An defense minister has confirmed that the Ministry of Defence is currently looking into the possible threats associated with Chinese cars, while personnel have been instructed to avoid talking about classified information in all vehicles.
Security Guidance for Defence Personnel
During a recent appearance on a radio station, Luke Pollard commented on claims that MoD staff have been instructed not to discuss classified information while travelling in China-made vehicles.
The minister explained that the MoD is “examining” cars from China within its fleets, but noted that safety is a concern in all modern cars.
We have a fleet of tens of thousands of cars in the MoD and those vehicles account for a very small number.
But whether you’re driving a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, what we’ve asked our staff is to avoid connecting MoD technology into their vehicle, to avoid having discussions at a classified level in any car, due to the growing risks of eavesdropping that are present 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 prudent for the ministry to cease using every cars from China, the minister replied: That is precisely what we’re investigating at the moment.”
Wider Security Background
The revelation comes as reports from Norway and Denmark have alerted the United Kingdom to the existence of multi-purpose shutdown mechanisms in Chinese-made buses, which could allow the Chinese government to switch off public transport and cause disruption to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russian intelligence vessel was reportedly shining laser beams at RAF aircrew, labeled a “extremely risky” act by defence officials.
The wider defence environment highlights the significance of robust measures and vigilance in all aspects of government activities, including vehicle usage to communication practices.
