An defense official has confirmed that the MoD is actively looking into the possible security risks associated with Chinese cars, while personnel have been told to avoid discussing secret matters in any cars.
Security Guidance for Defence Personnel
In a recent appearance on a radio station, Luke Pollard addressed claims that MoD officials have been instructed not to discuss classified information while riding in Chinese vehicles.
He stated that the ministry is “looking into” cars from China within its vehicle pools, however noted that safety is a issue in all modern vehicles.
We have a collection of thousands of vehicles in the MoD and those vehicles represent a tiny fraction.
But whether you’re driving a Chinese car or a car from another country, what we’ve asked our staff is to avoid connecting Ministry of Defence technology into their car, not to have conversations at a classified classification in any kind of car, due to the increasing threats of eavesdropping that are present in all vehicle, to restrict those secret conversations in protected areas. 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 all cars from China, Pollard responded: That is precisely what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Wider Security Context
This revelation comes as claims from Norway and Denmark have warned the United Kingdom to the presence of dual-use kill switches in Chinese-made buses, which could allow China to disable public transport and bring chaos to public transit.
Additionally, a Russian spy ship has been shining lasers at RAF aircrew, labeled a “extremely risky” action by government representatives.
This wider defence environment highlights the importance of robust protocols and vigilance in all aspects of government activities, including transport usage to discussions habits.
