An defence minister has confirmed that the Ministry of Defence is actively investigating the possible security risks posed by Chinese-made vehicles, and personnel have been instructed to avoid discussing secret matters in any vehicles.
Security Advice for MoD Personnel
During a recent appearance on a radio station, Luke Pollard commented on claims that Ministry of Defence staff have been instructed not to discuss classified material while riding in China-made cars.
He said that the ministry is “examining” Chinese vehicles within its vehicle pools, however emphasised that security is a concern in all contemporary vehicles.
Our department has a collection of thousands of vehicles in the Ministry of Defence 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, what we’ve asked our people is to avoid connecting MoD devices into their car, not to have conversations at a classified level in any vehicle, due to the growing risks of surveillance that are present in all vehicle, to only have those secret conversations in secure locations. This is a wise and reasonable thing for anyone concerned about safety.
When it was suggested that it would be prudent for the MoD to cease using every cars from China, Pollard replied: That is precisely what we’re investigating at the moment.”
Broader Defence Background
The revelation comes as reports from Scandinavian countries have warned the United Kingdom to the presence of multi-purpose kill switches in Chinese buses, which could allow the Chinese government to disable public transport and cause disruption to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russia intelligence vessel has been directing laser beams at RAF pilots, labeled a “extremely risky” action by government representatives.
This broader defence environment highlights the importance of robust protocols and vigilance in all areas of official operations, including vehicle usage to discussions practices.
