An defence minister has stated that the MoD is currently investigating the possible security risks posed by Chinese cars, and personnel have been instructed to refrain from discussing classified information in any vehicles.
Security Guidance for Defence Personnel
During a recent appearance on LBC, Luke Pollard commented on claims that MoD staff have been told not to discuss classified material while riding in China-made cars.
The minister stated that the ministry is “looking into” cars from China within its vehicle pools, but stressed that security is a concern in all contemporary vehicles.
Our department has a fleet of thousands of cars in the Ministry of Defence and Chinese ones account for a tiny fraction.
But regardless of if you’re driving a Chinese car or a non-Chinese car, our instruction to our people is not to plug MoD devices into their vehicle, not to have conversations at a classified classification in any kind of car, due to the growing risks of eavesdropping that are present in every single automobile, to only have those secret talks in protected areas. This is a prudent and reasonable thing for everyone concerned about safety.
When it was suggested that it would be prudent for the MoD to stop using all cars from China, the minister replied: That is exactly what we’re investigating at the moment.”
Broader Security Background
This revelation comes as claims from Scandinavian countries have warned the UK to the presence of multi-purpose shutdown mechanisms in Chinese electric buses, which could enable the Chinese government to switch off public transport and bring disruption to public transit.
Furthermore, a Russia spy ship has been shining lasers at RAF aircrew, described as a “highly dangerous” act by government representatives.
This wider security situation underscores the significance of strong protocols and vigilance in all aspects of government activities, including transport use to communication practices.
