Today the voters of Glasgow Hillhead go to the polls in what is being seen as one of the most important by-elections of this Parliament. John Tusa in London introduces this election edition ot Newsnight, specially extended to carry the live declaration of the result and first interviews with the winners and losers. As the programme goes on the air Vincent Hanna at the count in Glasgow will have news of a constituency poll taken today forecasting the result of this crucial contest. Peter Snow , with the help of the BBC's graphics computer, will explain the current political tendencies and forecasts which are part of every election evening. Robin Day in London and BBC Scotland's political correspondent James Cox at the count in Hillhead, chair discussions with leading politicians.
Directors JOHN Wilkinson , TOM gutteridge Producers DAVID DICKINSON , TOM ROSS Editor RONALD NEIL