Brian Simpson N.W. MEP
Euro MP for Macclesfield votes for liquids on planes legislation not to be repealed
By Brian Simpson MEP
Sep 6, 2007, 13:57

European Parliament votes for liquids on planes legislation be repealed

Labour Euro MPs have attacked British Liberal Democrats and Green MEPs for going soft on terrorism and for failing to protect the travelling public after they voted to consider repealing the existing regulation that restricts liquids on board of aircraft.

The original legislation was introduced throughout the European Union last year when the British security services foiled a plot to blow up aircraft using liquids.

"I am afraid British Liberal and Green members of the European Parliament have now opened up the possibility of repealing this law, even though the strong advice from both the Security Services and the Department of Transport is to keep this legislation in place" said Socialist's Group Transport Spokesman Brian Simpson MEP.

Labour MEPs argued that whilst it is right to review the legislation on an ongoing basis, to open the possibility of repeal is both premature and dangerous.

"There is a problem in regard to transit duty free products which are being confiscated at EU airports if passengers are flying to another EU airport. But this problem can be solved without repealing the existing legislation. To call for repeal which is what our political opponents have done is not only going soft on the fight against terrorism, but is showing a total disregard for the safety of passengers and completely ignores professional advice." said Brian Simpson MEP.

"This is not the time to play fast and loose with the security of air passengers." concluded Mr Simpson