An defense official has revealed that the MoD is actively investigating the possible security risks posed by Chinese-made vehicles, and staff have been instructed to avoid talking about secret matters in any cars.
Security Advice for MoD Personnel
During a recent interview on LBC, a defence minister addressed claims that MoD staff have been instructed not to talk about classified material while riding in Chinese vehicles.
The minister stated that the MoD is “examining” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, but stressed that safety is a concern in every contemporary cars.
We have a collection of tens of thousands of vehicles in the MoD and Chinese ones 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 staff is not to plug MoD technology into their vehicle, not to have discussions at a secret classification in any vehicle, due to the growing risks of surveillance that are present in all vehicle, to only have those confidential conversations in protected areas. That’s a wise and reasonable thing for anyone worried about security.
After it was put to him that it would be prudent for the ministry to cease using all cars from China, the minister responded: That is exactly what we’re investigating at the moment.”
Broader Defence Background
The announcement follows claims from Scandinavian countries have warned the United Kingdom to the existence of multi-purpose shutdown mechanisms in Chinese electric buses, which could enable China to disable public transport and cause chaos to public transit.
Furthermore, a Russian spy ship was reportedly directing lasers at RAF pilots, labeled a “highly dangerous” action by defence officials.
This wider security environment highlights the importance of robust measures and vigilance in all areas of official activities, including vehicle use to discussions practices.
