THE first debate of 2023 in the Scottish Parliament is set to take place on Tuesday and will focus on independence.
Titled “People’s Right to Choose – Respecting Scotland’s Democratic Mandate”, the debate is due to be held this afternoon.
It’s a move which has been branded “criminal” by the Tories and sparked fury from Douglas Ross when first announced.
Below are the key details on the debate including what time it is due to start and where it is available to watch.
What time does the debate start?
According to the Scottish Parliament’s website, a meeting of the parliament is due to begin at 2pm.
A couple of topical questions from Labour MSP Carol Mochan and Tory MSP Stephen Kerr are scheduled first.
This will be followed by a ministerial statement on Scotland’s energy strategy and just transition plan.
Following this, Angus Robertson will lead the debate on Scottish independence.
How can I watch today’s debate?
The debate will be available to view via the Scottish Parliament’s streaming service which can be found HERE.
What has been said going into the debate?
Constitution Secretary Angus Robertson said that the Scottish Government remains “willing to engage” with Westminster to establish a route to indyref2.
However, he added that two years on from leaving the EU, the impact of Brexit is still being felt in communities across Scotland.
Elsewhere, the Scottish Greens have said powers brought through independence would allow Scotland to deliver a “green, fairer society”.
Scottish Conservative leader Douglas Ross meanwhile was left fuming when the debate was announced.
He then accused the Scottish Government of “criminal” neglect of other issues during his first speech of the new year.
