West Lothian Council is facing a financial gap of nearly £7 million in 2020/21 as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.A report to the Council Executive set out the financial challenges facing the local authority, including an update on how the council has acted to support communities, families, individuals and businesses in West Lothian.The council anticipates that costs – including additional staffing costs – will amount to over £7.6 million this year.The council is also expecting a drastic reduction in income which, combined with the increase in costs, will result in a total shortfall of £13.4 million.Additional funding of £6.6 million is anticipated from the Scottish Government but a gap of nearly £7 million remains.The council has a legal.