Government Official Confirms MoD Investigating Security Risk from Vehicles from China, with Personnel Advised to Refrain from Secret Talk in Vehicles.
A defense minister has confirmed that the Ministry of Defence is currently examining the possible security risks posed by Chinese-made cars, while personnel have been advised to refrain from talking about classified matters in all vehicles.
Security Guidance for Defence Personnel
During a recent interview on a radio station, a defence minister addressed reports that MoD officials have been told not to discuss secret information while travelling in Chinese vehicles.
He said that the MoD is “examining” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, however stressed that security is a concern in every modern cars.
We have a fleet of thousands of vehicles in the MoD and Chinese ones account for a very small number.
However regardless of if you’re traveling in a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, our instruction to our staff is to avoid connecting MoD technology into their car, not to have conversations at a secret level in any kind of vehicle, because of the increasing risks of surveillance that are present in every single vehicle, to only have those secret conversations in protected areas. That’s a wise and sensible thing for everyone concerned about safety.
When it was put to him that it would be wise for the MoD to cease using all Chinese vehicles, Pollard responded: That is precisely what we are looking into at the present time.”
Wider Defence Context
The announcement follows claims from Scandinavian countries have alerted the United Kingdom to the presence of dual-use shutdown mechanisms in Chinese electric buses, which could enable China to switch off public transport and cause disruption to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russia intelligence vessel was reportedly directing lasers at RAF aircrew, labeled a “extremely risky” action by government representatives.
The wider security environment highlights the importance of strong protocols and vigilance in all aspects of government operations, from vehicle usage to communication practices.
