27/11/2008

Labour accused of “Scrooge mentality” over failure  to back free bus service at Hogmanay

Labour Councillors on Midlothian Council have been urged to back a free bus scheme for people in Penicuik who wish to travel to Edinburgh for the Hogmanay celebrations this year. Labour Councillors withdrew the free service in 2002 amidst widespread local criticism and now SNP MSP Christine Grahame is pressing the Council again to follow the lead taken by East Lothian Council and Edinburgh City Council who both provide a free bus service for their residents. Ms Grahame said:

“The most recent figures I have obtained show that Labour run Midlothian Council spent over £160,000 on corporate hospitality yet are denying local people in Penicuik and elsewhere in the region the chance to enjoy just one night of celebrations in Edinburgh and to return home safely.

“East Lothian fund a scheme for their residents which costs just £4,600. That is literally small beer for the costs Labour run Midlothian Council spends on corporate functions each year.

“There is a long established Scrooge mentality amongst Labour Councillors in Midlothian and especially in Penicuik.”

SNP It’s time.....