A defense official has stated that the Ministry of Defence is currently examining the possible threats posed by Chinese-made cars, while personnel have been advised to avoid talking about secret matters in any vehicles.
Security Guidance for MoD Staff
During a recent interview on a radio station, Luke Pollard commented on reports that Ministry of Defence officials have been instructed not to discuss classified material while riding in China-made cars.
The minister stated that the ministry is “examining” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, however stressed that security is a concern in every modern cars.
Our department has a fleet of thousands of cars in the MoD and Chinese ones account for a very small number.
But whether you’re driving a vehicle from China or a car from another country, our instruction to our people is to avoid connecting MoD devices into their vehicle, to avoid having conversations at a classified classification in any kind of vehicle, because of the growing risks of surveillance that are present in every single automobile, to only have those secret talks in secure locations. That’s a prudent and sensible thing for everyone concerned about safety.
After it was suggested that it would be wise for the ministry to cease using all Chinese vehicles, Pollard responded: ‘That’s precisely what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Wider Defence Context
The revelation follows claims from Scandinavian countries have alerted the UK to the presence of dual-use kill switches in Chinese electric buses, which could enable China to switch off public transport and cause disruption to transport systems.
Furthermore, a Russia intelligence vessel was reportedly directing laser beams at Royal Air Force pilots, labeled a “extremely risky” action by government representatives.
The broader defence situation highlights the significance of robust measures and vigilance in all aspects of government operations, including transport use to discussions practices.
