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Commonwealth Games Bill to be introduced
28/06/2007
The Scottish government plans to introduce new legislation to make sure the 2014 Commonwealth Games are the best they can be if Glasgow's bid is successful.
The proposed Commonwealth Games Bill would help to protect the Games from 'ambush marketing' and ticket touts, while putting powers in place to address matters such as transport and land purchase, to make sure the Games can be delivered.
Under terms set out by the Commonwealth Games Federation, the Scottish government gave a commitment that, should Glasgow win, legislation covering these areas would be in place by 2010.
Ambush marketing is a major threat to large sporting events like the Commonwealth Games. Businesses pay significant sums of money to become official sponsors of such events, thereby helping to offset overall costs.
Under the proposed Bill, unauthorised advertising or outdoor trading within the vicinity of Games venues would be made a summary offence, punishable with a fine of up to £20,000.
The unauthorised sale of Games tickets in excess of face value would also be made an offence subject to a fine.
Also under the proposed legislation, the Organising Committee will develop a transport plan for the Games, in consultation with the relevant local authorities and the Scottish government.
Minister for Communities and Sport Stewart Maxwell said:
"This Bill will put in place measures to stop activity that could undermine the success of the 2014 Games.
"Sponsors' confidence can be undermined by companies or individuals who attempt to advertise or sell their products at events without authorisation from the organisers.
"Staging such a prestigious event will give us the opportunity to showcase not only one of the world's most vibrant cities, but also highlight the vibrancy that defines modern day Scotland."
Glasgow is competing against the Nigerian capital, Abuja, to host the 2014 Games. Glasgow will find out if its bid has been successful on November 9, when the 71 members of the Commonwealth Games Federation gather in Colombo, Sri Lanka, to vote for their favoured city.
Temporary legislation like the proposed Bill is routinely introduced around large sporting events, including the 2006 Commonwealth Games in Melbourne and the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing.
The Bill would allow the Organising Committee to appoint officers to enforce these provisions. These officers will have powers to seize offending merchandise, cover billboards and signs and, under warrant, search premises where they suspect offences are being committed.