The current strict security regime was introduced around 12 years ago after a failed bomb plot.

The Sunday Times reports that computed tomography (CT) scanners that produce a 3D x-ray image of what is inside hand luggage are being tested at Heathrow.

During the trial, which will last between six and 12 months, some passengers will not have to remove their laptops or the small quantities of water, shampoo and toothpaste from their luggage.

A similar trial was launched at JFK airport in New York last week and at Geneva airport earlier this month. Two CT scanners have also been tested at Schiphol airport in Amsterdam, the Sunday Times reports.

The trial is restricted to a small number of security lanes at Heathrow and the Department for Transport would not reveal to the newspaper which terminal.

It has been emphasised that the rules have not changed and that passengers should expect to remove items from their luggage, if requested.