Scottish Labour TV Debate

Ken Macintosh and Kezia Dugdale are preparing to put forward their positions in a bid to secure the top job.

Earlier this month Ken Macintosh challenged his rival, Kezia Dugdale, to a live televised debate. The MSP's hope the event will give party members and the general public an insight into their policy differences and the opportunities for a new type of leadership.

Ken Macintosh MSP said: "This debate will allow members to see the clear choice facing Labour.

If the party wants to continue as we are, with our current leadership, heading in the same direction then I'm not the candidate for them.  I'm not offering Labour more of the same - I'm offering a new approach, a different and far more positive message.  

I want to tell Scotland how Labour will change their lives for the better, not simply what we're against.

Even in this leadership contest, I am the one coming up with new policies, a different strategy and a changed Labour Party. That drive and my message is clearly going down well with the members themselves. I'm not just offering hope, I'm showing members how we can win again.

At a time when our party is sending out mixed messages, I offer clarity on anti-austerity and a distinct vision of the Scotland we can build together.

For the first time ever, the choice of leader rests entirely with the members and supporters and this debate will allow them to see it is a real choice and a genuine contest."

Meanwhile, speaking last week, Kezia Dugdale MSP said: "Labour's route to power starts by making the most of the talent of our supporters, and by reaching out to all Scots who share our desire to empower communities and transform lives.

"We need to take the opportunity that this race is affording us to look beyond our benches at Holyrood and our party's membership, to the communities and organisations that share our values of a fairer and more equal Scotland. 

"It's clear we need start promoting and supporting a new generation of Scots who want to see an end to injustice, and to give them the space and support needed to call the Scottish Labour Party home.

"Labour has always succeeded when it's been the party of the future, offering a space for talented and passionate people to come together and deliver meaningful change. Under my leadership it will be again."