An defence minister has stated that the MoD is currently looking into the possible security risks associated with Chinese-made vehicles, and personnel have been instructed to refrain from talking about classified matters in any cars.
Security Guidance for MoD Personnel
During a recently aired appearance on LBC, a defence minister commented on claims that MoD officials have been instructed not to talk about secret information while riding in Chinese vehicles.
The minister explained that the MoD is “examining” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, however emphasised that security is a issue in every modern cars.
We have a collection of thousands of cars in the MoD and Chinese ones account for a very small number.
However regardless of if you’re driving a Chinese car or a non-Chinese car, what we’ve asked our staff is not to plug Ministry of Defence devices into their vehicle, not to have discussions at a classified classification in any kind of car, due to the increasing threats of eavesdropping that are present in all vehicle, to only have those secret conversations in protected areas. This is a wise and reasonable thing for everyone worried about security.
After it was put to him that it would be prudent for the ministry to stop using every cars from China, the minister replied: That is precisely what we are looking into at the present time.”
Broader Security Background
The revelation comes as reports from Norway and Denmark have alerted the UK to the presence of multi-purpose shutdown mechanisms in Chinese electric buses, which could allow China to switch off public transport and bring chaos to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russian intelligence vessel was reportedly directing laser beams at Royal Air Force aircrew, described as a “highly dangerous” act by defence officials.
This wider security situation highlights the importance of robust protocols and caution in every areas of government activities, including transport usage to discussions habits.
