An defense official has confirmed that the MoD is actively examining the potential security risks associated with Chinese cars, and staff have been advised to avoid discussing classified information in all cars.
Security Advice for MoD Personnel
In a recently aired appearance on a radio station, Luke Pollard commented on reports that Ministry of Defence officials have been told not to talk about classified material while riding in China-made cars.
The minister stated that the ministry is “looking into” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, however stressed that safety is a concern in all contemporary cars.
We have a collection of tens of thousands of cars in the MoD and Chinese ones account for a very small number.
But whether you’re traveling in a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, our instruction to our people is to avoid connecting Ministry of Defence devices into their car, not to have discussions at a secret classification in any kind of car, due to the increasing risks of surveillance that are present in every single vehicle, to only have those confidential talks in secure locations. This is a prudent and reasonable thing for anyone worried about safety.
When it was put to him that it would be wise for the ministry to stop using every cars from China, Pollard responded: That is precisely what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Broader Security Context
The announcement follows claims from Norway and Denmark have warned the United Kingdom to the presence of dual-use shutdown mechanisms in Chinese-made electric buses, which could allow the Chinese government to disable public transport and bring chaos to transport systems.
Furthermore, a Russian intelligence vessel has been shining lasers at RAF pilots, labeled a “extremely risky” action by government representatives.
The wider security environment underscores the importance of strong protocols and vigilance in every areas of official activities, including transport use to discussions habits.
