SNP accused of conducting leadership hustings in ‘secrecy’

Labour and Tories criticised the SNP decision to exclude journalists from events taking place in the race to succeed Nicola Sturgeon.

(Andy Buchanan/PA)

The SNP has come under fire over the decision to exclude journalists from leadership hustings in the race to succeed Nicola Sturgeon as party leader and Scottish first minister.

Labour and the Conservatives condemned the decision to bar media from a series of hustings where the three candidates will debate their views in front of party members.

A spokesperson for the SNP’s ruling National Executive Committee (NEC) said the events have been designed as a “safe space” where party members can question the candidates.