BBC debate: Miliband and Sturgeon clash over post-election deal

Ed Miliband last night clashed with Nicola Sturgeon after she said she would only back him as PM if he rejected austerity.

During the debate the Labour leader faced repeated calls from Nicola Sturgeon and Leanne Wood to form a “progressive” alliance with their parties and the Greens to keep the Conservatives out of government.

Mr Miliband was asked whether he would form a coalition with the SNP. He told Ms Sturgeon he had “fundamental disagreements” with her over her support for Scottish independence, adding: “It’s a ‘no’, I’m afraid.”

He added: “You want to gamble on getting rid of a Tory government; I can guarantee that we get rid of a Tory government if you vote Labour.”

But Ms Sturgeon retorted: “We have the chance to kick David Cameron out of Downing Street. Don’t turn your back on it – people will never forgive you.

“Is it the case that you would rather see David Cameron go back into Downing Street than work with the SNP? Surely that cannot be your position.”