An defense minister has revealed that the Ministry of Defence is currently examining the possible security risks posed by Chinese vehicles, while staff have been advised to refrain from discussing classified matters in any cars.
Security Guidance for Defence Personnel
During a recent appearance on LBC, Luke Pollard commented on reports that Ministry of Defence officials have been instructed not to discuss secret material while travelling in China-made vehicles.
He said that the MoD is “examining” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, but emphasised that safety is a issue in all contemporary cars.
We have a fleet of tens of thousands of vehicles in the MoD and Chinese ones represent a very small number.
But whether you’re traveling in a Chinese car or a car from another country, what we’ve asked our people is to avoid connecting MoD technology into their car, to avoid having discussions at a secret classification in any kind of car, because of the increasing risks of surveillance that exist in every single automobile, to only have those confidential talks in protected areas. This is a wise and reasonable thing for anyone worried about security.
When it was suggested that it would be wise for the MoD to cease using every cars from China, Pollard replied: That is precisely what we are looking into at the present time.”
Wider Defence Context
This announcement comes as claims from Scandinavian countries have alerted the UK to the existence of multi-purpose kill switches in Chinese-made buses, which could enable the Chinese government to disable buses and cause chaos to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russian intelligence vessel was reportedly directing lasers at RAF aircrew, labeled a “extremely risky” act by government representatives.
This wider security situation underscores the significance of strong protocols and caution in all aspects of official activities, from vehicle use to discussions practices.
