An defence minister has confirmed that the MoD is currently investigating the possible security risks posed by Chinese cars, while personnel have been told to avoid talking about classified matters in all vehicles.
Security Advice for Defence Staff
During a recent interview on LBC, Luke Pollard addressed claims that MoD staff have been told not to discuss secret information while riding in Chinese cars.
The minister explained that the ministry is “examining” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, but emphasised that safety is a issue in all contemporary vehicles.
Our department has a fleet of thousands of vehicles in the MoD and Chinese ones represent a very small number.
But whether you’re traveling in a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, what we’ve asked our people is to avoid connecting MoD technology into their vehicle, not to have conversations at a secret level in any car, due to the increasing threats of surveillance that are present in every single vehicle, to only have those confidential talks in secure locations. That’s a prudent and reasonable thing for anyone concerned about security.
After it was put to him that it would be wise for the MoD to cease using all cars from China, the minister replied: That is exactly what we’re investigating at the moment.”
Wider Security Context
This revelation comes as reports from Scandinavian countries have warned the UK to the presence of multi-purpose shutdown mechanisms in Chinese buses, which could allow China to switch off public transport and bring disruption to public transit.
Furthermore, a Russia spy ship was reportedly directing lasers at RAF pilots, labeled a “extremely risky” action by defence officials.
This broader security situation underscores the importance of robust protocols and vigilance in every areas of government operations, from vehicle use to communication habits.
