A defence minister has confirmed that the MoD is currently investigating the potential threats associated with Chinese-made vehicles, while personnel have been told to refrain from discussing classified matters in any vehicles.
Safety Guidance for MoD Personnel
During a recent interview on a radio station, Luke Pollard commented on claims that Ministry of Defence staff have been instructed not to discuss classified material while travelling in Chinese cars.
He explained that the MoD is “examining” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, however emphasised that security is a concern in every modern cars.
Our department has a fleet of tens of thousands of vehicles in the MoD and those vehicles account for a very small number.
But whether you’re driving a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, what we’ve asked our staff is to avoid connecting MoD devices into their vehicle, not to have discussions at a classified classification in any kind of vehicle, because of the growing risks of surveillance that are present in all automobile, to restrict those secret talks in protected areas. This is a prudent and reasonable thing for anyone concerned about safety.
After it was suggested that it would be wise for the ministry to stop using every Chinese vehicles, Pollard replied: ‘That’s exactly what we’re investigating at the moment.”
Broader Defence Context
This revelation comes as reports from Scandinavian countries have alerted the United Kingdom to the presence of multi-purpose shutdown mechanisms in Chinese electric buses, which could enable China to disable public transport and cause chaos to transport systems.
Furthermore, a Russia spy ship was reportedly directing lasers at Royal Air Force pilots, described as a “extremely risky” act by government representatives.
This broader defence situation highlights the significance of robust protocols and vigilance in all areas of official activities, from vehicle use to communication habits.
