TEAM GB’s success in the Olympics shows the strength of the Union between Scotland and England, No 10 has suggested as it made clear that the successful athletes can expect to receive a range of honours, reflecting their “amazing” achievements.
Dubbed the “golden games,” Team GB collected a record 27 gold, 23 silver and 17 bronze medals, finishing above mighty China in the medals table. Scottish athletes matched their haul of 13 medals, which was achieved at the London 2012 games, bringing home four gold, seven silver and two bronze medals.
With the future of the United Kingdom once again high on the political agenda following the Brexit vote and First Minister Nicola Sturgeon’s assertion that a second independence referendum is now “highly likely,” Theresa May’s spokeswoman was asked if Team GB’s success had enhanced the status of the Union.
She replied: “The Olympics reflect what the Union can achieve when we are all on the same team and work together. If you look at the four nations, we are greater than the sum of our parts...”
The Prime Minister’s spokeswoman also indicated Team GB’s successful athletes would be in line for recognition in the New Year’s Honours List as she confirmed there would be no formal cap on the number of athletes and coaches who could receive awards.
Speculation is mounting that British Olympians Mo Farah and Andy Murray are in line for knighthoods given their gold-winning performances, which come on top of many previous achievements. Mr Farah admitted he would be thrilled to receive a knighthood after his "double double" success in the 5,000 and 10,000 metres race at the games in Rio de Janeiro.
The spokeswoman said Mrs May was "extremely proud" of Team GB’s medal haul following the "amazing" games and wanted to see that success recognised.
She added: "We have had an amazing fortnight at the Rio Olympics and we should be looking at the differing ways that we can recognise and reward the athletes for all they have achieved and honours are there to recognise and reward people."
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