Both contenders in the race to become the new Scottish Labour leader have been setting out their “positive” vision for the future of the country and the party on the final full day of voting in the contest.
The ballot to elect either Kezia Dugdale or Ken Macintosh to the top job opened on July 20, with the vote closing at noon on Friday. The result will be announced around the same time on Saturday.
Lothians MSP Ms Dugdale has been tipped to defeat Mr Macintosh in the contest to succeed Jim Murphy, who resigned after Labour was all but wiped out in Scotland in the general election.
Speaking as the campaign entered its final stages, Ms Dugdale said the job of “rebuilding trust” in Scottish Labour would start straight away under her leadership.
“We have the chance to choose a fresh start for Scottish Labour,” she said.
“If I win this election it will be a clear signal of a new generation ready to take Scottish Labour forward.
“The role of the next leader is to set out a positive Labour vision for transforming Scotland and to hold the SNP Government to account for their major failings on schools, the NHS and policing.
“Too many people in Scotland tell us that they just don’t know what Labour stands for anymore. Under my leadership there will be no doubt what we stand for and who we stand with.
“I want a Scotland where your ability to get on in life is determined not by how much money your parents have but by your talent, hard work and ambition.
“And I want a Scotland that backs parents who just want the best for their kids, young couples trying to buy their first home and someone who wants to take a risk by starting a new business.”
Mr Macintosh, the MSP for Eastwood, has been campaigning in Linlithgow and Wishaw on the last full day of voting.
But he began the day by taking his youngest daughter to her first day at school.
He said: “Today is one of the most important days of the entire leadership contest – not just because it’s the final day of voting, but because it’s my youngest daughter’s first day of primary school.
“My ambition for my daughter’s future is what drives my ambition to lead the Scottish Labour Party. I want to offer the Scottish people hope again – I want to transform the Scottish Labour Party into a positive force for real change in Scotland.
“Throughout this leadership contest, I have spoken in detail about the changes I will make, about the new leadership style and approach to politics I will bring as party leader.
“Above all, my message to undecided members is simple: I’m asking for your support as I believe I have the ideas, the vision and the determination to help Labour win again.”
The party is also in the process of electing a deputy leader.
MSPs Richard Baker and Alex Rowley, and Glasgow council leader Gordon Matheson are all seeking election to the post, the result of which will also be announced on Saturday.