Siim Kallas, the nominee for the post of European transport commissioner says EU airports should not use full body-scanners for the time being. The Netherlands, Germany, Great Britain, France and Italy have already announced the introduction of the X-ray scanners.

However, the commissioner designate believes research is first needed to ensure there are no privacy or health problems associated with the machines' use. Mr Kallas was speaking during his European parliament confirmation hearing.

Many MEPs are against Bulgaria's nominee for humanitarian aid commissioner, Rumiana Jeleva. They say she is not expert enough in the field. It is also being alleged that her husband has links with the mafia. Bulgaria, however, is resisting calls to come up with a new candidate.

The European parliament can only accept or reject the whole of the proposed new commission. It cannot reject single nominees.

photo: airport body-scanner (ANP)