Former Scottish First Minister Sturgeon Addresses Salmond, Gender Reform in ITV Interview

Nicola Sturgeon, Scotland's longest-serving First Minister, will give her first in-depth television interview ahead of the release of her memoir 'Frankly,' discussing her political career, personal life, and future beyond frontline politics. In the interview, Sturgeon reflects on her complicated relationship with her late mentor Alex Salmond, admitting she still feels a wave of grief despite their political fallout and never reconciling before his death. She also expressed regret over not pausing gender reform legislation amid rising polarization, stating she should have taken a step back to better address concerns and find common ground between women's rights and trans rights. The interview, conducted by ITV News presenter Julie Etchingham, will air on ITV1 and STV and covers a wide range of topics, including Sturgeon's political achievements and controversies. Sturgeon resigned in 2023, citing the toll the job took on her, and the memoir offers insight into her journey from a working-class background to becoming Scotland’s first female First Minister. The interview is part of a UK exclusive series coinciding with the memoir's publication on August 14.