Scottish Greens outraged after STV debate snub

The Scottish Greens have hit out at the CEO of STV after the political party was snubbed from a leaders debate.

Ross Greer, MSP for the West of Scotland, said that those who tuned in on Monday night were only told “half the story” on many of the issues raised.

The party had previously written to STV CEO Simon Pitts to challenge the decision, but were rebuked again.

Mr Greer said: “On so many issues, STV viewers only got half the story.

“When it comes to how we protect our climate, create jobs in the green economy or eradicate child poverty, the Scottish Greens have a positive and unique vision which many people share but which they did not get the chance to hear.

“The Scottish Greens have been a permanent presence in Scottish politics for 25 years, including recently as a party delivering big changes in government, like abolishing peak-time rail fares and lifting a hundred thousand children out of poverty.

“We should be allowed to defend that record and share our bold, progressive vision with the people of Scotland.”

The STV debate which aired on Monday was the first televised debate to be held ahead of the July 4 General Election.

It featured first minister John Swinney on behalf of the SNP, Anas Sarwar for Scottish Labour, Douglas Ross on behalf of the Scottish Conservatives and Alex Cole-Hamilton for the Scottish Liberal Democrats.

The leaders of each political party were given the opportunity to address viewers with their opening statements before they were grilled by presenter Colin Mackay.

Each party representative also had the chance to challenge their opponents on particular issues.

An STV spokesperson said: “Under the terms of our licences, STV’s programmes must comply with the Ofcom Broadcast Code and its rules around due impartiality.

“We are comfortable that our election coverage, including the leaders’ debate, meets these guidelines.”

A second debate between Labour leader Keir Starmer and prime minister Rishi Sunak was due to get underway on ITV last night as the Express went to press.

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