A defence minister has revealed that the MoD is currently examining the possible security risks posed by Chinese-made vehicles, and staff have been told to avoid discussing secret matters in all vehicles.
Security Advice for MoD Staff
During a recent appearance on LBC, a defence minister addressed reports that Ministry of Defence staff have been told not to talk about secret material while riding in China-made vehicles.
He explained that the ministry is “investigating” Chinese vehicles within its vehicle pools, however noted that safety is a issue in all contemporary vehicles.
We have a collection of tens of thousands of vehicles in the Ministry of Defence and those vehicles represent a tiny fraction.
But whether you’re driving a Chinese car or a car from another country, what we’ve asked our people is to avoid connecting Ministry of Defence technology into their vehicle, not to have discussions at a classified classification in any vehicle, due to the increasing threats of surveillance that are present in all vehicle, to restrict those secret conversations in protected areas. That’s a prudent and reasonable thing for everyone concerned about security.
After it was suggested that it would be wise for the ministry to stop using all cars from China, Pollard replied: That is exactly what we are looking into at the present time.”
Wider Security Background
This announcement comes as claims from Scandinavian countries have warned the United Kingdom to the presence of multi-purpose shutdown mechanisms in Chinese buses, which could allow China to disable buses and cause disruption to transport systems.
Furthermore, a Russia spy ship was reportedly shining laser beams at RAF aircrew, labeled a “highly dangerous” action by defence officials.
The broader defence situation underscores the importance of strong protocols and vigilance in every aspects of official activities, including transport use to discussions practices.
