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Olympics move into crisis PR mode to limit riot fall-out

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By The Drum Team, Editorial

August 9, 2011 | 3 min read

Stepping into crisis PR mode the national Olympic security co-ordinator has said that lessons will be identified from the riots in London in order to increase security for the Olympic Games next year.

Assistant commissioner Chris Allison, national Olympic security co-ordinator, said that the riots will not prompt an official review, but it will be used for intelligence-planning.

He added, “Our planning for safety and security for the Games is intelligence-led and based against a number of strategic risks, remaining flexible to enable swift and efficient response to emerging threats.

“Public disorder is one of those risks which we have already been planning against across the country.

“Obviously, in light of the appalling events in London over recent days, we will review our planning to ensure that any lessons are identified. But first, we must fully establish the circumstances of what has happened and at this time it is too early to say whether our planning will significantly change.

“What is absolutely clear is that we are committed to the Games being delivered in safety and security, for athletes, spectators and the wider public.”

The International Olympics Committee (IOC) has also assured that security will be ‘top priority’ for the games.

London promotional body, London & Partners, said it thought tourism would recover quickly.

However, several Olympic athletes have tweeted their displeasure at the situation.

Dame Kelly Holmes, double Olympic champion, tweeted: “A bloody disgrace, a minority of hooligans are sending out bad message for the rest of the country. World eyes 2012!”

Sprinter Kelly Sotherton tweeted: “Bring in the Army. How the hell can the police deal with this!?”

She also wrote: “How does burning down the home of 26 families and a carpet shop solve anything?”

Andy Turner, the European and Commonwealth 110m hurdle champion, tweeted: “99% of these LOSERS have no idea why they r rioting”, and suggested that the A Team should be called in.

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