FRANCE is using Glasgow as a case study to examine in an effort to tackle homelessness.

A delegation of government officials and housing officers came over to see what is being done at the grassroots level.

The French group was invited by Employers in Voluntary Housing, an umbrella organisation which covers community housing associations, and met with homeless charity Shelter Scotland.

George Cavaillier, chairman of a think tank which advises French President Jacques Chirac on homelessness, was among the delegation, along with France's International and European Officer Naziha Nhari.

Foster Evans, director of EVH, said the officials wanted to see how Glasgow was putting into practice Scottish Executive legislation which has determined that every person should have a home by 2012.

Mr Evans added: "We took them to visit North Glasgow Housing Association in Springburn to show how homelessness is being tackled at the sharp end."

Archie Stoddart, director of Shelter Scotland, is optimistic about achieving the 2012 target.

He said: "The new legislation is the most forward-thinking in the western world and the French are keen to take a lead.

"It was a treat to speak to someone from Europe about a positive story coming out of Scotland."