Podcasts about First minister

It was foreseen for months, as Israel cut off all aid, but this month the UN declared that more than half a million people in Gaza are trapped in famine.By the end of September, more than 640 000 people will face Catastrophic levels of food insecurity. Leading to preventable deaths on a devastating scale.For Humza Yousaf, the former First Minister of Scotland and SNP leader, the horrors facing the people of Gaza for the past two years are deeply personal. His wife Nadia has relatives in Gaza - the family has described the experience as a “living nightmare”.LISTEN AD-FREE:

Joanna Cherry - LIVEThis is a corker. Joanna Cherry doesn't hold back on what it was like to be inside the SNP, but outside the Sturgeon clique. Following the publication of the former First Minister's memoir, Joanna gives a comprehensive analysis of the failings of the last few years. This is absolutely compelling from the very first second.Oh, and it also includes some quality music chat. COME AND SEE THE POLITICAL PARTY AT THE EDINBURGH FRINGE:21 August: Kirsty Warkwww.mattforde.comSEE Matt's brand new stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:https://www.mattforde.com/live-showsDONATE to the RNOH Charity here:https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/mattforde Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What is the difference between class distinctions in Scotland and the rest of the UK? How did Nicola Sturgeon's childhood in Scotland inform her politics? What was Margaret Thatcher's influence on Nicola's career? Rory and Alastair are joined by former Leader of the SNP and First Minister of Scotland, Nicola Sturgeon, to answer all these questions and more. Join The Rest Is Politics Plus: Start your FREE TRIAL at therestispolitics.com to unlock exclusive bonus content – including Rory and Alastair's miniseries – plus ad-free listening, early access to episodes and live show tickets, an exclusive members' newsletter, discounted book prices, and a private chatroom on Discord. Visit HP.com/politics to find out more. Social Producer: Harry Balden Video Editor: Josh Smith Assistant Producer: Alice Horrell Senior Producer: Nicole Maslen Head of Content: Tom Whiter Exec Producers: Tony Pastor, Jack Davenport Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jamal isn't interested in Jane's cacao nibs - sparking wistful thoughts of Fi's return (although there's no guarantee Fi would care either...) Jamal and Jane also chat 23-vehicle convoys, bad shoe relief, and allotments in Guildford. Plus, Nicola Sturgeon, Scotland's former First Minister, reflects on her premiership and opens up about her memoir 'Frankly'. You can listen to the playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3qIjhtS9sprg864IXC96he?si=uOzz4UYZRc2nFOP8FV_1jg&pi=BGoacntaS_ukiIf you want to contact the show to ask a question and get involved in the conversation then please email us: janeandfi@times.radioFollow us on Instagram! @janeandfiPodcast Producer: Eve SalusburyExecutive Producer: Rosie Cutler Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There has been a drip feed of stories over the past few days from Nicola Sturgeon's memoir Frankly which hits the shelves this week. In her book, the former First Minister of Scotland covers a slew of topics including SNP infighting and her relationship with the late Alex Salmond, her sexuality and the police probe into SNP finances, and the gender reform bill that contributed to her leaving frontline politics. Spectator writer and Scottish Daily Mail columnist Euan McColm and Isabel Hardman – who has reviewed the book for this week's Spectator – join Lucy Dunn to discuss. For Euan there is a humility in the prose that he just doesn't recognise in the Sturgeon of real life – is she trying to discover herself? Produced by Patrick Gibbons.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.For more Spectator podcasts, go to spectator.co.uk/podcasts.Contact us: podcast@spectator.co.uk

This week I'm delighted to welcome back to The Shift one of my most listened-to guests, Nicola Sturgeon. When we last spoke, at the start of 2022, Nicola was First Minister of Scotland - the first woman to hold the role, the first woman in 600 years to be the keeper of the seal. And During her tenure, she was widely acknowledged to be one of the most impactful politicians of her generation. During our last conversation, she spoke for the first time about how it felt to experience menopausal symptoms in the corridors of power. Her candour was one of the things that opened the floodgates of the menopause conversation. But that was then. A year later she shocked the world by resigning from the role she had been working towards since she was 16, in an attempt to build a life outside politics and away from the public glare. Now she's written a book, Frankly, a personal and political memoir about her life in politics. And, like it's title suggests, she's tried not to pull any punches or side step any issues - personal or political. Nicola came to hang out in my living room in Edinburgh to discuss the decision to leave (and why she can't see a man making the same call) and the impact of spending the next two years under a cloud of suspicion. We also discussed class, confidence, turning back the clock, the price of success for women, learning to drive at 53, and finally having the freedom to get a tattoo! * You can buy all the books mentioned in this podcast at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Shift bookshop on Bookshop.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, including Frankly by Nicola Sturgeon as well as the book that inspired this podcast, The Shift: how I lost and found myself after 40 - and you can too, by me. * If you enjoyed this episode and you fancy buying me a coffee, pop over to my page on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠buymeacoffee.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. • And if you'd like to support the work that goes into making this podcast and get a weekly newsletter plus loads more content including exclusive transcripts of the podcast, why not join The Shift community, come and have a look around at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.theshiftwithsambaker.substack.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • The Shift (on life after 40) with Sam Baker is created and hosted by Sam Baker and edited by Juliette Nicholls at Pineapple Production. If you enjoyed this podcast, please rate/ review/ follow as it really does help other people find us. And let me know what you think on Bluesky @theothersambaker.bsky.social or instagram @theothersambaker or message me on substack The Shift with Sam Baker. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nicola Sturgeon, former First Minister of Scotland

Today, Newscast was recorded at the Edinburgh Fringe in front of a live audience.Adam was joined by the First Minister of Scotland John Swinney. We covered his meeting with Donald Trump, his plan for Scottish Independence and his policy on the Loch Ness MonsterYou can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers.You can join our Newscast online community here: https://tinyurl.com/newscastcommunityhereGet in touch with Newscast by emailing newscast@bbc.co.uk or send us a whatsapp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bit.ly/3ENLcS1Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. It was presented by Adam Fleming. It was made by Miranda Slade. The social producers were Joe Wilkinson and Michael Pearson. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham

Up for the MatchOff on Sunday morning to Croke Park. Dark skies. Lots of grey clouds. Our journey was delayed by Féile An Phobail's 5km and 10km run. Diverted and distracted we eventually got out of West Belfast and on the road to Dublin. Enroute the dark skies lightened. The grey clouds gave way to blue heavens and gentle sunshine. We were off to watch Antrim's Lady Footballers in our own All Ireland against Louth. As we crossed the Border KneeCap kept our spirits high. Their ceol blasted out and the car rocked as we hip hopped to the Capital. A morning after the night before follow-on from Saturday evening's Falls Park Country frolicks.The match in Croker started off positively with Antrim taking an early lead but Louth soon asserted themselves and Antrim was chasing the game from then until the last ten minutes. Some of the players may have been overwhelmed by the big occasion.  If so who could blame them? To play in Croke is mighty and Antrim supporters were out in strength. Everyone, including us, as proud as could be.  Family members, club mates. The number of Northern Gaels was swelled by Tyrone supporters who later went on to win their championship against Laois. Dublin went on to best Meath in the Seniors. A great day of Gaelic football.Gaza – An Gorta Mór – The StarvationThe scenes of desperation as starving people in Gaza try to get basins or pots filled with soup, are shocking images. It is a famine we are told. Last week the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), a United Nations panel which had long warned of the threat of famine, concluded that it was now a reality.The use of the word ‘famine' and the images of starving children are a reminder for many in Ireland of what life must have been like during An Gorta Mór in the 1840s. But it is important to note that in a famine there is no food. In Ireland there was plenty of food. During those years the quaysides of ports along our coast were lined each day with abundant produce - all bound for export. It was a starvation.The hunger in Gaza is an Israeli made starvation. Aid agencies and the UN have more than enough food and medical aid ready to enter Gaza. Israel prevents this. It is not a famine – it is a starvationOrangism in the New IrelandThe northern statelet was built for unionism. It was constructed and then managed in a way to ensure that nationalists would never have a say in running the place.We are less than three years off the 30th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement. Most citizens, and many within the broad unionist section of our people, have grown accustomed to the stability and peace it has brought but there are others who still hanker after the old days of supremacy. The DUP shares the office of the First Minister with Sinn Féin but their strategy is focused on the next Assembly election in two years' time and their aim is to remove Michelle O'Neill as First Minister. That is why there is a battle a day over Irish language rights. That is why there has been no start on building the new Casement. That is why there is negative nonsense over bi-lingual signage in public places.

Eluned Morgan joins Felicity Evans and James Williams at the National Eisteddfod to reflect on a year since becoming the First Minister. They discuss what leadership is like, some of the challenges she's faced and the upcoming Senedd election.

Send us a textFollowing the launch of our Step Up Senedd campaign, and despite an explicit assurance from the First Minister of Wales that the Welsh government would comply with the Supreme Court's clarification of the meaning of the words ‘woman', ‘man' and ‘sex' in the Equality Act 2010, no action has been taken by the Welsh government to correct scores of flawed government policies and practices that remain in breach of UK equality law. As a result, over 100 days on from that apex court's ruling, every day life for people in Wales continues to be fraught with discriminatory practices that seriously impact women and children. The Women's Rights Network in Wales responded with a clear message from the steps of the Senedd: Time is up!If you enjoyed listening to this podcast and would like to hear more, go to womensrights.network/wrn-podcast to listen, download and subscribe to more of our episodes. And if you'd like to join our conversations, go to womensrights.network/join-wrn

In this episode, I'm pleased to be joined by former First Minister of Wales, Carwyn Jones. In his career, he played a pivotal role in the inception of the Wales and Africa Programme, and his insights will shed light on the vision that shaped it, its achievements, and the threats it faces in an increasingly divided world. He recently stepped down as Chair of Size of Wales after four years of service. In March of this year, he was made a member of the House of Lords, as The Rt Hon. the Lord Jones of Penybont. In this episode, we explored the origins and ongoing significance of the Welsh Government's Wales and Africa Programme, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. We also discussed the current political landscape, where the rise of far-right movements and decisions like the halving of the UK's overseas aid budget pose significant challenges to international development and global solidarity. Later on, our regular segment of Africa this Week looked at the youth-led protests in Kenya, the death of former President of Nigeria Muhammadu Buhari and finally the Rugby Africa Cup took place in Kampala, Uganda. Hub Cymru Africa is Wales' leading international development and global solidarity organisation. We support organisations across Wales in building sustainable links and projects in partnership with organisations in Africa and beyond. Find out more about us and access support via our website: hubcymruafrica.wales Hub Cymru Africa is a partnership bringing together Fair Trade Wales, Welsh Centre for International Affairs, Sub-Sahara Advisory Panel and Global Health Partnerships. We are members of the UK Alliance of International Development Network Organisations and a founding member of Citizens Initiatives for Global Solidarity in Europe. Read more about our partners and funders here: hubcymruafrica.wales/partners-funders

It's Summer in Politics-Land and the First Minister of Scotland has chosen this quiet moment to outline his plans for Independence - What plans, you may ask? Bernard Ponsonby and Alex Massie clash over the right to a second independence referendum but agree that the First Minister cannot claim a mandate if he doesn't ask the electorate for a mandate.ALSOCONSERVATIVE RESHUFFLE"If James Cleverley is your headline, you know you're in some trouble."SCOTTISH GREENS WOES"There's a split between the ‘sensibles' and the ‘radicals' in the Greens."Focussing on UK, Scottish and Global politics, if you like other great political podcasts like The Rest is Politics, The News Agents, Newscast, Questions Time, Holyrood Sources, Planet Holyrood, The Stooshie, The Steamie, Scotcast, Americast etc etc then The Ponsonby and Massie Podcast could be a great show to add to your list of favourites. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It would be an exaggeration to say the vultures are already circling the wagon - but there are already conversations taking place about Keir Starmer's future. Bloomberg and Sky have both reported that sources in Labour are already contemplating the prospect of a move against the PM next May after the local elections.Absolutely crucial to those results will be Wales. Labour has never been out of power since devolution in Wales - more than a quarter of a century ago. But if polling is to be believed, that could. all be about to change. Reform and Plaid Cymru, the Welsh independents, both appear to be edging ahead of Labour. And if that happens it could be a huge problem - both an existential challenge for Welsh Labour, and possibly for the PM himself. The stakes couldn't be much higher. And with that in mind, Lewis sat down with Eluned Morgan, the First Minister of Wales. In a wide-ranging interview, she talks frankly about her relationship with Keir Starmer, where she thinks Labour needs to move to stop the haemorrhaging of support, and gives one of the most frank assessments yet of Israel's actions in Gaza from a senior Labour figure. The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/

The SNP are eleven points ahead of Scottish Labour for Holyrood as Keir Starmer's popularity continues to plummet. The Labour Prime Minister's net approval rating stands at minus 42 after a difficult first year in office. Between winter fuel cuts, the severe welfare reforms which were chopped and changed at the last minute and the continuing cost of living crisis, has Keir Starmer, Rachel Reeves and the remainder of Labour's Westminster Government tanked Anas Sarwar's chances of ever becoming First Minister? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The First Minister answers questions from Party Leaders and other MSPs in this weekly question time. Topics covered this week include: Joe FitzPatrick To ask the First Minister what the Scottish Government's response is to the Sarcoma UK report, Unique Among Cancers. Tim Eagle To ask the First Minister what the Scottish Government's response is to reports that several local authorities are delaying the introduction of a visitor levy. Marie McNair  To ask the First Minister what assessment the Scottish Government has made of the latest Office for National Statistics inflation statistics and any implications for its work to support low-income households.   A full transcript of this week's First Minister's Questions is available here: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report/search-what-was-said-in-parliament/meeting-of-parliament-26-06-2025

The First Minister answers questions from Party Leaders and other MSPs in this weekly question time. Topics covered this week include: Audrey Nicoll   To ask the First Minister whether he will provide an update on the Scottish Government's latest engagement with the UK Government regarding funding and timescales for the development of the Acorn carbon capture and storage project. Maurice Golden To ask the First Minister what the Scottish Government's response is to reports that up to 100 truckloads of Scotland's waste will be moved each day to England as a result of the landfill ban on biodegradable waste. Pam Duncan-Glancy To ask the First Minister whether he will provide an update on the Scottish Government's position on the funding of Scotland's higher education institutions.     A full transcript of this week's First Minister's Questions is available here: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report/search-what-was-said-in-parliament/meeting-of-parliament-19-06-2025?meeting=16502

Alistair Grant, David Bol and Rachel Amery are joined by Katharine Hay, The Scotsman's rural affairs correspondent, to discuss the Royal Highland Show and the big issues affecting Scotland's farmers. Later, Rachel speaks to Patrick Harvie after his last First Minister's Question as co-leader of the Scottish Greens. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The First Minister answers questions from Party Leaders and other MSPs in this weekly question time. Topics covered this week include: Kenneth Gibson  To ask the First Minister what the impact on Scotland will be of the Chancellor's Spending Review 2025. Liam Kerr  To ask the First Minister what the Scottish Government's position is on whether the home leave for prisoners system is operating appropriately and as intended. Foysol Choudhury  To ask the First Minister how the Scottish Government is working to ensure that patients are accurately informed of waiting times for NHS treatments following referrals to a specialist. A full transcript of this week's First Minister's Questions is available here: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report/search-what-was-said-in-parliament/meeting-of-parliament-12-06-2025?meeting=16486

James and Fliss went live from Westminster on Wednesday (11/06/25) to discuss the UK Government's Spending Review, what's in it for Wales and what it means for the relationship between the two Welsh Labour Governments. They discussed the details with the Welsh Secretary of State, Jo Stevens MP and the First Minister, Eluned Morgan MS. They also spoke to a panel of opposition politicians - Plaid Cymru's Ben Lake MP, Welsh Conservative Lord Davies of Gower and Welsh Liberal Democrat David Chadwick MP. BBC Wales' Political Editor Gareth Lewis also joined the pod to discuss his main takeaways.

Fi is struggling with some listeners' names — apologies to anyone called Linda... Jane and Fi also discuss potent wees, manifesting people, and dyslexia. Plus, Wales' First Minister, Eluned Morgan, reflects on her career, outlines her priorities for Wales, and shares her thoughts on the spending review. If you want to contribute to our playlist, you can do that here: Off Air with Jane & Fi: Official Playlist - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3qIjhtS9sprg864IXC96he?si=9QZ7asvjQv2Zj4yaqP2P1QIf you want to come and see us at Fringe by the Sea, you can buy tickets here: www.fringebythesea.com/fi-jane-and-judy-murray/And if you fancy sending us a postcard, the address is:Jane and FiTimes Radio, News UK1 London Bridge StreetLondonSE1 9GFIf you want to contact the show to ask a question and get involved in the conversation then please email us: janeandfi@times.radioThe next book club pick has been announced! We'll be reading Leonard and Hungry Paul by Rónán Hession.Follow us on Instagram! @janeandfiPodcast Producer: Eve SalusburyExecutive Producer: Rosie Cutler Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The First Minister answers questions from Party Leaders and other MSPs in this weekly question time. Topics covered this week include: Ben Macpherson To ask the First Minister how the Scottish Government is supporting film and TV production in Edinburgh and throughout Scotland. Roz McCall  To ask the First Minister what the Scottish Government's response is to reports that Police Scotland's national child abuse investigation unit now carries out 700 child sexual abuse investigations a year, representing an increase of 30% since 2015. Mark Ruskell  To ask the First Minister what action the Scottish Government is taking to secure a direct ferry route between Scotland and France. A full transcript of this week's First Minister's Questions is available here: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report/search-what-was-said-in-parliament/recent-publication?meeting=16416&iob=140223

Alistair Grant, David Bol, Rachel Amery and Alexander Brown discuss the crunch Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse by-election. Plus, should Douglas Ross have been kicked out of First Minister's Questions on Thursday for heckling John Swinney? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The First Minister answers questions from Party Leaders and other MSPs in this weekly question time. Topics covered this week include: Clare Adamson To ask the First Minister whether he will provide an update on the Scottish Government's latest engagement with the UK Government regarding its plans for the winter fuel payment and any implications for the Scottish Government's work to deliver a universal Pension Age Winter Heating Payment in Scotland. Stephen Kerr To ask the First Minister, in light of it being almost five years since the Scottish Government committed to spending £60 million to renew every play park in Scotland and of reports that less than half of the funding has been spent, what action the Scottish Government is taking to ensure that children do not miss out on renewed facilities. Monica Lennon (S6F-04140) To ask the First Minister what action the Scottish Government is taking to maintain its policy aim of keeping pace with the EU on environmental protection. Willie Rennie To ask the First Minister for what reason there has reportedly been no financial agreement between the Scottish Funding Council and the University of Dundee, in light of the alternative financial recovery plan being launched four weeks ago. A full transcript of this week's First Minister's Questions is available here: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report/search-what-was-said-in-parliament/recent-publication?meeting=16416&iob=140223

The First Minister of Wales sets a marker to the left of Keir Starmer, setting out her vision of a "Red Welsh Way", drawing inspiration from Gavin and Stacey.Producer: Daniel Kraemer

Building a Democracy for the 21st Century On 26th April the Electoral Reform Society held a conference in Edinburgh called A Scottish Spring with a range of excellent speakers covering topics such as the rise of polarisation in democracy, Scottish public opinion, Civic and local democracy in Scotland , engagement and debate. Indypodcasters Fiona and Marlene were there and very much enjoyed the discussions and presentations.   It was a full day event so we weren't able to film every session in its entirety but these are some of our particular highlights of the day: 00:03:00  Willie Sullivan, ERS Senior Director in conversation with Professor Nicola McEwen, Director of the Centre for Public Policy 00:15:16  Marlene's question 00:16:40  Mark Diffley provides an overview of Scottish public opinion including exclusive polling commissioned for the conference 00:31:00  Esther Roberton, former Co-ordinator of the Scottish Constitutional Convention on the aspirations for the Scottish Parliament and how well it has lived up to those 00:40:17  Pauline Smith, Chief Executive, Development Trusts Association Scotland on local democracy 00:45:00  Mark Drakeford, former First Minister of Wales on alternative forms of democracy for the Uk  #democracy #scottishpolitics #electoralreform  Find our previous episode on building a local democracy in Scotland here https://yescowal.podbean.com/e/building-a-local-scotland/   find out more about the Electoral Reform Society here  https://electoral-reform.org.uk/ers-scotland/ The Scottish Independence Podcasts team produce a NEW podcast episode every Friday search for Scottish Independence Podcasts wherever you get your podcasts.  Remember to like and subscribe! Contact Us: indypodcasters@gmail.com  Visit our website https://scottishindypod.scot for blogposts, newsletter signup and more episodes Subscribe for free to our Youtube channel @scottishindypodExtra for more of our video footage and clips.  video premieres most Tuesdays at 8pm If you've enjoyed this podcast you might like to buy us a coffee?  https://ko-fi.com/scottishindependencepodcasts or choose us as your Easyfundraising good cause. Music: Inspired by Kevin MacLeod  

The First Minister answers questions from Party Leaders and other MSPs in this weekly question time. Topics covered this week include: Willie Coffey To ask the First Minister what assessment the Scottish Government has made, regarding any implications for its work to grow Scotland's economy, of analysis from Future Economy Scotland indicating that average earnings in Scotland are £15,000 less per year than they would have been if wages had not flatlined since the financial crisis. Graham Simpson To ask the First Minister what the Scottish Government's response is to The Hunter Foundation report, Lessons from Singapore for Scotland's Economy. Foysol Choudhury  To ask the First Minister, in light of recent reported incidents, how the Scottish Government is working to prevent knife crime. A full transcript of this week's First Minister's Questions is available here: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report/search-what-was-said-in-parliament/recent-publication?meeting=16416&iob=140223  

The First Minister answers questions from Party Leaders and other MSPs in this weekly question time.   Topics covered this week include: Collette Stevenson To ask the First Minister, regarding any implications for its work to tackle poverty, what assessment the Scottish Government has made of the Department for Work and Pension's forecasts reportedly indicating that the UK Government's planned reductions to disability benefits will impact 700,000 families that are already in poverty. Sandesh Gulhane  To ask the First Minister what steps the Scottish Government is taking to address the performance of NHS 24, in light of reports that nearly one in five calls to the service went unanswered last year. Michelle Thomson  To ask the First Minister what assessment the Scottish Government has made of the recently announced UK-USA trade deal and its potential implications for businesses in Scotland. A full transcript of this week's First Minister's Questions is available here: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report/search-what-was-said-in-parliament/recent-publication?meeting=16416&iob=140223  

In CI News this week: The Government estimates that assisted suicide could save the NHS millions of pounds by ending thousands of lives early, peers urge the Government to abandon plans to introduce a home education register, and MPs attempt to decriminalise abortion by hijacking the Crime and Policing Bill. You can download the video via this link. Featured stories Killing thousands could save NHS millions, Govt estimates Scotland's First Minister pledges to vote against assisted suicide Peers urge Govt to reconsider introduction of home education register MPs set to vote on decriminalising abortion No-fault divorce fuelling ‘animosity', says family lawyer

First Minister John Swinney MSP answers questions from party leaders and other MSPs in this weekly question time. Questions included: Kevin Stewart  To ask the First Minister what the Scottish Government's response is to water scarcity alerts issued by SEPA for the east of Scotland, in light of low rainfall and warm temperatures.  Brian Whittle To ask the First Minister, in light of the publication of the Programme for Government, what action the Scottish Government is taking to ensure that prevention is more strongly integrated into the health system. Jackie Baillie To ask the First Minister when the landslip shelter on the A83 at the Rest and Be Thankful will be complete.   Transcripts are available on our website: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report/search-what-was-said-in-parliament   

In this episode we give our initial reactions to  the First Minister's Statement: Programme for Government 2025-26.We also look back at the series of elections in England last week. What can we take from the Reform UK surge? Will  Scotland be  immune from Farageism at the 2026 Holyrood elections?And if Starmer didn't have enough on his plate with Reform to worry about up popped Ex PM Tony Blair with his thoughts on Net Zero and climate change.Lesley discusses this and asks if Sir Keir shouldn't take a leaf out of Mark Carney's book and stand up to Trump.Today, Tuesday, sees the conclusion of the selection process for SNP candidates for those elections. Some weel kent sitting MSPs are fighting off challengers. Three contests in particular have hit the headlines.Israel's security cabinet has approved a plan to expand its military offensive against Hamas which includes the "capture" of Gaza and the holding of its territory with no timeline for withdrawal. Does this move finally give the lie to Israel's claim that it's all about the return of the hostages?If you fancy popping along to the two events Lesley will be appearing at this weekend, follow these linkshttps://www.republic.org.uk/republic_day_in_edinburgh_2025https://www.believeinscotland.org/creating_scotland_a_celebration_of_scotlands_connection_to_europe?fbclid=IwY2xjawKHIfBleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETBmNHlMdHBjQWRmOU4yekdyAR7p9909Uu6UuhjdJp9m85xSkmbNcttzovd-Tfn-_Fu8It5oKBoA7iG9YGDAzg_aem_9gAZZkwMFNyI1UVgM48CoQ ★ Support this podcast ★

Welcome to the thirty-first episode of the Zoology Ramblings Podcast! In this episode, Emma and Robi share news about Czech beavers saving taxpayer time and money, Robi goes on a thought tangent about nature friendly farming in the UK and Emma talks about how vicuña poo can create biodiversity hotspots as glaciers retreat. Emma and Robi's animals of the week range from the very large (Koobi Fora Giant Stork) to the very small (Tardigrades). For their local conservation stories, Robi talks about the First Minister of Scotland, John Swinney, ruling out the legal reintroduction of lynx into the wild in Scotland. Emma talks about an exciting new National Hedgehog Monitoring Programme being rolled out across the UK. And finally onto global conservation stories, where Emma talks about a project looking to bring back the thylacine (Tasmanian tiger) from extinction using futuristic gene editing. Robi ends by talking about the new African Rhinoceros Conservation Framework, which lays out best practice guidelines for effectively conserving rhinos across the continent. About the hosts: Robi Watkinson is a Conservation Biologist and wildlife filmmaker specialising in the spatial and movement ecology of large carnivores, camera trapping survey methods, rewilding, metapopulation dynamics and conservation planning. He has an MSc in Conservation Biology from the FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, and the Institute of Communities and Wildlife in Africa, University of Cape Town. He is based between Cape Town and London, and has strong interests in equitable and inclusive conservation, palaeontology and wildlife taxonomy and evolution!Emma Hodson is a Zoologist and wildlife content creator, currently working in the community and engagement team at Avon Wildlife Trust. Emma's role as a Wildlife Champions Coordinator involves supporting and upskilling people to take action for nature in their local communities. Emma has experience in remote wildlife fieldwork, and has been part of Arctic fox, macaw and cetacean research teams in Iceland, Peru and Wales respectively. She has also been involved in animal care and rehabilitation work in Costa Rica and South Africa. Emma is particularly passionate about the interface between community engagement and wildlife monitoring, and enjoys running workshops and giving talks on topics including camera trapping, beaver ecology and rewilding. Follow up links: You can watch "Rewilding A Nation" for free on WaterBear by following this link: https://www.waterbear.com/watch/rewilding-a-nation You can follow more of our weird and wonderful wildlife adventures on instagram: @zoologyramblingspodcast & @robi_watkinson_wildlife & @emma_hodson_wildlife

Listen back to FMQs. Questions this week included:  Jackie Dunbar To ask the First Minister what assessment the Scottish Government has made of any implications for its work to grow Scotland's economy of the EY ITEM Club Spring Forecast, which downgraded expectations for UK output over the next two years. Edward Mountain To ask the First Minister, in light of the reported high demand for neurodevelopmental assessment services, when the Scottish Government plans to publish the report on the work that it funded on the five “tests of change” across Scotland, which concluded in March 2024. Mark Griffin To ask the First Minister what the Scottish Government's response is to reports of local authorities suspending council housing allocations.   Transcripts are available on our website: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report/search-what-was-said-in-parliament 

It was supposed to a fun afternoon arguing over the 2,000trees clashfinder but Sharon Osbourne, Scotland's First Minister and the pesky bloody Tories had other ideas…. so the spotlight is back on the Kneecap lads.But what about the promoters, like James, who have red hot Irish trio on their poster?Well, there's death threats for a start. We go again, every Thursday morning.

Fliss and James discuss a report from the Ministerial Advisory Group (MAG) about the issues facing the Welsh NHS and the ''urgent need for a turnaround''. They are joined by one of the report's authors and former GP Professor Sally Lewis and Professor Jon Barry, the Director in Wales for the Royal College of Surgeons. BBC Wales Political Editor Gareth Lewis then joins the pod to reveal comments from the First Minister about Labour party's MPs not standing up for Wales.

The First Minister takes questions from MSPs.

Listen back to FMQs. Questions this week included:  Kevin Stewart   To ask the First Minister what the Scottish Government's response is to reported comments made by the chair of the North Sea Transition Task Force that the North Sea's future should be a “national mission”. Stephen Kerr To ask the First Minister what engagement the Scottish Government has had with the UK Government regarding what assessment has been made of the potential impact of an extension of US tariffs on Scottish businesses that export to the US market. Katy Clark  To ask the First Minister what the Scottish Government's position is on whether the reported increased annual cost of Scotland's prisons to over £77,000 per prisoner represents good value for public money.   Transcripts are available on our website: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report/search-what-was-said-in-parliament 

Felicity Evans and James Williams are joined guests to discuss the pressure Welsh Labour find themselves under following UK Labour's welfare cuts. Cathy Owens, Director of Cavendish Cymru, and BBC Wales' Political Correspondent, Daniel Davies, discuss the past few weeks in politics and the impact the latest developments will have on the First Minister, Welsh Labour and Wales' relationship with Westminster.

Presiding Officer Alison Johnstone MSP and First Minister John Swinney MSP make a statement to Parliament following the death of Christina McKelvie MSP. 

Listen back to FMQs. Questions this week included:  Kenneth Gibson To ask the First Minister what the Scottish Government's response is to the UK Government's Spring Statement. Murdo Fraser To ask the First Minister what action the Scottish Government is taking to reduce waiting times for children and adolescents for the diagnosis of autism and ADHD. Mercedes Villalba To ask the First Minister what action the Scottish Government is taking to prevent instances of water scarcity in 2025. Ash Regan  To ask the First Minister, in light of reports of an escalation in gang-related violence in Edinburgh, with recent shootings in Niddrie and West Pilton, what immediate action can be taken to support the emergency services in ensuring the safety and reassurance of communities in the Edinburgh Eastern constituency.   Transcripts are available on our website: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report/search-what-was-said-in-parliament 

Eluned MorganEluned is the First Minister of Wales and the first female First Minister of Wales. What challenges does Wales face that other parts of the UK might not?How do leaders create economic growth?And can someone help get Eluned some Oasis tickets? SEE THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE ON STAGE! 31 March: Anthony Scaramucci12 May: Wes Streeting9 June: Kemi Badenoch14 July: Michael Gove Plus more to be announced... Get tickets for all shows here: https://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ DONATE to the RNOH Charity here:https://www.rnohcharity.org/donate/donate-onlineSEE Matt at on tour until June 2025, including his extra date at The Nottingham Playhouse: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows 28 March: Nottingham, Lakeside Arts Centre4 April: London, Bloomsbury Theatre13 April: Salford Lowry - EXTRA DATE29 May: Chipping Norton Theatre - EXTRA DATE30 May: Swindon Arts Centre - EXTRA DATE4 June: Leeds City Varieties - EXTRA DATE5 June: Nottingham Playhouse - EXTRA DATE6 June: Cambridge Junction - EXTRA DATE12 June: York, The Crescent - EXTRA DATE13 June: Chelmsford Theatre - EXTRA DATE14 June: Faversham, The Alex - EXTRA DATE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Listen back to FMQs! Questions this week included:  Michelle Thomson  To ask the First Minister what assessment the Scottish Government has made of the recent UK Living Standards Review 2025, from the National Institute of Economic and Social Research, and any implications for its work to grow Scotland's economy. Rachael Hamilton  To ask the First Minister how the Scottish Government is marking Endometriosis Awareness Month. Kevin Stewart  To ask the First Minister what action the Scottish Government is taking to tackle Islamophobia in Scotland, in light of reports of an attack on a mosque in Aberdeen at the weekend.   Transcripts are available on our website: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report/search-what-was-said-in-parliament 

Listen back to FMQs! Questions this week included:  Christine Grahame To ask the First Minister, regarding any potential impact on planning legislation in Scotland, what the Scottish Government's response is to reports that the UK Government has proposed giving people living near power infrastructure hundreds of pounds off their bills each year. Jamie Greene To ask the First Minister what steps the Scottish Government is considering to further support Scotland's universities, in light of reports that the University of the West of Scotland reported a multi-million pound deficit in the last financial year, with other universities across Scotland in a similar financial position. Carol Mochan  To ask the First Minister whether he will provide an update on how the Scottish Government is working to improve healthy life expectancy.  Transcripts are available on our website: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report/search-what-was-said-in-parliament 

Nicola Sturgeon has announced her intention to step down at the next Scottish Parliament election in May 2026. One of the original MSPs elected to Holyrood in 1999, Sturgeon has dominated Scottish and UK politics over the past two decades. The Salmond-Sturgeon era began in 2004 and she went on to serve as First Minister for the best part of a decade. Stewart McDonald, former SNP MP for Glasgow South 2015-24, and Lucy Dunn join James Heale on this special Coffee House Scots to discuss Sturgeon's legacy. She brought Scotland the closest to independence for 300 years, yet resigned in 2023 under a cloud over party management. Attention turns to next year's election, could the SNP's winning streak continue without her? Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Natasha Feroze. 

Listen back to FMQs! Questions this week included:  Marie McNair  To ask the First Minister how the Scottish Government will mark International Women's Day, and its theme of "Accelerating Action" to reach gender equality. Annie Wells To ask the First Minister what plans the Scottish Government has to tackle the reported rising number of cases of drug-driving. Foysol Choudhury To ask the First Minister whether he will provide an update on how the Scottish Government is working to tackle Islamophobia in Scotland, in light of reports that anti-Muslim hate incidents across the UK reached record levels in 2024. Transcripts are available on our website: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report/search-what-was-said-in-parliament 

In CI News this week: The Leadbeater Bill: Safeguards rejected as Clause 1 passes, Scotland's First Minister doubles down on support for men in women's spaces, MSP: ‘Praying in your home could be illegal depending who passes the window'and Degrading and violent online pornography must be banned, says Govt review. You can download the video via this link. Featured stories The Leadbeater Bill: Safeguards rejected as Clause 1 passes Scotland's First Minister doubles down on support for men in women's spaces MSP: ‘Praying in your home could be illegal depending who passes the window' Degrading and violent online pornography must be banned, says Govt review

Listen back to FMQs! Questions this week included: Michael Matheson MSP To ask the First Minister what assessment the Scottish Government has made of the recent study by the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit regarding the contribution of the net zero sector to the UK and Scotland's economy. Brian Whittle MSP To ask the First Minister what action the Scottish Government is taking to support farmers responding to threats to livestock from disease. Mark Ruskell MSP To ask the First Minister how the Scottish Government will protect the lives of racing greyhounds. Transcripts are available on our website: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report/search-what-was-said-in-parliament 

Listen back to FMQs! Questions this week included: Clare Adamson  To ask the First Minister what the Scottish Government's response is to the recent Labour Market Outlook survey by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development on UK business confidence.   Pam Gosal  To ask the First Minister whether he will provide an update on the Scottish Government's plans to update the School Premises (General Requirements and Standards) (Scotland) Regulations 1967. Colin Smyth  To ask the First Minister what action the Scottish Government is taking to reduce the disability employment gap. Transcripts are available on our website: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report/search-what-was-said-in-parliament 

It's a bumper episode this week as we try and navigate our way through the news.First up, BBC Scotland has launched Scotcast a brand new podcast. We give our considered verdict on this latecomer to the Scottish podcast scene,Its maiden episode focused heavily on the opening of Scotland's first Drug Consumption Room/ Overdose Prevention Centre. How was it covered? In the political argy bargy Whose voices are being heard? Whose are not?It also dealt with both the ending of the marriage between Nicola Sturgeon and Peter Murrell and the fall out over Nicola's recent comments on the behaviour of the late Alex Salmond. We follow suit.Lesley recently wrote a column questioning John Swinney's saying, “I don't think people would understand what I was doing if I refused to meet with the president of the United States.” Lesley reckons the First Minister has misread the mood of the Scottish people when it comes to the Donald.There are strong suggestions that Dominic Cummings is the eminence grise behind Elon Musk's recent fetid tweets on UK politics and the Labour Party in particular. We ask why Musk is so fixated on Britain and what is the odd symbiotic relationship between him and the BBC?Sticking with Labour there's trouble afoot with both the latest YouGov opinion poll and the volatility of the UK economy.We also look at the LA wild fires,Trump's fuelling of the flames with disinformation and the climate change as their root cause.Along the way there's chat about the UK's toxic relationship with processed foods, terrible puns, a tour of "The Testament of Gideon Mack" and a multi-million pound Gaelic noir series "An t- Eilean"-BBC Alba tonight 9pmLesley's best selling book "Blossom" also gets a few mentions.Follow these links for more information on all of the above- except Pat's puns.https://www.channel4.com/programmes/eat-smart-secrets-of-the-glucose-goddesshttp://www.dogstartheatre.co.uk/https://lesleyriddoch.com/books-mobile ★ Support this podcast ★