Sturgeon helps to launch election campaign

Nicola Sturgeon has launched the SNP’S election campaign.

The party leader will host virtual town halls to address the people of Scotland and share her vision for the country’s future.

The party will also take to social media to introduce their “most diverse list of regional candidates ever”, according to Ms Sturgeon, including members from ethnic minority communities and those with disabilities who have traditionally been under-represented in Scottish politics.

Ms Sturgeon said: “These are not normal times – but they are the most serious of times.

“And that calls for experienced leadership and serious government.

“That is what people across Scotland expect and deserve – and that is what I will deliver as first minister if you re-elect me.

“Over the last year I have dedicated the SNP government to one over-riding task – tackling the pandemic to keep Scotland safe.

“And I have done my best every day to steer us through.

“That will continue to be my number one priority.”

The first minister reiterated that a second independence referendum should be “Scotland’s choice”.

She laid out plans for the next five years if re-elected, including policies to transform the NHS with a new National Care Service and a cancer recovery plan.

Jobs, the economy and the housing crisis would also be a big focus if re-elected.

She said: “These measures will offer practical help but they also tell a story of the kind of Scotland we can be.

“A country of compassion and solidarity.”