Army to increase security at London 2012 Olympics
Up to 6,000 troops could be drafted in as security guards at the 2012 Olympics in London, as officials reassess the manpower needed to cover next year’s Games, it has emerged.
It is believed the soldiers would work alongside private security guards at the Olympic Park in Stratford and venues across London.
The move brings to the forefront the security risks surrounding the Games, as London’s organising committee (Locog) increases the number of security staff needed from 15,000 to 20,000, the Financial Times reports (£).
Locog has already contracted G4S, the private security company that polices high-profile events including Wimbledon, to provide 10,000 guards for next summer’s events.
But officials involved in planning for the London 2012 Olympics have told the FT that “advanced talks” are in progress with the Ministry of Defence over bringing in the Army for extra support.
The MoD previously dismissed the idea that troops would be provided for the London Olympics, saying it was a “big ask” at a time when defence resources were stretched by overseas missions.
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