An defence minister has stated that the Ministry of Defence is currently looking into the possible security risks posed by Chinese-made cars, while personnel have been advised to refrain from discussing classified information in all vehicles.
Security Guidance for MoD Staff
In a recently aired interview on a radio station, a defence minister commented on claims that MoD officials have been instructed not to discuss classified information while riding in Chinese cars.
The minister stated that the MoD is “looking into” cars from China within its fleets, however emphasised that safety is a issue in every modern vehicles.
Our department has a collection of tens of thousands of cars in the MoD and those vehicles account for a tiny fraction.
But whether you’re traveling in a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, what we’ve asked our staff is to avoid connecting MoD technology into their car, not to have conversations at a secret classification in any vehicle, because of the increasing risks of surveillance that are present in all vehicle, to only have those secret conversations in protected areas. That’s a wise and sensible thing for anyone concerned about security.
When it was put to him that it would be wise for the MoD to cease using every cars from China, Pollard replied: ‘That’s precisely what we are looking into at the moment.”
Wider Security Background
The announcement follows claims from Scandinavian countries have warned the UK to the presence of dual-use kill switches in Chinese buses, which could allow China to switch off public transport and cause disruption to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russia intelligence vessel has been shining laser beams at Royal Air Force aircrew, labeled a “highly dangerous” act by defence officials.
The wider security situation underscores the significance of robust measures and vigilance in all aspects of official activities, from transport usage to discussions practices.
