A defence minister has revealed that the MoD is currently examining the possible threats associated with Chinese cars, while staff have been advised to refrain from talking about secret information in all cars.
Security Guidance for MoD Staff
During a recent interview on a radio station, a defence minister addressed reports that MoD staff have been instructed not to talk about classified information while travelling in Chinese cars.
The minister explained that the MoD is “investigating” Chinese vehicles within its vehicle pools, but emphasised that security is a issue in every modern vehicles.
We have a collection of thousands of vehicles in the MoD and Chinese ones represent a very small number.
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 technology into their vehicle, not to have conversations at a secret classification in any kind of car, due to the increasing risks of eavesdropping that exist in every single automobile, to restrict those confidential conversations in secure locations. That’s a wise and reasonable thing for anyone concerned about safety.
When it was suggested that it would be prudent for the ministry to cease using all Chinese vehicles, Pollard responded: ‘That’s 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 existence of multi-purpose kill switches in Chinese-made electric buses, which could allow China to switch off public transport and cause chaos to transport systems.
Furthermore, a Russian spy ship has been directing lasers at RAF pilots, labeled a “extremely risky” action by defence officials.
The wider security environment highlights the importance of strong protocols and vigilance in all areas of government operations, from transport use to communication habits.
