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A defence official has confirmed that the MoD is currently looking into the possible security risks posed by Chinese cars, while personnel have been advised to avoid talking about secret information in all vehicles.

Safety Guidance for Defence Staff

In a recent appearance on LBC, Luke Pollard addressed reports that MoD officials have been told not to talk about secret material while travelling in Chinese vehicles.

He stated that the MoD is “examining” Chinese vehicles within its fleets, but noted that safety is a concern in all contemporary cars.

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

However regardless of if you’re driving a Chinese car or a non-Chinese car, what we’ve asked our people is not to plug Ministry of Defence technology into their car, not to have discussions at a classified classification in any kind of car, because of the growing risks of surveillance that exist in all vehicle, to only have those secret talks in secure locations. This is a prudent and reasonable thing for everyone worried 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 is exactly what we’re investigating at the present time.”

Wider Defence Context

The revelation comes as claims from Scandinavian countries have warned the UK to the presence of dual-use kill switches in Chinese-made buses, which could allow the Chinese government to switch off public transport and cause disruption to transport systems.

Additionally, a Russian intelligence vessel has been directing lasers at Royal Air Force aircrew, labeled a “highly dangerous” action by government representatives.

This broader defence environment highlights the significance of strong measures and caution in every areas of official activities, from vehicle usage to discussions habits.