Spotlight on the impact of public spending cuts

EDINBURGH'S business and political leaders are meeting today to debate the city's future ahead of expected news about deep cuts in public spending.

The Scotsman is hosting the event, where key decision-makers from the public, voluntary and private sectors will exchange views on the impact of the anticipated cutbacks on the Scottish capital's economy.

Today's summit is being held against the backdrop of the publication of the UK government's spending review on Wednesday (Oct 20), which is expected to lead to public spending on services slashed.

Speakers at the summit include Edinburgh Council leader Jenny Dawe, Graham Birse of the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce and David Strang the Chief Constable of the Lothian and Borders Police force.

Councillor Dawe said: "The summit will help delegates to better understand the challenges faced by the public sector.

"It will also help those attending appreciate the implications of budget decisions made by the public sector on the economy. The way the council and our partner organisations deliver services will have to change significantly in the next five years."