Two of the highest profile figures in the independence debate will clash in Inverness, just weeks before the country goes to the vote.
Liberal Democrat Secretary of State for Scotland Alistair Carmichael MP and SNP finance secretary John Swinney MSP, are two of the highest profile speakers in a special debate organised by the Scottish Council Development and Industry. (SCDI)
The debate, which will be held on August 20 at Eden Court theatre in Inverness, is aimed at helping businesses in the Highlands make an informed decision at the ballot box on September 18.
The Press and Journal is media partner for the event, and editor-in-chief Damian Bates will be in the chair.
Gareth Williams, director of policy for the SCDI, said: “We are completely neutral in the referendum debate but we are working with partner agencies to help businesses make sense of the debate and come to a decision.
“It is important for businesses, large and small, to be able to plan accordingly whatever the outcome.
“This will allow our partner agencies to hear from leaders on both sides as well as independent experts.”
Mr Carmichael said: “I am very much looking forward to being in Inverness.
“This event will be a chance for the business community in Inverness and across the Highlands to come along, take part and get answers to their independence referendum questions.”
Mr Swinney said: “Events like this one form an important part of the referendum debate, allowing people across the country to engage with the debate and discuss their views on independence.
“This is the opportunity of a generation and we want to give as many people as possible across Scotland a platform to ask questions and air their views.”
A non-political view will be provided by Lorna Jack, chief executive of the Law Society of Scotland.
She said: “We are delighted to be supporting such a prestigious event. We have been engaged in the debate on Scotland’s constitutional future for the last couple of years.
“I’m very much looking forward to being part of this exciting debate in Inverness next month.”
The debate is open to members of the Federation of Small Businesses, the Institute of Directors, Inverness Chamber of Commerce and the Scottish Council for Development and Industry.
Businesses can register for place through a SCDI website.