Government Official Says MoD Looking at Potential Threat from Chinese Cars, as Staff Told to Refrain from Confidential Discussions in Cars.
A defence official has confirmed that the MoD is actively looking into the potential threats posed by Chinese vehicles, while staff have been advised to refrain from discussing secret matters in any vehicles.
Security Advice for Defence Staff
In a recent appearance on a radio station, a defence minister commented on claims that Ministry of Defence officials have been told not to discuss classified material while riding in Chinese cars.
The minister explained that the MoD is “looking into” Chinese vehicles within its vehicle pools, however emphasised that security is a concern in every contemporary cars.
We have a fleet of tens of thousands of vehicles in the MoD 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 Ministry of Defence technology into their car, to avoid having discussions at a classified level in any car, because of the increasing threats of surveillance that exist in every single vehicle, to only have those confidential talks in protected areas. This is a wise and reasonable thing for everyone worried about security.
After it was suggested that it would be wise for the ministry to cease using all Chinese vehicles, the minister replied: ‘That’s exactly what we are looking into at the moment.”
Wider Security Context
The announcement follows reports from Norway and Denmark have warned the UK to the existence of dual-use kill switches in Chinese-made buses, which could allow the Chinese government to switch off public transport and bring disruption to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russia spy ship was reportedly shining laser beams at RAF pilots, labeled a “highly dangerous” act by government representatives.
This broader security environment highlights the significance of strong measures and vigilance in all aspects of official activities, from vehicle usage to discussions practices.
