An defense official has stated that the MoD is actively examining the possible threats associated with Chinese cars, and staff have been told to avoid discussing classified information in all cars.
Safety Guidance for MoD Personnel
In a recent interview on LBC, a defence minister commented on claims that MoD staff have been told not to talk about classified information while travelling in China-made vehicles.
The minister said that the MoD is “examining” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, but stressed that safety is a concern in all modern cars.
Our department has a fleet of tens of thousands of cars in the MoD and Chinese ones represent a tiny fraction.
But whether you’re driving a Chinese car or a non-Chinese car, what we’ve asked our people is to avoid connecting Ministry of Defence technology into their car, not to have discussions at a secret classification in any kind of vehicle, due to the growing risks of eavesdropping that are present in all automobile, to restrict those secret conversations in protected areas. This is a wise and reasonable thing for everyone worried about security.
After it was put to him that it would be prudent for the ministry to cease using every cars from China, Pollard responded: That is precisely what we’re investigating at the moment.”
Wider Security Context
This revelation comes as claims from Norway and Denmark have warned the United Kingdom to the presence of multi-purpose shutdown mechanisms in Chinese-made buses, which could enable China to disable buses and bring chaos to public transit.
Additionally, a Russia intelligence vessel has been directing lasers at Royal Air Force pilots, described as a “highly dangerous” act by defence officials.
This broader security environment underscores the significance of robust protocols and vigilance in all areas of official activities, from transport use to discussions practices.
