The Dutch authorities intend to introduce millimetre wave scanners or body scanners at Schiphol airport before the end of January 2010, particularly for flights to the USA. They are necessary because they can detect dangerous substances and fluids.

Does the Commission agree that the decision by the Dutch authorities is justifiable because passenger safety should take precedence over passengers' absolute right to privacy?

Under what conditions does the Commission consider body scanners acceptable? Is it sufficient if the images obtained by scanning people's bodies cannot be stored or relayed?

What additional measures is the Commission planning in the near future in order to safeguard passenger security, particularly on flights to the USA? Will the Commission propose rules on body scanners within the next few weeks?