An defence minister has confirmed that the MoD is actively investigating the possible security risks associated with Chinese-made cars, while personnel have been advised to refrain from discussing secret matters in any cars.
Security Advice for Defence Personnel
In a recently aired appearance on LBC, Luke Pollard addressed reports that MoD officials have been told not to talk about secret material while travelling in China-made cars.
He stated that the ministry is “investigating” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, however emphasised that security is a issue in all contemporary cars.
Our department has a collection of tens of thousands of vehicles in the Ministry of Defence and Chinese ones account for a very small number.
But whether you’re driving a Chinese car or a non-Chinese car, our instruction to our people is to avoid connecting Ministry of Defence devices into their car, not to have discussions at a secret classification in any vehicle, due to the growing risks of surveillance that exist in every single automobile, to restrict those confidential talks in protected areas. That’s a wise and reasonable thing for anyone concerned about safety.
When it was suggested that it would be prudent for the ministry to stop using all Chinese vehicles, Pollard replied: That is exactly what we’re investigating at the moment.”
Wider Security Context
The announcement comes as reports from Scandinavian countries have alerted the United Kingdom to the existence of dual-use shutdown mechanisms in Chinese-made electric buses, which could enable China to disable public transport and bring chaos to public transit.
Furthermore, a Russia spy ship has been directing lasers at Royal Air Force aircrew, labeled a “highly dangerous” act by government representatives.
The broader security situation underscores the significance of strong measures and caution in every aspects of official operations, from vehicle use to discussions practices.
