Rio de Janeiro has declared a financial emergency

The Brazilian state of Rio de Janeiro has declared a financial emergency less than 50 days before the Olympics.

Interim Governor Francisco Dornelles says the “serious economic crisis” threatens to stop the state from honouring commitments for the Games.

Most public backing for the Olympics has come from the city authorities of Rio, but the state is responsible for areas such as transport and policing.

Considerable financial help has been promised by interim President Michel Temer.

The governor has blamed a tax shortfall for the crisis, especially in the oil industry, while Brazil overall has faced a deep recession.

The measure could hasten the release of national emergency funds.

Rio state workers and pensioners are owed wages in arrears. Hospitals and police stations have been severely affected.