HC Deb 07 January 2003 vol 397 cc96-7W
Mr. Dismore

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what plans he has to improve security checks on aircraft users from non-UK based airlines, flying into the UK; and if he will make a statement. [88444]

Mr. Jamieson

The UK supports the principle of host state responsibility, whereby each state is responsible for the security of civil aircraft leaving that state. This is enshrined in Annex 17 to the Chicago Convention 1944.

My Department liaises closely with international fora such as the International Civil Aviation Organisation, European Civil Aviation Conference and the European Union to improve aviation security standards across the world. The UK has contributed to the development of EU regulations which are about to be published, making basic security standards mandatory in the Union. In addition, there is also close liaison with the US Transport Security Administration, the Israeli Security Agency and equivalent bodies of other key international partners on aviation security issues.

Using the powers of the Aviation Security Act 1982, all non-UK carriers flying into the UK have been required since 11 November to ensure that all flight doors are locked while in UK airspace or on the ground while the engines are in operation, that the flight crew do not leave the flight deck other than for certain specified reasons, and that passengers cannot obtain access to the flight deck while in UK airspace.

As regards UK carrier operations from overseas airports, my Department issues guidance on the recommended security measures that should be implemented where the threat to those operations dictates. Departmental inspectors have been undertaking a programme of visits to particular locations to assess the security afforded to and carried out by UK carriers and, where appropriate, liaise with the relevant authorities to improve standards. The frequency and coverage of these inspections has been stepped up significantly in recent months.

My Department will shortly be establishing Regional Aviation Security Advisers in East Africa and the Middle East. Their role will be to advise and assist the relevant authorities to improve aviation security standards in those areas and to assess and influence how flights to the UK are secured. Further appointments are planned for West Africa, South East Asia and the Indian sub-continent later in the year.