Human rights message as Games begin

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Ms Jowell attended the spectacular opening ceremony which heralded the start of the 29th Olympiad.

But the build-up to the action inside the Bird's Nest Stadium was dominated by controversy over claims of oppression by the Beijing regime. As the opening ceremony got under way, more than 200 protesters gathered outside the Chinese Embassy in London to voice their anger at China's human rights record.

Demonstrators from Tibet, Zimbabwe, Sudan and Burma joined forces to protest against human rights violations and China's hosting of the Olympics.

Speaking to BBC Radio 4's Today programme from Beijing, Ms Jowell said the International Olympic Committee decided to award the games to China in the "full knowledge" of global concern about human rights abuses. "I think that under the glare of the Olympic spotlight we can see areas where China has taken small steps forward, particularly in relation to their commitment on media freedom.

"I think that the important thing now is not just that things get smartened up and more acceptable for the Olympics, but this is an opportunity for China to say to the rest of the world 'we were privileged by having the Olympics and we, as a country, are going to begin change that will last well beyond the Olympics'."

Asked whether progress would continue once the athletes leave, she said: "This is why I think international dialogue has got to continue after the Olympics. Perhaps the intensity of concern about issues in relation to Tibet, human rights in China, media freedom - particularly media freedom for Chinese journalists, not just Western journalists - is something it is important we all continue to pursue in dialogue with the Chinese government."

Over the next 16 days, more than 10,500 of the best international athletes will compete for the 302 gold medals up for grabs across 28 sports.

Separately, Gordon Brown told Britain's Olympic team they were "an inspiration to millions".

In a message to the sports men and women representing the UK in China, the Prime Minister said: "I want to wish you every luck and success in these Olympic games. You represent the very best of our great country and your dedication, skill and courage are an inspiration to millions of us. The whole country is behind you and we are looking forward to a fantastic festival of sport over the next two weeks. Good luck."