A defence official has confirmed that the MoD is actively looking into the potential security risks posed by Chinese-made cars, and staff have been advised to avoid discussing secret information in any cars.
Security Guidance for MoD Personnel
In a recent appearance on LBC, a defence minister addressed reports that Ministry of Defence officials have been instructed not to discuss classified material while riding in China-made vehicles.
The minister stated that the ministry is “looking into” cars from China within its fleets, however noted that security is a issue in all contemporary cars.
Our department has a fleet of tens of thousands of cars in the MoD and those vehicles represent a tiny fraction.
But regardless of if you’re traveling in a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, what we’ve asked our people is to avoid connecting MoD technology into their vehicle, not to have discussions at a classified classification in any vehicle, due to the growing threats of surveillance that exist in all vehicle, to restrict those confidential talks in protected areas. This is a prudent and reasonable thing for anyone worried about security.
When it was put to him that it would be prudent for the ministry to cease using all cars from China, the minister replied: That is precisely what we are looking into at the moment.”
Wider Security Context
This revelation comes as claims from Scandinavian countries have alerted the UK to the existence of dual-use shutdown mechanisms in Chinese-made buses, which could enable China to switch off buses and bring disruption to transport systems.
Furthermore, a Russian intelligence vessel was reportedly shining laser beams at Royal Air Force pilots, labeled a “highly dangerous” action by government representatives.
This broader defence situation underscores the significance of robust protocols and vigilance in every aspects of government operations, from transport usage to discussions practices.
