Refusal to pay means a delay of up to a day with a full inspection of luggage and the confiscation of any items that are even remotely objectionable on a legal basis, according to the ‘paper. It cited Romanians who said they are used to the practice and that they pay invariably, having no other choice.

Explained one citizen of that country: “It is the gypsy thing; you come from Romania, you are instantly a Roma and not to be trusted. I wouldn’t blame the British for keeping out those who want to scrounge, but everyone on this bus is a working man or woman looking to get on.”