STV has announced their plans to air a live debate between the three candidates in the running to become the new SNP leader and next First Minister of Scotland.
It comes after the shock departure of Nicola Sturgeon who said she would be standing down as FM. Sturgeon has been in the position for more than eight years after taking over from Alex Salmond in November 2014 following the independence referendum.
As well as Scotland's First Minister, she has been MSP for Glasgow Southside since 2011. But now, the potential leaders will go head to head next week.
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So if you want to tune in and watch the debate live, here is what you need to know.
Where and when can I watch Scotland’s Next First Minister: The STV Debate
You can watch the debate on STV on March 7.
The programme will begin at 9pm and last 70 minutes.
Who will feature on Scotland’s Next First Minister: The STV Debate
Kate Forbes, Ash Regan and Humza Yousaf will go head-to-head with the show hosted by STV’s Political Editor Colin Mackay from the broadcaster’s Pacific Quay headquarters in Glasgow.
The host will ask the hopeful candidates question before they cross-examine each other, with members of the public from across Scotland also having the chance to ask their burning questions.
Following the debate, Scotland Tonight presenter Rona Dougall will be joined in the studio by a panel of guests, including STV’s Special Correspondent Bernard Ponsonby, to provide instant reaction and analysis.
Linda Grimes Douglas, Head of News and Current Affairs at STV said: "Scotland’s next leader will be declared in just over a month, but before the voting begins, it’s crucial that the people of Scotland are given the opportunity to cut through the noise and hear directly from the three prospective candidates about the direction in which they intend to steer the country.
“With Colin Mackay at the helm, this in-depth and robust debate will explore the most important issues facing the country today, to help inform SNP members and the wider public ahead of what’s set to be a significant moment in Scotland’s history.
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The announcement was broadcast live from Bute House with the outgoing FM telling viewers: "The First Minister of Scotland is, in my admittedly biased opinion, the very best job in the world.
"It is a privilege beyond measure, one that has sustained and inspired me in good times and through the toughest hours of my toughest days.
"I am proud to stand here as the first female and longest-serving incumbent of this office, and I’m very proud of what has been achieved in the years I’ve been in Bute House.
Adding that leaders must know when to step down before telling the country: "Today, I am announcing my intention to step down as First Minister and leader of my party."
Who are the candidates vying to lead the SNP?
Health Secretary Humza Yousaf, Finance Secretary Kate Forbes and former community safety minister Ash Regan are in the running to take over as SNP leader.
Humza Yousaf is largely seen as a continuity candidate with some criticising his handling of the NHS.
Kate Forbes was seen as the favourite to win the race but has recently received scrutiny for her socially conservative beliefs on gay marriage and abortion.
Ash Regan has also expressed opposition to the GRR bill recently passed by the Scottish Parliament as well as a divergence from some green commitments.
When is the SNP husting on STV taking place?
The STV husting will air live from 9 pm on Tuesday, March 7.
How will the SNP debate on STV work?
The show will see all three candidates take part in a debate hosted by STV political editor Colin Mackay.
Mackay will put forward questions to those in the running while allowing each of them to cross-examine each other.
Members of the public will also be invited and be able to put their questions to the three party figures.
The programme will last for 70 minutes and be broadcast live.
BBC to host SNP leadership husting in Debate Night special
The BBC has announced that it will also host a leadership debate featuring the three candidates running for FM.
The debate will have a live studio audience and form part of a special edition of Debate Night on BBC One.
It will take place from 9 pm on Tuesday, March 14 and be hosted by Stephen Jardine.
The SNP debate on STV will be available to watch on STV and STV Player from 9 pm on March 7.
