A defence minister has confirmed that the MoD is actively investigating the potential security risks posed by Chinese-made cars, and personnel have been told to avoid talking about secret information in any vehicles.
Security Guidance for Defence Personnel
During a recent appearance on a radio station, Luke Pollard commented on reports that MoD staff have been instructed not to discuss classified material while riding in Chinese cars.
The minister explained that the ministry is “looking into” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, however stressed that safety is a issue in every modern cars.
We have a fleet of thousands of vehicles in the Ministry of Defence and those vehicles represent a tiny fraction.
However regardless of if you’re driving a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, our instruction to our staff is not to plug MoD devices into their car, to avoid having conversations at a secret classification in any kind of car, because of the growing risks of eavesdropping that exist in all automobile, to restrict those confidential talks in protected areas. That’s a prudent and sensible thing for everyone worried about safety.
After it was put to him that it would be wise for the ministry to cease using all Chinese vehicles, Pollard responded: ‘That’s exactly what we’re investigating at the moment.”
Wider Security Background
This announcement comes as reports from Scandinavian countries have alerted the UK to the existence of dual-use shutdown mechanisms in Chinese buses, which could allow China to switch off public transport and bring chaos to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russia intelligence vessel was reportedly shining laser beams at RAF pilots, described as a “extremely risky” action by defence officials.
The broader defence situation highlights the importance of robust measures and vigilance in all aspects of official activities, from transport usage to discussions habits.
