Statement from the Prime Minister on the Commonwealth Games

Prime Minister Andy Burnham said:

"In 2024 the great city of Glasgow stepped up to save the Commonwealth Games. My thanks go to everyone who made that possible.

From my time as Mayor of Greater Manchester, I know the joy live sport can bring to a place.

"Glaswegians are good fun and will be the warmest hosts to athletes and fans coming from 74 Commonwealth countries.

To the teams from all four home nations: good luck, and I'll be watching. I'm a keen runner but I don't fancy my chances against Josh Kerr's one-mile world record!

We're a country mad about sport, so let's have more of it, in every part of the UK. It inspires people, builds stronger communities, and gives us all a bit more hope for the future which is what I'm all about.