Row brews over public services deal

A LEGAL argument advising that a private firm be ruled out of running public services in Edinburgh has been handed to the city council.

French multinational Veolia is in the running to take over a raft of public services in the city, including rubbish collection, street cleaning and ground maintenance, but has faced sustained protest over its controversial work with Israeli authorities in Occupied Palestine, where it provides waste and transport services to Israel's illegal settlements.

Daniel Machover, of Hickman & Rose solicitors, warned the council that employing the company could expose the local authority to "legal action for failing to take on board their obligation to recognise and comply with their duties and responsibilities under the Geneva Conventions and international law".

A council investigation into Veolia's activities is due by December's full council meeting.