An defense official has confirmed that the MoD is actively investigating the potential security risks associated with Chinese-made cars, and personnel have been advised to avoid talking about classified information in any vehicles.
Safety Advice for MoD Personnel
During a recently aired appearance on a radio station, Luke Pollard commented on claims that MoD officials have been told not to talk about classified information while riding in Chinese vehicles.
The minister stated that the ministry is “examining” Chinese vehicles within its vehicle pools, but noted that safety is a concern in every modern cars.
Our department has a collection of tens of thousands of vehicles in the MoD and those vehicles represent a very small number.
But whether you’re driving a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, our instruction to our people is to avoid connecting Ministry of Defence devices into their vehicle, to avoid having discussions at a secret classification in any car, due to the increasing risks of surveillance that are present in all automobile, to only have those confidential talks in secure locations. This is a prudent and sensible thing for anyone worried about safety.
After it was put to him that it would be prudent for the MoD to stop using every cars from China, the minister responded: That is precisely what we’re investigating at the moment.”
Broader Security Context
This revelation comes as claims from Scandinavian countries have warned the United Kingdom to the presence of dual-use shutdown mechanisms in Chinese electric buses, which could allow China to disable public transport and bring disruption to public transit.
Furthermore, a Russia spy ship was reportedly directing laser beams at Royal Air Force aircrew, described as a “highly dangerous” action by defence officials.
This wider defence environment underscores the significance of strong measures and vigilance in all aspects of official operations, from vehicle use to discussions habits.