Althing indy debate

NEXT weekend’s Althing will take the form of a debate between the two opposing sides on the highly topical matter of Scottish independence.

The debating committee says its final debate of the winter season, with the motion “The time is right for Scottish independence”, is likely to be “the most controversial and hotly argued”.

Speaking in favour will be SNP list MSP for the Highlands and Islands Mike Mackenzie. He will be supported by Danus Skene, a local SNP activist and former Labour and Liberal Democrat candidate.

Opposing them will be Northern Isles MP and Scottish secretary Alistair Carmichael, a leading member of the national ‘no’ campaign, and Perthshire Conservative Dr Ian Duncan.

Because a large audience is expected for the debate the Althing will move from the school to the neighbouring Tingwall Hall for the evening.

* The debate is on Saturday 22 March starting at 7.30pm.