Provost choice unanimous
Stirling’s new provost appealed to her fellow councillors to put people before politics.
Stirling West councillor Christine Simpson was elected at Wednesday’s night’s council meeting.
The Labour member was elected unanimously by all political groups, including the opposition Tories, whose leader Neil Benny said she had their full support.
Provost Simpson took the chair and told the chamber: “I am very conscious of the great honour you have done me in electing me as provost.
“I want to pay tribute to my predecessors in this post and I hope I can live up to the high standards they have set.
“I will do my best to be fair and balanced in this chamber while promoting healthy debate.
“I hope that in turn all councillors will treat each other and our officers with respect. These are challenging times and goodwill will be of great importance as we go forward.
“Whatever the differences in our political parties nationally, we must always bear in mind that we are here to guide the future of our communities and to further the best interests of our constituents. Thank you for giving me this opportunity.”
Provost Simpson, who is married to former Labour MSP and Bridge of Allan GP Richard Simpson, was first elected to Stirling Council in 2012.
She held the portfolio for social care and health in the previous administration.
SNP councillor Graham Houston, a former council leader, was elected vice-convener.
He will preside over council meetings if Provost Simpson is unavailable and can deputise for her in a civic capacity.
Four bailies were also agreed, all of them newly-elected councillors.
The SNP’s Evelyn Tweed, Conservtive Brian Flannagan, Labour’s Chris Kane and the sole Green councillor Alasdair Tollemache will take on the non-political roles, and can also deputise for Provost Simpson at events.