Glasgow politicians have voiced concern over the surprise retirement of Clyde shipyard chief Vic Emery, with senior figures speculating that he may have left against his will.

Mr Emery, 64, will be stepping down early from his role as managing director of BVT Surface Fleet, a joint venture established to work on a Ministry of Defence contract for sections of two aircraft carriers.

However, rumours have surfaced that the veteran shipbuilder may have been forced into quitting, leaving the Govan and Scotstoun yards with no single dedicated managing director.

Letters leaked from the offices of Nicola Sturgeon, Deputy First Minister, and Steven Purcell, leader of Glasgow City Council, showed that both politicians are concerned about the resignation.

Mr Emery will be replaced by Mark Cooper.