By DPA,
Copenhagen : Danish Prime Minister Anders Fogh Rasmussen said Tuesday his government has not taken any decision over whether or not Denmark will stay away from the opening ceremony at the Beijing Olympics.
Speaking to reporters at his weekly news conference, Rasmussen said if Danish government members were to stay away from the ceremony, Crown Prince Frederik would also follow suit.
“It is evident that if the government decides not to attend then the crown prince will also not attend the opening ceremony,” he said.
Rasmussen said that he opposed a boycott and added that the government was to decide “later” on its position and also consult with other European Union members.
The premier said the crown prince could attend the competitions even if for instance Culture Minister Brian Mikkelsen, who also handles sports matters, opts to stay away from the games.
There has been speculation that the prince’s chances of being elected to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) next year hinged on his presence at the opening ceremony.
A poll published a week ago suggested Danes support a boycott of the opening ceremony over concerns at the human rights situation in Tibet.