Old, et al.
Pardon my intrusion. As a pax, I really don't belong here - but I would like to ask if, in the circumstances being discussed, your rights and obligations as a commander are compromised by the prevention of terrorism act?
As I understand it, the police can, and do, use the POTA to make arrests without reasonable evidence. The very fact that you are aboard an aircraft that
may be carrying an IED may be sufficient grounds (as far as the police are concerned) to arrest everyone on board.
So, captain says "Get the steps here within 5 minutes, or I'll make my own arrangements", Inspector Plod replies, "Sorry, sonny, You are under arrest - POTA. I'm in charge ..."
