Money talks to consider 'Edi' currency

PROPOSALS for Edinburgh to get its own currency are set to be discussed by councillors.

The Evening News revealed last month that talks are under way about whether the creation of an "Edinburgh pound" could encourage people to shop locally.

Under the scheme, being proposed by the Transition Edinburgh community group, locally-owned businesses would be encouraged to offer discounts to customers that pay by "Edi" rather than sterling.

Green Councillor Steve Burgess has lodged a motion calling for council officials to report on possible benefits. His motion is due to be debated on Tuesday.

Last year, a pilot in the Borders town of Hawick saw 5000 Hawick "pounds" printed, with consumers sold batches of 21 for 20 - effectively giving them a five per cent discount on goods purchased locally.