Transport Secretary Stephen Byers today announced a security crackdown at Gatwick airport.

The Government is to extend the use of CCTV cameras and staff will face stricter checks.

The move is a response to recommendations made by a working group examining airside security at airports.

Mr Byers also announced his decision to use new powers provided in the Anti-terrorism, Crime and Security Act 2001.

These allow the Transport Department to list aviation security companies approved by the its transport security division.

Airlines and airports would be required to use only listed companies.

Other measures include new requirements for the identification, recovery and deletion of security passes that have been lost or are no longer needed.

Counter-terrorist checks on security staff will be extended and the Transport Department will issue advice on handling high-value cargo at airports.

In addition, a new national standard for the issue of restricted zone passes will be sent to airport security managers.

Over the next few months CCTV coverage at airports will be reviewed and plans produced for improvements in both the amount and quality of coverage.

The timetable for enhanced CCTV systems will vary from airport to airport.

Mr Byers said: "Airport security is kept under constant review and needs to be updated and revised in the light of changing circumstances.

"The Government has accepted in full the recommendations from the group looking at airport security.

"It is vital our security regulations are effectively implemented by staff at airports."

Mr Byers added: "Staff from my department are today meeting airport managing directors and other senior security managers from the aviation industry to brief them on the new requirements and their responsibilities."

The Government intends to implement the report's recommendations as quickly as possible.