An defense official has confirmed that the MoD is currently examining the possible threats associated with Chinese-made cars, while personnel have been told to avoid discussing classified matters in all cars.
Security Guidance for MoD Personnel
In a recent appearance on a radio station, Luke Pollard commented on reports that MoD staff have been told not to discuss classified information while riding in Chinese cars.
He explained that the MoD is “looking into” cars from China within its vehicle pools, however noted that safety is a concern in all contemporary vehicles.
Our department has a collection of thousands of vehicles in the MoD and those vehicles represent a tiny fraction.
However whether you’re traveling in a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, what we’ve asked our staff is not to plug Ministry of Defence technology into their car, not to have conversations at a secret classification in any kind of car, due to the increasing threats of eavesdropping that exist in all automobile, to restrict those secret conversations in secure locations. That’s a wise and reasonable thing for everyone worried about safety.
When it was suggested that it would be prudent for the MoD to cease using every cars from China, Pollard responded: That is precisely what we are looking into at the moment.”
Wider Defence Background
The revelation follows reports from Scandinavian countries have alerted the United Kingdom to the presence of multi-purpose shutdown mechanisms in Chinese electric buses, which could allow the Chinese government to switch off buses and bring disruption to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russia intelligence vessel has been shining lasers at RAF pilots, described as a “highly dangerous” act by defence officials.
This broader security environment highlights the importance of strong measures and caution in every aspects of government activities, from transport usage to communication practices.
