Scotland has taken a landmark step for local democracy after the Scottish Parliament voted to pass into law the European Charter for the Right to Local Self Government.
The Convention of Scottish Local Authorities (COSLA) welcomed the decision, describing it as a significant milestone for Scottish democracy and the relationship between central and local government.
The bill was first introduced by Andy Wightman and championed by Mark Ruskell MSP and Shona Robison, Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Local Government.
COSLA President Cllr Shona Morrison said the legislation brings Scotland into line with many European counterparts while embedding the vital role local government plays in people's daily lives.
‘COSLA is committed to ensuring that we strengthen local democracy and that decisions are taken with and closest to those they affect most,’ she added.
