Airport security 'gaps' warning

12 April 2012

There are gaps in airport security that terrorists can exploit, a security expert has told MPs.

The situation where there are now long queues of as-yet unsearched bags at airports was "creating new targets" for terrorists, Professor Alan Hatcher also told the House of Commons Transport Committee.

It was "possible and feasible" that a terrorist could take a weapon from an armed policeman at an airport, said Prof Hatcher, principal of the Wiltshire-based International School for Security and Explosives Education.

He went on: "The problem lies with the fragmentation of security forces. Gaps appear. Where the gaps are, the terrorist will locate.

"The fight against terrorism should be led by the intelligence services. I am concerned that there is far too much bureaucracy around transport security and not enough flexibility."

Prof Hatcher added that Transec - the Department for Transport's transport security body - was, at times "blinkered in their approach". He said he was far more in favour of having well-trained security staff on duty rather than relying on high-tech systems.

He added: "There are a lot of companies out there who sell equipment that does NOT do what it says on the side of the tin."

Greater Manchester Chief Constable Michael Todd, who is also vice-chairman of the Association of Chief Police Officers' terrorist committee, told MPs: "You can't replace people with machines.

"Machines are there to assist. We need to have properly-trained security staff who are inquisitive and constantly ask questions."

Mr Todd said Manchester airport coped well with the extra security requirements brought in on August 10 following the thwarting of an alleged plot to blow up planes. But he said that some other airports had been overwhelmed by the sudden need to get extra staff on duty.

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