The case for an independent investigation into Labour's operation in Glasgow City Council strengthened today as the Daily Record revealed police are to investigate allegations of cronyism around a £50,000 contract awarded under Labour's leadership of Glasgow City Council to an organisation run by a Labour councillor.

It was also confirmed today that police are to interview Labour's former council leader Steven Purcell over his admission of cocaine use.

Commenting SNP MP for Glasgow East John Mason said: "For weeks, Labour politicians have been trying to brush Glasgow under the carpet, but the questions over their operation in the city are increasing.

"Every new revelation strengthens the case for an inquiry.  It is becoming increasingly clear that Labour have something to hide.

"With two police investigations now underway, it is time Labour faced up to the damaging culture of cronyism that has run this city for too long."

SNP Council Group leader James Dornan said: "The more allegations emerge from about Labour's behaviour, the more it appears that Glasgow City Council has been run for the benefit of Labour politicians and their friends not the people of the city.

"I welcome confirmation from the police that they are taking these issues seriously and will investigate not just the cronyist culture but speak to former Cllr Purcell about his involvement with drugs.

"After a bad week for Labour and as the drip drip of revelations from Glasgow continues Jim Murphy and Gordon Brown must be hoping there is nothing more to come."

Notes:

1. Daily Record - Police Probe Former Council Leader Steven Purcell Over 50,000 Grant.

2.Today's Scottish Daily Mail reports a senior source from Strathclyde Police saying "We will speak to Mr Purcell on his return".  An official spokesman for the force said "Strathclyde Police are currently reviewing the comments around the use of controlled drugs attributed to Steven Purcell in recent newspaper articles.  In such circumstances the police will ordinarily give consideration to interviewing the person who is attributed as having made the comments."