As the writ for the Glasgow North East by-election was finally moved in the House of Commons today (Friday), SNP campaign manager Stewart Hosie MP said that the contest was a two horse race between the SNP and Labour.

Speaking from Inverness, where the party is holding its 75th annual conference, Mr Hosie said: "Labour have neglected Glasgow North East for 74 years - leaving this constituency without an MP for six months is just the latest in a long line of failures.

"As Alex Salmond predicted at the SNP's campaign launch on Wednesday, this is going to be a brammer of a by-election. The people of Glasgow North East have got what it takes to send a message that will shake the Labour establishment in the Council and Westminster to its core."

Mr Kerr added: "After 74 years of Labour neglect and complacency, it's time for a stronger voice for this constituency, and effective local representation.

"It's time for voters to have an MP who will speak up for them in Westminster and in Glasgow.  Who will stand by them when the council ignores them, and who will put this area at the centre of Scottish and UK politics - not stuck on the sidelines.

"Together, local people and the SNP have what it takes to see Glasgow North East flourish."