A defense official has stated that the MoD is currently looking into the potential security risks associated with Chinese-made cars, and personnel have been advised to refrain from discussing secret matters in all vehicles.
Security Guidance for Defence Personnel
During a recent appearance on a radio station, Luke Pollard addressed claims that MoD officials have been instructed not to talk about classified material while riding in Chinese cars.
He stated that the ministry is “examining” Chinese vehicles within its vehicle pools, but emphasised that safety is a issue in all modern cars.
We have a fleet of thousands of cars in the MoD and Chinese ones account for a very small number.
But regardless of if you’re traveling in a vehicle from China or a car from another country, what we’ve asked our people is not to plug Ministry of Defence devices into their car, not to have conversations at a secret classification in any kind of vehicle, because of the growing risks of surveillance that are present in all vehicle, to restrict those secret talks in secure locations. This is a prudent and reasonable thing for everyone concerned about safety.
When it was put to him that it would be wise for the ministry to cease using every cars from China, Pollard replied: ‘That’s precisely what we are looking into at the moment.”
Wider Security Context
The revelation follows reports from Scandinavian countries have warned the UK to the existence of dual-use shutdown mechanisms in Chinese-made electric buses, which could enable China to switch off public transport and cause disruption to transport systems.
Additionally, a Russian spy ship was reportedly shining laser beams at Royal Air Force pilots, labeled a “highly dangerous” action by defence officials.
The broader security situation highlights the importance of strong protocols and caution in all areas of official activities, including transport usage to communication practices.
