A defence official has revealed that the MoD is currently looking into the potential threats associated with Chinese-made vehicles, and personnel have been advised to refrain from discussing classified matters in all vehicles.
Security Guidance for MoD Staff
In a recently aired appearance on LBC, Luke Pollard commented on reports that MoD staff have been instructed not to discuss secret information while travelling in China-made vehicles.
The minister said that the MoD is “looking into” Chinese vehicles within its vehicle pools, but noted that safety is a issue in all modern vehicles.
Our department has a fleet of tens of thousands of vehicles in the MoD and those vehicles represent a very small number.
However regardless of if you’re traveling in a Chinese car or a car from another country, what we’ve asked our staff is not to plug MoD devices into their vehicle, not to have discussions at a secret classification in any kind of vehicle, because of the increasing threats of eavesdropping that are present in every single automobile, to restrict those secret talks in secure locations. This is a prudent and reasonable thing for everyone worried about security.
After it was put to him that it would be wise for the MoD to stop using all Chinese vehicles, Pollard replied: That is precisely what we are looking into at the moment.”
Broader Security Background
This announcement follows claims from Norway and Denmark have alerted the United Kingdom to the presence of multi-purpose shutdown mechanisms in Chinese electric buses, which could enable the Chinese government to switch off buses and cause disruption to transport systems.
Furthermore, a Russian spy ship was reportedly shining lasers at Royal Air Force aircrew, described as a “extremely risky” act by defence officials.
This wider defence environment highlights the significance of strong protocols and vigilance in all aspects of government operations, from vehicle usage to discussions habits.
