Sturgeon To Address Supporters

The First Minister in-waiting will embark on a tour of Scotland this evening.

Nicola Sturgeon will deliver a keynote speech in Edinburgh.

The current Deputy First Minister will be officially declared SNP leader at the party conference in Perth next month.

She's also on course to become First Minister once approved by the Scottish Parliament.

Ms Sturgeon will embark on a series of major events to rally and engage thousands of people who've recently become SNP members.

She'll address the Corn Exchange in Edinburgh tonight, expected to say: “We must never allow our disagreement on independence to blind us to the many things we all agree on.

"As First Minister, I will work to build as much unity and common cause in our country as I can. For me, One Scotland is not just a slogan - it is a principle that should guide us as a nation. There are many who voted No in September who are open to persuasion in future. 

"I know a few who have changed their minds already.But I also know there are those who will never be persuaded of the case for independence. 

"I respect that. And as First Minister, I will serve them too. Our differing views on independence doesn't mean we don't share many other aspirations for our country. We do. Aspirations of a healthy economy, strong public services, and a flourishing democracy.

"And that is why, for each and every day that I hold office as First Minister, I will govern this country to the very best of my ability - and I will do so for all of Scotland."

Interim Leader of the Scottish Labour Party, Anas Sarwar, said she must outline how she'll use Holyrood's existing and future powers to tackle issues like poverty and inequality.

He said "We need clarity from Nicola Sturgeon on how the SNP intends to use the powers the Scottish Parliament has, and the new powers it is guaranteed, to tackle the rising levels of poverty and inequality being visited on the Scottish people by the Tory and SNP Governments.