City MP urges greater Games role for firms

Published on Wednesday 10 June 2009 10:08

AN EDINBURGH MP has called on Olympics Minister Tessa Jowell to press the Scottish Government to encourage more local firms to play an active role in the 2012 Games.

The call came as it emerged that just 1.4 per cent of contracts associated with delivery of the London Olympics have gone to Scottish firms.

During a debate in the House of Commons, Mark Lazarowicz, Labour MP for Edinburgh North and Leith, said: "I know that businesses in my own constituency have won contracts from the Olympic Delivery Authority. However, may I invite her to speak to the Scottish Government to urge them to play a more active role in encouraging businesses in Scotland to take opportunities provided by the Olympics in London?

"I am afraid that their record has not been very good as regards co-operation with the UK Government.

"I urge her to speak to them to ensure that they redouble their efforts to try to get businesses in Scotland to take full advantage of the opportunities arising from the Olympics in 2012."

Ms Jowell said she would be happy to speak with the Scottish Government.