The Channel Tunnel was described as a 'prime global' target

Mark Watts, Labour MEP, claims security on the international trains are not as stringent as at airports.

He said security in Belgium was lax and passengers boarding the trains are still not properly checked.

The accusations have angered Eurostar which said the comments were "grossly inaccurate" and their security meets international standards.

The suggestion that security at Eurostar is insufficient is grossly inaccurate Paul Charles, Eurostar

Mr Watts, said: "I am always intrigued why whenever you go internationally through airports you see a very high level of security - very effective screening of all hand luggage for example.

"Whenever I go on an international journey on trains particularly through Belgium that level of security does not occur.

"They have gone for aircraft before, now they are going for trains.

"Clearly we must all understand that Eurostar and the Channel Tunnel are two of terrorists' prime global targets in terms of the impact it would have."

But Eurostar spokesman Paul Charles said: "I find them extraordinary comments.

"The suggestion that security at Eurostar is insufficient is grossly inaccurate.

"They are not lax - our security arrangements.

"We employ a very wide system of security measures both seen and unseen."

Mr Charles said it was "extremely irresponsible" for Mr Watts to have made the comments.