‘Britain faces a constantly evolving terror threat’ says Chris Grayling

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Chris Grayling said the terror threat is "constantly evolving"

Chris Grayling said the threat is "constantly evolving" and the Government "must respond accordingly to ensure the protection of the public”.

In a written statement to Parliament, Mr Grayling said: “I know the House will recognise that we face a constantly evolving threat from terrorism and must respond accordingly to ensure the protection of the public against those who would do us harm.

“The update we are making to our security measures is an important part of that process.

We face a constantly evolving threat from terrorism and must respond accordingly to ensure the protection of the public against those who would do us harm

Chris Grayling

“We remain open for business. People should continue to fly and comply with security procedures.”

Downing Street announced airline passengers travelling to the UK on direct flights from six countries in the Middle East and north Africa are to be banned from carrying laptops and other large electronic devices as cabin luggage.

The ban affects direct inbound flights from Turkey, Lebanon, Jordan, Egypt, Tunisia and Saudi Arabia and covers devices which are larger than a typical smartphone measuring 16cm by 9.3cm by 1.5cm, which will now have to go in the plane's hold.

The move was ordered by Prime Minister Theresa May on Tuesday in the latest of a series of meetings on aviation security.

Mrs May's official spokesman declined to discuss whether the new rules were prompted by specific intelligence, while the US government cited unspecified "threats".

It follows a similar measure announced by the US authorities affecting flights originating in a longer list of eight Middle Eastern countries.

The tightening of security comes just weeks after it was revealed that UK security services have foiled 13 potential attacks in less than four years, while counter-terrorism units are running more than 500 investigations at any time.

Air industry consultant John Strickland warned that the ban will cause "headaches for airlines and customers" but said carriers have "no choice but to put security first" when official advice is given.

He added: "One unexpected consequence will be the challenge of additional devices with lithium batteries being stowed in the holds which brings its own challenges to safety."

Transport Secretary Mr Grayling said: "We understand the frustration that these measures may cause and we are working with the aviation industry to minimise any impact."

More to follow…