An defence minister has revealed that the MoD is currently looking into the possible security risks posed by Chinese-made cars, and staff have been told to avoid discussing classified matters in any vehicles.
Safety Guidance for Defence Personnel
In a recent appearance on a radio station, a defence minister commented on claims that MoD officials have been told not to talk about secret information while riding in Chinese vehicles.
The minister said that the ministry is “investigating” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, but emphasised that security is a issue in all contemporary cars.
Our department has a collection of tens of thousands of cars in the MoD and those vehicles account for a very small number.
But whether you’re traveling in a Chinese car or a non-Chinese car, our instruction to our people is not to plug Ministry of Defence devices into their vehicle, not to have conversations at a secret level in any kind of car, due to the growing threats of eavesdropping that are present in all automobile, to only have those secret conversations in protected areas. This is a wise and reasonable thing for everyone worried about safety.
After it was put to him that it would be wise for the MoD to cease using all Chinese vehicles, the minister responded: That is precisely what we’re investigating at the moment.”
Wider Defence Background
The revelation comes as reports from Scandinavian countries have alerted the United Kingdom to the existence of dual-use kill switches in Chinese electric buses, which could allow the Chinese government to disable buses and cause disruption to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russian intelligence vessel was reportedly directing laser beams at RAF aircrew, described as a “highly dangerous” act by defence officials.
The broader security situation highlights the significance of robust measures and vigilance in every areas of official activities, including vehicle use to discussions habits.