An defence official has revealed that the MoD is actively looking into the possible security risks posed by Chinese cars, while staff have been instructed to refrain from discussing classified matters in all cars.
Security Advice for Defence Staff
In a recent appearance on LBC, Luke Pollard commented on reports that Ministry of Defence staff have been told not to discuss classified information while travelling in China-made cars.
The minister stated that the ministry is “looking into” cars from China within its fleets, but stressed that safety is a concern in all modern vehicles.
We have a collection of thousands of cars in the MoD and those vehicles account for a very small number.
But whether you’re driving a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, what we’ve asked our people is not to plug MoD devices into their car, not to have conversations at a secret classification in any kind of vehicle, due to the growing risks of eavesdropping that exist in all automobile, to only have those secret conversations in protected areas. This is a prudent and sensible thing for everyone concerned about security.
After it was put to him that it would be prudent for the ministry to stop using every cars from China, the minister replied: That is precisely what we are looking into at the present time.”
Wider Defence Background
This announcement comes as reports from Scandinavian countries have warned the UK to the existence of multi-purpose shutdown mechanisms in Chinese buses, which could allow China to disable public transport and cause disruption to public transit.
Furthermore, a Russian spy ship was reportedly shining lasers at RAF pilots, described as a “highly dangerous” action by defence officials.
The broader security situation underscores the importance of strong protocols and vigilance in all areas of official operations, including transport use to discussions habits.
