Airport Security

I shall address that point, particularly why the one-bag screening option has been chosen for the UK. My hon. Friend also talked about the problems experienced by transfer passengers who arrive in the UK with more than one cabin bag to board another aircraft departing from a UK airport and by those carrying duty-free liquids that were bought in non-EU states. The industry has suggested that international passengers are choosing to transfer at airports outside the UK because of the difficulties they face in the UK, and airlines and airports tell us that they are suffering financial losses as a result, which is having an impact on UK plc. The Government are acutely aware that the baggage restrictions are extremely challenging, but we are equally aware of the very good reasons behind them. Allowing only one item of cabin baggage reduces the number of X-ray images per passenger, thereby ensuring that security checks can be carried out to the highest possible standard. We have always said that we stand ready to remove the one bag limit, but it would be irresponsible to do so if the industry were not then capable of delivering the expected security standards. That offer remains, but the industry agrees that we must not rush into doing that, which is why we are assessing how well airports handle having to screen more than one cabin bag per passenger. We must look further ahead and explore other, smarter solutions to the liquid explosives challenge. We are working closely with industry and manufacturers to progress developments in technology that are now available and we are undertaking several trials of new technology as a matter of urgency to assist the security process—the hon. Member for Canterbury (Mr. Brazier) asked about that. We also continue to look for new technology that could reduce the burden on airports and improve the situation for passengers. It would be remiss of me not to mention the serious events that happened earlier this month in London, and especially those in Glasgow.