Audible locks will tighten security

Electronic locks on hotel bedroom doors should have an audible alarm that sounds if the door is not properly closed. This would drastically cut the risk of "door-pusher" thieves who wander corridors pushing every door until one opens.

This call for extra security came from Ron de Groot, security manager for Dutch hotel chain Park Plaza Hotels.

Mr de Groot also criticised hotels that still used traditional keys and allowed reception staff to hand them out without proof of identity.

"Just asking the guest for their name and checking it against the register would be enough," he said.