MPs concern over Olympic security bill

The House of Commons Public Accounts Committee has raised concerns over "significant increases" in security costs relating to the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

In a report examining preparations for the event, the committee of MPs praised the building programme but said the £9.3bn public sector funding package had nearly all been spent.

Among the issues to have "particularly concerned" the committee was the spiralling cost of security, with Olympic organisers needing twice the number of security guards planned for.

Committee chair Margaret Hodge said the full cost of the Games and legacy projects to the taxpayer is nearing £11bn and called for a "single auditable account" covering total costs.

Hodge said: "Taking into account costs outside the package, the full cost to the public of the Games and legacy projects is already heading for around £11bn.

"What we need within six months of the end of the Olympics is a single auditable account covering the total costs to the public of the Games and their legacy."

Details: www.parliament.uk

Image: David Poultney/LOCOG