Rioting sparks concern about London Olympics

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

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

The government has earmarked up to $988 million for police and other security at the games, with an additional $464 million available to the London Organizing Committee of the Olympic Games for security inside the venues.

The Home Office, Scotland Yard and the London Olympics Committee share responsibility for the security at the 16-day competition, scheduled to begin July 27.

The capital’s police force has said 9,000 officers would be deployed in London each day.

Lyn Brown, a Labor Party member of Parliament from a London district where a large part of the Olympic Park is located, said she expects no violence during the games.

“The riots have unsettled everybody living in London. They unsettled me as a resident,” she said.

“I am sure London will be suitable and prepared with the open arms and warmth of an east London welcome to receive people coming for the games.”

The head of the British Olympic Association predicted that London would prove to be a model location as host to the games.

“A year from now, London will be the city where the world comes together in a spirit of friendship, peace, understanding and human excellence,” said Andy Hunt, who also manages the British athletic team.

“London will be the city where we see the very best examples of humanity, and those images will be far different from what we have seen the past week.”

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) expressed confidence in London’s ability to guarantee the safety of thousands of visiting athletes and spectators.

“Security at the Olympic Games is a top priority for the IOC,” the committee said.

“It is, however, directly handled by the local authorities, as they know best what is appropriate and proportionate. We are confident they will do a good job in this domain.”

c This article is based in part on wire service reports.