A defence minister has stated that the MoD is currently examining the possible security risks posed by Chinese-made vehicles, and personnel have been told to refrain from talking about classified information in any cars.
Security Advice for MoD Personnel
During a recently aired interview on LBC, a defence minister addressed claims that MoD staff have been told not to discuss secret material while riding in Chinese cars.
The minister said that the MoD is “examining” cars from China within its vehicle pools, but noted that safety is a concern in every modern cars.
We have a collection of thousands of vehicles in the Ministry of Defence and those vehicles represent a very small number.
But whether you’re driving a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, our instruction to our people is to avoid connecting Ministry of Defence devices into their vehicle, not to have discussions at a classified classification in any kind of vehicle, due to the growing risks of surveillance that exist in every single automobile, to only have those secret conversations in protected areas. This is a prudent and reasonable thing for everyone worried about safety.
When it was suggested that it would be prudent for the MoD to cease using every Chinese vehicles, the minister responded: That is exactly what we’re investigating at the moment.”
Wider Security Background
The revelation follows reports from Norway and Denmark have alerted the UK to the presence of multi-purpose shutdown mechanisms in Chinese electric buses, which could allow China to disable public transport and cause disruption to public transit.
Furthermore, a Russia intelligence vessel was reportedly directing laser beams at Royal Air Force aircrew, described as a “extremely risky” act by defence officials.
This broader security situation highlights the importance of strong measures and caution in every aspects of government operations, from transport use to discussions habits.
