The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has dismissed concerns over anti-gay laws in Russia saying they do not violate the anti-discrimination clause of the Olympic charter.

Russia has come under scrutiny because of the law passed this summer outlawing so-called gay propaganda. Many worry this may apply to gay athletes or visitors to the games.

There have been several high profile campaigns against the games being held in Sochi including author and broadcaster Stephen Fry, who called for the them to be moved.

Back in August the British Prime Minister David Cameron ruled out a boycott of the games, saying although he shares Mr. Fry's concern - it is better to challenge prejudice by attending.

But today the chairman of the IOC Coordination Commission, Jean-Claude Killy, said "the IOC doesn't have the right to discuss the laws that are in place in the country hosting the games, so unless the charter is violated we are fully satisfied".

Russian officials insist the law is designed to protect children and does not infringe on human rights.

The IOC Commission also praised organisers, saying the sporting venues were ready for the February games.

Yesterday Russian police arrested gay rights activists protesting outside the country's winter Olympics headquarters in Moscow.

Demonstrations have been banned in the area for the three months around the winter games where a vast, restricted "forbidden zone" has been declared by presidential decree. Campaigners fear they will be unable to make their voices heard during the event.

Image: © Sochi 2014 Winter Games