An defence minister has stated that the MoD is currently looking into the possible security risks associated with Chinese cars, and staff have been advised to avoid talking about classified matters in all cars.
Security Advice for Defence Staff
In a recent interview on a radio station, a defence minister commented on claims that MoD staff have been told not to talk about secret material while travelling in Chinese vehicles.
He stated that the MoD is “investigating” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, but stressed that security is a issue in every contemporary cars.
Our department has a fleet of thousands of cars in the MoD and Chinese ones account for a very small number.
However whether you’re traveling in a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, our instruction to our staff is to avoid connecting Ministry of Defence devices into their car, not to have discussions at a secret classification in any kind of vehicle, due to the increasing risks of eavesdropping that exist in all vehicle, to only have those confidential conversations in secure locations. That’s a wise and sensible thing for everyone concerned about safety.
When it was put to him that it would be wise for the ministry to cease using all cars from China, Pollard replied: ‘That’s precisely what we are looking into at the moment.”
Broader Defence Background
The announcement follows reports from Scandinavian countries have warned the United Kingdom to the presence of multi-purpose shutdown mechanisms in Chinese-made electric buses, which could allow China to switch off public transport and bring disruption to transport systems.
Furthermore, a Russia intelligence vessel has been shining lasers at RAF aircrew, labeled a “highly dangerous” action by defence officials.
The broader security environment underscores the significance of robust measures and caution in every aspects of official activities, including vehicle usage to communication practices.
