An defence minister has confirmed that the MoD is currently looking into the possible security risks associated with Chinese cars, and personnel have been advised to avoid discussing classified information in any cars.
Safety Guidance for MoD Staff
During a recent appearance on a radio station, Luke Pollard commented on reports that Ministry of Defence staff have been instructed not to talk about classified information while riding in China-made cars.
He explained that the ministry is “examining” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, but stressed that safety is a issue in every contemporary vehicles.
We have a fleet of tens of thousands of vehicles in the MoD and those vehicles represent a very small number.
But whether you’re driving a Chinese car or a car from another country, what we’ve asked our staff is to avoid connecting Ministry of Defence technology into their car, not to have discussions at a classified classification in any kind of car, due to the increasing risks of surveillance that exist in all vehicle, to only have those confidential talks in secure locations. That’s a wise and reasonable thing for anyone concerned about safety.
After it was suggested that it would be wise for the ministry to cease using all cars from China, Pollard replied: ‘That’s precisely what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Wider Security Context
This announcement comes as claims from Norway and Denmark have alerted the United Kingdom to the presence of multi-purpose shutdown mechanisms in Chinese-made electric buses, which could enable China to switch off public transport and bring chaos to transport systems.
Furthermore, a Russia spy ship was reportedly directing lasers at Royal Air Force aircrew, described as a “highly dangerous” act by government representatives.
This broader security situation highlights the significance of robust measures and caution in all aspects of government activities, from vehicle use to communication habits.
