The US President, Mr Barack Obama, held a meeting with his national security chiefs to review US security plans and cooperation with British authorities for the London Olympics, the White House has said.

The President at the meeting on Thursday night also examined security arrangements for the US Independence Day holiday which falls next week and sees large gatherings at firework displays all over the country.

“The president directed all to ensure we are doing everything possible to keep the American people safe and to continue close cooperation on the Olympics with our British counterparts,” National Security Council spokesman, Mr Tommy Vietor said.

Britain is mounting a massive security operation to police the Games, which start on July 27, with the military reported to be taking charge of London’s air space.

A 40,000 strong security force will guard the global sporting extravaganza at a cost of $ 553 million.

First Lady Michelle Obama will lead the US delegation, also featuring double gold-medalist women’s footballer, Ms Brandi Chastain, to the Games, and will be accompanied by her usual Secret Service retinue.

The United States said last year, that contrary to British press reports it had the “utmost confidence” in Britain’s security preparations for the Olympic Games, to which it will send one of the biggest teams.

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