An defence minister has stated that the MoD is currently examining the possible threats posed by Chinese vehicles, while personnel have been instructed to refrain from talking about secret matters in all vehicles.
Security Guidance for Defence Staff
In a recent appearance on LBC, Luke Pollard commented on claims that Ministry of Defence officials have been told not to discuss classified information while riding in China-made cars.
He explained that the ministry is “looking into” Chinese vehicles within its vehicle pools, but noted that security is a issue in every modern cars.
We have a fleet of thousands of vehicles in the Ministry of Defence and those vehicles represent a very small number.
But whether you’re driving a Chinese car or a non-Chinese car, our instruction to our staff is to avoid connecting MoD devices into their car, to avoid having conversations at a classified level in any vehicle, because of the increasing risks of surveillance that are present in every single vehicle, to only have those secret talks in protected areas. This is a wise and reasonable thing for anyone worried about security.
After it was put to him that it would be prudent for the MoD to cease using every cars from China, Pollard responded: That is exactly what we’re investigating at the moment.”
Broader Defence Background
This revelation comes as claims from Norway and Denmark have alerted the United Kingdom to the existence of multi-purpose shutdown mechanisms in Chinese buses, which could enable China to switch off public transport and bring disruption to public transit.
Additionally, a Russian intelligence vessel has been directing lasers at RAF pilots, described as a “extremely risky” action by government representatives.
This broader defence situation underscores the significance of strong protocols and vigilance in all areas of official activities, from transport usage to communication habits.
