THE SEC has said it is "ready to support the NHS" if needed, amid rumours the venue could be used as an emergency hospital for COVID-19 patients. 

While there has been no confirmation the Finnieston venue will be used for alternative hosptial provision, the SEC has said it would be willing to help the NHS if necessary. 

The armed forces are assessing the venue as a potential site for a temporary hospital, PA reports. 

READ MORE: 'Fit and healthy' 28-year-old died days after coronavirus diagnosis

A spokeswoman for the SEC said: The SEC is ready to support the NHS in any way we can. It is possible that the venue may be used as an alternative hospital provision.

"There has been no confirmation of this at this time."

This comes after Downing Street indicated that additional coronavirus field hospitals are being considered around the UK, at a press conference earlier today.

The Prime Minister’s official spokesman said 500 of the additional 4,000 beds created in the NHS Nightingale Hospital being set up in London’s ExCel centre will be available for use next week.

READ MORE: Shawlands Wetherspoons vandalised as public hit out over treatment of staff amid COVID-19 lockdown

Asked if convention centres in Birmingham and Manchester are also being considered, he said: “The current focus is on getting the ExCel centre up and running as the NHS Nightingale Hospital.

“But NHS England is actively preparing for a number of scenarios as the outbreak continues and is working with clinicians and teams of military planners around the country.”

Pressed on whether this does mean more across the country, he said: “As I say, we are working with local health services all around the country.”