Our overriding priority is the protect passengers and all those who work in the aviation industry, primarily from acts of terrorism. The threat to aviation in the UK remains both real and serious, which is why the Department keeps all security measures under constant review.
All staff that work in the Restricted Zone (airside) have to undergo background checks as a condition of pass issue, but it is also right that they are screened in the same way that passengers are. This is because searching and screening is an effective of ensuring potentially dangerous items are not carried into the Restricted Zone.
This does not imply a lack of trust of these professionals, or that they are any more susceptible to terrorist sympathies than any other group. We simply cannot assume that members of staff at our airports would never be involved in supporting terrorism, whether deliberate, unintended or coerced.
No single measure can provide a complete solution to security - even after having their background checked a member of staff could still subsequently be found to be colluding with or being coerced by terrorists and provide a means to attack any aircraft, and not just the one that member of aircrew may be flying on. We should not take this risk.
That is why the physical check is an integral part of our security procedures.
Any reports of intimidation or aggressive behaviour by security staff at airports should be addressed and resolved locally with the respective Aerodrome Manager.
Measures remain under constant review and we will adjust them where possible to reduce the burden on all concerned, while maintaining robust security.
In December 2007 The Secretary of State for Transport announced an independent review of how personnel security is delivered across the transport sector, including background and identity checks and related measures. It will provide a timely health check of current arrangements across the sector. The review is expected to conclude its report during the summer.
Makes you feel so secure that such well educated people are running this country. A very poor argument I think. No liquids allowed, onboard captain, oh, except the 200tonnes of jet fuel you have tucked away in the tanks there, but we know you won't do anything silly with that will you? Why not? Because you've been security screened for your airside pass.
Country being run by absolute tossers!