An defence official has revealed that the MoD is actively examining the possible security risks associated with Chinese-made vehicles, and personnel have been told to avoid talking about secret matters in any cars.
Security Guidance for MoD Personnel
In a recent interview on a radio station, Luke Pollard addressed claims that Ministry of Defence officials have been instructed not to talk about classified material while travelling in Chinese cars.
He stated that the MoD is “investigating” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, but stressed that security is a issue in all modern vehicles.
Our department has a collection of tens of thousands of vehicles in the MoD and Chinese ones represent a very small number.
However whether you’re traveling in a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, what we’ve asked our people is not to plug Ministry of Defence technology into their car, not to have discussions at a classified level in any kind of car, due to the increasing threats of surveillance that exist in all automobile, to only have those secret conversations in secure locations. That’s a wise and reasonable thing for anyone concerned about security.
After it was suggested that it would be wise for the MoD to stop using all cars from China, Pollard replied: That is precisely what we are looking into at the moment.”
Wider Defence Background
The revelation comes as reports from Norway and Denmark have warned the United Kingdom to the presence of multi-purpose kill switches in Chinese electric buses, which could enable the Chinese government to disable public transport and bring chaos to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russia intelligence vessel has been shining lasers at Royal Air Force aircrew, described as a “highly dangerous” action by government representatives.
This wider defence situation underscores the importance of strong measures and caution in every areas of government activities, from transport use to communication habits.
