Police take on Olympics security in Glasgow amid G4S debacle

A Scottish police force is taking over responsibility for Olympic security from G4S amid the continuing debacle over staff shortages.

The chief constable of Strathclyde Police said today he will take primary responsibility for security within Glasgow venues.

Under the previous agreement, G4S would have been responsible for day-to-day security, but today Chief Constable Stephen House said he will assume leadership.

A statement on the force's website said: "Following recent developments surrounding security arrangements for the Olympic 2012 events in Glasgow, Chief Constable Stephen House has decided that Strathclyde Police will assume primary responsibility for security at Olympic venues.

"Strathclyde Police continues to work closely with Locog (London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games) and is absolutely committed to delivering a safe and secure games for competitors, spectators and everyone living in the force area.

"Extra officers will be deployed to these operations. However, this will have no impact on the level of service in our communities.

"At this time we do not anticipate that there will be any need for military involvement."

The force said discussions are under way to make sure that any additional costs are reimbursed.

Labour MP for Glasgow East Margaret Curran said: "Given G4S's significant failures, this is a sensible decision. The priority must be the safety of athletes and audiences, but it is critical that this does not impact on Strathclyde Police's ability to deal with other emergencies and ongoing operations.

"The costs should be recouped from the Home Office or, preferably, G4S itself. It's essential that no more contracts are awarded to G4S until a full review of this fiasco is carried out."

PA