An defence official has confirmed that the Ministry of Defence is currently investigating the possible threats associated with Chinese-made vehicles, while personnel have been advised to avoid discussing classified information in any cars.
Safety Guidance for Defence Staff
In a recently aired interview on a radio station, a defence minister commented on reports that MoD staff have been told not to discuss classified material while riding in Chinese vehicles.
He said that the ministry is “investigating” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, however stressed that security is a concern in all contemporary cars.
We have a collection of thousands of cars in the Ministry of Defence and those vehicles account for a very small number.
However whether you’re traveling in a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, our instruction to our staff is to avoid connecting MoD technology into their vehicle, not to have discussions at a secret level in any kind of car, because of the increasing risks of eavesdropping that are present in all automobile, to restrict those confidential conversations in protected areas. That’s a prudent and sensible thing for anyone concerned about safety.
When it was put to him that it would be prudent for the MoD to stop using every cars from China, Pollard replied: That is exactly what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Wider Defence Background
The announcement comes as reports from Norway and Denmark have warned the UK to the presence of multi-purpose shutdown mechanisms in Chinese electric buses, which could enable the Chinese government to switch off public transport and cause disruption to transport systems.
Furthermore, a Russian intelligence vessel has been shining lasers at Royal Air Force aircrew, described as a “highly dangerous” action by government representatives.
The wider defence environment underscores the importance of robust measures and caution in every aspects of government activities, from transport usage to discussions habits.
