An defence official has stated that the MoD is actively investigating the potential security risks associated with Chinese-made cars, while staff have been instructed to avoid discussing classified information in any cars.
Security Advice for MoD Staff
In a recently aired appearance on a radio station, a defence minister commented on claims that MoD officials have been instructed not to discuss secret material while travelling in Chinese cars.
The minister explained that the MoD is “looking into” cars from China within its vehicle pools, however noted that security is a issue in every contemporary cars.
Our department has a fleet of tens of thousands of cars in the MoD and those vehicles account for a very small number.
But regardless of if you’re driving a vehicle from China 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 classified level in any car, because of the growing risks of eavesdropping that exist in all automobile, to only have those confidential conversations in protected areas. That’s a wise and sensible thing for everyone concerned about safety.
After it was suggested that it would be prudent for the ministry to stop using all Chinese vehicles, the minister responded: That is exactly what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Wider Security Background
This revelation comes as reports from Scandinavian countries have warned the United Kingdom to the existence of multi-purpose shutdown mechanisms in Chinese electric buses, which could allow China to switch off public transport and cause chaos to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russia spy ship was reportedly directing laser beams at RAF aircrew, labeled a “highly dangerous” act by government representatives.
This broader security situation underscores the significance of robust measures and caution in all aspects of official activities, including transport use to communication practices.
