A defence official has revealed that the MoD is actively looking into the possible security risks posed by Chinese vehicles, while personnel have been told to refrain from talking about secret matters in any cars.
Safety Guidance for MoD Staff
In a recently aired appearance on a radio station, a defence minister commented on claims that MoD staff have been instructed not to discuss classified information while travelling in Chinese cars.
The minister explained that the ministry is “investigating” Chinese vehicles within its vehicle pools, however stressed that safety is a concern in all modern vehicles.
We have a fleet of thousands of cars in the MoD and Chinese ones represent a very small number.
But whether you’re traveling in a vehicle from China or a car from another country, our instruction to our staff is not to plug Ministry of Defence devices into their car, to avoid having conversations at a classified classification in any car, because of the growing risks of surveillance that exist in all vehicle, to only have those confidential conversations in secure locations. This is a prudent and reasonable thing for everyone worried about safety.
When it was put to him that it would be wise for the ministry to stop using all cars from China, Pollard responded: That is precisely what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Wider Security Background
The announcement comes as reports from Scandinavian countries have warned the UK to the existence of multi-purpose shutdown mechanisms in Chinese-made electric buses, which could enable the Chinese government to switch off buses and bring disruption to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russia intelligence vessel was reportedly directing lasers at Royal Air Force aircrew, described as a “highly dangerous” act by government representatives.
The wider defence situation highlights the significance of strong measures and caution in every aspects of government activities, including transport usage to communication practices.
