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EC's £90,000 anti-terrorist scheme is quietly dropped
Page 16
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EC anti-terrorist plans which would have forced up operators' costs for little reward appear to have been quietly shelved. David Harris reports.
THE EUROPEAN Commission is poised to shelve proposals for a new anti-terrorist security scheme for hauliers because most EU countries don't support it.
The scheme, which would have given participating hauliers "secure operator" status, was controversial because of the expected cost for firms taking part.
Among the critics is the Forum of Private Business (FPB). which has welcomed news that the scheme has stalled.
It says the plans would have cost each company £90.000 in the first year and nearly as much every year after that —"a price many smaller firms could not afford".
The scheme was intended to encourage firms to document security arrangements, train staff and increase security at operating centres. It is understood that a report from the EU Council of Ministers revealed most member states are against the plans.
Martin Smith. the FPB's European spokesman, says the organisation had not been convinced the measures would stop terrorists: "Although we recognise that there is work to be done by both businesses and governments to prevent terror attacks. these precautions will not do that.
"They include documenting security management, training personnelaccess controls etc. none of which will stop a determined terrorist," Smith adds.
There were fears that market pressures would make the security measures obligatory which, he says. could "force smaller hauliers to the wall and would consequently push up prices in the sector, due to reduced competition". The FPB is now calling for a revised proposal that outlines the way business and government could work together against terrorism but does not put all the costs on business.