The British Olympic Association(BOA)chairman Colin Moynihan has spoken up about a clause in British Olympic athletes contracts that forbid them from making comments regarding China's human rights record or other conditions. In a report in Around the Rings yesterday, Colin says that provision was withdrawn "as it was an incorrect interpertation of the Olympic Charter." He cited his own experiences speaking out against the Russian government of the time before he himself competed in 1980 in Moscow.
Don't bet on it. Looks like the BOA got caught with their pants down and had to backtrack. But it was quite clear from the beginning as to what the UK athletes were being asked to sign. There was no question-and it appears the BOA got hammered about this-big time.
I recognise double-speak when I see it. So apparently did the public, and the collective howl of world opinion made the BOA go back on what they originally intended to have happen. It's also in my opinion put a black mark on London 2012 (as if they didn't have enough issues already.)
It's only a short step from muzzled athletes to muzzled press. That's a dangerous line, and you don't want to go there-ever.
Shame on you BOA. What your athletes say is none of your business-but your efforts made to keep them quiet is ours with the written word.
Now go hang your head in the corner-and don't do it again.
