A defence minister has revealed that the MoD is actively looking into the potential security risks posed by Chinese cars, while personnel have been instructed to avoid discussing classified information in all vehicles.
Security Advice for Defence Personnel
In a recently aired appearance on LBC, a defence minister addressed reports that Ministry of Defence staff have been instructed not to discuss secret material while travelling in Chinese cars.
The minister explained that the ministry is “investigating” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, however stressed that safety is a concern in all contemporary cars.
We have a fleet of tens of thousands of cars in the Ministry of Defence and those vehicles account for a very small number.
However whether you’re traveling in a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, what we’ve asked our people is to avoid connecting Ministry of Defence technology into their vehicle, not to have discussions at a classified classification in any car, because of the increasing risks of eavesdropping that are present in all automobile, to restrict those confidential conversations in secure locations. This is a wise and sensible thing for anyone concerned about security.
When it was put to him that it would be wise for the MoD to cease using all Chinese vehicles, Pollard responded: ‘That’s precisely what we’re investigating at the moment.”
Wider Defence Background
The announcement comes as reports from Scandinavian countries have warned the UK to the presence of dual-use kill switches in Chinese buses, which could enable the Chinese government to disable public transport and bring disruption to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russia intelligence vessel has been shining laser beams at RAF aircrew, described as a “highly dangerous” action by defence officials.
This wider security environment highlights the importance of strong measures and vigilance in all aspects of official activities, including vehicle usage to discussions practices.
