Scot Lib Dems comment on Glasgow fire

Responding to the devastating fire in Central Glasgow, Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Alex Cole-Hamilton said:

"First of all I would like to thank all the firefighters and other emergency service workers who have worked through the night to put out the fire and keep people safe. While the damage to Glasgow's historic architecture is devastating, this could easily have been so much worse.

"If, as is being widely reported, the fire started in a vape shop, both governments will need to look at what safety considerations these shops are required to have in place.

Scottish Liberal Democrat lead candidate for Glasgow, Daniel Khan-O'Malley said:

"This is a sad day for Glasgow. Many Glaswegians and visitors to our great city will have passed by or shopped in this stunning building.

"I feel incredibly sorry for those small businesses who have lost everything to the fire. It is hard enough to get a business off the ground as it is, and now many will be left wrestling with insurance claims and not knowing how they will get by. We are already seeing hair salons and tattoo parlours offering up spaces to those who no longer have somewhere to work from. That is Glasgow at its best.

"I hope that the council can also step up to help people to find premises and begin to rebuild their lives. It is also important that there is a clear steer from both the Scottish Government and ScotRail about next steps. Many commuters, and travellers looking to visit for the forthcoming Commonwealth Games, will be wondering what disruption they might face so clear communication is key."