London, Aug 10 (IANS) Britain's Sport and Olympics minister Hugh Robertson refuted claims made by China's official news agency Xinhua that London's image as the hosts of 2012 Olympics has taken a beating after widespread riots and looting.

Xinhua reported that images of rioters and looters in London have left people worried about the public security situation during next year's London Olympics.

"I think they are wrong, for 14 to 15 months that I have been Olympics minister I have made security the key area. I am absolutely happy, and I am not a novice in this having been in the army for 10 years," Robertson was quoted as saying by The Daily Telegraph.

Asked why he was so confident, Robertson said: "I know what's in that (security) package. The Chinese state news agency doesn't. I am absolutely convinced that the intelligence-led, risk-based assessed approach is the best possible way to have a safe and secure Games."

Robertson, however, admitted that rioting was embarrassing.

"I am saying to them that our incredibly detailed and complex security plan gives us no better guarantee, as much as you can guarantee these things, that we can deliver a safe and secure Games," he said.

The 2012 London Olympics are scheduled to be held July 27-Aug 12.