Liberal Democrat Chief Whip and MSP for Glasgow Robert Brown has written to the Prime Minister Gordon Brown demanding an explanation of why Scotland is missing out on contracts from the 2012 Olympic Games.

Research by the Liberal Democrats has revealed that despite having over 7 per cent of the UK’s businesses, Scotland has won just 2 per cent of the contracts awarded so far.

Commenting, Mr Brown said:

“London’s Olympic bid was sold on the promise that the Games would benefit the whole of the UK. So far, this is clearly not the case.

“Scotland represents over 7 per cent of all UK business and has so far received only 2 per cent of Olympic contracts, with London and the South East receiving 70 per cent.

“This is simply unacceptable and I am writing to the Prime Minister seeking an explanation and demanding immediate action to resolve this disproportionate distribution of Olympic contracts. The Prime Minister must take a personal interest in this matter and ensure that the original goal of UK-wide benefit from the Games is realised.

“The £6bn-worth of contracts should be an opportunity for all parts of the UK.

“In the run-up to the 2014 Commonwealth Games, it makes sense for Scottish firms to build experience on Olympic contracts.

“Scotland’s, and in particular Glasgow’s, success in securing the 2014 Commonwealth Games shows that we have a great deal to offer. The Olympics should not be just for London.”