New Greens chief outlines Capital vision

EDINBURGH councillor Alison Johnstone today took up her new post as co-leader of the Scottish Greens and set out her vision for a greener Capital.

Speaking at the party's annual conference at Napier University, she said she wanted a city which was greener and cleaner, built on strong communities and well-resourced local services. Councillor Johnstone, who represents Meadows/Morningside, said: "Green councillors are determined to see families living in good quality affordable housing, with their children able to safely walk to local schools and access green spaces.

"Congestion in our cities is getting worse and pollution is killing over 2000 people in Scotland each year - that's why Greens in Edinburgh and Glasgow councils are battling to ensure public transport is prioritised and that local services aren't scrapped."

Lothians MSP Robin Harper, the party's other co-leader, told the conference Greens were still making a difference at the Scottish Parliament despite being reduced from seven to two in the May elections.