A NEW task force has been formed to sell Scotland’s biggest city to the world as Brexit threatens to put it at “serious economic disadvantage”.
The Global Glasgow group – which involves public and private sectors – will draw up an action plan to help protect the interests of the “economic and cultural powerhouse” and convince those from other countries that it remains a “great place to visit, study, live, work and do business”.
It will also seek to safeguard and develop relationships with cities in Europe and beyond.
Business, academia and culture are all in the frame as leaders seek to mitigate potential losses as Brexit brings in new regulatory frameworks and costs that could disrupt institutions and the economy.
This includes the city’s key financial sector, which vies against larger, more established hubs like Vienna, Madrid and Milan.
It also includes academia, with Glasgow School of Art, the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, three universities and several colleges yet to find out what withdrawing from the EU will mean for student numbers, finance and research partnerships.
Meanwhile, spending by 2 million tourists and 20m day visitors – many drawn by sporting events, conferences and concerts – adds up to a £1.7 billion boost to the economy.
Chaired by council leader Susan Aitken, Global Glasgow met for the first time last week and will continue to do so on a quarterly basis.
Stuart Patrick, chief executive of Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, said: “For obvious reasons this is a very pertinent time for the city to be reaching out internationally. International trade is something which is second nature to all Chambers of Commerce, and in the specific case of Glasgow Chamber it was the reason for our founding in the late 18th century.
“We are very keen to contribute through the expansion of global networks to promote trade and investment.”
Lord Provost Eva Bolander, who is originally from Sweden, commented: “Glasgow is a world-class city that is outward-looking, progressive and filled with talent.
“It is our citizens who built and shaped this city and earned its global reputation as a friendly, exciting, dynamic and creative place. This city of learning, innovation and invention is proud to embrace diversity and difference.
“I believe our new Global Glasgow group is an ideal platform to work in partnership with institutions, businesses and networks, to promote the virtues of Glasgow and her people to the world.”
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