Ministers are also looking at ways to make it easier for relatives of residents to trigger spot checks anonymously.

BBC: NEWS | Health | Spot-check boost for care homes

It seems that the analysis at the time - that it would trigger a spate of mergers and takeovers in the banking sector - is being proved spot on.

BBC: Banks braced for more mergers

In addition, Mr. Abdulmutallab's cash purchase of a round-trip ticket didn't trigger any secondary screening, calling into question the efficacy of the system that is supposed to spot passengers who are acting suspiciously and may be threats.

WSJ: The Middle Seat | How to Improve Travel in 2010