A NEW SNP leadership hustings has been announced – with a specific focus on poverty and inequality.
The candidates to replace Nicola Sturgeon will be grilled at an event hosted by the Poverty Alliance and the Robertson Trust.
It will take place at 7pm on Wednesday, March 15 – after voting officially opens in the election.
The event will be livestreamed, organisers confirmed.
Poverty Alliance director Peter Kelly said: “We must make sure that the next First Minister maintains focus on the injustice of poverty and inequality in Scotland, building on positive actions like the Scottish Child Payment.
“We look forward to hearing the candidates’ ideas about raising the investment needed to rebuild and renew the public services that we all rely on, and which are a vital lifeline for people on the lowest incomes.
"We also hope to hear how they will strengthen our social security system to lift more people out of poverty, invest in warm homes for everyone, make sure every child is entitled to a nutritious free school meal and build a just and compassionate Scotland where everyone has the incomes they need for a secure and dignified life.”
Jim McCormick, chief executive of the Robertson Trust, said: “With the uneven effects of Covid-19 in Scotland having both exacerbated old inequalities and created new ones, it is imperative that Scotland’s next first minister deepens the Government’s commitment to solving poverty.
“We know that poverty locks people out of opportunities – but also that it can be solved by enabling them to withstand the tide of insecurity. This requires a new level of commitment.
"At this timely event, we look forward to hearing candidates’ ideas to design better solutions with others, including employers, housing providers and other funders, to help create a fair and compassionate Scotland where everyone has the opportunity to flourish.
“Poverty is not inevitable – but decisive action on many fronts is needed to reduce the stark risks already being crystalised across Scotland.”
