Podcasts about First minister

The First Minister fields questions of national importance from Party Leaders in this weekly question time. Read the full transcript from the Official Report https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report

The First Minister answers questions from backbench Members in this weekly question time. A full transcript of this week's First Minister's Questions will be available on the Scottish Parliament website: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report

In this week's edition of the News Review on the PRmoment podcast, host Ben Smith, is joined by industry heavyweights Mark Borkowski and Angie Moxham to dissect one of the most significant political crisis management events of the year: Nicola Sturgeon's high-stakes sit-down interview with Laura Kuenssberg on the BBC. Following her estranged husband Peter Murrell's recent guilty plea to embezzling over £400,000 from the SNP, the former First Minister faced an intense 55-minute interrogation aimed at shifting the narrative from political complicity to personal betrayal.Ben kicks off the discussion by questioning whether the interview succeeded in separating Sturgeon's personal reputation from the unfolding financial scandal of the party she led for nearly a decade. Mark Borkowski offers a sharp critique of the crisis communications strategy, noting that while Sturgeon's performance was emotionally raw—particularly when discussing a £425 necklace bought with stolen funds—it ultimately struggled under the weight of incredulity. He argues that her core defense—claiming she had no "conscious memory" of a massive motorhome parked outside her mother-in-law's house—strained public belief, leaving the "brand" of Sturgeon severely damaged despite her formidable media skills.Angie Moxham shifts the lens toward the gender dynamics and long-term reputational impact. Moxham observes that Sturgeon deliberately weaponized a highly relatable narrative: the trope of a successful woman being unfairly blamed for the hidden, fraudulent actions of the man in her life. While Angie acknowledges that this framing could resonate strongly with a core segment of the public and female voters, she questions whether it can truly repair the massive trust deficit currently facing the SNP. Moxham analyzes how the "personal vs. political" mashup plays out for independent brand survival, noting that Sturgeon's insistence that she is “serving a sentence for a crime I did not commit” effectively positions her as the primary victim, eclipsing the independence donors whose money was actually taken.The panel agrees that while the BBC gave Sturgeon the necessary space to outline her trauma and bewilderment, the interview highlights the near-impossible task of separating a leader's legacy from systemic organizational failure. Ultimately, the review concludes that while Sturgeon successfully reminded the public of her formidable communication prowess, the sheer volume of high-value goods involved makes an absolute reputational recovery unlikely.Finally, Ben closes the segment with an important industry notice, urging listeners to submit their entries for the upcoming Creative Moment Awards before the final entry deadline on June 19th.You can watch the Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg Interview to see the exact moment Nicola Sturgeon addresses the embezzlement scandal and discusses the personal toll it has taken on her life.

The First Minister answers questions from party leaders in this weekly question time. A full transcript of this week's First Minister's Questions will be available on the Scottish Parliament website: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report

The First Minister answers questions from backbench Members in this weekly question time. A full transcript of this week's First Minister's Questions will be available on the Scottish Parliament website: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report

Fliss catches up with our political editor following the first FMQ's after Plaid Cymru's Senedd election victory. Rhun ap Iorwerth faced questions from members across the political spectrum covering topics from health to education.

As Parliament returns from recess, the latest files related to Peter Mandelson's appointment as UK ambassador to the US are due to be released today. How bad could they be for Labour? Tim Shipman joins James Heale to discuss – has the self-styled 'Prince of Darkness' proven to be more a ghost of Christmas past for the government?Plus: Mandelson isn't the only ghost haunting British politics today. Tim and James discuss the ghost of Christmas present, the scandal facing the SNP. Former party treasurer – and husband to Nicola Sturgeon – Peter Murrell pled guilty to charges of embezzlement, prompting the former First Minister to deliver a teary interview to the BBC at the weekend. How believable did they find Sturgeon? And, with two by-elections on the horizon, what consequences could there be for the SNP?Finally: the boys discuss the latest poll showing Trade Union support ebbing away from Labour towards Reform. So – continuing the Dickensian metaphor (sorry) – could this be Labour's very own ghost of Christmas future?Produced by Megan McElroy and 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The former First Minister of Scotland, Nicola Sturgeon, has insisted she knew nothing about her estranged husband's crimes, after his admission of embezzlement. Peter Murrell pleaded guilty to spending more than £400,000 of Scottish National Party funds. In other news, Israel's prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has ordered his troops to advance further into Lebanon as Israel fights the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah; and thousands of Arsenal fans have filled the streets of north London to celebrate winning the Premier League for the first time in 22 years.

United Kingdom correspondent Lucy Thomson spoke to Lisa Owen about how a landmark report has revealed the impact rising youth unemployment and disengagement is having on the British economy. She also spoke about how the former First Minister of Scotland has spoken publicly for the first time since her estranged husband pleaded guilting to embezzlement and how a dog walk in the Welsh county of Pembrokeshire has fetched quite the payday.

The First Minister answers questions from Party Leaders and other MSPs in this weekly question time. A full transcript of this week's First Minister's Questions will be available on the Scottish Parliament website: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report

On today's episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein and Andy Maciver break down a bombshell week in Scottish politics.Peter Murrell has pleaded guilty to embezzlement from the SNP. What does this mean for the party, The First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon and trust in politics in general?John Swinney has also appointed his new Scottish Cabinet, was his new slimmed down top team the right way to go?How will Stephen Flynn and Stephen Gethins perform in their new Holyrood roles.How will Ivan McKee do after being promoted to Cabinet Secretary for Public Service reform? You can listen to our 2025 interview with him here:https://open.spotify.com/episode/1EO5bkEpwRRPpjnYeOL81I?si=-YP5RgaGSAKtH_d3RoVaMQAnd what does Tony Blair's intervention this week mean for the UK Labour Party, is it time to start listening to the former Prime Minister? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rhun ap Iorwerth MS sits down with James for his first Walescast since becoming First Minister. They met at the Urdd Eisteddfod site on Ynys Môn. You can also watch this episode on BBC iPlayer.

The former chief executive of the Scottish National Party, Peter Murrell, has been remanded in custody after admitting embezzling more than 400 thousand pounds from the party, over a period of 12 years. The estranged husband of the former First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, will be sentenced next month. Also: The UK records its all-time hottest May temperature. The Pope warns about the potential risks posed by artificial intelligence. Man City bids farewell to Pep Guardiola. And: Scientists recognise tiny blue octopus from the Galapagos.

Sir John Kay, CBE, FBA, FRSE, is one of Britain's leading economists, whose career has spanned the academic world, business and finance, and public affairs. Born in Edinburgh in 1948, he has held chairs at the London Business School, the University of Oxford and the London School of Economics, and has been a Fellow of St John's College, Oxford since 1970, when he was elected to a permanent teaching post at the University of Oxford at the age of 21.Kay studied at the University of Edinburgh and then at Nuffield College, Oxford, where he worked under James Mirrlees, the future Nobel laureate. He served as the first Research Director of the Institute for Fiscal Studies, founded the consultancy London Economics in 1986, and in 1996 became the founding Dean of Oxford's Saïd Business School. He was also the first Professor of Management to be elected a Fellow of the British Academy. He has served as a member of the Council of Economic Advisers to the First Minister of Scotland (2007–2011) and chaired the Kay Review of UK Equity Markets and Long-Term Decision Making, which reported to the British government in 2012. Following the United Kingdom's vote to leave the European Union, he was appointed to the Standing Council on Scotland and Europe.Kay is the author of many influential books, including Foundations of Corporate Success (1993), The Truth About Markets (2003) — named Politics Book of the Year in 2005 — Obliquity (2010), The Long and the Short of It (2009, revised 2016), and Other People's Money (2015), which won the Saltire Prize and was shortlisted for the Orwell Prize for Political Writing. His more recent works include Radical Uncertainty (2020, with former Bank of England Governor Mervyn King), Greed is Dead (2020, with Paul Collier), and his latest book, The Corporation in the 21st Century (2024), which examines how the modern corporation has been transformed by globalisation, financialisation and the rise of intangible assets.A regular Financial Times columnist for nearly three decades, Kay received the Senior Wincott Award for Financial Journalism in 2011. He was elected a Fellow of the British Academy (1997), the Royal Society of Edinburgh (2008) and the Academy of Social Sciences (2016). He was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 2014 for services to economics and was knighted in the 2021 Birthday Honours for services to economics, finance and business.Jiří Zatloukal, financial journalist at Seznam Zprávy and contributor of PFI Talks, talked with John Kay.

From the incoming First Minister to an impending vote on a Section 30 order and a row brewing over William Wallace's safe conduct letter.We discuss the ongoing First Minister elections, with John Swinney set to be confirmed. We look at the parliamentary process, the inevitable outcome and why other party leaders put their names forward despite the forgone conclusion.Time for Scotland: John Swinney has promised a debate to ask for a Section 30 order on his first day of business. We put out a call as the Time for Scotland posse to all independence supporters to head to Holyrood with saltires next Tuesday evening to ensure the movement remains visible to broadcasters.New Cabinet: We chew over the runners and riders for the new cabinet, which John Swinney has promised will be gender-equal. Could Stephen Flynn and Stephen Gethins be stepping into key ministerial roles within the Scottish Government?Wallace's Letter: We share an exclusive tip-off from a respected Scottish historian regarding a rare safe conduct letter belonging to William Wallace. Currently on loan to Edinburgh from the National Archives at Kew, they now want it returned. Holyrood's New Presiding Officer: A look at the unexpected selection of Kenny Gibson as the new Presiding Officer, beating the supposed Scottish Government preferred candidate, Clare Haughey. Could his track record of not pulling punches liven up dull parliamentary debates?Andy Burnham and Devolution: We look South to the upcoming by-elections and Andy Burnham's push to devolve power out of London. We unpack why his proposed model of directly elected mayors grafted onto collections of councils falls short of genuine democratic devolution.The Highland Clearances: Lesley discusses her recent interview with eminent historian Jim Hunter for an upcoming film about Strathnaver, bringing the harrowing history of the Clearances and figures like Patrick Sellar into sharp focus.LinksThe rose of all the world is not for me.I want for my partOnly the little white rose of ScotlandThat smells sharp and sweet—and breaks the heart.Hugh MacDiarmidProfessor James Hunter on life in Rosal pre-clearancehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=07ShY03cc_gWho is josh simons? His greatest hits include spying on journalists and saying that people smugglers should be exiled to Scotland, had a majority of 5399 at the last General Election. https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2026/may/14/who-is-josh-simons-labour-mp-andy-burnham ★ Support this podcast ★

James discusses a pivotal moment for the new First Minister, catching up with political editor Gareth Lewis ahead of Plaid Cymru's first Cabinet meeting in government. He also speaks to the journalist behind the Undercover Voters investigation to reflect on what the series uncovered during the Senedd election.

The former Communities Minister Miatta Fahnbulleh, who was the first Minister to resign from Keir Starmer's government after the elections, discusses reaching breaking point, who should lead Labour now, and why she's terrified of where politics is going.She also talks about her experience as a civil servant working with Conservative Ministers, and why her children are her toughest critics.Senior Producer: Hannah Wilkinson Producer: Flora Murray Sound: Jack Wilfan Editor: Giles Edwards

On today's episode of Holyrood Sources, Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein and Andy Maciver analyse the results of the 2026 Scottish Parliament election and what comes next for Scottish politics. The Prime Minister and the First Minister are set to meet next month, will talks lead to a second independence referendum? Will Keir Starmer even be in office to meet John Swinney? They also discuss the SNP Leader's post-election meetings with political parties, and his refusal to meet with Reform. hHas he shot himself in the foot politically?, and how should the other parties approach these meetings?Calum, Geoff and Andy also take a look at your post-election questions as the picture of the next five years of Scottish politics starts to become clear.---Subscribe to our mailing list at holyroodsources.comEmail us with thoughts, questions and your own analysis: hello@holyroodsources.comDrop us a Voice Note or WhatsApp: 0333 404 6507 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Some government ministers and MPs have called for Sir Keir Starmer to step down, despite his insistence that he wants to "get on" with running the country. Also: The leader of Plaid Cymru, Rhun ap Iorweth, has been voted in as the new First Minister of Wales. And Donald Trump flies to China for a state visit.

The UK political landscape has just been permanently altered. In this emergency episode of Whitehall Sources, Calum Macdonald, Jo Tanner and James Nation deconstruct a seismic set of local election results.From Labour losing power in Wales for the first time in history to Reform UK gaining over 1,400 councillors, the "two-party system" is under fire. We analyse:The Welsh Upset: Why the First Minister lost her seat and what it means for the Union.The Reform Surge: How Farage's party is putting down roots from Essex to Hartlepool.Starmer's "New" Old Guard: The shocking return of Gordon Brown and Harriet Harman. Is Keir Starmer too weak for a reshuffle?The 2026 Midterms: Are we looking at a permanent fracturing of British politics? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On Thursday 7 May, voters in Scotland and Wales will elect the members of the devolved parliaments in Edinburgh and Cardiff. A change of government is expected in Wales, where Labour trails both Plaid Cymru and Reform UK in the polls. In Scotland, by contrast, the SNP is forecast to take a fifth successive victory, potentially with an outright majority, which the party will claim provides a mandate for an independence referendum. What are the probable electoral and government formation scenarios? What will the results mean for how Scotland and Wales are governed? What challenges and opportunities will face the incoming first ministers? And what are the potential implications for Westminster and relations between the UK nations? On the eve of these crucial votes, the Institute for Government convened an expert panel to explore what is at stake and what is likely to happen. On the panel: Professor John Curtice, Professor of Politics at the University of Strathclyde Liz Lloyd, former Chief of Staff to the First Minister of Scotland, Specialist Partner at Flint Global Akash Paun, Programme Director for Devolution at the Institute for Government Jane Runeckles, former Chief of Staff to the First Minister of Wales, FDA National Officer This event was chaired by Dr Hannah White, Director and CEO of the Institute for Government.

On Thursday 7 May, voters in Scotland and Wales will elect the members of the devolved parliaments in Edinburgh and Cardiff. A change of government is expected in Wales, where Labour trails both Plaid Cymru and Reform UK in the polls. In Scotland, by contrast, the SNP is forecast to take a fifth successive victory, potentially with an outright majority, which the party will claim provides a mandate for an independence referendum. What are the probable electoral and government formation scenarios? What will the results mean for how Scotland and Wales are governed? What challenges and opportunities will face the incoming first ministers? And what are the potential implications for Westminster and relations between the UK nations? On the eve of these crucial votes, the Institute for Government convened an expert panel to explore what is at stake and what is likely to happen. On the panel: Professor John Curtice, Professor of Politics at the University of Strathclyde Liz Lloyd, former Chief of Staff to the First Minister of Scotland, Specialist Partner at Flint Global Akash Paun, Programme Director for Devolution at the Institute for Government Jane Runeckles, former Chief of Staff to the First Minister of Wales, FDA National Officer This event was chaired by Dr Hannah White, Director and CEO of the Institute for Government. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Quiz King Paddy Duffy sits down with Stuart Cosgrove to discuss the upcoming Holyrood election. Who will be First Minister? Will Reform UK take a big ol' pile of seats? Will Scottish Labour collapse after Anas Sarwar tried to chuck Keir Starmer? All this and more in your FREE AD-SUPPORTED version of Talk Media. Want to get TALK MEDIA fresh from the studio on the day of recording? Join the Supporters Club for £3.96/month at thebiglight.com/talkmedia

John Swinney will demand immediate talks with Downing Street on an IndyRef2 if the SNP wins a Holyrood majority this week. He also said a strong Reform showing would threaten the “survival” of the Scottish Parliament and promised to work with Labour to isolate Nigel Farage's right-wing party. In a special edition of the Planet Holyrood podcast aboard the SNP battle bus, we quiz the First Minister on his talks with Donald Trump and the future direction of his party. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From a working class girl in Ayrshire, fuelled by teenage rage at Margaret Thatcher, to becoming the first female First Minister of Scotland, Nicola Sturgeon has one of the most extraordinary political journeys of our time. And now, for the first time, she's telling it on her own terms. In this chat with Josh recorded live at the Aye Write Book Festival in Glasgow, Nicola opens up about the crippling imposter syndrome that followed her all the way to the top, and how she learned to turn that inner voice from a handicap into a superpower. She talks candidly about navigating a world built for men, the double standards, the authority gap, and why Boris Johnson deliberately messes up his hair before going on camera. She reflects on the heartbreak of the Scottish independence referendum and what that taught her about failure, her deeply personal decision to speak publicly about her miscarriage, and the unfounded rumours about her private life that spread from social media all the way to her parents' front door. She also shares what it was really like to have audiences with the late Queen, meet Hillary Clinton on a 10 out of 10 hangover, and go clubbing at university with a certain Gerard Butler. And after a lifetime of speaking for a government, a party, and a country, she talks about what it finally feels like to speak only for herself. P.S If you are looking for even more Great Chat, Josh Smith's audiobook ‘Great Chat: Talk To Anyone, Make New Connections, Improve Your Relationships'  is available on Spotify, free for premium subscribers. Listen here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/1HH55EZsUSYtajczP6yjjJ?si=0b3ec62de57148f9⁠⁠⁠⁠

The Holyrood Sources team is back to break down a week of political name-calling, tactical blunders, and Westminster turmoil.In this episode, Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein (former Chief of Staff to the First Minister), and Andy Maciver (former Director of Communications for the Scottish Conservatives) dive into the "immature" state of the current election campaign. From Anas Sarwar and Graham Simpson's public spats to John Swinney's decision to skip the BBC Question Time leaders' debate, the team asks: where are the big ideas?We also analyse the "terminal" situation for Sir Keir Starmer at Westminster. With Ollie Robbins sacked and Cabinet ministers struggling to defend the Prime Minister, is Starmer being held "hostage" by his own colleagues until May 7th?In this episode:The "Pathetic" Campaign: Why the focus on deals and name-calling is failing Scottish voters.SNP's Food Price Cap: Is the cap on food prices a "gimmick" or a strategic masterstroke?The Starmer Crisis: Analysing the dismissal of Olly Robbins and the silence of the Labour Cabinet.John Swinney's Debate Absence: Is the First Minister "running scared" or making a tactical calculation?Follow Holyrood Sources:✉️ Email: hello@holyroodsources.com

Has Russell Findlay conceded defeat already? What can his party offer going into the election? In this special edition of 'The Interviews' from Holyrood Sources, the leader of the Scottish Conservatives Russell Findlay speaks to Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein and Andy Maciver in Edinburgh. "common-sense" vision for the 2026 election. From the rise of Reform UK to the 14-year legacy of the UK party. In this episode: The Reform Threat: Why Findlay calls Reform UK "soft on the Union."Alternative Government: Why the Tories are focusing on stopping an SNP majority rather than the First Minister's office.The "Badenoch Factor": How the relationship with Kemi Badenoch is changing the Scottish campaign.Working with the SNP: Would the Tories ever vote with John Swinney?Sponsored by: The Scotch Whisky Association's "Made to be Measured" campaign.** The Holyrood Sources podcast brings the best analysis of Scottish politics with those who have lived it as Special Advisers, and those who are current and former politicians and political party leaders. Join Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein (Former Chief of Staff to First Minister Alex Salmond) and Andy Maciver (Former Director of Communications for the Scottish Conservatives).Subscribe nowApple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/holyrood-sources/id1673972192Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Fj3emmRONEr8aSkhcMgoH?si=789c7874034340c6---Subscribe to our mailing list at holyroodsources.comEmail us with thoughts, questions and your own analysis: hello@holyroodsources.comDrop us a Voice Note or WhatsApp: 0333 404 6507 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is John Swinney the right person to lead Scotland after May 7th?

This week on Crime Time Inc, Simon and Tom mark the last of their general-topic episodes for a few weeks — while they push on to finish their in-depth series on the Zodiac murders — with an episode packed full of Scottish crime, policing, politics, and culture.Simon opens with a warning about "true friendship fraud", the growing phenomenon where criminals cultivate online relationships with vulnerable and elderly people in order to steal their money. With Scotland's older population increasingly targeted through Facebook, WhatsApp and other platforms, Simon and Tom explain the warning signs to look out for. Tom brings his characteristic dry wit to the subject, suggesting that any would-be fraudsters targeting him would leave considerably out of pocket.The political agenda is front and centre this week. Simon highlights new UK legislation cracking down on political donations — including a ban on crypto donations and a £100,000 cap on overseas contributions — ahead of the Scottish Parliament elections on 6 May. Tom draws on his years as Deputy Chief Constable of Lothian and Borders to give a frank insider account of what it takes to police a major election: the pre-planning, the management of rival factions, security at counting centres, the Representation of the People Act, and why rising political temperatures mean this May's vote will be a particularly demanding operation. Both hosts share their frustration at the state of modern political debate, noting that First Minister's Questions has descended into a catalogue of accusations rather than a forum for policy.Glasgow has finally joined the rest of the UK in rolling out police body-worn cameras, and Tom is blunt about why it took so long: Scotland's police capital budget is "lamentably inadequate", representing close to 0% of the Scottish Government's public spending despite policing accounting for roughly 3% of costs. Tom draws a direct line between that chronic underfunding and the £50 million Sheku Bayoh public inquiry — a cost that would have paid for body cameras across the whole of Police Scotland. The hosts also discuss privacy implications and Simon's affectionate memory of "Mr Gadget", a community officer from his days in Govan who wore every piece of kit simultaneously — including body armour he'd acquired himself — until being rendered immobile by the weight of it.Elsewhere, Tom gives his assessment of the Lockerbie bombing trial in New York, where alleged bomb-maker Abu Masud faces charges but legal delays are raising fears that the evidence may never be heard in open court. Tom warns of defence tactics designed to "run the clock round" and expresses hope that the Crown's reported intention to publish all evidence publicly — should the trial collapse — will at least bring some form of truth to the families of the 270 victims. The episode also features the latest instalment of the hosts' regular Scots language segment, with explorations of "wee", "Hogmanay", the "Loony Dook" and the beautiful Scots blessing "Lang may yer lum reek". Finally, Simon trails a forthcoming episode on Scotland's £6 billion annual drug crisis, following a major new Social Market Foundation report.KEY TALKING POINTS------------------• Friendship fraud and befriending scams: how to spot them and protect vulnerable people• New UK rules on political donations: crypto ban and the £100k overseas cap• Policing Scottish elections: behind the scenes with a former Deputy Chief Constable• Why First Minister's Questions has become "yaboo politics"• Glasgow body cameras: why Scotland was years behind — and the true cost of delay• The Sheku Bayoh inquiry: £50m that could have paid for national body cam rollout• Lockerbie trial update: delays, defence tactics and the risk evidence is never heard• Scots Language: "Wee", "Aye", "Hogmanay", "Loony Dook", "Lang may yer lum reek"• Preview: Scotland's £6 billion drug crisisHOSTSAbout Crime Time Inc.Season 5 of Crime Time Inc. broadens its reach across two sides of the Atlantic.This season features cases from Scotland and across the wider UK — rooted in real investigative experience — alongside deep dives into some of the most infamous murder cases in American history.Hosted by former detectives Simon and Tom, with experience in both the UK and the United States, including time working alongside the FBI, the show strips away sensationalism to explain how crime and justice really work.Two crime worlds. One podcast.New episodes released regularly throughout the season.Our Website: https://crimetimeinc.com/If you like this show please leave a review. It really helps us.Please help us improve our Podcast by completing this survey.http://bit.ly/crimetimeinc-survey 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: Joe FitzPatrick To ask the First Minister whether he will provide an update on the Scottish Government's commitment to banning conversion practices. Dr Pam Gosal MBE To ask the First Minister what the Scottish Government's response is to research by Women's Rights Network Scotland reportedly showing that some children have been assaulted in Scottish hospitals.  Pauline McNeill To ask the First Minister what the Scottish Government's response is to the HM Inspectorate of Prisons for Scotland report indicating that staff shortages mean young prisoners at HMP & YOI Polmont lack enough opportunities for work, education or recreation and spend “far too long locked in their cells".  Jamie Greene To ask the First Minister, in light of the reported rise in protests and rhetoric aimed at immigrants and minority groups, what action any future Scottish administration can take to restore kindness, decency and tolerance to politics.  A full transcript of this week's First Minister's Questions will be available on the Scottish Parliament website: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report

 The First Minister answers questions from Party Leaders and other MSPs in this weekly question time. Topics covered this week include: Stuart McMillan To ask the First Minister, following the Union Street fire in Glasgow, what discussions the Scottish Government has had with Network Rail regarding the organisation having a greater say over what types of businesses can be located in close vicinity to key transport hubs such as Glasgow Central. Edward Mountain To ask the First Minister what plans the Scottish Government has to regulate deposit fees in care homes. Katy Clark To ask the First Minister what the Scottish Government's response is to reports that the Scottish Information Commissioner is taking legal advice on further legal action against the Scottish Government and his comments that he “can no longer trust the Government to handle this information unsupervised". A full transcript of this week's First Minister's Questions will be available on the Scottish Parliament website: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report

The First Minister answers questions from Party Leaders and other MSPs in this weekly question time. Topics covered this week include: Christine Grahame To ask the First Minister what measures the Scottish Government can take, in discussion with the UK Government, to assist households in very rural areas that are wholly dependent on oil or liquefied natural gas for heating, and are not connected to the gas mains, to assist with increased costs. Brian Whittle To ask the First Minister what assessment the Scottish Government has made of any impact on the NHS arising from reports that the number of consultants working in the private healthcare system is the highest on record. Kevin Stewart To ask the First Minister what action the Scottish Government is taking to promote vaccinations to combat measles, in light of reports of recent diagnoses in the NHS Grampian area. A full transcript of this week's First Minister's Questions will be available on the Scottish Parliament website: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report

Also, Iranian man speaks about Belfast protest and a former catholic PSNI officer talks

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 Scottish Government's response is to the UK Government's Spring Statement. Stephen Kerr To ask the First Minister, in light of the recently published Commission on School Reform manifesto warning that the curriculum for excellence has been poorly implemented and is harming long-term prospects, what the Scottish Government's position is on whether a lack of clear, nationally specified curriculum content and standards has contributed to declining attainment and inconsistency across Scotland's schools. Katy Clark  To ask the First Minister, in light of the theme of this year's International Women's Day being equal rights and equal justice, what action the Scottish Government is taking to improve the legal rights of women and girls.  A full transcript of this week's First Minister's Questions will be available on the Scottish Parliament website: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report

Walescast heads to Newport Market for Welsh Labour's Campaign Launch. Fliss talks to the First Minister, Labour politicians and candidates about their hopes for May. We also catch up with our Political Editor Gareth Lewis to digest the day. This episode makes up one of the many trips Walescast will make to the main parties events, rallies and conferences over the election period.

The First Minister answers questions from Party Leaders and other MSPs in this weekly question time. Topics covered this week include: Michelle Thomson MSP To ask the First Minister what assessment the Scottish Government has made of warnings from industry leaders that high transmission charges are making wind farms in the north of Scotland uncompetitive, including any implications for its work to grow the renewable energy sector. Liam Kerr MSP To ask the First Minister, in light of reported renewed calls over the weekend to end the Lord Advocate's dual role, when the Scottish Government will publish its proposals and begin a consultation on separating the prosecution function from the role of providing legal advice to the Scottish Ministers.  Mercedes Villalba MSP To ask the First Minister what the Scottish Government's response is to the outcome of the University of Aberdeen UCU ballot, which resulted in 83% of those voting in support of strike action and 90% in favour of action short of a strike. A full transcript of this week's First Minister's Questions will be available on the Scottish Parliament website: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report

How many legal problems can you fall into in the space of a single podcast? This week, Lesley Riddoch and Fraser Thompson navigate a potential minefield of four major legal and political controversies. We dive into the ongoing sagas involving Peter Mandelson and the Trade Ambassador formerly known as Prince Andrew.Closer to home, we dissect the row over the Lord Advocate and the revelations surrounding the timing of Peter Murrell's charges being shared with the First Minister. We also look at the shock announcement that the Alba Party are unlikely to contest the Holyrood election, blaming financial and regulatory problems alleged to have been caused by their former General Secretary.But it's not all legal drama; we look at the ideas that could truly transform the face of Scotland. From local control to community wealth building, we discuss how empowering communities can shift our mindset and boost the economy. In this episode:The Legal "Big Four": Mandelson, Prince Andrew, the Lord Advocate, and the Alba Party.Peter Murrell & The First Minister: the dual role of Scotland's Lord Advocate.Transforming Scotland: Why local control and community wealth building matter more than ever.By-election Watch: Can Labour hang one?LinksSupport the podcast with a monthly or annual subscriptionhttps://lesleyriddoch.com/podcast/subscribeCommunity Wealth Buildinghttps://www.thenational.scot/politics/25867601.holyrood-act-prove-revolutionary-empowering-communities/Tik Tok - https://www.tiktok.com/@fridayseconomics/video/7594406782802464013Gordon Brown as Private Investigator articlehttps://www.theguardian.com/politics/2026/feb/25/why-gordon-brown-delving-deep-into-epstein-filesExcellent Simon Pearson substackhttps://simonpearson1.substack.com/p/the-only-politics-on-offer?utm_source=post-email-title&publication_id=3669870&post_id=188725593&utm_campaign=email-post-title&isFreemail=true&r=1wdpld&triedRedirect=true&utm_medium=emailEverybody to Kenmure Street filmreview https://www.theguardian.com/film/2026/feb/24/power-pyjamas-everybody-to-kenmure-street-glasgow-immigrationSearch local screemnngs - 'everybody to kenmure street showtimes' ★ Support this podcast ★

Lord Daniel Hannan joins Mark Dolan in the lead up to Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's arrest. Retired Major Andrew Fox discusses the huge petition signed by all leading defence experts to double defence spending. First Minister of the Chagossian Government Misley Mandarin joins Mark again to discuss their forced eviction by the British government and Shadow National Security Minister Alicia Kearns MP weighs in on the controversial Chagossian fightback against Starmer. 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: Christine Grahame To ask the First Minister what measures the Scottish Government is taking to standardise the criteria for urgent referrals to child and adolescent mental health services for an assessment, in light of reports that it is currently a postcode lottery. Roz McCall To ask the First Minister what the Scottish Government's response is to reports that hundreds of teachers have sought medical treatment following attacks by pupils in the last five years. Maggie Chapman To ask the First Minister whether he will provide an update on the development of a Just Transition plan for the north east of Scotland, including how communities and workers have been engaged. A full transcript of this week's First Minister's Questions will be available on the Scottish Parliament website: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report

Alistair Grant, David Bol, Rachel Amery and Andrew Quinn discuss a furious row involving the Lord Advocate, the First Minister and the Peter Murrell embezzlement case. Plus, the team look ahead to three party conferences taking place this weekend, and David interviews Scottish Lib Dem leader Alex Cole-Hamilton. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Prime Minister travelled to Taff's Well to throw his weight behind Transport for Wales' £14 billion proposals to “transform” the nation's railways. But what would this actually mean for passengers and communities in Wales? James and Fliss unpack the announcement with our Political Correspondent Cemlyn Davies, following his interview with the Prime Minister and First Minister. They're also joined by transport expert Professor Mark Barry, who breaks down the practical implications of the proposals — and what the politics behind them might reveal.

The First Minister answers questions from Party Leaders and other MSPs in this weekly question time. Topics covered this week include:   Michelle Thomson MSP To ask the First Minister how often he or the Scottish Ministers engage with the Scottish Government's Washington DC International Office regarding the Scotch whisky industry and other economic interests in the United States.   Rachael Hamilton MSP To ask the First Minister whether the Scottish Government will provide an update on the Service Delivery Review of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.   Mark Griffin MSP To ask the First Minister what the Scottish Government's response is to reports that police stations across Lanarkshire, including in Bellshill, will be closed permanently to the public or have their hours reduced from 1 April.   Jamie Greene MSP To ask the First Minister whether the Scottish Government will make further changes to the draft Budget 2026-27 published in January in relation to business rates, hospices and the care sector.    A full transcript of this week's First Minister's Questions will be available on the Scottish Parliament website: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report

Wales' First Minister has given her backing to the Prime Minister following the Peter Mandelson scandal and the former US ambassador's departure from the Labour Party. Following criticism around Eluned Morgan's delayed statement from opposition parties, she says she has full confidence in his leadership. Former Special Advisor to the Welsh Government Cathy Owens and Political Editor Gareth Lewis join the podcast to discuss whether what is happening in Westminster will impact Wales.

The First Minister answers questions from Party Leaders and other MSPs in this weekly question time. Topics covered this week include:   Rona Mackay MSP To ask the First Minister how the new measures that the Scottish Government has announced to tackle long-term unemployment will support its work to grow Scotland's economy.   Brian Whittle MSP To ask the First Minister what the Scottish Government's response is to reported warnings that a significant proportion of the medical workforce is experiencing stress, anxiety and burnout.   Rhoda Grant MSP To ask the First Minister what action the Scottish Government is taking to ensure the long-term financial and operational stability of specialist domestic abuse services in the Highlands.   A full transcript of this week's First Minister's Questions will be available on the Scottish Parliament website: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report

This week it's a very special episode of Talk Media as we welcome the First Minister of Scotland and leader of the SNP, John Swinney MSP, to the programme.  In conversation with broadcaster Stuart Cosgrove, the First Minister chats about his media tastes, his takes on his portrayal by the media, and Stuart even manages to get some fresh insight into some stories that he was recently a major part of. He also shares his thoughts on Nigel Farage and the rise of Reform UK in Scotland. Support Talk Media on Patreon for great bonus content and to have your questions answered on the show by Stuart and his guests: patreon.com/talkmedia

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 how the Scottish Government's new national housing agency will support its work to deliver more affordable homes. Liz Smith To ask the First Minister what action the Scottish Government is taking to improve transparency and accountability within NHS boards. Clare Haughey To ask the First Minister how the Scottish Government's launch of walk-in GP clinics will support its work to bring down waiting times and ensure everyone gets the care they need.  A full transcript of this week's First Minister's Questions will be available on the Scottish Parliament website: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report

The First Minister answers questions from Party Leaders and other MSPs in this weekly question time. A full transcript of this week's First Minister's Questions will be available on the Scottish Parliament website: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report

In 2024, Eluned Morgan MS became the sixth first minister of Wales – and the first woman to hold the role – since the dawn of devolution in 1999. She now leads Welsh Labour into the 2026 Senedd election, which will be held under a new electoral system, and at which Labour faces a double challenge from the rise of Plaid Cymru and Reform. On 22 January, the Institute for Government was delighted to welcome Eluned Morgan to discuss how devolution to Wales has evolved since 1999, her priorities as First Minister, how the Labour governments in Cardiff and Westminster can cooperate on shared goals, and Welsh Labour's vision for Wales's constitutional future. The first minister was in conversation with Akash Paun, Programme Director of Devolution at the Institute for Government, followed by a Q&A with the live and online audience.

The First Minister answers questions from Party Leaders and other MSPs in this weekly question time. Topics covered this week include: Keith Brown To ask the First Minister whether he will provide an update regarding the Scottish Government's latest engagement with the UK Government in relation to the distribution of Local Growth Fund allocations in Scotland. Douglas Ross To ask the First Minister for what reason the Scottish Government is going to court to continue to allow it to house male prisoners in the female prison estate, in light of any projections it has made of the cost to taxpayers in Scotland of challenging the Supreme Court ruling in this way. Pam Duncan-Glancy To ask the First Minister what the Scottish Government's response is to findings published by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow indicating that a majority of clinicians anticipate practical challenges in implementing the Assisted Dying for Terminally Ill Adults (Scotland) Bill. A full transcript of this week's First Minister's Questions will be available on the Scottish Parliament website: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report

The First Minister answers questions from Party Leaders and other MSPs in this weekly question time. A full transcript of this week's First Minister's Questions will be available on the Scottish Parliament website: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report