'10 days to poll and still no ideas from Labour'

SNP Leader and First Minister Alex Salmond MSP MP will today (Tuesday) join SNP by-election candidate, David Kerr, on the campaign trail in Robroyston. Mr Salmond will say that David Kerr is the only candidate offering a positive vision to the people of Glasgow North East and that, with 10 days to go, there was still a dearth of policy ideas from the Labour camp.

Commenting, Mr Salmond said: "Labour are out of ideas and - after 74 years in power in Glasgow North East - out of time.

"Instead of using this by-election to solve the problems facing local people, they are running a campaign devoid of serious debate and policy suggestions.

"Contrast this with the SNP. David Kerr is backed by a party who have taken action over the past two years to make a difference to Glasgow North East.

"By freezing the council tax, phasing out prescription charges and introducing free school meals for P1 - P3, we are helping ordinary folk through the tough times. With £4bn investment in projects across Glasgow we are keeping the economy moving. And with record investment in housing, we have seen more new housing association homes approved than during any other two year period since devolution.

"And these SNP policies are working. Recent deprivation statistics show that Glasgow as a whole has become more prosperous with significant advances being made across the North East.

"By restoring prosperity to this area, SNP have achieved in 2 years what Labour have failed to do in 74. A vote for David Kerr in 10 days times is a vote for a local champion with real ideas to take this area forward. A vote for Labour is just resignation to 74 more years of neglect."

SNP candidate David Kerr added: "The reception on the doorsteps has been great and there's a real awareness of the by-election. Labour have taken this constituency for granted but increasingly, local people are telling me enough is enough. They want an MP who shares their priorities. They want an SNP MP.

"While we're taking absolutely nothing for granted and working hard for every vote, the gap between the SNP and Labour in this constituency is closing by the day. The Labour camp must know this - what else would explain their increasingly silly campaign tactics?

"Together, the SNP and the people of Glasgow North East have what it takes to ensure this area continues to flourish."