A key exhibition in the policing calendar is happening against the backdrop of seminal events on the international stage, a Home Office Minister has said.

In his opening speech at this year's Home Office Security and Policing show in Hampshire, James Brokenshire highlighted that the Arab Spring and change of leadership in North Korea had been "unthinkable" this time last year.

And he pointed out that the coming 12 months would be a critical time for the UK, with the huge policing operation surrounding the 2012 Olympics.

Mr Brokenshire praised those charged with keeping spectators and athletes safe. He emphasised that the impressive Olympic park showed that an "iconic design" could still be delivered alongside world leading security.

He told delegates and exhibitors at FIVE in Farnborough: "Last year we had the Arab Spring, a revolution in Libya and a change of leadership in North Korea.

"All of these events would have been unthinkable this time last year and each of them has a significant impact on national security," he emphasised.

"In the Strategic Defence and Security Review, it is clear that science and technology are an essential part of the UK's ability to respond to such events."

The Security and Policing event, which was formerly the Home Office Scientific Development Branch Exhibition, is running until Thursday February 2.

With a 30 year history, this UK Government show has grown to be the cornerstone of the industry calendar as the only secure event for police and security professionals – as well as those tasked with civil protection and national resilience.

Security and Policing is organised by ADS, the UK trade organisation representing the Aerospace, Defence, Security and Space sectors, on behalf of the Home Office.

Last year HOSDB saw nearly 4,000 registrations from police and security professionals representing more than 570 UK and international organisations.