Scots losing out on 2012 Olympic contracts

Just 10 Scottish firms have won contracts on the 2012 Olympics, sparking a row over the country’s involvement in the Games.

According to an Olympic Delivery Authority response to the Liberal Democrats in the country, 1.2% of the 801 companies awarded contracts on the Games are Scottish.

Scottish communities minister Stewart Maxwell said it was clear Scottish companies are an “afterthought” when 2012 contracts are awarded.

“The UK government is failing to honour its commitments, and in the process, failing Scottish business,” he told the Scotsman.

But Olympic minister Tessa Jowell hit back, accusing the Scottish government of refusing advice on how to organise the 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games.

“(One way forward would be) accepting invitations to meet Scottish Executive ministers regularly to provide support and know-how in hosting the 2014 games,” she said.

“Sadly, however, it seems that the Scottish Executive have declined the offers of help that have been extended to them.”