An defense official has confirmed that the Ministry of Defence is currently examining the possible security risks associated with Chinese-made cars, while personnel have been instructed to avoid talking about secret matters in all cars.
Safety Advice for MoD Staff
During a recent appearance on LBC, a defence minister addressed reports that MoD officials have been instructed not to discuss classified information while travelling in Chinese vehicles.
He stated that the MoD is “investigating” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, however emphasised that security is a issue in all modern cars.
Our department has a fleet of thousands of cars in the MoD and Chinese ones account for a tiny fraction.
However whether you’re traveling in a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, what we’ve asked our staff is to avoid connecting Ministry of Defence devices into their vehicle, not to have discussions at a classified level in any kind of car, because of the increasing risks of surveillance that exist in all automobile, to restrict those confidential talks in secure locations. This is a wise and sensible thing for everyone worried about security.
After it was suggested that it would be prudent for the MoD to stop using all Chinese vehicles, the minister replied: That is exactly what we’re investigating at the moment.”
Broader Defence Background
This announcement comes as reports from Norway and Denmark have alerted the UK to the presence of dual-use shutdown mechanisms in Chinese buses, which could enable China to switch off public transport and bring disruption to public transit.
Furthermore, a Russia intelligence vessel was reportedly shining lasers at RAF pilots, described as a “highly dangerous” action by government representatives.
The wider security situation underscores the importance of robust protocols and caution in all areas of government activities, including vehicle usage to discussions practices.
