SNP Leadership contest 2004

'A leadership contest should strengthen the party. So let there be a wider choice. Let there be a full debate about the SNP’s commitment or otherwise to the new Holyrood parliament.' Sunday Herald Editorial, 27 th June 2004.

Ewing and Sturgeon to go for SNP hot seat

By Robbie Dinwoodie, Chief Scottish Political Correspondent in the Herald 24 th June 2004

NICOLA Sturgeon and Fergus Ewing are likely to enter the SNP leadership contest, ensuring that there is no "coronation" for Roseanna Cunningham, the deputy leader and favourite to take over the party.

Most potential rivals are waiting to test the water in Stirling this weekend, when about 300 delegates will turn up for the party's national council, but some have already expressed their interest.

Ms Sturgeon is a high-profile shadow minister who has hounded the justice minister relentlessly over the privatised prison escort service. However, she was also formerly a close supporter of Ms Cunningham.

The Herald understands that a declaration can be expected today from Ms Sturgeon.

Mr Ewing is also expected to throw his hat into the ring.
He will see himself as the natural candidate of the pro-business right of the party, and will present Ms Cunningham as too far to the left.