Jaunted

The end of the liquids ban in Europe is all well and good, but it's not a complete party unless England agrees to ditch their restrictions as well. As it seems now however, the British contingent at the meetings on Friday was not too psyched about dropping the 100ml rule. Although they still have some time to think about how infinitely confusing it would be for travelers to hop between Europe (with no liquids ban) and England (with a liquids ban), this don't look good. Says the Telegraph UK regarding Britain's stance:

'We have always said that current restrictions must remain in place until technology solutions which provide robust detection performance and a better passenger experience become available' a spokesman said. 'We do not believe April 2010 is a realistic target for the introduction of technology to screen duty free liquids carried by transfer passengers.' Even if the EU did adopt the Commission’s proposals, Britain could still enforce stricter standards at its own airports. The prospect of Britain being out of step with other countries alarm[s] British Airways.

British Airways is right to be alarmed too, because it almost makes it sounds as though England is being the unhip and overprotective mother against whom you rebel by getting a mohawk. It a split liquid ban comes to pass, then it will no doubt hurt England's tourism numbers from European mainland, and that's really below the belt.

Related Stories:
· Britain could be sole EU country to retain airline fluid ban [Telegraph UK]
· EU to end airline ban on liquids on carry-on bags [Today in the Sky]
· Travel Bands coverage [Jaunted]

[Photo: msmail]