The Conservative and Liberal Democrat Cabinet are to hold their first meeting of the year at the Olympic Park in London.

The Prime Minister David Cameron announced on Monday morning that the first meeting of the year between the top ministers in the Government would be at the Olympic Park before visiting businesses, sports facilities, schools and organisations around the UK to see first hand how preparations for the Games were unfolding.

The meeting marks 200 days to go until the start of the Olympics.

The Prime Minister said: “As we kick off 2012, the year of the Olympic and Paralympic Games and the Diamond Jubilee, this is the perfect time for the Cabinet to come together and ensure we are doing absolutely everything we can to make the most of this unique opportunity to showcase all the great things the UK has to offer to the rest of the world.

“As Ministers visit Olympic venues, businesses, schools and organisations associated with 2012 right across the UK, I want the message to go out loud and clear, from tourism to business, sport to investment, we are determined to maximise the benefits of 2012 for the whole country.

The PM added that securing the future of the Aquatics Centre and Multi-Use Arena (Handball Arena), AccelorMittal Orbit and the management of the Park estate had created more than 250 jobs and would provide much-needed training and opportunities for small businesses.

(DW)