SCOTLAND’S political leaders are set to face off in the second televised debate of the campaign.
This time STV is hosting the show, with the line-up for the event now confirmed.
Here’s everything you need to know.
WHEN IS IT?
The STV leaders’ debate will take place on Tuesday April 13, with Holyrood’s political heavyweights set to battle it out over important issues such as the pandemic and Scottish independence.
WHERE CAN I WATCH IT?
Viewers can watch the debate on the STV channel, starting at 7.30pm and ending at 9pm. The show will also be aired on STV Player.
There were concerns that viewers in the south of Scotland could miss out, as the debate was not listed on ITV Border's schedule. However, the broadcaster insists it will be broadcast on that channel.
You can follow the debate and all the latest reaction with The National's live blog.
WHO'S TAKING PART?
The debate will be hosted by the STV political editor, Colin Mackay.
SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon will once again be up against Douglas Ross from the Scottish Conservatives, Anas Sarwar from Scottish Labour and Willie Rennie from the LibDems. Patrick Harvie will represent the Scottish Greens this time, switching in for co-leader Lorna Slater.
READ MORE: STV announce line up for leaders' debate and election coverage
WHAT IS THE FORMAT?
The debate will begin with opening statements from each party leader, followed by discussion, cross-examination between the leaders and closing statements.
WHO'S MISSING OUT?
Alex Salmond has not been invited to take part despite writing to the broadcaster urging it to include his Alba Party.
George Galloway and the All For Unity group have threatened to launch legal action against the BBC and STV over leader’s debates in the run-up to the Scottish Parliament election.
ANYTHING ELSE I SHOULD KNOW?
Following the debate, there will be analysis and discussion on Scotland Tonight at 10.40pm.
Why are you making commenting on The National only available to subscribers?
We know there are thousands of National readers who want to debate, argue and go back and forth in the comments section of our stories. We’ve got the most informed readers in Scotland, asking each other the big questions about the future of our country.
Unfortunately, though, these important debates are being spoiled by a vocal minority of trolls who aren’t really interested in the issues, try to derail the conversations, register under fake names, and post vile abuse.
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The conversation will go back to what it should be about – people who care passionately about the issues, but disagree constructively on what we should do about them. Let’s get that debate started!
Callum Baird, Editor of The National
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