• Variety, Monday, June 9, 2008 9:31 AM

Television networks set to broadcast the Beijing Olympics are squaring off with local organizers over stringent security that threatens coverage of the Games. Unnerved by protests, China's government seems to be backtracking on promises to let broadcasters work as they have in previous Olympics.

Issues range from limits on coverage in Tiananmen Square to problems with the delivery of TV broadcasting equipment. "A number of conditions or requirements are just not workable," says Olympic official Gilbert Felli.

Some plans are months behind schedule, which could force broadcasters to compromise coverage plans. "We are two weeks away from putting equipment on a shipment, and we have no clearance to operate, or to enter the country," says Sandy MacIntyre, news director for AP Television News.

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