An defence official has confirmed that the Ministry of Defence is actively investigating the possible threats associated with Chinese-made cars, and staff have been advised to avoid discussing secret matters in all cars.
Security Guidance for MoD Personnel
During a recently aired appearance on LBC, a defence minister addressed reports that Ministry of Defence staff have been told not to discuss secret information while riding in Chinese vehicles.
The minister explained that the ministry is “examining” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, however stressed that safety is a concern in every modern vehicles.
We have a fleet of thousands of vehicles in the MoD and those vehicles account for a very small number.
However whether you’re traveling in a vehicle from China or a car from another country, what we’ve asked our people is not to plug MoD devices into their car, to avoid having discussions at a classified classification in any kind of vehicle, due to the growing risks of eavesdropping that exist in every single automobile, to only have those secret talks in protected areas. This is a prudent and sensible thing for everyone concerned about safety.
After it was suggested that it would be wise for the MoD to cease using all Chinese vehicles, the minister responded: ‘That’s exactly what we’re investigating at the moment.”
Wider Defence Context
The announcement comes as reports from Norway and Denmark have warned the UK to the presence of multi-purpose kill switches in Chinese-made buses, which could allow China to disable public transport and bring disruption to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russian intelligence vessel was reportedly directing lasers at Royal Air Force pilots, labeled a “extremely risky” action by government representatives.
This wider security environment underscores the significance of robust protocols and vigilance in all areas of government activities, including transport usage to discussions habits.
