I dont. I havent read his book but my understanding is that he did not say the initial ban was not needed or that the continuing limitation on particular quantities of liquids was never needed but rather that technologies and procedures have been put into place that allow for the removal of the limitations. Its a fine but important distinction.

It's not just laziness that prevents desperately needed reforms. There is tremendous resistance by almost all the players in the security establishment to relaxing any restrictions - not just because they have a financial interest but also because it is the mindset. These guys live almost their entire lives never being completely relaxed and in a white zone. And it has been ever thus. Unfortunately, while we used to keep them at bay we have allowed 9/11 and subsequent events to push the pendulum to the other side; OBL continues winning....