SCOTTISH Labour MSP Katy Clark has backed a petition to nationalise Clydeport.

The petition is organised by the Save Inchgreen Dry Dock Campaign, who have long been arguing that the derelict dry dock — Scotland’s largest — be brought back into use.

It aims to bring the Clyde Harbour Authority back into public hands from controversial Peel Ports.

Despite receiving millions in Scottish government grants in recent years, Peel have come under consistent criticism from trade unions and local communities on the Clyde coast over investment in Clydeport, work practices, and being based in a tax haven. 

Ms Clark said: “It is deeply inappropriate for a private business ultimately owned in tax havens to own swathes of land and key national assets, particularly given their track record, including around health and safety.

“Communities up and down the west of Scotland have had enough. Instead of chucking grant money at this unaccountable mega-firm, it is time decisions about this key part of the economy were made in the public interest.

“I support the petition to bring Clydeport into public ownership.”