The need for EU PNR has never been stronger

Timothy KIRKHOPE Conservative MEP for Yorkshire and The Humber, responsible for drafting the Parliament’s report on the Passenger Name Record (PNR) proposal. An EU-wide Passenger Name Records (PNR) system is a vital tool for combatting serious crime and terrorism across Europe, by allowing for the exchange of data collected by airlines for flights within the EU. Therefore I am pleased that MEPs have now reached a deal with national governments that balances strong safeguards – such as ensuring that data is handled in a proportionate manner – with a system which will deliver real results. As lead negotiator on this deal, I want to make clear that the need for an effective PNR system is not just restricted to the very necessary need to detect foreign fighters and potential terrorists. PNR data has also been crucial for helping police catch criminals such as sex offenders or people involved in drug