Government Official Says MoD Looking at Security Risk from Vehicles from China, as Personnel Told to Avoid Confidential Discussions in Cars.
An defense official has revealed that the MoD is actively looking into the potential security risks associated with Chinese vehicles, and staff have been told to refrain from discussing classified matters in any cars.
Security Guidance for MoD Staff
During a recent appearance on a radio station, a defence minister addressed claims that MoD staff have been told not to talk about secret material while travelling in Chinese vehicles.
The minister stated that the ministry is “examining” Chinese vehicles within its vehicle pools, but emphasised that security is a concern in every contemporary cars.
Our department has a fleet of tens of thousands of cars in the MoD and Chinese ones account for a tiny fraction.
But whether you’re driving a Chinese car or a non-Chinese car, our instruction to our people is not to plug MoD devices into their car, not to have discussions at a classified classification in any vehicle, due to the growing threats of eavesdropping that exist in all automobile, to restrict those confidential conversations in protected areas. This is a prudent and reasonable thing for everyone concerned about safety.
After it was put to him that it would be wise for the MoD to cease using every Chinese vehicles, Pollard replied: That is precisely what we’re investigating at the present time.”
Broader Security Background
This announcement follows reports from Norway and Denmark have alerted the UK to the presence of multi-purpose kill switches in Chinese electric buses, which could enable the Chinese government to disable buses and cause disruption to transport systems.
Furthermore, a Russian spy ship has been shining lasers at Royal Air Force pilots, described as a “highly dangerous” act by government representatives.
This wider defence situation highlights the significance of strong protocols and vigilance in every aspects of government activities, from vehicle usage to discussions practices.
