A defence minister has stated that the MoD is currently investigating the possible threats posed by Chinese-made cars, while personnel have been instructed to refrain from discussing secret information in all vehicles.
Security Guidance for MoD Personnel
During a recently aired appearance on LBC, Luke Pollard commented on claims that Ministry of Defence staff have been instructed not to talk about classified material while riding in Chinese cars.
The minister said that the MoD is “investigating” cars from China within its vehicle pools, but stressed that security is a issue in every modern cars.
We have a collection of thousands of cars in the MoD and those vehicles represent a tiny fraction.
However regardless of if you’re driving a vehicle from China or a car from another country, what we’ve asked our people is not to plug MoD technology into their car, to avoid having conversations at a secret classification in any vehicle, due to the increasing risks of eavesdropping that exist in every single automobile, to restrict those confidential talks in secure locations. This is a wise and reasonable thing for anyone worried about security.
When it was put to him that it would be wise for the MoD to cease using all Chinese vehicles, the minister replied: That is precisely what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Wider Defence Background
The revelation follows reports from Norway and Denmark have alerted the UK to the presence of multi-purpose shutdown mechanisms in Chinese-made electric buses, which could allow China to switch off buses and bring disruption to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russia intelligence vessel has been shining lasers at RAF aircrew, described as a “extremely risky” act by government representatives.
The broader defence situation highlights the importance of robust measures and vigilance in every areas of official activities, from vehicle use to discussions practices.
