Minister denies reports of Sarkozy Olympic boycott

France’s human rights minister tonight denied a report that quoted her as saying President Nicolas Sarkozy would boycott the Olympic opening ceremony unless China releases political prisoners and starts talks with the Dalai Lama.

In a statement, Rama Yade said Le Monde newspaper had misquoted her when it said she listed necessary “conditions” for Mr Sarkozy’s attendance at the August 8 ceremony in Beijing.