1.
GV EXT. Conference Hall with flags.
0.08

2.
LV AND CU Delegates enter (2 shots)
0.32

3.
CU Delegate opens conference.
0.51

4.
CU Delegates seated.
1.05

5.
CU Interpreter in booth.
1.10

6.
CU Delegates using headphones.
1.15

7.
SV speaker.
1.20



Initials VS 19.00 VS 19.10



Script is copyright Reuters Limited. All rights reserved

Background: Representatives of more than 30 nations began meeting in Beirut on Tuesday (8 April) to consider basic problems for civil defence and protection services.

It was the opening of the Third International Conference on the Protection of Institutions.

Among the main questions being considered are the doctrines of civil defence organisations, potential dangers for establishments and the role of protection services in the future.

The meeting was organised by the United Nations and aims to set up a uniform international code for intervention and post-disaster rehabilitation.

The conference also hopes to draw up new protection standards for structures by trying to harmonise such different points of view as those of architects, economists and safety experts.