An defense minister has stated that the MoD is actively investigating the possible security risks posed by Chinese cars, while staff have been instructed to refrain from discussing classified matters in all cars.
Safety Guidance for MoD Staff
During a recent appearance on LBC, Luke Pollard commented on claims that Ministry of Defence officials have been instructed not to talk about classified material while travelling in China-made vehicles.
The minister stated that the MoD is “looking into” cars from China within its vehicle pools, however stressed that security is a issue in every modern cars.
Our department has a collection of thousands of vehicles in the MoD and those vehicles account for a very small number.
But whether you’re traveling in a Chinese car or a car from another country, our instruction to our people is to avoid connecting MoD devices into their vehicle, to avoid having discussions at a classified classification in any kind of car, due to the increasing threats of eavesdropping that exist in every single vehicle, to restrict those secret talks in secure locations. This is a wise and sensible thing for everyone worried about safety.
After it was suggested that it would be wise for the ministry to cease using every Chinese vehicles, Pollard replied: That is exactly what we’re investigating at the moment.”
Wider Defence Context
The revelation follows reports from Scandinavian countries have warned the UK to the presence of dual-use shutdown mechanisms in Chinese-made electric buses, which could enable China to switch off buses and cause disruption to public transit.
Furthermore, a Russia spy ship was reportedly directing lasers at RAF pilots, labeled a “extremely risky” action by government representatives.
The broader defence environment underscores the significance of robust measures and vigilance in all areas of official operations, from vehicle use to discussions practices.
