Politicians re-iterate their backing for the bid

Speaking at the Westminster launch of the London 2012 Parliamentary Bid Ambassadors Group, they outlined why the Government is backing the bid and the importance of similarly strong support across all political parties .

Ms Jowell said cross-party, and nationwide, support was vital in order to help convince the International Olympic Committee that the Games should come to London in 2012.

A host of representatives from both the Houses of Commons and Lords attended the reception, representing both London and other parts of the United Kingdom, and demonstrating clearly London's solid cross-party political support.

Bid Chairman Barbara Cassani hosted the event at Portcullis House, Westminster, and thanked many of those in attendance for their tremendous work in support of the bid so far.

Alongside her Vice Chairman Lord Coe, who will chair the Parliamentary Bid Ambassadors Group, highlighted how Parliamentarians could get involved in a variety of ways to further boost London's chances of success.

A spokesman for London 2012 said: "We've been delighted by the strong, cross-party backing the bid has enjoyed, and continues to enjoy, and the levels of support which are being offered nationwide.

"The Parliamentary Bid Ambassadors Group will help ensure that we continue to maintain, and build upon, that political support."

13 April 2004