Brussels, 25/01/2007 (Agence Europe) - László Kovács, the Commissioner for Customs Union, has written to Michael Chertoff, US Secretary for internal security, to express his deep concern at the US authorities' intention to scan all containers going to the US. The Commissioner wrote, “I am extremely concerned by the possible introduction of the US HR1 legislation which would introduce 100% scanning of US bound cargo containers. I naturally support the principle of increased security checks at the borders and I have always been supportive of any actions in this direction. However, every measure taken must be first assessed as to its effectiveness. Currently, US and EU customs are preparing pilot actions in order to determine whether a 100% scanning policy is effective. I hope the US will await the results of these actions before taking any decision towards a 100% scanning legislation”. He also underlined the “balance” involved in the EU based policy for analysing risk and facilitating international trade and ensuring security. (mb)