A defence minister has confirmed that the MoD is actively investigating the possible security risks posed by Chinese cars, and personnel have been instructed to avoid discussing classified information in all vehicles.
Security Guidance for MoD Staff
In a recently aired interview on a radio station, a defence minister addressed reports that MoD officials have been told not to talk about secret information while riding in China-made vehicles.
The minister said that the ministry is “investigating” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, however noted that security is a concern in every modern cars.
We have a fleet of thousands of cars in the MoD and those vehicles represent a tiny fraction.
However whether you’re traveling in a Chinese car or a car from another country, what we’ve asked our staff is not to plug Ministry of Defence devices into their vehicle, not to have conversations at a classified classification in any kind of car, because of the growing threats of surveillance that are present in all vehicle, to restrict those confidential conversations in protected areas. That’s a wise and sensible thing for everyone worried about security.
When it was put to him that it would be wise for the ministry to cease using all cars from China, the minister replied: That is exactly what we are looking into at the present time.”
Wider Security Context
This revelation comes as claims from Scandinavian countries have warned the UK to the presence of multi-purpose shutdown mechanisms in Chinese-made electric buses, which could allow the Chinese government to disable public transport and cause chaos to transport systems.
Furthermore, a Russian intelligence vessel was reportedly shining laser beams at Royal Air Force pilots, labeled a “extremely risky” act by government representatives.
The broader security situation underscores the significance of strong protocols and vigilance in all aspects of official activities, from transport use to discussions habits.
