A £1 BILLION-PLUS deal funded by Governments in London and Edinburgh to boost the west of Scotland economy would not collapse in the event of a Yes vote, it is claimed.
At the formal signing of the City Deal, which will fund major infrastructure projects in Glasgow and the surrounding region over 20 years, Scottish Government ministers pledged to fully fund the scheme if Westminster pulls out.
The City Deal is being funded with £500 million from each of the UK and Scottish governments while local authorities in the area will borrow a further £130 million.
The UK's minister for universities, science and cities confirmed the UK contribution was conditional on Scotland remaining in the UK and that it would be part of negotiations in the event of a Yes vote.
At yesterday's signing ceremony at the Glasgow Science Centre, Greg Clark was joined by Chief Secretary to the Treasury Danny Alexander, Holyrood local government minister Derek Mackay, Glasgow City Council leader Gordon Matheson and seven local authority leaders from across the Clyde Valley.
Mr Matheson said: "The benefit that this funding will bring will be felt for decades through tens of thousands of new jobs and increased competitiveness".
Asked if Westminster's commitment was irrespective of the referendum outcome, Mr Clark said: "What we are signing today is the UK Government commitment to the City Deal. We're making this as a UK Government which has an interest in seeing Glasgow prosper.
"We're hoping that Scotland will continue to be part of the UK and that is the basis for the City Deal. If there is a different outcome then that would be part of negotiations with the Scottish Government."
Mr Mackay added: "We are committing £500 million. If the constitution changes we will continue to commit to the £1.13 billion City Deal."
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