Break-Up: How Alex Salmond and Nicola Sturgeon Went to War

Alex Salmond and Nicola Sturgeon's political partnership changed the face of Scotland, bringing the country to within 200,000 votes of independence in 2014. However, their relationship has broken down, with shocking claims of sexual assault driving a wedge through the Scottish National Party. Break-Up is a jaw-dropping tale of inappropriate behavior in the highest reaches of power, with profound implications for Salmond, Sturgeon, and Scotland's governing party.

Format: Hardback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 31 August 2021
Publisher: Biteback Publishing

The political partnership between Alex Salmond and Nicola Sturgeon transformed the landscape of Scotland, propelling the country to a mere 200,000 votes away from achieving independence in 2014 and securing a dominant position at Holyrood for over a decade. However, since the referendum, the relationship between the former First Minister and his protégé and successor has deteriorated, leading to the breakdown of their alliance.

"Break-Up" delves into the intricate details of how a thirty-year-long alliance came to an abrupt end, unraveled by shocking allegations of sexual assault. This seismic event has caused a deep divide within the Scottish National Party (SNP), once considered a united force. Journalists David Clegg and Kieran Andrews, with unparalleled access to both camps and the women who made the allegations, present a meticulously fair-minded account of this extraordinary episode in political history.

This captivating tale unfolds like a thrilling novel, revealing inappropriate behavior in the highest echelons of power, encompassing lies, distrust, and alleged conspiracies. Its ramifications extend far beyond Salmond and Sturgeon themselves, impacting Scotland's governing party and the broader independence campaign. At its core, "Break-Up" sheds light on the unfortunate exploitation of women who raised concerns about the conduct of the most influential individual in the country, serving as political pawns in a complex political landscape.

The implications of this scandal reverberate far beyond the Scottish borders, resonating with the global #MeToo movement. It serves as a stark reminder of the need for robust mechanisms to protect women from harassment and abuse, and the importance of listening to their voices and taking action. As the story unfolds, it becomes evident that the #MeToo movement has gained momentum, with more and more individuals coming forward to share their own experiences of sexual misconduct and exploitation.

In conclusion, "Break-Up" is a groundbreaking piece of political journalism that sheds light on a tumultuous period in Scottish history. Through meticulous research and fair-minded reporting, Clegg and Andrews provide a comprehensive account of the events that led to the breakdown of the Salmond-Sturgeon alliance. This story serves as a cautionary tale for political leaders and a reminder of the critical importance of transparency, accountability, and respect for women's rights. As the #MeToo movement continues to gain momentum, it is essential to learn from the lessons of the past and work towards a future where all individuals are treated with dignity and equality.

Weight: 588g
Dimension: 162 x 242 x 35 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781785907067