Munich-Germany March 28, 2012: British Prime Minister, International Paralympic Committee (IPC) President Sir Philip Craven and Chief Executive Officer Xavier Gonzalez paid a visit to 10 Downing Street on Wednesday morning (28 March) to meet the British Prime Minster David Cameron. The visit coincided with the start of the final IOC Co-ordination Commission ahead of the London 2012 Games which get underway this summer.
Among attendees at a special Downing Street reception were IOC President Jacques Rogge, LOCOG Chairman Seb Coe, Culture Secretary Jeremy Hunt, Sports Minister Hugh Robertson and two-time Paralympic champion Ellie Simmonds who was announced as an ambassador for the Sainsbury’s School Games.
Sir Philip Craven said: “It was a pleasure to meet the Prime Minister to discuss the final preparations for the London 2012 Paralympic Games. There was a real sense of excitement and anticipation in the air.
“The British government has always been extremely supportive of the Paralympic Games and it was pleasing to hear Mr Cameron talk about how the Games are helping to improve accessibility in the capital and the importance of Paralympians in helping to deliver London 2012’s legacy, especially in terms of inclusion.”
David Cameron said: “The Olympics and Paralympics will be the greatest show on earth. It’s an extraordinary honour for the UK and we intend to repay that faith.
“I believe the message is clear: London will be ready, on time and on budget.”
He added: “The true legacy of London 2012 lies in the future. Though much has been done, I am acutely aware that the drive to embed and secure the benefits of London 2012 is still to come.
“That is our biggest challenge. It’s also our greatest opportunity.”
Ahead of the final Co-ordination Commission meeting, the IPC was updated by LOCOG on Tuesday (27 March) on plans for the Paralympic Games Closing Ceremony which will take place on Sunday 9 September. Xavier Gonzalez said: “What LOCOG has planned for the Closing Ceremony is extremely impressive. I must congratulate all the team involved as what they are creating is nothing short of spectacular.
“The Closing Ceremony will certainly be memorable and definitely an event not to be missed.”
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