Edinburgh Council cancels schools visit to Stockholm

City education leader Marilyne MacLaren and director of education Gillian Tee planned to visit Stockholm to learn about its schooling system.

The move drew criticism from opposition councillors and parents, coming at a time when school budgets are being cut.

The full cost of the trip was to be 3,300, with 2,200 being paid by Learning and Teaching Scotland.

However, an MSP who was to attend pulled out, which led to Learning and Teaching Scotland reducing the amount it was prepared to contribute.

Councillor MacLaren said: "In view of all this, and the volcanic ash cloud – I don't want to get there and not get back – there is no need now for me and the director to go."

Councillor Ricky Henderson, education spokesman for the Labour group on the council, said: "It is a bit of a U-turn. Maybe the convener was stung by some of the media coverage, or perhaps she had time to reflect on how important it is to pay to go abroad in these economic times."