A defence official has revealed that the MoD is currently examining the potential security risks posed by Chinese cars, and staff have been advised to avoid talking about classified information in any cars.
Safety Guidance for MoD Staff
During a recent interview on a radio station, Luke Pollard commented on reports that Ministry of Defence officials have been instructed not to talk about secret information while travelling in Chinese vehicles.
The minister said that the ministry is “investigating” Chinese vehicles within its vehicle pools, however emphasised that security is a concern in all contemporary cars.
We have a fleet of thousands of cars in the Ministry of Defence and those vehicles account for a very small number.
However whether you’re driving a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, what we’ve asked our staff is to avoid connecting MoD technology into their vehicle, to avoid having discussions at a classified level in any kind of vehicle, because of the growing risks of eavesdropping that exist in every single vehicle, to restrict those secret conversations in secure locations. That’s a wise and sensible thing for everyone worried about safety.
When it was put to him that it would be wise for the MoD to stop using every Chinese vehicles, Pollard replied: That is precisely what we’re investigating at the moment.”
Wider Security Background
This announcement follows reports from Norway and Denmark have warned the UK to the presence of multi-purpose kill switches in Chinese-made electric buses, which could allow China to disable public transport and bring disruption to public transit.
Additionally, a Russian intelligence vessel was reportedly directing lasers at RAF pilots, labeled a “extremely risky” act by defence officials.
The broader defence situation highlights the importance of robust protocols and vigilance in every aspects of government activities, including vehicle use to communication habits.
