White House press corps evacuated from work center

WASHINGTON, June 18 (Reuters) The press center across the street from the White House was today evacuated after a bomb-sniffing dog prompted a security check, US officials said.

Members of the press were told to vacate their temporary filing center which is around the corner from the Blair House, where visiting dignitaries often stay. Security was already at a heightened level around the White House complex because of the visit of Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert.

Secret Service spokesman Darrin Blackford said a dog singled out a vehicle parked on Jackson Place, in front of the press quarters.

''Police were called, they are on the scene currently attempting to clear the vehicle,'' Blackford said. ''The vehicle is part of the delegation that is staying at the Blair House.'' Olmert is staying at Blair House in advance of a meeting on Tuesday with President George W Bush.

White House officials had no immediate comment.

REUTERS KN SBA BST0148