Edinburgh has LibDem led administration

11.01.43am BST (GMT +0100) Sun 17th Jun 2007

New Liberal Democrat Group at First Full Council Meeting

Following a week of intensive and exhausting negotiations with other political parties on the Council, Edinburgh now has an administration formed between the 17 Liberal Democrat councillors and the 12 SNP councillors.

A partnerhip document has been signed by Cllr. Jenny Dawe, on behalf of the Liberal Democrat Group, and by Cllr. Steve Cardownie on behalf of the SNP Group.

Cllr. Jenny Dawe said: "When we analysed our respective party manifestos, we found much in common between them. The only issue upon which we did not have immediate agreement was the future of Edinburgh's Tram Project. On this matter, we have agreed to differ. The Liberal Democrat Group remains free to pursue vigorously its pro-Trams stance."

The Partnership is founded on democratic principles of trust, equity, openness and fairness, and is committed to delivering the highest quality of services to all the people and communities of the city.

'The Partnership is committed to assuring and supporting a prosperous and sustainable future for Edinburgh and its citizens, so that its economy is managed sustainably and successfully;

its image is promoted globally as a welcoming business-friendly Capital city, open and democratic; the importance of its heritage and environment is recognised; it has safe, green and clean living spaces; its communities are fully involved in decisions which affect them and local democracy is enlarged; its disadvantaged groups and vulnerable individuals are supported; individual citizens have the maximum opportunity to realise their full potential; accessible, flexible and cost effective services are provided for all; and it is characterised by a listening and empowering Council, which is getting the basics right.