A defense minister has confirmed that the MoD is actively investigating the possible security risks posed by Chinese cars, while personnel have been told to avoid talking about classified matters in any vehicles.
Security Advice for Defence Staff
During a recent interview on a radio station, Luke Pollard commented on claims that MoD staff have been instructed not to talk about classified information while travelling in China-made cars.
He said that the MoD is “examining” cars from China within its fleets, however emphasised that safety is a issue in all modern cars.
We have a fleet of thousands of cars in the MoD and those vehicles 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 to avoid connecting MoD devices into their car, to avoid having discussions at a secret classification in any kind of vehicle, because of the increasing threats of eavesdropping that exist in all automobile, to restrict those confidential conversations in secure locations. This is a wise and reasonable thing for everyone worried about security.
After it was put to him that it would be wise for the ministry to stop using all Chinese vehicles, Pollard responded: That is precisely what we’re investigating at the moment.”
Broader Security Context
This revelation comes as claims from Norway and Denmark have warned the UK to the presence of multi-purpose shutdown mechanisms in Chinese buses, which could allow China to disable public transport and bring disruption to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russian intelligence vessel was reportedly directing lasers at Royal Air Force pilots, described as a “highly dangerous” action by defence officials.
The wider defence situation underscores the significance of robust protocols and caution in every areas of government activities, including transport use to discussions habits.
