New public tours of U.S. Capitol suspended
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WASHINGTON (CNN) -- Public tours of the U.S. Capitol were suspended Friday, amid concerns over security as the United States and coalition forces wage war in Iraq.
But the National Cherry Blossom Festival, which begins Saturday, and the 2003 World Figure Skating Championships, which starts Monday, are on as scheduled.
"Washington D.C. remains open, and we welcome families and visitors to come and enjoy everything our city has to offer," said William Hanbury, president and CEO of the Washington, DC Convention and Tourism Corporation.
While public tours are suspended, specially reserved tours or those conducted by a member of Congress or staff can continue, the letter said. Previously scheduled tours will not be affected.
"This is being done to provide the highest level of public safety for those who work in and visit the United States Capitol," read a letter from the Sergeant-at-Arms office.
Galleries of the Senate and House of Representatives will remain open to visitors while those chamber are in session, with no change in entry requirements. Visitors must have a gallery pass and pass a name check by Capitol Police to gain entry to either gallery.
The suspension may change as developments warrant, the statement said.
Earlier this week, the White House suspended its tours until further notice.(Full story)
