An defence minister has stated that the MoD is actively investigating the potential security risks posed by Chinese-made cars, and personnel have been told to avoid discussing secret matters in all vehicles.
Security Advice for Defence Personnel
In a recently aired appearance on a radio station, a defence minister addressed reports that Ministry of Defence officials have been told not to discuss classified information while travelling in Chinese vehicles.
The minister said that the ministry is “looking into” Chinese vehicles within its vehicle pools, but emphasised that security is a concern in all contemporary cars.
Our department has a collection of tens of thousands of cars in the Ministry of Defence and Chinese ones represent a very small number.
However whether you’re driving a Chinese car or a car from another country, our instruction to our staff is to avoid connecting Ministry of Defence technology into their car, to avoid having discussions at a secret classification in any vehicle, because of the growing threats of surveillance that exist in every single automobile, to only have those confidential talks in secure locations. This is a wise and sensible thing for anyone concerned about security.
When it was put to him that it would be prudent for the MoD to stop using all Chinese vehicles, the minister responded: That is exactly what we are looking into at the present time.”
Wider Defence Background
This revelation comes as claims from Scandinavian countries have warned the UK to the presence of dual-use shutdown mechanisms in Chinese buses, which could allow China to switch off buses and cause chaos to transport systems.
Furthermore, a Russian spy ship was reportedly shining lasers at RAF pilots, labeled a “highly dangerous” act by defence officials.
This wider defence environment underscores the importance of strong measures and vigilance in every aspects of government operations, from transport use to discussions practices.
