Calls for tube checks in security crackdown

BUSINESS leaders called yesterday for improvements to security in London, including more checks on Tube travellers.

The Asian Business Association and the London Chamber of Commerce called for new security measures to be introduced to thwart any more suicide bombings.

Tony Sarin of the Asian association, which represents 1,500 firms, and Michael Cassidy, president of the 3,500-member London chamber, issued a joint statement calling for four specific measures to be taken.

“Firstly, high-profile targets should re-locate all security checks from reception areas to being physically outside their buildings. This move has been effective in thwarting suicide attacks in other parts of the world.”

“Secondly, devices which detect passengers who are carrying explosives should be installed on the Underground. This technology is already operational at London airports, although it would only be practical to scan Tube passengers on a random basis.

“Thirdly, more businesses should utilise the pager system run by the Corporation of London and City police to communicate the fact and extent of an unfolding terrorist atrocity.”

“Fourthly, we would not object to the police making more extensive use of stop-and-search powers on a selective basis of people carrying large bags or rucksacks.”

Before yesterday’s shooting, the British capital appeared to be returning to normal with trains and Tubes packed during the morning rush hour and workers pledging to carry on with their lives.

London newspapers reflected the city’s volatile mood - part defiance, part anxiety.

“Britain will not be beaten,” vowed a front-page headline in the Daily Express.

“Is this how we must now live?” asked the Daily Mirror over pictures of the attacks’ aftermath.

The Independent had a similar photo montage and the words: “City of Fear.”

Mia Clarkson, 24, defiantly said she refused to change her schedule.

“You’ve got to keep living, don’t you?” she said as she exited the Chancery Lane station after a trip from across town.

In addition to station closures following Thursday’s attempted bombings and yesterday’s shooting, a total of 250 security scares since July 7 have further disrupted services.

Alongside the fear of further attacks, the three million travellers who use the Tube each day in the capital are facing a series of suspensions and closures.

Officers have stepped up their presence on the London transport system in a bid to reassure the public.

Stations involved in the latest attacks and sections of the line remain closed as police continue their investigations. A series of security scares disrupted services on the underground, including two incidents at Kennington.

In one, passengers contacted police about a man with a rucksack seen walking between carriages.

He was interviewed by police but not detained. Minutes later there was another scare at the same station after passengers reported a suspicious package on a Tube.