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An defence official has stated that the MoD is currently investigating the possible security risks posed by Chinese cars, and staff have been instructed to avoid discussing secret information in any vehicles.

Security Advice for MoD Staff

In a recent interview on a radio station, Luke Pollard addressed claims that MoD staff have been told not to discuss secret material while travelling in Chinese vehicles.

He stated that the ministry is “examining” cars from China within its vehicle pools, however noted that security is a concern in every modern cars.

We have a fleet of tens of thousands of cars in the Ministry of Defence and those vehicles represent a tiny fraction.

But whether you’re traveling in a vehicle from China or a non-Chinese car, what we’ve asked our staff is to avoid connecting Ministry of Defence technology into their vehicle, to avoid having discussions at a secret level in any kind of car, due to the increasing threats of eavesdropping that exist in every single vehicle, to only have those confidential talks in protected areas. That’s a prudent and sensible thing for everyone worried about safety.

When it was put to him that it would be prudent for the ministry to cease using all cars from China, the minister responded: That is exactly what we are looking into at the moment.”

Wider Security Background

The revelation follows claims from Norway and Denmark have warned the UK to the presence of dual-use shutdown mechanisms in Chinese electric buses, which could allow the Chinese government to disable buses and cause disruption to transport systems.

Additionally, a Russian intelligence vessel was reportedly shining laser beams at Royal Air Force pilots, labeled a “extremely risky” action by government representatives.

This broader security environment highlights the importance of strong measures and vigilance in all aspects of government operations, from vehicle use to communication practices.