Fed: Rogge backs Rudd on torch security

AAP General News (Australia)
04-24-2008
Fed: Rogge backs Rudd on torch security

SYDNEY, April 24 AAP - The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has backed Australia's
decision to not allow Chinese torch attendants to be involved in security for today's
relay in Canberra.

Confusion has surrounded the role of the tracksuit-clad attendants accompanying the
torch, the symbol of this year's Beijng Games, despite Prime Minister Kevin Rudd saying
they should only be there to re-light the flame if it was extinguished, and not act as
security.

A senior Beijing Games official yesterday said the flame attendants were trained to
"respond to an immediate threat against the flame or torch bearer".

But IOC president Jacques Rogge said it was Australia's right to determine security
for the relay.

"I know that the government in Australia has decided that they (the Chinese torch attendants)
will have no role," Dr Rogge told sports news channel ESPN.

"The sovereignty of Australia is absolute; security is a matter for Australia, it is
not a matter for these people, that is very clear."

Pro-China and pro-Tibet supporters were gathering in Canberra early this morning ahead
of the start of the relay.

Sports figures such as Ian Thorpe have appealed for protesters to treat the Games torch
with respect during its shortened 16km route around Canberra.

The torch is on the Asian stretch of a world tour that was severely disrupted in Europe
and the United States by protesters complaining about China's rule in Tibet and its human
rights record.

AAP jlw/ldj

KEYWORD: OLY08 FLAME ROGGE

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