Al-Ahram Weekly | Sports | London calling

Following an inspection visit to London by an IOC delegation, two of Britain's top sports officials have started a tour of their own as part of London's quest to stage the 2012 Olympics. British Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport Tessa Jowell and Lord Sebastian Coe, chairman of the London bid, paid Egypt a four-day visit and told Inas Mazhar how London views the Games

British Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport Tessa Jowell says competing at the Games is the pinnacle of an athlete's ambition. "London 2012 would provide the facilities and infrastructure to enable every competitor to be the best that they can be. A London Games would be an event at which the whole of Britain would demonstrate its passion for sport.

"The Olympic Games and Paralympic Games demand an impressive setting and London would deliver it. Our capital city is unique in its mix of tradition and modernity, our country is expert at staging world events, our sports-mad fans are the most supportive around."

London formally decided to run as a candidate to host the 2012 Olympic Games in July 2003 but there have been talks since the late nineties.

The minister believed that the Games would help change the face of the city. "A dedicated transport plan makes the most of the improved network, shuttling residents and visitors around quickly and efficiently. The lower Lea valley, one of London's most underdeveloped areas, is now a thriving cityscape well on the way to its long- term rebirth." She added that thousands of people, from architects and IT specialists to surveyors and construction, have worked on its renaissance. "Many thousands more, already inspired by the arrival of the Games, are living healthier lives and are making sport a regular part of their lives."

Jowell's vision is that after the weeks of competition, and a summer of festivals and parties, there will be a lasting legacy to enjoy: new homes and jobs; new sporting venues; more tourism and growing business; and a renewed sense of national achievement.

For Jowell, the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games are the world's greatest festival of sport, youth and culture. "In London, one would feel at home. There are more than 300 languages spoken by 200 different nationalities", she says.

"In 2012, we hope to bring that celebration to a city that welcomes the world and offers something for everyone; a city renowned for its generosity, its imagination, inspiration and integration."

"Our combination of world class venues and iconic city centre locations would ensure an exceptional setting for every event." The minister said, "Our passion for sports and renowned sense of fair play would see enthusiastic and informed crowds creating an unbeatable atmosphere, while our multicultural population would ensure a home crowd for every athlete.

"And, with our unrivalled culture and entertainment, we promise a unique celebration, alive with the Olympic spirit.

"We are definitely following the other four candidatures but we have taken a decision not to criticise them. We are just focussing on our work. We have lots to do in the coming four months before the IOC announces the host nation."

The 12-strong IOC examination team has visited Madrid, London and New York. Next week it tours Paris and Moscow.

Jowell confirmed that the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) aims to improve the quality of life for all through cultural and sporting activities, and to strengthen creative industries. "It has policy responsibility for the arts, sports, the national lottery, libraries, museums and galleries, broadcasting, film, the music industry, press freedom and regulation, the historic environment and tourism."

Jowell and Lord Coe, chairman of the London bid, met with members of the National Olympic Committee headed by NOC President Mounir Sabet. A presentation of the London bid was made to the NOC.