An defence minister has stated that the MoD is currently looking into the potential threats associated with Chinese cars, while personnel have been told to refrain from talking about secret matters in any cars.
Security Advice for Defence Staff
During a recent appearance on LBC, Luke Pollard commented on claims that MoD staff have been told not to talk about classified information while travelling in China-made cars.
The minister explained that the ministry is “investigating” cars from China within its fleets, but emphasised that safety is a concern in all contemporary vehicles.
We have a fleet of thousands of cars in the Ministry of Defence and Chinese ones represent a very small number.
But whether you’re driving a Chinese car or a car from another country, what we’ve asked our people is not to plug Ministry of Defence devices into their vehicle, to avoid having discussions at a classified classification in any kind of car, due to the growing risks of surveillance that are present in every single automobile, to restrict those confidential conversations in protected areas. This is a wise and sensible thing for anyone concerned about safety.
When it was suggested that it would be wise for the ministry to stop using all Chinese vehicles, the minister responded: ‘That’s precisely what we’re investigating at the moment.”
Broader Defence Context
The revelation follows reports from Norway and Denmark have warned the United Kingdom to the presence of dual-use shutdown mechanisms in Chinese electric buses, which could allow the Chinese government to switch off public transport and cause disruption to public transit.
Furthermore, a Russian intelligence vessel has been directing laser beams at Royal Air Force pilots, labeled a “highly dangerous” act by government representatives.
This wider security situation highlights the significance of robust protocols and caution in every aspects of official activities, from transport use to communication practices.
