EXCLUSIVE: There is disagreement among the parties over the format of a live BBC debate ahead of the by-election next month.
BBC Scotland bosses have yet to make a decision on the format of the programme (Image: DAILY RECORD)
The SNP is demanding BBC Scotland invite candidates in a crunch by-election to take part in a special edition of Debate Night.
The national broadcaster is set to screen the live episode in the week before voters go to the polls in the Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse constituency on June 5.
But the Record understands there has been disagreement among the parties over who should take part, with BBC bosses yet to make a final decision on the format of the event.
STV is already planning a head-to-head debate among the major party candidates to be broadcast the night before the BBC programme.
Katy Loudon, the SNP candidate, wants the chance to debate her Labour opponent Davy Russell on both channels.
She told the Record: “The people of Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse should be able to ask questions of and hear directly from those seeking to be their next MSP.
“That is a basic tenet of democracy and a right that the people of this community are entitled to.
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“I am eager to listen and speak to local voters, but I’m not sure Labour’s David Russell agrees. Anyone seeking to be an MSP should be open to scrutiny from those they hope to represent, not run scared from them.
“I will be proud to discuss the SNP’s record of delivering for our communities – but it seems that David Russell is not keen to defend Labour’s cuts to the winter fuel payment and support for disabled people.”He should now accept my call for an honest and open debate in front of a local audience before polling day. Keir Starmer has already gone into hiding for this by-election – and the Labour candidate can’t be allowed to do the same.”
The Record asked both Labour and BBC Scotland for comment.
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