Missiles ‘possible’ to protect London 2012
Surface-to-air missiles may be used to protect the skies over London during the 2012 Olympic Games, Defence Secretary Philip Hammond confirms. Jane Dodge reports.
Philip Hammond told the House of Commons that “appropriate ground to air defences” could be in place for the sporting event, if they were recommended by the military.
He said that “all necessary measures” were being taken to protect security ahead of the London 2012 Olympic Games.
His comments came as it was reported that the United States was prepared to send up to 1,000 of its own agents, including 500 from the FBI, to look after American contestants and diplomats at the event in a sign of unease at the security operation.
But former defence secretary Liam Fox, who was forced to quit over his links with self-styled adviser Adam Werritty, said he had already raised this issue with his predecessor Mr Hammond. Surface-to-air missiles had been an option at Olympic Games since Atlanta in 1996, Dr Fox said.
I can assure you that all necessary measures to ensure the security and safety of the London Olympic Games will be taken. Defence Secretary Philip Hammond
“Since the Atlantic Games there has been an internationally accepted minimal level of protection for the Olympics,” Dr Fox said.
Mr Hammond added: “I can assure you that all necessary measures to ensure the security and safety of the London Olympic Games will be taken including, if the advice of the military is that it is required, including appropriate ground-to-air defences.”
Earlier this year, national Olympic security co-ordinator Chris Allison, of the Metropolitan Police, said he believed 12,000 officers will be needed nationally to police the event. Up to 15,000 more security officials could be enlisted from firm G4S.
The Home Office has insisted that the International Olympic Committee has “full confidence” in the security plan for the London Olympics.