An defence official has confirmed that the MoD is actively examining the potential security risks associated with Chinese-made vehicles, while staff have been instructed to avoid discussing classified matters in any cars.
Safety Advice for MoD Staff
During a recent appearance on LBC, a defence minister commented on reports that MoD staff have been instructed not to discuss classified information while riding in China-made vehicles.
The minister said that the ministry is “examining” cars from China within its fleets, but noted that security is a issue in every contemporary cars.
Our department has a fleet of thousands of cars in the MoD and those vehicles account for a very small number.
However whether you’re traveling in a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, our instruction to our people is to avoid connecting MoD devices into their car, to avoid having discussions at a classified level in any vehicle, due to the growing risks of surveillance that are present in all vehicle, to restrict those secret talks in protected areas. This is a wise and reasonable thing for anyone worried about security.
When it was suggested that it would be wise for the MoD to cease using all Chinese vehicles, the minister responded: That is precisely what we are looking into at the present time.”
Broader Security Background
This revelation follows claims from Norway and Denmark have warned the UK to the existence of multi-purpose shutdown mechanisms in Chinese-made electric buses, which could allow China to switch off buses and bring chaos to transport systems.
Furthermore, a Russia spy ship has been shining lasers at Royal Air Force aircrew, described as a “extremely risky” action by defence officials.
The wider security situation underscores the significance of strong protocols and caution in every areas of government operations, from vehicle use to discussions habits.
