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An defence official has stated that the MoD is currently examining the potential security risks posed by Chinese-made cars, and staff have been advised to refrain from discussing secret matters in all vehicles.

Security Guidance for Defence Personnel

During a recently aired appearance on a radio station, a defence minister commented on reports that Ministry of Defence officials have been instructed not to talk about classified material while riding in Chinese vehicles.

The minister said that the MoD is “investigating” cars from China within its vehicle pools, however noted that security is a concern in all modern vehicles.

We have a fleet of thousands of cars in the Ministry of Defence and Chinese ones account for a very small number.

But regardless of if you’re traveling in a Chinese car or a non-Chinese car, what we’ve asked our staff is not to plug Ministry of Defence devices into their vehicle, not to have discussions at a secret level in any vehicle, because of the growing threats of surveillance that are present in all vehicle, to restrict those confidential conversations in protected areas. That’s a prudent and reasonable thing for anyone concerned about safety.

After it was put to him that it would be prudent for the ministry to stop using every Chinese vehicles, Pollard replied: That is exactly what we’re investigating at the moment.”

Broader Defence Context

This announcement comes as reports from Norway and Denmark have alerted the UK to the presence of multi-purpose shutdown mechanisms in Chinese buses, which could enable the Chinese government to switch off buses and bring disruption to public transit.

Furthermore, a Russia spy ship was reportedly shining lasers at RAF pilots, labeled a “highly dangerous” action by defence officials.

This wider security situation underscores the importance of strong protocols and vigilance in every aspects of government activities, from vehicle usage to discussions habits.