23 July 2012 Last updated at 11:16 ET

Probe into theft of 50 laptops at Glasgow City Council

The council has had 52 computers stolen in the past few months

Police are investigating the theft of up to 50 laptop computers from Glasgow City Council - some of which were previously used by elected members.

The missing machines were noticed while officials were investigating the theft of two more computers last month.

One of those contained personal information and bank account details of thousands of people and businesses.

Of the 50 machines taken, 26 were previously used by councillors, with all but three encrypted.

None of the three machines without encryption contained personal data.

'Awaiting disposal'

Elected officials at the council have been notified of the theft and the matter has been passed to police.

In a letter, Annemarie O'Donnell executive director of corporate services, said: "You will recall the council suffered the theft of two laptops from City Chambers East last month.

"As part of the investigation, it has become apparent that a number of laptops, around 50, have gone missing from the secure area where they were being stored while awaiting disposal.

"As there is no legitimate reason why these laptops might have been removed, staff from ACCESS have informed Strathclyde Police who are investigating the matter."