When the Edinburgh Corporate Order was repealed in 1982, begging on the city’s streets became legal. And it wasn’t too long before the streets were lined with those wanting to make extra cash.

Since then, the debate about begging in the Capital has bumped along and gone nowhere fast.

Begging is a sensitive issue for a number of reasons. For most, if not all, of the religious faiths, giving to those less fortunate is a principle, if not a duty.

Having worked with the homeless for nine years, I am painfully familiar with the realities of begging.

The fact is, good beggars can make good money.

A common sight on an Edinburgh street is a sign stating “hungry READ MORE

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