The candidates vying to replace Nicola Sturgeon as SNP leader have set out their plans for independence during the contest's first live TV debate.

Humza Yousaf said he wanted to build a "consistent majority" by continuing the party's radical agenda.

Kate Forbes said a new approach was needed to win over undecided voters, adding "continuity won't cut it".

And Ash Regan said the SNP had "lost its way" and pledged to unite the broader “yes” movement.

The BBC says the debate was marked at points by the candidates' personal attacks on each other's political records.

Following Nicola Sturgeon's decision to step down, there is a three-way race to become both the next SNP leader and Scotland's first minister.

Grow support

Mr Yousaf, currently Health Secretary, pledged to grow support for independence "to new heights".

Finance Secretary Ms Forbes said it was time for a new generation to lead and that she was ready for the job, stating "more of the same is not a manifesto - it's an acceptance of mediocrity".

Ms Regan said the SNP had to use the ballot box via elections as the "gold standard" to gaining independence and said she would "build the foundations for independence" through a dedicated commission and convention, describing the approach of the other candidates as "wishy washy".

During an often-feisty cross-examination section, Ms Forbes attacked Mr Yousaf's record as a Scottish Government minister.

"You were a transport minister and the trains were never on time, when you were justice secretary the police were stretched to breaking point, and now as health minister we've got record high waiting times," she said.

Asked if he was the "continuity candidate" and if that means he is the "no change candidate", Mr Yousaf hit back at Ms Forbes, saying: "If change means lurching to the right, Kate, if it means rolling back on progressive values, that's not the right change."

Rivals roles

Each candidate was asked if they would invite their rivals into the newly-formed cabinet. Ms Forbes said there was "room for Humza Yousaf" if she won the leadership race - but quipped: "Maybe not in health."

There was division among the candidates on the Scottish Greens remaining part of the Scottish Government.

Ms Regan said she would "review" the power-sharing agreement to ensure it was "working for the people of Scotland".

Mr Yousaf described the government deal with the Greens party as "vital", while Ms Forbes refused to say categorically the arrangement would remain, adding it would be for the Greens to decide if they were happy with her approach if she won the leadership contest.

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