This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
Listen
Glasgow factory explosion
11/05/2004
First Minister Jack McConnell has commented on the
situation in Glasgow today where an explosion has caused
the collapse of a factory with several fatalities, many
injured, and others trapped in the rubble.
He said:
"This is a tragic and terrible incident and my thoughts
are with those involved and their family and friends.
"I have spoken with Strathclyde's Chief Constable this
afternoon. He has reassured me that everything that can be
done, is being done.
Information line
0870 9009586
"Dedicated emergency staff are working flat out to
rescue and treat the people caught up in this shocking day.
They have the full support of our Scottish government."
The building was all but destroyed in the blast shortly
after mid-day. The explosion was heard by people several
miles away.
Mr McConnell stressed that the rescue mission was the
immediate priority, and that Ministers were being kept
fully up-to-date.
He said he would decide whether it was appropriate for
him to visit the scene at a later stage once the situation
was clear.