Commonwealth Games Glasgow 'bid' hit by political row after Labour criticises SNP Government

2014 Commonwealth Games Closing Ceremony at Hampden Park
-Credit: (Image: PA)


A political row over the Commonwealth Games coming to Glasgow has erupted after the SNP Government was accused of letting the opportunity “slip through its fingers”.

Labour MSP Neil Bibby urged Ministers to show “ambition” amid fears time is running out for the city to host the 2026 showpiece.

Commonwealth Games Scotland backed plans to stage the Games in Glasgow again after Victoria in Australia controversially pulled out.

Around £100m in compensation has been secured from the Victorian Government, but neither the UK nor the Scottish Governments are willing to underwrite the event.

The apparent truce between Labour and the SNP now appears to have shattered.

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Bibby said a £114m proposal had been submitted which includes compensation plus £14m in commercial opportunities.

He said Health Secretary Neil Gray failed to confirm that the Government backed the bid when questioned about its position on Tuesday.

Bibby said: “This is potentially a fantastic opportunity for Glasgow and Scotland that the Scottish Government should be seizing with both hands.

“This is a unique opportunity to boost Glasgow’s economy, upgrade our sports facilities and promote Brand Scotland, not to mention introduce a new generation to the excitement of elite sport on their doorstep.

“The Scottish Government must not let this £100million of inward investment slip through its fingers – this is the time to show ambition and make sure we secure the Commonwealth Games before it’s too late.”

It comes after Prime Minister Keir Starmer was cautious when asked about a potential Glasgow Games.

He said: “There is a difficulty with the Games, which was not of our making and we want to be supportive. We will talk to the Scottish Government about this. No final decision has been made.”

A Scottish Government spokesperson said: “Discussions on a proposal for Glasgow 2026 are ongoing. No decision has been taken by the Scottish Government but Ministers have been clear about the current financial pressures facing the public purse.

"This is a significant decision to make and Ministers are ensuring due diligence is given to the range of opportunities and risks that this proposal presents.

“We are also continuing to engage closely with the UK Government and discuss the options available in reaching an imminent decision.”

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