An defence minister has confirmed that the MoD is actively investigating the possible threats posed by Chinese vehicles, while personnel have been advised to avoid discussing classified matters in any cars.
Security Guidance for MoD Staff
During a recent appearance on a radio station, Luke Pollard addressed reports that Ministry of Defence staff have been told not to talk about classified material while riding in China-made vehicles.
He said that the ministry is “investigating” cars from China within its vehicle pools, however noted that security is a concern in all contemporary cars.
Our department has a fleet of tens of thousands of vehicles in the Ministry of Defence and those vehicles represent a very small number.
But whether you’re traveling in a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, our instruction to our people is to avoid connecting MoD technology into their vehicle, not to have conversations at a classified level in any kind of vehicle, due to the increasing risks of surveillance that are present in all vehicle, to restrict those confidential conversations in secure locations. That’s a prudent and sensible thing for everyone concerned about safety.
When it was put to him that it would be prudent for the MoD to cease using all Chinese vehicles, the minister replied: That is exactly what we’re investigating at the moment.”
Wider Security Context
This revelation comes as claims from Scandinavian countries have warned the UK to the existence of multi-purpose shutdown mechanisms in Chinese-made buses, which could allow China to disable buses and bring chaos to public transit.
Additionally, a Russia spy ship was reportedly directing lasers at RAF aircrew, described as a “extremely risky” act by government representatives.
This broader security environment underscores the significance of strong measures and vigilance in all areas of government operations, from vehicle use to communication habits.
