An defense official has confirmed that the MoD is actively examining the possible threats associated with Chinese vehicles, while personnel have been advised to refrain from talking about secret information in all vehicles.
Security Advice for MoD Staff
In a recently aired appearance on a radio station, Luke Pollard commented on claims that Ministry of Defence staff have been told not to discuss secret material while riding in China-made vehicles.
He explained that the ministry is “investigating” Chinese vehicles within its vehicle pools, however stressed that security is a issue in all modern cars.
Our department has a collection of thousands of vehicles in the MoD and those vehicles account for a very small number.
But whether you’re traveling in a Chinese car or a car from another country, what we’ve asked our staff is to avoid connecting MoD technology into their car, not to have conversations at a secret level in any vehicle, because of the growing risks of surveillance that exist in all vehicle, to restrict those confidential talks in protected areas. That’s a prudent and sensible thing for everyone worried about security.
After it was suggested that it would be wise for the ministry to cease using all cars from China, Pollard replied: That is exactly what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Wider Security Context
This revelation comes as claims from Norway and Denmark have warned the UK to the existence of multi-purpose shutdown mechanisms in Chinese buses, which could enable China to disable public transport and cause disruption to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russia intelligence vessel has been directing lasers at RAF pilots, described as a “highly dangerous” act by defence officials.
The wider defence environment underscores the importance of robust measures and vigilance in all areas of government activities, including vehicle use to communication practices.
