Draconian rules imposed by the Chinese authorities mean that flags of any non-competing nation are likely to be confiscated from fans, who could be barred from venues if they refuse to comply. Athletes could even be disqualified from competing if they break the rules.
Because Scotland, Wales, England and Northern Ireland are not individually represented at the games, only the Union Flag of Great Britain will be allowed inside the stadiums.
The regulation is widely believed to be aimed at preventing supporters of an independent Tibet from making political statements by waving its flag, but it will be enforced across the board.
The Chinese would regard the waving of flags of non-competing nations as a 'political demonstration' and the Olympic Charter gives them the power to disqualify rule-breakers, saying: "Any violation of (Rule 51) may result in the disqualification or withdrawal of the accreditation of the person concerned."
To make their intentions crystal clear, the Chinese have added on the official website for the games: "To avoid delays at security and to maintain an orderly flow, please DO NOT bring the following articles to any venue... flags of non-members of the Olympics or Paralympics; flags or banners larger than 2m x 1m; flagpoles; any banners, slogans, fliers, brochures or samples."
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