Scottish Parliament to close for G8

The Scottish Parliament is set to close to visitors between June 29 and July 9 as part of the security arrangements for the G8 summit.

The G8 summit is to be staged in Gleneagles but Edinburgh is expected to see at least two major demonstrations. Aside from the official Make Poverty History march Sir Bob Geldof has called for one million people to descend on Edinburgh.

There are increasing concerns about whether the small city will be able to cope with such an influx.

Scottish Conservative Leader David McLetchie said that the people of Edinburgh needed more guidance from politicians, saying: “I am surprised at the First Minister’s complacency over the serious issue of public order and safety. Given the protection afforded to the G8 leaders and the fact that the Scottish Parliament is closing down, it is little wonder that many city centre businesses and shops in Edinburgh are considering whether they should stay open or close.”