A defense official has confirmed that the MoD is actively looking into the possible security risks associated with Chinese cars, and personnel have been told to avoid discussing secret information in any vehicles.
Security Guidance for Defence Staff
During a recent appearance on LBC, Luke Pollard addressed reports that Ministry of Defence officials have been instructed not to discuss secret information while riding in China-made cars.
He explained that the MoD is “looking into” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, but noted that security is a issue in every contemporary vehicles.
Our department has a collection of thousands of cars in the Ministry of Defence and Chinese ones account for a tiny fraction.
However whether you’re driving a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, what we’ve asked our people is to avoid connecting MoD devices into their vehicle, not to have discussions at a classified classification in any car, because of the growing risks of surveillance that exist in all automobile, to restrict those confidential talks in secure locations. That’s a prudent and reasonable thing for everyone concerned about safety.
When it was suggested that it would be prudent for the ministry to stop using all cars from China, Pollard responded: ‘That’s exactly what we’re investigating at the moment.”
Broader Security Background
This revelation comes as claims from Norway and Denmark have warned the United Kingdom to the existence of dual-use shutdown mechanisms in Chinese-made buses, which could enable the Chinese government to switch off buses and cause disruption to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russian intelligence vessel has been directing laser beams at Royal Air Force pilots, described as a “highly dangerous” act by government representatives.
This wider security environment highlights the importance of strong protocols and vigilance in every aspects of official activities, from vehicle usage to discussions practices.
