THE Alba Party’s inaugural conference takes place in Greenock today and tomorrow.

The in-person event, which more than 600 delegates are expected to attend, will begin with the announcement of results from the party’s depute leader and national office bearer elections.

Later in the day, Alex Salmond will introduce his depute, who will then make a speech to conference.

Salmond himself will make a closing speech tomorrow, after discussions on motions on subjects including nuclear weapons, Scotland’s ferries, Scotland’s recovery From Covid-19, and protecting Scotland’s Battlefields.

Conference chair Tasmina Ahmed-Sheikh said: “Alba’s first-ever conference will see real debate on 20 substantive policy resolutions ranging from action on independence and recovery from Covid to women’s rights, child and family poverty and the climate emergency.

“Our conference will show clearly that we have the vision and fresh ideas Scotland needs. We will also show that unlike other parties we are not afraid to debate controversial issues such as an elected head of state. With elections for a depute leader and national office bearers, we will demonstrate beyond any doubt that we have the right people with the talent and energy to take Alba forward in the months and years ahead”.

The National: Chris McEleny ..Christopher McEleny.

Alba general secretary Councillor Chris McEleny (above) added: “Alba is a young party but it is one with a bright future. This inaugural Alba Party conference is an important milestone in Alba’s journey to becoming a force to be reckoned with in Scottish politics.

“Launched just six months ago, it has already established itself with two MPs and a score of local councillors the length and breadth of the country. In addition Alba has already overtaken the Scottish Liberal Democrats in terms of party membership with 6000 members Scotland wide.

“I have no doubt that the success of this first Alba conference, in my home town of Greenock, will propel Alba on to further growth in the months to come.”