Shoppers back bag searches in war on terror

Terror threats mean UK consumers are prepared to sweep aside concerns over civil liberties in favour of tightened security at shopping locations.

A Retail Week/ICM poll revealed that 50 per cent of respondents would be in favour of an increase in routine bag searches. Some 80 per cent called for an increase in the number of CCTV cameras, and two thirds wanted more security guards.

Since the 'war on terror' began, malls have been cited as potential terrorist objectives. On Monday, Manchester's Trafford Centre was reported to have been a possible target.

- ICM poll: page 12.