An defence minister has confirmed that the MoD is currently investigating the possible security risks associated with Chinese cars, and personnel have been advised to avoid discussing classified information in all vehicles.
Safety Advice for MoD Staff
In a recently aired appearance on LBC, a defence minister commented on reports that MoD officials have been told not to discuss classified information while riding in China-made vehicles.
The minister stated that the MoD is “looking into” cars from China within its fleets, however noted that security is a concern in all modern cars.
Our department has a fleet of tens of thousands of vehicles in the MoD and those vehicles represent a very small number.
However whether you’re traveling in a Chinese car or a non-Chinese car, what we’ve asked our people is to avoid connecting Ministry of Defence devices into their vehicle, not to have discussions at a classified classification in any vehicle, due to the growing risks of surveillance that exist in every single automobile, to restrict those confidential talks in protected areas. That’s a wise and reasonable thing for everyone concerned about safety.
After it was put to him that it would be prudent for the MoD to stop using every Chinese vehicles, the minister replied: ‘That’s exactly what we are looking into at the present time.”
Wider Security Background
This revelation comes as reports from Scandinavian countries have alerted the UK to the existence of multi-purpose kill switches in Chinese electric buses, which could allow the Chinese government to disable buses and cause chaos to public transit.
Furthermore, a Russian spy ship has been shining laser beams at RAF pilots, labeled a “extremely risky” action by government representatives.
The broader security situation highlights the importance of robust protocols and vigilance in every aspects of official operations, including vehicle usage to discussions habits.
