A defense minister has revealed that the MoD is actively investigating the potential security risks posed by Chinese-made cars, while staff have been advised to refrain from discussing classified information in any vehicles.
Safety Guidance for Defence Staff
During a recent appearance on LBC, Luke Pollard addressed claims that MoD staff have been instructed not to talk about classified information while travelling in China-made vehicles.
He said that the MoD is “looking into” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, but emphasised that security is a issue in every contemporary cars.
We have a fleet of tens of thousands of cars in the Ministry of Defence and Chinese ones account for a tiny fraction.
But whether you’re driving a Chinese car or a car from another country, what we’ve asked our staff is to avoid connecting MoD technology into their vehicle, to avoid having discussions at a secret level in any kind of vehicle, because of the growing threats of eavesdropping that exist in all automobile, to restrict those confidential talks in protected areas. This is a wise and reasonable thing for everyone concerned about security.
After it was put to him that it would be prudent for the ministry to stop using all Chinese vehicles, Pollard replied: ‘That’s precisely what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Wider Defence Context
The revelation comes as claims from Norway and Denmark have alerted the UK to the existence of multi-purpose shutdown mechanisms in Chinese buses, which could allow the Chinese government to disable buses and bring disruption to public transit.
Additionally, a Russian spy ship has been shining lasers at Royal Air Force pilots, labeled a “highly dangerous” act by government representatives.
This broader security situation highlights the importance of strong protocols and vigilance in all areas of official operations, from vehicle use to discussions practices.
