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A defence official has confirmed that the MoD is actively examining the potential threats posed by Chinese-made cars, and staff have been advised to avoid discussing classified information in any vehicles.

Security Guidance for MoD Personnel

During a recent appearance on a radio station, a defence minister commented on claims that Ministry of Defence staff have been told not to talk about secret material while travelling in Chinese vehicles.

The minister explained that the ministry is “looking into” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, but noted that safety is a concern in every modern vehicles.

We have a fleet of thousands of cars in the MoD and those vehicles represent a very small number.

But regardless of if you’re traveling in a Chinese car or a car from another country, what we’ve asked our staff is to avoid connecting MoD technology into their vehicle, not to have discussions at a classified classification in any vehicle, due to the growing threats of eavesdropping that exist in every single vehicle, to only have those secret conversations in secure locations. That’s a prudent and sensible thing for everyone worried about safety.

When it was suggested that it would be prudent for the ministry to cease using every cars from China, Pollard replied: ‘That’s exactly what we are looking into at the moment.”

Broader Defence Context

This announcement follows reports from Scandinavian countries have warned the UK to the existence of dual-use kill switches in Chinese electric buses, which could enable the Chinese government to switch off buses and cause disruption to public transit.

Furthermore, a Russia intelligence vessel has been shining lasers at Royal Air Force pilots, described as a “extremely risky” act by defence officials.

This broader security environment highlights the importance of strong protocols and vigilance in every areas of official operations, from vehicle usage to communication practices.