MEPs back plans to give air passenger data to US

The European Parliament has adopted a controversial bill that will give the United States access to personal information about airline passengers.

MEPs agreed by 409 votes to 226 to let the US Department of Homeland Security see data on the Passenger Name Record (PNR), under strict controls.

Supporters say this is a vital step in the fight against terrorism.

But some fear information could be used for other unspecified purposes which could affect civil rights.
The information includes names, addresses, credit card and phone numbers, meal choices and health matters.