01/06/2011

Further Delays Over UK Airports Liquid Ban

An MEP has accused British airports of unnecessary delays in overturning the ban on liquids on board planes.

New hi-tech screening machines, capable of detecting liquid explosives, are ready for employment, however the Transport committee chairman Brian Simpson said they would not be rolled out on cost grounds. He added that British airports have pressured the European Commission to delay the lifting of restrictions until 2013.

The Airport Operators Association added it would not compromise security with equipment it was not convinced worked.

The screening machines cost between £40,000 and £50,000 each.

(BMcN/GK)

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