An defense minister has stated that the MoD is actively looking into the possible security risks associated with Chinese vehicles, and staff have been advised to avoid talking about secret matters in all vehicles.
Security Guidance for Defence Staff
During a recent appearance on LBC, a defence minister commented on reports that Ministry of Defence officials have been instructed not to talk about classified information while riding in Chinese cars.
He explained that the ministry is “examining” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, but stressed that safety is a issue in all modern vehicles.
We have a fleet of tens of thousands of vehicles in the MoD and those vehicles account for a tiny fraction.
However regardless of if you’re traveling in a vehicle from China or a car from another country, our instruction to our staff is to avoid connecting MoD technology into their car, not to have discussions at a classified level in any kind of vehicle, because of the growing threats of eavesdropping that are present in all vehicle, to restrict those secret talks in protected areas. This is a prudent and reasonable thing for everyone worried about safety.
After it was put to him that it would be wise for the ministry to cease using all cars from China, Pollard replied: That is precisely what we are looking into at the present time.”
Wider Security Context
The announcement comes as claims from Scandinavian countries have warned the United Kingdom to the presence of dual-use kill switches in Chinese buses, which could enable China to disable public transport and bring disruption to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russia spy ship has been directing lasers at RAF aircrew, described as a “extremely risky” act by government representatives.
The wider defence situation underscores the importance of strong protocols and caution in all aspects of government activities, including vehicle use to discussions habits.
