A defence minister has revealed that the MoD is actively investigating the potential threats associated with Chinese-made vehicles, and personnel have been told to avoid discussing classified information in all vehicles.
Security Guidance for MoD Staff
During a recent interview on a radio station, a defence minister commented on reports that MoD staff have been instructed not to discuss secret material while travelling in Chinese cars.
The minister stated that the ministry is “investigating” Chinese vehicles within its vehicle pools, but emphasised that security is a issue in all contemporary vehicles.
We have a collection of tens of thousands of vehicles in the Ministry of Defence and those vehicles account for a very small number.
But whether you’re driving a vehicle from China or a car from another country, our instruction to our people is to avoid connecting MoD devices into their car, not to have discussions at a classified level in any kind of vehicle, because of the growing risks of eavesdropping that exist in all automobile, to restrict those secret talks in secure locations. This is a wise and reasonable thing for everyone worried about security.
When it was put to him that it would be prudent for the MoD to cease using every Chinese vehicles, Pollard responded: ‘That’s exactly what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Broader Defence Context
The revelation follows claims from Scandinavian countries have warned the UK to the presence of multi-purpose kill switches in Chinese electric buses, which could allow the Chinese government to switch off public transport and cause disruption to transport systems.
Furthermore, a Russian intelligence vessel has been shining laser beams at RAF aircrew, described as a “extremely risky” action by government representatives.
This wider security situation highlights the importance of strong protocols and caution in every aspects of government activities, including transport use to discussions practices.
