A defence minister has confirmed that the MoD is currently examining the possible security risks posed by Chinese-made cars, and staff have been told to avoid discussing secret information in all cars.
Security Guidance for Defence Staff
During a recent interview on a radio station, a defence minister addressed claims that Ministry of Defence staff have been told not to talk about classified material while riding in Chinese cars.
He explained that the MoD is “investigating” cars from China within its fleets, however stressed that security is a issue in all modern vehicles.
Our department has a collection of thousands of cars in the Ministry of Defence and Chinese ones account for a very small number.
However whether you’re driving a vehicle from China or a car from another country, our instruction to our staff is to avoid connecting MoD devices into their vehicle, not to have discussions at a secret level in any kind of vehicle, because of the growing threats of eavesdropping that exist in all automobile, to only have those secret conversations in secure locations. This is a prudent and reasonable thing for everyone worried about security.
After it was put to him that it would be wise for the MoD to stop using every cars from China, Pollard responded: ‘That’s exactly what we are looking into at the present time.”
Broader Security Background
The announcement comes as reports from Scandinavian countries have alerted the UK to the existence of multi-purpose shutdown mechanisms in Chinese electric buses, which could allow China to disable public transport and bring chaos to transport systems.
Furthermore, a Russian intelligence vessel has been directing laser beams at Royal Air Force aircrew, labeled a “extremely risky” action by defence officials.
The wider defence situation highlights the importance of strong protocols and caution in all aspects of government activities, including vehicle use to communication practices.
