The Olympics budget might still undergo a second revision in line with the needs, Liu Jingmin, Executive Vice President of the Beijing Organising Committee for the Games, said in Beijing.

But, the figure revised now was still less than US $2.4 billion spent on the Athens Olympics in 2004, he said.

Seeking to dispel fears about security, Liu said it could absolutely be guaranteed with an increased budget and a national security command.

"Security management is going on smoothly and we are absolutely sure that the 2008 Beijing Olympics will be safe and secure," he said.

China has already set up a national command for the safe conduct of Olympics. A coordination team headed by the ministry of public security with authorities including armed forces would ensure a quick response to dangers, said Liu, who is also vice Mayor of Beijing.

Beijing organisers were in touch with international organisations, the former host countries of Olympics and foreign embassies in China as part of efforts to ensure safety, the official Xinhua quoted Liu as saying.