An defence official has confirmed that the MoD is actively examining the potential security risks associated with Chinese cars, while staff have been told to avoid talking about classified matters in any cars.
Safety Guidance for MoD Personnel
During a recently aired appearance on LBC, a defence minister commented on claims that MoD officials have been told not to discuss secret material while riding in China-made vehicles.
The minister stated that the MoD is “examining” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, but emphasised that security is a concern in all modern cars.
We have a fleet of tens of thousands of vehicles in the Ministry of Defence and those vehicles account for a very small number.
But whether you’re traveling in a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, what we’ve asked our people is not to plug MoD technology into their car, not to have discussions at a secret classification in any kind of car, because of the increasing risks of surveillance that are present in every single automobile, to only have those confidential conversations in protected areas. This is a wise and sensible thing for everyone concerned about security.
When it was put to him that it would be wise for the ministry to stop using every cars from China, the minister replied: That is precisely what we are looking into at the moment.”
Wider Security Context
This revelation follows claims from Scandinavian countries have warned the UK to the existence of multi-purpose kill switches in Chinese buses, which could enable the Chinese government to switch off public transport and bring chaos to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russia intelligence vessel was reportedly shining laser beams at Royal Air Force aircrew, described as a “extremely risky” action by government representatives.
The broader security situation underscores the importance of strong protocols and vigilance in every aspects of official activities, including vehicle usage to discussions practices.
