Despite the increased focus on global security, today’s business traveller feels safe when travelling within the UK and overseas, thanks to the existing security measures at departure points such as airports. But they would like to see heightened security measures extended across the UK’s national rail system, according to the results of the 2008 Barclaycard Business Travel Survey.
The results of the survey, now in its 12th year, show the resilience of British business to security threats and the overwhelming support for enhanced safety measures.
The views of more than 3,000 executives across the UK were gathered and increased security measures were welcomed as necessary by respondents despite the delays caused.
While additional measures at airports instilled a sense of security, almost half of respondents (48%) said they would like to see enhanced measures on other forms of transport. Almost eight out of 10 respondents feel security on trains and at stations could be improved.
In contrast, only nine per cent feel that further protective measures should be introduced to the London Underground.
While attitudes towards precautionary security checks were overwhelmingly positive, with 82 per cent happy to undergo them, the survey showed that while just 10 per cent of business travellers feel they are unnecessary and time-wasting, those at a more senior level were less tolerant, with a higher number of CEOs (17%) feeling that airport checks were a waste of time.
Other findings revealed regional differences. Respondents based in Greater London were least concerned about travelling to an unknown location (22%), while those from the East Midlands (69%) found travelling to new destinations a concern.
More intersting findings
The survey also highlighted opinions towards personal safety with almost half (46%) having concerns about personal wellbeing.
Younger business travellers were more concerned about personal security than their more senior counterparts.
Women are more concerned (61%) about their personal security when travelling on business than men (44%) and married employees (45%) are the most concerned about security when travelling on business. Those in a relationship (32%) and singles (27%) are more relaxed.
72 per cent of 51 year olds and over worry most about health when travelling.
