Labour to lead West Dunbartonshire Council after rivals pass on administration

Labour has returned to administration on West Dunbartonshire Council almost a month after walking away from the job.

In late August the party said it would not continue running the local authority, which covers Clydebank, Dumbarton and the Vale of Leven, after an SNP provost was voted in.

Karen Murray Conaghan was elected to the post following the resignation of Labour's Douglas McAllister, who has become an MP.

In a shock announcement, Labour leader Martin Rooney said he and his group – which recently saw some members quit to sit as independents – would be unable to get a budget through and quit with immediate effect.

Laying down a challenge to rival SNP, Community Party and independent councillors, Rooney said it would be up to them to form an administration.

Almost one month later, no such coalition has been formed and Labour is to take the reins again as a minority administration.

The arrangement will stand until the full council meeting in December.

Rooney, who once again becomes council leader, said it would be "in the best interests of the people of West Dunbartonshire". He said: "It is clear that neither a Labour coalition nor an SNP coalition is forthcoming, so an alternative solution needs to be found as a matter of urgency.

"The uncertainty over the political leadership is a real concern for the public and our staff."

In a motion, the SNP's group leader Gordon Scanlan said "almost every council in Scotland operates by minority administration".

Scanlan said: "As the group with the greatest numbers, it is for Labour to seek to fulfil their mandate and lead the council. Minority administration requires compromise and more collegiate working than simply ruling by majority but is achievable and can lead to better outcomes for our communities."