A defence official has confirmed that the MoD is currently investigating the possible threats associated with Chinese cars, while staff have been told to avoid discussing classified matters in any vehicles.
Security Guidance for Defence Personnel
In a recent appearance on LBC, Luke Pollard commented on reports that MoD officials have been instructed not to talk about secret information while riding in Chinese cars.
The minister said that the ministry is “investigating” cars from China within its vehicle pools, however emphasised that safety is a issue in every modern vehicles.
We have a fleet of tens of thousands of vehicles in the MoD and Chinese ones account for a very small number.
However whether you’re driving a vehicle from China or a car from another country, our instruction to our people is not to plug MoD technology into their car, to avoid having discussions at a secret classification in any vehicle, due to the growing threats of eavesdropping that exist in all vehicle, to restrict those confidential conversations in protected areas. This is a wise and sensible thing for everyone worried about security.
When it was put to him that it would be wise for the ministry to cease using every cars from China, Pollard responded: That is precisely what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Wider Defence Context
The revelation follows claims from Scandinavian countries have warned the United Kingdom to the presence of multi-purpose kill switches in Chinese-made buses, which could enable China to switch off buses and cause disruption to public transit.
Furthermore, a Russian spy ship was reportedly directing laser beams at RAF aircrew, labeled a “highly dangerous” action by defence officials.
The broader defence environment highlights the importance of strong protocols and vigilance in all areas of government operations, from vehicle use to communication practices.
