Good news for air passengers - Labour chief calls for end to ban on liquids in planes - 2009-11-12

Labour MEPs are calling for an immediate lift on the ban on liquids such as toothpaste or baby bottles bought by travellers in European airports, and a total lift of the ban by 2013 at the latest.

Transport MEPs responded today to a proposal from the European Commission.

Labour MEP Brian Simpson, who chairs the European Parliament's Transport Committee, said :-

"Once new technology is available in airports, the current ban on liquids will be totally unnecessary.

"This change will improve the travelling experience for many passengers throughout the EU. The technology to screen liquids is already available.

"So we believe that by the 1st of January 2013 we will be able to end the liquid ban, improving the travelling experience for  passengers throughout the EU.

"Our proposal will also end the policy of liquid confiscation for those passengers arriving into the EU from outside who often have their liquids taken off them when they then travel on to another EU destination as soon as April 2010.

"Obviously, we still need strict security rules in the fight against terrorism, so we still need strict security in regards to liquids.

"The technology now needs to be tested and installed in all European Airports. This should not take as long as four or five years as some EU member countries have suggested.

"All passengers in transit in EU airports should be able to buy products in duty free, which will not be confiscated.

"We put a realistic date of 1st January 2013 for all airports to be fitted with 'type C' scanners, allowing passengers to travel on board with liquids and personal belongings. We are also calling for an immediate lift of the ban on liquids obtained from airports outside the EU.

"The Transport Committee has tabled an alternative to the European Commission proposal which I am now confident will be accepted by Commission and Council," he said.

After the attempted liquid explosives attack on planes leaving from Heathrow Airport in 2006 an agreement was quickly reached to ban all liquids over 100ml being taken on board aircraft within the EU. 

In April 2010 the current ban will run out.  The European Commission has sent a draft proposal to MEPs and governments of Member States  which proposes a  'phase out' of  the current ban when they introduce new 'type C' scanners that can detect over 20 types of explosive liquids.  

By 1st January 2012 all upgraded type C liquid screening machines should be certified by Member States of the EU for use throughout the EU, and by 1st January 2013 all airports must have the capability to screen liquids, aerosols and gels.

Ends

For more information ,   please call the European Parliamentary Labour Party press consultant,  David Poyser on +32 479 790 053 / 0 (044) 7767498040

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