Baggage handlers, caterers, engineers and maintenance staff will undergo random testing for explosives in a new security crackdown, but Nick Xenophon says the changes are a “joke” that do not go far enough. The transport minister, Darren Chester, said the new checks strengthen existing controls by ensuring airport staff are authorised and appropriately trained before entering secure areas. The senator wants a US-style agency to be responsible for airport security and vowed to pursue the matter during Senate estimates this week. “Australian aircraft passengers deserve the world’s best practice when it comes to security but the government’s measures fall well short of it,” Xenophon said. “In countries like the US, all airport staff are required to be screened.

Source: The Guardian October 21, 2017 22:19 UTC