An defense official has confirmed that the MoD is currently looking into the possible security risks posed by Chinese-made cars, and personnel have been instructed to refrain from discussing classified matters in any vehicles.
Security Advice for MoD Staff
During a recent appearance on a radio station, a defence minister commented on claims that MoD officials have been instructed not to talk about secret information while travelling in Chinese cars.
The minister stated that the MoD is “investigating” cars from China within its vehicle pools, however noted that safety is a issue in all modern cars.
Our department has a collection of tens of thousands of vehicles in the MoD and Chinese ones represent a very small number.
But regardless of if you’re driving a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, what we’ve asked our staff is to avoid connecting MoD technology into their vehicle, to avoid having conversations at a secret classification in any kind of vehicle, due to the growing threats of surveillance that exist in all automobile, to restrict those secret talks in secure locations. This is a wise and sensible thing for everyone worried about safety.
When it was put to him that it would be wise for the ministry to cease using every Chinese vehicles, the minister responded: ‘That’s precisely what we are looking into at the present time.”
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 electric buses, which could enable the Chinese government to switch off buses and cause disruption to public transit.
Additionally, a Russia spy ship was reportedly shining lasers at Royal Air Force aircrew, described as a “highly dangerous” action by government representatives.
This wider security environment highlights the significance of strong measures and vigilance in all areas of official operations, from vehicle use to discussions habits.
