Intro:

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) approved a new Olympic bidding process on Monday (December 8) to make the system less costly, and adopted a more flexible sports program.

Script:

SOUNDBITE: Thomas Bach, IOC President

"Today is decision day. It is the day when, after a debate of more than one year and with great participation, we can change from discussion mode to decision mode."

SOUNDBITE: John Coates, IOC Vice President

"Recommendation one is to shape the bidding process as an invitation. The spirit behind this recommendation is to turn the procedure into an invitation for discussion and partnership with the IOC, rather than an application for a franchise."

UPSOUND: Thomas Bach, IOC President

"Who is in favour of this recommendation? Please raise your hand. Thank you."

SOUNDBITE: John Coates, IOC Vice President

"So our final recommendation is to further assist candidate cities by reducing the cost of bidding. This is not a new subject but despite a regular review of the process and rules every two years after the election of each host city, the IOC continues to witness an increase in bid spending."

UPSOUND: Thomas Bach, IOC President

"Thank you, also this is unanimously approved."

SOUNDBITE: Thomas Bach, IOC President

"This is really a major step forward in the modernisation of the Olympic Games."