UK airports choose retail over security, claims police report

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An investigation into the effectiveness of UK border policing has slammed air and sea port operators for considering commercial revenue over security

The report claimed that facilities for counter-terrorism officers were inadequate as a result of airport operators allocating the best and largest sites to retail, and warned that poor security could be even more devastating for commercial revenue.

The report, published by Her Majesty's Inspector of Constabulary stated: "The problem stems largely from the conflict between security requirements and the pressure of operators to utilise fully the highly profitable retail space close to points of passenger entry and exit. After September 11, operators will need no reminding of the commercial implications of perceived security lapses at ports and airports."

Despite its condemnatory tone, the report commended some locations for providing excellent facilities, including the new Coventry airport.