Council under fire for spending money on Riviera trip

COUNCIL officials who went to the French Riviera for a networking event have been criticised for wasting public money.

It was reported yesterday that a five-strong team from Edinburgh travelled to Cannes for the famous Marche International des Professionnels d'Immobilier.

The local authority defended the trip, arguing it was key to bringing business and investment to Edinburgh, but critics said that in a time of economic difficulties, such a mission should not be considered.

Others said that the event was renowned for late-night Champagne parties and "debauchery".

Emma Boon, campaign director for the Taxpayers' Alliance, said: "It is hypocritical for the City of Edinburgh Council to plead poverty then ask taxpayers to fund luxury trips to the French Riviera.

"Even though some of the cost is being met by private sponsors they are still dipping into the public purse to fund parts of this."

Among the events laid on by "team Edinburgh" was a morning whisky tasting session attended by London mayor Boris Johnson.

Councillor Tom Buchanan, the council's economic development convener, said: "Going to MIPIM has a track record of holding real value to Edinburgh. For example, the St James development, which is worth around 850 million and will rejuvenate our city's retail offer, was initiated at the event, as was the original St Andrew Square project.

"Each year our team successfully brokers and facilitates deals, as well as making contacts that are instrumental to continued investment in Edinburgh."