Glasgow council leader in clinic after quitting job
Steven Purcell resigns on health grounds
Published: 03/03/2010
THE leader of Glasgow City Council is in a clinic after quitting his post on health grounds.
Steven Purcell, seen as a rising star in the Labour Party, is being treated in a private clinic for stress and exhaustion.
Purcell, 37, blamed the pressure of planning the 2014 Commonwealth Games and recent difficulties with transport body Strathclyde Passenger Transport (SPT) for his illness.
In a shock move, Mr Purcell tendered his resignation by telephone.
Glasgow City Council has agreed not to discuss his health at the request of his lawyers.
Purcell’s lawyer Peter Watson said the decision to quit was made “with a heavy heart”.
He said his client was “resting and recovering”.