An defense official has confirmed that the MoD is currently examining the possible security risks associated with Chinese-made vehicles, while staff have been advised to refrain from talking about classified information in any cars.
Security Advice for MoD Staff
During a recent appearance on LBC, Luke Pollard commented on claims that MoD officials have been told not to discuss classified material while riding in Chinese cars.
He stated that the MoD is “looking into” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, but noted that safety is a issue in all modern vehicles.
We have a fleet of tens of thousands of vehicles in the MoD and Chinese ones account for a tiny fraction.
But regardless of if you’re traveling in a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, what we’ve asked our people is to avoid connecting MoD devices into their vehicle, to avoid having conversations at a classified classification in any kind of vehicle, because of the increasing threats of surveillance that exist in all automobile, to only have those confidential conversations in secure locations. That’s a prudent and sensible thing for everyone worried about safety.
When it was suggested that it would be wise for the MoD to stop using every Chinese vehicles, the minister responded: ‘That’s precisely what we’re investigating at the moment.”
Broader Security Background
The revelation comes as reports from Scandinavian countries have warned the United Kingdom to the existence of dual-use shutdown mechanisms in Chinese electric buses, which could enable the Chinese government to switch off public transport and cause disruption to public transit.
Additionally, a Russian intelligence vessel has been directing lasers at RAF pilots, labeled a “extremely risky” action by government representatives.
This wider security environment highlights the importance of strong measures and vigilance in every aspects of official activities, including vehicle use to discussions habits.
