A defense minister has confirmed that the MoD is actively examining the possible security risks associated with Chinese-made cars, and staff have been advised to refrain from discussing secret matters in all cars.
Security Advice for Defence Staff
During a recently aired interview on a radio station, a defence minister commented on claims that MoD officials have been instructed not to talk about secret information while riding in China-made cars.
He explained that the ministry is “examining” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, however emphasised that security is a issue in every modern vehicles.
We have a fleet of thousands of cars in the MoD and those vehicles account for a very small number.
However whether you’re traveling in a Chinese car or a non-Chinese car, what we’ve asked our people is to avoid connecting Ministry of Defence devices into their car, not to have conversations at a classified classification in any car, due to the growing risks of surveillance that exist in all automobile, to restrict those secret conversations in protected areas. This is a wise and reasonable thing for everyone concerned about safety.
After it was put to him that it would be wise for the MoD to stop using all cars from China, Pollard responded: That is exactly what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Broader Security Context
The revelation follows reports from Norway and Denmark have warned the UK to the presence of dual-use shutdown mechanisms in Chinese electric buses, which could enable China to disable buses and cause disruption to public transit.
Additionally, a Russia spy ship was reportedly directing laser beams at Royal Air Force pilots, labeled a “extremely risky” action by defence officials.
The wider defence situation highlights the significance of strong protocols and vigilance in all areas of government operations, including transport use to communication habits.
