LONDON (AP) - The panel investigating links between cycling's governing body and the Lance Armstrong doping case has opened its first hearing in London.

The International Cycling Union's independent commission is considering whether to introduce a "truth and reconciliation" process to persuade riders to come forward with information without fear of retribution.

The panel is investigating accusations that UCI leaders covered up suspicious doping tests given by Armstrong during his 1999-2005 run of Tour de France victories and unethically accepted donations from him totaling $125,000.

The panel is composed of retired British judge Philip Otton, Paralympic great Tanni-Grey Thompson and Australian lawyer Malcolm Holmes.

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