Programme of exercises will test Olympic readiness

Exercises test scenarios that could impact the running of the Games, such as a terrorist attack

A programme of exercises has been announced to test the readiness of government, police and other agencies ahead of the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The exercises will test a range of scenarios that could impact on the smooth running of the Games, such as long queues or crowds, transport disruption or a terrorist attack.

They will test how government departments, police and emergency services respond, work together, and share information with the public.

Meanwhile, although the recent assessment of a terrorist attack for the current period has been lowered from 'sever' to 'substantial', Olympics Minister Hugh Robertson has said the "planning assumption" remains that the threat will return to severe for the 2012 Olympic Games.

Home Secretary Theresa May said: "This programme of exercises will play a key role in helping deliver our commitment of a safe and secure Olympic and Paralympic Games."

"We have a robust safety and security strategy. The testing of our plans, structures and responses to ensure they can deal with any incident is vital. It is important we learn lessons ahead of the Games."

Further information:
Home Office