A defence minister has confirmed that the Ministry of Defence is actively examining the potential security risks associated with Chinese vehicles, while staff have been advised to avoid talking about classified information in all cars.
Safety Guidance for Defence Staff
During a recent appearance on LBC, Luke Pollard commented on reports that Ministry of Defence staff have been told not to discuss classified information while travelling in Chinese cars.
The minister explained that the MoD is “investigating” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, however noted that safety is a concern in every modern vehicles.
We have a fleet of tens of thousands of cars in the MoD and those vehicles represent a tiny fraction.
However regardless of if you’re driving a vehicle from China or a car from another country, our instruction to our staff is not to plug Ministry of Defence devices into their vehicle, not to have conversations at a classified classification in any kind of vehicle, due to the growing risks of eavesdropping that are present in every single automobile, to only have those confidential conversations in protected areas. This is a wise and reasonable thing for anyone concerned about security.
When it was suggested that it would be prudent for the ministry to stop using all Chinese vehicles, the minister replied: That is precisely what we are looking into at the moment.”
Broader Defence Background
This announcement follows reports from Scandinavian countries have warned the United Kingdom to the presence of dual-use kill switches in Chinese electric buses, which could allow China to disable buses and bring disruption to transport systems.
Furthermore, a Russian intelligence vessel has been shining lasers at RAF aircrew, labeled a “extremely risky” act by defence officials.
This broader defence environment highlights the importance of strong measures and vigilance in all areas of official activities, from vehicle use to discussions practices.
