BRITISH airports will take a step back towards normality this week when a relaxation of the ban on carrying liquids through security is announced.

Passengers will be allowed to carry small bottles of toiletries as long as they are contained in a clear, re-sealable plastic bag. The rules are expected to apply from November 6.

Tight restrictions on what can be carried on planes were introduced in August after an alleged plot to blow up transatlantic jets using liquid explosives in toiletries and drinks bottles was foiled.

Since then the curbs have gradually been eased. Last month the permitted size of cabin bags was increased.

But the ban on taking liquids and gels through security checks — apart from baby milk and food and small amounts of prescription medicine — has remained.

Passengers have, however, been able to carry on board liquids or gels bought in airport shops after security screening.

The new rules on liquids are the result of extensive negotiations between European Union transport officials, who are trying to ensure a co-ordinated approach to security between member states. They will bring Europe into line with America, which relaxed its restrictions last month.

Airlines and airports are discussing with the Department for Transport the exact details of how the new rules will be applied in Britain.

Passengers will be able to carry liquids, gels, pastes and aerosols. Bottles, jars and tubes should not exceed 100ml in size and will have to be carried in a re-sealable clear plastic bag not larger than 20cm by 20cm.

Baby milk and food “necessary for the journey” will be allowed but passengers may be asked to taste it. Small amounts of prescription medicines will be permitted, but proof of prescription may be required.

Other curbs, such as the ban on sharp instruments in cabin bags, the requirement for passengers to remove coats for screening, and the removal of laptop computers from cabin bags for separate screening, will remain in place. Passengers will still be encouraged to pack toiletries and other liquid items in hold baggage.

“We have the outline of the new rules, but the devil will be in their interpretation. A lot will depend on just how strict the inspectors from the Department for Transport will be,” said one airport executive.

The easing of the rules will be a relief to airlines, which have seen a fall in business travel.

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