Scotsman Hosting Leaders' Debate

The Scotsman newspaper is hosting a debate involving the leaders of Scotland's four main political parties ahead of May's Holyrood elections.

First Minister Alex Salmond, for the SNP, will debate with Iain Gray for Scottish Labour, Tavish Scott for the Scottish Liberal Democrats and Annabel Goldie for the Scottish Conservatives.

The debate, chaired by Scotsman columnist and broadcaster, Lesley Riddoch, will take place at the Scotsman building in Edinburgh on Thursday, in front of what is being described as “an audience of influential Scots from business, the public sector and academia”.

In a statement issued by the paper, editor-in-chief at Scotsman Publications, John McLellan, is quoted, saying: “I am delighted that the four party leaders have agreed to take part in our debate at this crucial time for Scotland.

“The Scotsman prides itself on its in-depth political coverage and analysis. We hope the debate will help in the process of finding out more about what the parties offer Scotland for the next Holyrood parliament.”