An defense minister has stated that the MoD is actively examining the possible security risks posed by Chinese-made cars, and personnel have been told to avoid discussing secret information in any vehicles.
Security Guidance for MoD Personnel
In a recent appearance on a radio station, Luke Pollard addressed claims that Ministry of Defence officials have been told not to discuss classified material while riding in China-made cars.
He explained that the MoD is “looking into” Chinese vehicles within its vehicle pools, however noted that security is a issue in every modern vehicles.
Our department has a fleet of tens of thousands of cars in the MoD and Chinese ones account for a very small number.
But whether you’re traveling in a vehicle from China or a car from another country, our instruction to our people is to avoid connecting MoD devices into their car, not to have discussions at a classified level in any car, due to the growing threats of surveillance that are present in every single automobile, to restrict those secret conversations in secure locations. This is a prudent and sensible thing for everyone concerned about security.
After it was suggested that it would be wise for the MoD to stop using every cars from China, Pollard responded: That is precisely what we are looking into at the moment.”
Wider Security Context
The revelation comes as claims from Norway and Denmark have alerted the UK to the existence of dual-use shutdown mechanisms in Chinese buses, which could allow the Chinese government to disable buses and cause chaos to public transit.
Additionally, a Russian spy ship has been directing laser beams at RAF pilots, labeled a “extremely risky” act by government representatives.
This wider security situation underscores the importance of robust protocols and vigilance in all aspects of government activities, including vehicle use to communication habits.
