An defence official has stated that the MoD is actively examining the possible security risks associated with Chinese cars, and personnel have been told to avoid discussing classified matters in all cars.
Security Advice for Defence Staff
In a recently aired interview on a radio station, a defence minister commented on claims that Ministry of Defence staff have been instructed not to discuss secret material while travelling in Chinese vehicles.
He said that the ministry is “investigating” cars from China within its fleets, however stressed that security is a concern in all contemporary cars.
We have a fleet of tens of thousands of vehicles in the MoD and Chinese ones represent a tiny fraction.
But whether you’re driving a Chinese car or a car from another country, our instruction to our staff is to avoid connecting Ministry of Defence technology into their vehicle, not to have conversations at a classified classification in any vehicle, due to the growing risks of surveillance that are present in every single vehicle, to restrict those confidential conversations in protected areas. This is a prudent and reasonable thing for everyone worried about security.
After it was suggested that it would be wise for the ministry to stop using all Chinese vehicles, Pollard replied: ‘That’s exactly what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Wider Defence Background
The announcement follows reports from Scandinavian countries have warned the United Kingdom to the existence of multi-purpose kill switches in Chinese buses, which could allow China to disable public transport and cause chaos to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russian spy ship was reportedly directing lasers at Royal Air Force pilots, labeled a “extremely risky” act by government representatives.
This wider security situation underscores the significance of strong measures and vigilance in all aspects of government activities, from transport use to discussions habits.
