The airport launched an inquiry after the TV findings

An investigation by ITV1's Tonight with Trevor McDonald found security staff sleeping while on duty.

The TV show looked at the work of ICTS UK, one of the security firms used by Birmingham International Airport (BIA).

John Morris, head of external affairs at the airport, said independent inspections have been ordered.

Speaking on the Politics Show from Birmingham, Mr Morris made the airport's first public comment other than official statements since the programme was broadcast.

He said there was no room whatsoever for unprofessional behaviour with regard to security and public safety.

He said they had learned a lesson and could always do better.

Speaking on the same programme, Khalid Mahmood, MP for Birmingham Perry Barr and Chair of the Commons All-Party Inquiry into Tackling Terrorism, said he was basically in favour of a national airport police force, along the lines of the MoD Police or the British Transport Police.

After the ITV programme, ICTS announced it had suspended 16 security staff at the airport and replaced their manager.

Mr Morris pointed out that ICTS were responsible for only part of the security at the airport.