JOHN Swinney has called for a “respectful” contest ahead of the Scottish leaders’ first TV debate of the General Election campaign.
Tonight will see the leaders of a number of Scottish political parties go head-to-head in Glasgow.
Here’s everything you need to know.
When is the debate?
STV will host the first televised debate of this year’s UK General Election campaign.
It will air from 9pm to 10.30pm and will see the broadcaster’s political editor Colin Mackay grilling a number of Scottish leaders.
Following the debate, Scotland Tonight presenter Rona Dougall will be joined by a panel of guests to provide reaction and analysis.
Who is on the debate?
The debate will feature John Swinney, Anas Sarwar, Douglas Ross and Alex Cole-Hamilton although the Scottish Greens will not feature.
The Alba Party will also not be appearing although STV has said it’s comfortable it is complying with Ofcom rules around due impartiality.
How can I watch the debate?
The debate will be broadcast live on STV from 9pm to 10.30pm and will also be available on STV Player – which can be found HERE.
What has Swinney said in the build-up?
The First Minister has already said he is “looking forward” to the debate and that he hopes it is a “respectful contest”.
“I have been leader of the SNP for just a few weeks, and I have already united my party ahead of what is a very important election.
“Scotland’s people and public services have suffered as a result of austerity, Brexit and the cost of living crisis, all of which were made in Westminster.
“In tonight’s debate, and in the election campaign ahead, I and the SNP will set out a genuine alternative to the broken Westminster status quo.
“I will be asking people to unite behind the SNP on July 4 to put Scotland’s interests first.”
