New Provost takes his seat in Edinburgh

The council meeting did not take very long this morning to ratify the appointments of the new Lord Provost, deputy Provost and the council leader and deputy leader. The parties had already agreed in advance who the nominees were, so today was all about a bit of pomp and ceremony.

Labour Leader, Andrew Burns said that he took great delight in proposing the appointment of Councillor Donald Wilson to the post, and reminded the chamber that they had first been elected together in 1998. Burns also pointed out that he and Wilson had both moved to the city out of choice, and had both developed a love for the Scottish capital.

After a speech by Burns and a short speech from Steve Cardownie, during which he explained that he had put Donald Wilson’s name in an envelope before Andrew Burns had told him who the Labour Group were nominating for the position, the official chain was put on and the new Lord Provost took his seat.

Wilson said it was a great honour and thanked everyone by name, from his election agent Anne McNee and her husband Peter, (who had apparently always thought Donald would become Lord Provost one day too) to the many others who had helped along the way, including his late mother, and his partner, Elaine. This was a very assured performance from someone who clearly loves political and civic life. He had told The Reporter before the meeting that he is very much looking forward to the new job. Wilson aims to run the city chambers without the need for the chamber traffic lights which have regulated the length of speeches by both councillors and visitors alike, but reminded the members that he has 25 years of teaching experience, and that he is well used to keeping order.

Wilson said that Lord Provost George Grubb and Lady Provost Liz were a hard act to follow, but of course the two former incumbents, Lesley Hinds and Eric Milligan, are still in the chamber proving that there is political life after being Provost.

He admits to being obsessed with technology and the environment, history and traditions all in equal measure.

“It is my intention to modernise and democratise wherever possible.”

“I am by nature approachable and inclusive. I always seek consensus, and will continue to do so as Lord Provost. I know that I will receive excellent support from the Deputy Lord Provost and the Bailies, but I would urge all councillors to attend as many civic functions as possible.”

And in his first proclamation he said:-” I believe there is something important happening this weekend, and I wish both sides the best of luck on Saturday.”