Airport attack

It IS with some disappointment that I have followed the story regarding Edinburgh Airport's plan to charge for the short-term "kiss and fly" drop-off facilities.

The issue which most concerns me is the personal attack on Gordon Dewar, the airport managing director, and the implication that he has sullied his reputation.

Can I put on record, prior to his leaving to take over the running of Bahrain Airport, my thanks for all the effort Mr Dewar has put into promoting Edinburgh as a destination far beyond his employed role.

As chair of the Edinburgh Tourist Action Group and sitting on other supporting bodies, he has worked tirelessly to ensure that all organisations that operate across the tourism and hospitality industry work together to the highest standards.

He has helped shape national and local government policy on how we promote ourselves and has at all times placed the best interests of Edinburgh first.

I am more concerned at the potential damage to the Edinburgh economy of additional airport taxes imposed by central government. This will have a significant detrimental effect on growth projections and the opportunity to attract more international airlines, potentially reducing direct flight capabilities.

Surely this is the area in which MSPs should concentrate their lobbying.

(COUNCILLOR) TOM BUCHANAN

Liberton/Gilberton

Edinburgh