Self-catering hustings to be held in Inverness ahead of Scottish Parliament election

A major election hustings focused on Scotland’s self-catering sector and the wider Highland tourism economy will take place in Inverness next week, bringing together candidates from across the political spectrum ahead of the 2026 Scottish Parliament election.

The event organised by the leading trade body, the Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers (ASSC), will be held on Tuesday 7 April, from 6–8pm, at the Glen Mhor Hotel, Inverness.

Open to both ASSC members and the public, the hustings will give attendees the opportunity to hear directly from candidates and question them on the issues most affecting their businesses and communities.

Discussion will likely focus on important policy areas likely to shape the sector and region’s future, including short-term let regulation, visitor levies, non-domestic rates, and wider rural infrastructure challenges such as motorhomes and A9 dualling.

Confirmed speakers include:

·         Fergus Ewing (Independent)

·         Tim Eagle (Scottish Conservatives)

·         Emma Roddick (Scottish National Party)

·         Isla McCay (Scottish Labour)

·         Fred Campbell (Reform Scotland)

·         Neil Alexander (Scottish Liberal Democrats)

·         The Scottish Greens have also been invited, with their representative TBC.

The event will feature short opening statements from each candidate, followed by a moderated Q&A chaired by ASSC Chief Executive Fiona Campbell MBE. Attendees will also be able to submit questions in advance via an online platform, with submissions closing on Sunday 5 April.

The hustings form part of the ASSC’s wider campaign to promote the interests of Scotland’s £1bn self-catering sector ahead of May’s election, following the publication of its manifesto setting out key policy recommendations.

Attendance is free and anyone with an interest in Highland tourism is strongly encouraged to attend.

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Fiona Campbell MBE, Chief Executive of the Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers, said:

“Self-catering is a cornerstone of the Highland economy, supporting thousands of jobs in rural and remote communities. The decisions taken by the next Scottish Parliament will have a direct impact on the future of these vitally important local businesses. We’ve lined up an exciting panel of speakers and we encourage you to come along, ask questions and make your voice heard.”