An defense minister has revealed that the MoD is currently looking into the possible security risks associated with Chinese vehicles, and staff have been instructed to refrain from talking about secret information in any cars.
Security Advice for MoD Staff
During a recent appearance on a radio station, a defence minister addressed claims that Ministry of Defence officials have been instructed not to discuss secret material while travelling in Chinese vehicles.
The minister stated that the MoD is “looking into” Chinese vehicles within its vehicle pools, however emphasised that security is a concern in all contemporary cars.
Our department has a fleet of thousands of cars in the MoD and those vehicles represent a very small number.
However 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 technology into their vehicle, to avoid having discussions at a secret level in any kind of vehicle, because of the growing risks of surveillance that are present in every single automobile, to restrict those confidential talks in protected areas. That’s a prudent and reasonable thing for anyone worried about security.
When it was put to him that it would be wise for the ministry to cease using all Chinese vehicles, Pollard replied: That is precisely what we’re investigating at the moment.”
Broader Security Context
This revelation comes as reports from Norway and Denmark have alerted the UK to the presence of dual-use shutdown mechanisms in Chinese electric buses, which could enable the Chinese government to switch off public transport and bring disruption to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russian intelligence vessel has been shining lasers at Royal Air Force aircrew, labeled a “highly dangerous” act by government representatives.
This broader defence environment underscores the significance of robust measures and vigilance in all aspects of government activities, from transport usage to communication practices.
