refrain from talking about classified information in any cars.
Security Advice for MoD Staff
During a recent appearance on LBC, a defence minister addressed reports that MoD officials have been instructed not to discuss classified information while riding in Chinese vehicles.
He explained that the ministry is “examining” Chinese vehicles within its vehicle pools, however noted that safety is a issue in all modern vehicles.
We have a fleet of thousands of cars in the Ministry of Defence and those vehicles represent a tiny fraction.
However whether you’re traveling in a vehicle from China or a car from another country, what we’ve asked our people is to avoid connecting MoD devices into their car, to avoid having discussions at a classified classification in any kind of vehicle, because of the increasing threats of eavesdropping that exist in all vehicle, to restrict those secret conversations in secure locations. That’s a prudent and reasonable thing for anyone concerned about safety.
When it was put to him that it would be wise for the ministry to cease using every cars from China, Pollard replied: ‘That’s exactly what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Wider Defence Background
This revelation comes as claims from Scandinavian countries have alerted the UK to the presence of dual-use shutdown mechanisms in Chinese electric buses, which could allow China to switch off public transport and cause chaos to public transit.
Additionally, a Russia spy ship has been directing laser beams at RAF aircrew, labeled a “extremely risky” action by defence officials.
The wider defence environment underscores the importance of strong measures and vigilance in every areas of government operations, from vehicle use to discussions practices.
