MICHAEL HOWIE

SHOPS and tourist attractions in Edinburgh are preparing to shut down before the G8 summit amid fears they could be targeted by anti-capitalist protesters descending on the capital.

Up to 200,000 people are expected to travel to the city for a massive anti-poverty parade the weekend before the 6-8 July summit at Gleneagles.

While organisers insist the event will be peaceful, shopkeepers fear it will be hijacked by anti-capitalists intent on wreaking havoc.

The concerns were raised as Cathy Jamieson, the justice minister, warned protesters that Scottish police were not a "soft touch". She said anyone who stepped out of line would "face the consequences".

"The planning behind this summit is of an order that we have never seen before in Scotland," said Ms Jamieson. "We have ensured that all the necessary resources have been provided to allow police to train and equip themselves and we are making arrangements now to ensure that sufficient resources will be in place to police the event, including support from colleagues south of the Border."

Police say they are not aware of troublemakers planning to attend the Make Poverty History march on Saturday, 2 July, but add that their intelligence could change as the event approaches.

Most shops are planning to open as normal but say they will not be able to make a definite decision until days, or even hours, before the event itself.

Brian Smillie, of the George Street Traders Association, which represents 40 shops and other businesses, yesterday said: "I know some companies are developing contingency plans although at this stage I have not heard of anyone planning to close. However, that is a possibility. It's not something I would rule out.

"We are meeting members tomorrow with the police and it is something that we may very well discuss.

"It is a big worry for us all, the fact Edinburgh is being targeted for protests. I think it will be a very difficult day for traders as surely most people with any sense will stay away from the city centre."

He said some shops may choose to board up their windows to protect their property from possible attack.

Reports yesterday claimed McDonald's was planning to close its flagship restaurants during the protests.

Staff raised fears they would be attacked but the chain later insisted it had "no plans" to close.

Harvey Nichols is expecting to open as normal on the Saturday but the shop's managing director, Gordon Drummond, said: "We are talking to the police and the council and will continue to do that until right up to July."

A spokeswoman for Principles in Princes Street said the store may be forced to close during the march.

"If things ever get bad outside then we will lock the doors until the march has gone by."

Thousands of people are expected to file past the Mound, home to the National Gallery for Scotland and the Royal National Academy, which may close for the day.

Michael Clarke, director of the National Gallery, said staff were in "close consultation" with police and the council.

"We are monitoring the situation closely and will make a decision on what action to take nearer the time," he said.

A police spokeswoman said Edinburgh should remain "as open as possible" but advised people to stay away from the city centre.

CAPITAL PREPARES FOR INVASION

Q: What will be happening in Edinburgh?

A: A string of events is planned, the focal point being an anti-poverty march through the city centre on 2 July. Up to 200,000 people are expected to take part in what will be one of Scotland's biggest ever demonstrations. The following day, a "counter-summit" is being held, with more than 40 workshops and debates being staged at various venues.

Q: Who organises the march?

A: It is being held under the banner of Make Poverty History, an umbrella organisation bringing together hundreds of charities, campaigns, unions and faith groups.

Q: What about tourist attractions?

A: Holyrood Palace will be shut. The National Galleries and the Scottish Parliament have yet to decide whether to open their doors to the public. Edinburgh Castle will stay open, although with a security cordon.

Q: Will transport be affected?

A: City-centre roads, including Princes Street, Melville Drive, Lauriston Place and part of Lothian Road, will be closed, and motorists are being advised to stay away from the city centre. Bus services will also be scaled back. Trains are expected to run as normal.

Q: How will Edinburgh cope with the influx of visitors?

A: It is thought up to 10,000 protesters travelling into the city will not have arranged accommodation. Organisers are in talks to set up "crash" sites where people can sleep.