Demonised in the West as goons guarding the Olympic torch along its chaotic world tour, these pictures show how China’s paramilitary police learn their unwavering discipline.

Officers of the People Paramilitary Police preparing for the Olympics are drilled on the parade ground with pins in their collars and crosses on their backs to ensure perfect posture.

But instead of the blue tracksuits members wore while escorting the flame, they are kitted out in full dress uniform during the exercise at their base in Shenyang, Liaoning province.

But the International Olympic Committee has said athletes should speak freely on their political beliefs, as long as they follow Olympic Charter rules.

Meanwhile Chinese President Hu Jintao today vowed to continue a recently begun dialogue with the Dalai Lama.

But he offered veiled accusations the Tibetan spiritual leader is causing more problems than he is solving.

Mr Hu, speaking at a news conference with Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda, demanded the Dalai Lama stop trying to divide China, incite violence and harm Games.

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