Edinburgh Libdems rule out SNP pact

THE Scottish Libdems have ruled out arrangements with the SNP over the running of Edinburgh Council.

Alex Cole-hamilton’s party saw gains across the city in Friday’s local election results, doubling its number of councillors from six to 12.

But the new councillors rejected the idea of working in a coalition with the SNP yesterday.

Edinburgh group leader for the Libdems, councillor Robert Aldridge, said his party had heard of voters who were “fed up with the SNP’S arrogance”.

Mr Aldridge said: “People across Edinburgh turned to us because they wanted a new and different approach.

“We heard time and time again on the doorsteps how voters were fed up with the SNP’S arrogance, its centralised approach, and its inability to get basic council services right. The election offered the chance for real change.

“We remain open to continue our discussions with other parties.”

An SNP spokesperson said: “The SNP is willing to work with any party that will work to tackle the cost-of-living crisis and improve communities across Scotland.

“However, under no circumstances will the SNP work with the Tories as we have already seen what damage they can do to communities.”