An defense official has revealed that the MoD is actively investigating the potential security risks associated with Chinese-made cars, and staff have been instructed to avoid talking about classified information in any cars.
Security Advice for MoD Staff
In a recent interview on a radio station, a defence minister commented on claims that MoD officials have been instructed not to talk about classified material while riding in China-made cars.
The minister stated that the MoD is “looking into” Chinese vehicles within its vehicle pools, but stressed that safety is a concern in every modern vehicles.
Our department has a collection of thousands of cars in the MoD and Chinese ones represent a tiny fraction.
But whether you’re traveling in a vehicle from China or a car from another country, what we’ve asked our people is to avoid connecting MoD devices into their car, not to have discussions at a classified level in any kind of car, because of the increasing risks of surveillance that are present in every single automobile, to restrict those secret conversations in secure locations. This is a prudent and sensible thing for everyone worried about safety.
When it was put to him that it would be prudent for the MoD to stop using every Chinese vehicles, Pollard replied: That is precisely what we are looking into at the moment.”
Wider Defence Context
This revelation comes as claims from Scandinavian countries have alerted the UK to the existence of dual-use kill switches in Chinese-made electric buses, which could enable the Chinese government to switch off public transport and cause chaos to public transit.
Furthermore, a Russian intelligence vessel has been directing lasers at Royal Air Force pilots, labeled a “extremely risky” action by government representatives.
The broader defence situation underscores the importance of strong protocols and vigilance in all areas of official operations, including vehicle use to discussions habits.
