French president may boycott Olympic Games over Tibet

French president Nicolas Sarkozy may bocott China's Olympic Games
French president Nicolas Sarkozy may bocott China's Olympic Games
 
 

Saturday, 05, Apr 2008 06:08

French president Nicolas Sarkozy will boycott the Olympic Games in Beijing unless China meets conditions including the release of political prisoners.

But Gordon Brown said he would not be boycotting the games, despite pressure from human rights groups.

The French secretary of state for human rights, Rama Yade, said Mr Sarkozy has three conditions for attending the ceremony: the release of Tibetan political prisoners; clarifying Tibetan events and opening talks with the Dalai Lama.

Mr Sarkozy is refusing to confirm the news, however. His office said Mr Yade spoke as a government member but could not say whether the comments were correct.

The French president has previously refused to rule out a boycott, saying last month: "I don't close the door to any option, but I think it's more prudent to reserve my responses to concrete developments in the situation."

But Britain's prime minister Gordon Brown said on Saturday: "I will attend the Olympics as many others will do.

"The Dalai Lama himself has said that he does not want to see a boycott of the Olympics and that is why I have said as the host country for the 2012 Olympics that is coming up that I will attend."


Grand National runners that meet the requirements in 2011

There are going to be forty Grand National Runners this Saturday all lining up at Aintree and picking the Grand National winner is always a difficult thing to do.

Gold Cup 2011 odds point to Imperial Commander as the winner

The latest Gold Cup Odds are not only important because they represent how much you can win on the race.

Cheltenham Gold Cup runners and best bets

Fourteen runners have been declared for the Cheltenham Gold Cup 2011 and the question on many people's lips will be.

Cheltenham Gold Cup 2011 runners and odds

The Cheltenham Gold Cup Runners have now been confirmed. As long as there are no late withdrawals there will be 14 Cheltenham Gold Cup runners.

Cheltenham Festival stats and tips should mean more winnings and winners

The Cheltenham Festival 2011 gets underway next week and one of the most popular methods of picking Cheltenham Festival winners is not only to follow tips, but also to take notice of important Cheltenham Festival Stats.

Cheltenham Races odds and tips suggest proven Cheltenham form is key

At long last The Cheltenham Festival 2011 is here and whether punters are going to the course or watching it on TV, everyone will be looking for winning tips for Cheltenham.

Cheltenham races odds and tips can help you find 50/1 winner at the festival

The Cheltenham Festival 2011 gets underway on Tuesday. The highlight of Cheltenham Races on the opening day will be the Champion Hurdle and three days of brilliant racing will follow Tuesday's action.



We're mobile!

Get news, sport and entertainment on your mobile. Text inthenews to 84010 or go to http://m.inthenews.co.uk. There is no charge for this service but the SMS will be charged at your standard operator rate.