G4S turns down subcontractors for Olympics work despite shortfall

A firm which has offered to supply G4S with extra security staff for Olympic venues have been told by G4S that their staff are not currently required, ITV News understands.

G4S have told the firm in question that they are waiting to see whether the military can supply the relevant staff instead, and they will contact them in due course if their staff are needed.

The firm in question has a significant number of security specialists ready at short notice to bolster G4S staff. G4S said today it expects to supply only 7,000 security staff to the Olympics out of its contract to provide 13,400. Military personnel and police officers have been drafted in to make up the shortfall.

G4S have told ITV News today they are interested in hearing from any sub contractors who can help them meet their commitment to supply security staff for Olympic venues, but that any subcontractors have to meet a number of screening conditions including the latest SIA (Security Industry Authority) licences.

ITV News understands that the staff in question meet all the necessary requirements for training, vetting and SIA licences to work at Olympic sites, but has been told its staff are not currently needed.

G4S has told us that is "exploring all possible avenues" with subcontractors who have suitable staff who meet the necessary conditions.