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Watch: Kate Forbes attacks Humza Yousaf

(Photo: STV)

Ding ding ding! The gloves were off last night as Kate Forbes, Humza Yousaf and Ash Regan entered the ring, for the first televised debate in the SNP leadership contest. In the end the debate wasn’t pretty, with Kate Forbes going for Humza Yousaf.

In the cross-examination section of the debate Forbes launched into a scathing attack on Humza’s track record. ‘When you were a transport minister the trains were never on time. When you were justice minister the police were strained to breaking point. And now as health minister, we’ve got record high waiting times. What makes you think you can do a better job as first minister?’ 

Later, when STV presenter Colin McKay started quizzing candidates on whether they would ask their rivals to be in the Scottish cabinet, things got tense. First, Yousaf shrugged: ‘I’ve not been presumptuous.’ Regan faltered: ‘I’m going to be extremely non-committal.’ 

‘When you see a new team, does that mean there’s no room for Humza Yousaf?’ McKay prodded Forbes.

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Steerpike

Steerpike is The Spectator's gossip columnist, serving up the latest tittle tattle from Westminster and beyond. Email tips to steerpike@spectator.co.uk or message @MrSteerpike

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