A defence minister has revealed that the MoD is currently looking into the possible threats posed by Chinese-made vehicles, and staff have been advised to avoid talking about classified information in any cars.
Security Guidance for MoD Personnel
During a recently aired interview on LBC, Luke Pollard addressed claims that MoD officials have been told not to discuss classified material while travelling in Chinese cars.
The minister stated that the MoD is “investigating” Chinese vehicles within its vehicle pools, however emphasised that security is a concern in all contemporary vehicles.
Our department has a fleet of tens of thousands of vehicles in the Ministry of Defence and Chinese ones represent a very small number.
However whether you’re traveling in a Chinese car or a car from another country, what we’ve asked our people is not to plug MoD devices into their vehicle, not to have discussions at a secret level in any car, because of the increasing risks of eavesdropping that exist in all automobile, to restrict those confidential talks in secure locations. That’s 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 cars from China, the minister responded: That is exactly what we are looking into at the moment.”
Wider Security Background
The revelation follows claims from Scandinavian countries have alerted the UK to the presence of dual-use kill switches in Chinese electric buses, which could allow China to switch off buses and cause disruption to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russian spy ship has been directing laser beams at Royal Air Force pilots, labeled a “highly dangerous” act by government representatives.
This broader defence environment highlights the significance of strong protocols and caution in all aspects of government activities, from transport usage to discussions habits.
