New laws demanded on DVT

The European Parliament demanded yesterday that airlines give passengers warning information before travel on the risk of contracting potentially fatal blood clots on long-haul flights. An overwhelming majority of MEPs backed plans for new laws that will also force Europe's airlines to offer travellers the lowest available fares, compensation for delays and league tables on performance.

The Strasbourg Parliament said airlines should provide briefings before take-off including information on the threat of blood clots. They also want advice on preventive measures, such as taking aspirin, to be sent with tickets.

A resolution, carried by 549 votes to five, called for an independent study to look at the health risks involved in air travel, especially on long-haul flights. Recent reports of passengers dying of blood clots after long flights have led to widespread speculation that flying could be to blame for deep vein thrombosis (DVT).