Britain's terrorism minister says 2012 Olympics biggest security risk since World War II

Associated Press

Last update: November 13, 2009 - 5:06 AM

LONDON - Britain's security minister says London faces the largest security challenge since World War II when it hosts the 2012 Olympics.

Alan West told a London conference on Friday that the British capital will almost certainly be at higher risk of a terrorist attack during the games.

He said the threat level will likely rise to severe — meaning an attack is considered highly likely.

But West said Britain has a $1 billion budget specifically for Olympic security, and is confident in its planning.

Recent Olympics stories

Britain's terrorism minister says 2012 Olympics biggest security risk since World War II - London faces the largest security challenge since World War II when it hosts the 2012 Olympics, British security minister Alan West said Friday. More

USOC turns to ex-NFL commissioner Paul Tagliabue for solutions to board operation - The U.S. Olympic Committee turned to former NFL commissioner Paul Tagliabue on Thursday to study how its oft-criticized board does business and determine if changes are needed. More