Glasgow's Labour leadership is not fit for purpose and their antics in deciding the budget earlier this year were "beyond the pale".

Local Government Minister Derek Mackay made the claims yesterday at the SNP conference, where activists geared up for the city becoming a key battleground in May's municipal elections.

In February, Glasgow City Council passed its budget by just two votes after opposition parties combined and former members resigned.

The result came amid allegations of threats and bullying made by one former Labour member and claims others were put under severe pressure to vote for the ruling administration.

Mr Mackay said: "I am not in the business of judging local political leadership, but let me make one exception.

"Glasgow deserves better than being run by a Labour council at war with itself, who are completely removed from reality and lack the understanding of what is important to the people of Glasgow.

"The antics of the Labour leadership at Glasgow City Council are beyond the pale."

Councillor Irfan Rabbani, who defected to the SNP from Labour earlier this year, said yesterday he was "convinced Glasgow will benefit from many new SNP councillors".