By Tom Degun in London

Sir_Paul_Stephenson_resignation_as_head_of_Met_Police_July_17_2011July 18 - Sir Paul Stephenson's shock resignation as Metropolitan Police Commissioner last night after he was caught up in the News of the World phone hacking scandal will have no impact on security arrangements for London 2012, Minister for Sport and the Olympics Hugh Robertson claimed today.


Sir Paul stepped down as the highest ranking officer within the Metrpollitan Police after just over two years in the role as a result of speculation regarding his connection with Neil Wallis, the former News of the World deputy editor, who is among ten people arrested on suspicion of involvement in the phone hacking scandal.

Earlier this month, the 57-year-old from Lancashire had helped give a presentation at New Scotland Yard on security arrangements for London 2012 but Robertson believes that the security plans in place for the Olympics and Paralympics will not be affected by his resignation as operations for the Games are actually being led by Metropolitan Police Assistant Commissioner Chris Allison, who is the National Olympic Security Coordinator.

MPs, led by Keith Vaz, the chairman of the Commons Home Affairs Select Committee, warned today that Sir Paul's resignation could compromise security arrangements for the Olympics and Paralympics but Robertson insisted that there is nothing to be concerned about.

"In the strictest terms of London 2012 security, I am not at all worried by the resignation of Sir Paul," Robertson told insidethegames.

"The crucial thing about London 2012 security is that the lead is Chris Allison.

"He has produced a very considerable step change in the Met's approach to London 2012 and he is still leading the security today.

"I think we sensed a year or so ago, when we came into Government, that the security planning for the London 2012 Olympics and Paralympics wasn't absolutely where we wanted it to be.

"A Home Office review took place and as a result of that; a series of measures were put in place and we were presented to by Chris Allison.

"He was outstanding - and I used that word advisedly - and gave everyone huge confidence about the security plans in place for London 2012.

"Having worked with him very closely with him for the past year, I am 100 per cent confident in him and the plans that he has drawn up regarding security at the London 2012 Games."

Allison had joined Sir Paul at the security presentation at New Scotland Yard earlier this month where they announced a comprehensive programme of test exercises over the next year designed to ensure maximum security during the Games.

Allison claimed at the briefing that "testing and exercising our plans is vital to smooth partnership working and providing the most effective response for the public" while it was also revealed that the full £600 million ($967 million) security budget ring-fenced for the London 2012 Games may not be required with costs anticipated to be just under £500 million ($806 million).

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