CENTRALISING power in an elected mayor for the Glasgow region could add 4.6 per cent to Scotland’s GDP, the Centre for Cities claimed today.

The think tank argued that Scotland’s cities could learn from England’s experience over the last decade.

Andrew Carter of Centre for Cities said: “English cities with metro mayors have in the last week been allocated billions to invest in local public transport networks and R&D.

“Scotland, too, needs its big cities to make a greater contribution to the economy.

“A directly elected mayor for the Glasgow city region would bring much-needed leadership, accountability and the ability to shape growth around the city’s needs.”

Backing the call, Labour Scottish Secretary Ian Murray said: “Scottish regions would benefit hugely from elected mayors, just as English regions have.

“For too long power in Scotland has been held at Holyrood.”

SNP Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes commented: “We are working with partners to explore ways of devolving further powers to regional economic partnerships, including Glasgow city region, with the aim of presenting options to ministers by the end of this parliament.”