An defense minister has confirmed that the MoD is actively investigating the possible security risks associated with Chinese cars, and staff have been told to avoid talking about secret matters in all cars.
Security Guidance for MoD Staff
During a recent appearance on a radio station, a defence minister commented on claims that MoD officials have been instructed not to talk about classified material while travelling in China-made cars.
The minister said that the ministry is “looking into” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, however emphasised that safety is a concern in all modern vehicles.
Our department has a collection of thousands of cars in the Ministry of Defence and those vehicles account for a very small number.
But regardless of if you’re traveling in a Chinese car or a car from another country, what we’ve asked our staff is not to plug MoD devices into their car, not to have conversations at a secret level in any car, due to the increasing threats of surveillance that exist in every single vehicle, to only have those confidential talks in protected areas. This is a wise and reasonable thing for everyone concerned about safety.
After it was suggested that it would be wise for the ministry to stop using every Chinese vehicles, Pollard replied: That is exactly what we are looking into at the moment.”
Wider Defence Background
The announcement comes as claims from Scandinavian countries have warned the UK to the presence of multi-purpose kill switches in Chinese-made electric buses, which could allow the Chinese government to disable public transport and cause disruption to transport systems.
Furthermore, a Russian intelligence vessel was reportedly directing laser beams at RAF aircrew, described as a “highly dangerous” action by defence officials.
This wider defence situation highlights the significance of strong protocols and vigilance in every areas of government activities, from transport usage to communication practices.
