Podcasts about Grangemouth

In this powerful episode, recorded live at a Yes Glasgow NW event, guest speaker Scott Donohoe from Glasgow Trade Union council delivers a passionate and informative talk on the planned closure of the Grangemouth oil refinery — a decision that threatens thousands of jobs, livelihoods, and the stability of the local community. Scott outlines a detailed historical timeline of events, highlighting the ongoing struggles of the workforce and exposing Labour's broken promises to protect vital Scottish industry. The session includes a raw, emotional audience discussion capturing the real anger, betrayal, and concerns from the people most affected. Key chapters: 00:02:02    Michelle Thomson MSP  responds to the closure 00:03:23    John Swinney's address to STUC 00:06:06     Brian Leishman MP lashes out at Ed Milliband 00:07:41     Yes Glasgow NW introduces Scott Donohoe 00:08:38     Presentation on Grangemouth's historical timeline 00:23:50      General audience discussion and Q + A #grangemouth #justtransition #ineos  Listen to our earlier podcast about Grangemouth here ; https://youtu.be/_LR03vyoS4M Watch the original episode on independence live here https://www.youtube.com/live/OtoQ2COpuUI?si=-wyx49aQ-rw_F3LN 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

In this episode of The Officials Explain, Ed and Will dive into the sharp shift in the North Sea physical market and what it means for CFD structure. With dated Brent softening fast and CFD spreads flipping into contango, the team lays out why this matters far beyond just the North Sea. They unpack:The collapse in physical differentials—and what Trafigura's exit revealsWhy Midland and Forties flows are flooding the windowThe impact of Grangemouth's closure and rising deliverable barrelsWhat a weakening front-end CFD curve signals for refiners and hedgersHow global dynamics—from Murban gluts to Iranian barrels—are reshaping spreads This episode is a must-watch for anyone trading or managing exposure to Brent-linked pricing. All the trades discussed are live on Onyx Markets, where you can practice, simulate, or dive in. Visit https://onyxmarkets.co.uk/ 

The Ordinary Elite is a Scottish podcast brought to you from Glasgow by John McGovern and Mike Dailly. Both are Solicitor Advocates - John a criminal defence lawyer and Mike a civil litigation practitioner and social justice campaigner. In our 5th episode of Season 5, we examine Scotland's energy policy with Dr. Ewan Gibbs. Ewan is a lecturer in Global Inequalities at the University of Glasgow, specializing in Economic and Social History. With Scotland's last refinery no longer refining oil at Grangemouth from 29 April this year, we ask has the renewable energy transition been just for workers and communities in Scotland?

Peter Capaldi – aka Malcolm Tucker, Dr Who, the universal screen delight and an Oscar-winning film director – was the singer in the punk band the Dreamboys in the late ‘70s who put out a single when he was at the art school in Glasgow. And then became an actor. And then - in the grand tradition of actors who've made albums, Hugh Laurie, Scarlett Johansson, Jeff Bridges and Keanu Reeves among them – released St Christopher in 2021. He's just recorded a second, Sweet Illusions, and talks to us in this extremely funny and entertaining pod about … … how his sole motivation was “a burning desire to be on the telly”. … the difference between fronting bands and being in plays. … how he grievously stitched up support band the Cocteau Twins at a gig in Grangemouth. … a teenage love of Slade - “a bit terrifying but still a bit safe”. … first-hand evidence of the connection between Blakey from On the Buses, Adolph Hitler and Beatles. … “you have to write a hundred songs before you can write a good one”. … arriving at art school in '76 a Neil Young fan and his overnight transformation – “peroxide hair, PVC trousers and bright red crepe sole shoes”. … seeing Simple Minds at the Mars Bar in Glasgow, Jim Kerr with his Shakespearian haircut, “strange, powerful, imaginative, post-glam”. … forming the Dreamboys and “trying to be big, clever and Kafka-esque”. … the stigma of being virtually the only band in Glasgow not to get a John Peel session. … writing the “bizarro pulp” lyrics for the Dreamboys – “we couldn't decide if we were the Cramps or Talking Heads”. … what's required, “apart from a terrible Scouse accent”, in playing John Lennon onstage and George Harrison onscreen. … auditioning (comedian, actor, TV host) Craig Ferguson as the band's drummer.   … how Bill Forsyth launched his acting career: “one minute you're supporting Altered Images, the next in a movie with Burt Lancaster”. … forming a duo with Keanu Reeves when filming Dangerous Liaisons in Paris – powdered wigs in the daytime, guitar/bass punk-thrash at night. .. the romantic Edward Hopper charm of Glasgow in the ‘70s - proto-goths, street lights, rain. … how Dr Robert of the Blow Monkeys and four months filming The Suicide Squad in Atlanta spurred him into writing songs.   … the greatest record of all time. Order the Sweet Illusions album here:https://shop.lastnightfromglasgow.com/products/peter-capaldi-sweet-illusions-vinyl-lp-cd-lossless-dlHelp us to keep the conversation going by joining our global Patreon community: https://www.patreon.com/wordinyourear Get bonus content on Patreon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Peter Capaldi – aka Malcolm Tucker, Dr Who, the universal screen delight and an Oscar-winning film director – was the singer in the punk band the Dreamboys in the late ‘70s who put out a single when he was at the art school in Glasgow. And then became an actor. And then - in the grand tradition of actors who've made albums, Hugh Laurie, Scarlett Johansson, Jeff Bridges and Keanu Reeves among them – released St Christopher in 2021. He's just recorded a second, Sweet Illusions, and talks to us in this extremely funny and entertaining pod about … … how his sole motivation was “a burning desire to be on the telly”. … the difference between fronting bands and being in plays. … how he grievously stitched up support band the Cocteau Twins at a gig in Grangemouth. … a teenage love of Slade - “a bit terrifying but still a bit safe”. … first-hand evidence of the connection between Blakey from On the Buses, Adolph Hitler and Beatles. … “you have to write a hundred songs before you can write a good one”. … arriving at art school in '76 a Neil Young fan and his overnight transformation – “peroxide hair, PVC trousers and bright red crepe sole shoes”. … seeing Simple Minds at the Mars Bar in Glasgow, Jim Kerr with his Shakespearian haircut, “strange, powerful, imaginative, post-glam”. … forming the Dreamboys and “trying to be big, clever and Kafka-esque”. … the stigma of being virtually the only band in Glasgow not to get a John Peel session. … writing the “bizarro pulp” lyrics for the Dreamboys – “we couldn't decide if we were the Cramps or Talking Heads”. … what's required, “apart from a terrible Scouse accent”, in playing John Lennon onstage and George Harrison onscreen. … auditioning (comedian, actor, TV host) Craig Ferguson as the band's drummer.   … how Bill Forsyth launched his acting career: “one minute you're supporting Altered Images, the next in a movie with Burt Lancaster”. … forming a duo with Keanu Reeves when filming Dangerous Liaisons in Paris – powdered wigs in the daytime, guitar/bass punk-thrash at night. .. the romantic Edward Hopper charm of Glasgow in the ‘70s - proto-goths, street lights, rain. … how Dr Robert of the Blow Monkeys and four months filming The Suicide Squad in Atlanta spurred him into writing songs.   … the greatest record of all time. Order the Sweet Illusions album here:https://shop.lastnightfromglasgow.com/products/peter-capaldi-sweet-illusions-vinyl-lp-cd-lossless-dlHelp us to keep the conversation going by joining our global Patreon community: https://www.patreon.com/wordinyourear Get bonus content on Patreon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Peter Capaldi – aka Malcolm Tucker, Dr Who, the universal screen delight and an Oscar-winning film director – was the singer in the punk band the Dreamboys in the late ‘70s who put out a single when he was at the art school in Glasgow. And then became an actor. And then - in the grand tradition of actors who've made albums, Hugh Laurie, Scarlett Johansson, Jeff Bridges and Keanu Reeves among them – released St Christopher in 2021. He's just recorded a second, Sweet Illusions, and talks to us in this extremely funny and entertaining pod about … … how his sole motivation was “a burning desire to be on the telly”. … the difference between fronting bands and being in plays. … how he grievously stitched up support band the Cocteau Twins at a gig in Grangemouth. … a teenage love of Slade - “a bit terrifying but still a bit safe”. … first-hand evidence of the connection between Blakey from On the Buses, Adolph Hitler and Beatles. … “you have to write a hundred songs before you can write a good one”. … arriving at art school in '76 a Neil Young fan and his overnight transformation – “peroxide hair, PVC trousers and bright red crepe sole shoes”. … seeing Simple Minds at the Mars Bar in Glasgow, Jim Kerr with his Shakespearian haircut, “strange, powerful, imaginative, post-glam”. … forming the Dreamboys and “trying to be big, clever and Kafka-esque”. … the stigma of being virtually the only band in Glasgow not to get a John Peel session. … writing the “bizarro pulp” lyrics for the Dreamboys – “we couldn't decide if we were the Cramps or Talking Heads”. … what's required, “apart from a terrible Scouse accent”, in playing John Lennon onstage and George Harrison onscreen. … auditioning (comedian, actor, TV host) Craig Ferguson as the band's drummer.   … how Bill Forsyth launched his acting career: “one minute you're supporting Altered Images, the next in a movie with Burt Lancaster”. … forming a duo with Keanu Reeves when filming Dangerous Liaisons in Paris – powdered wigs in the daytime, guitar/bass punk-thrash at night. .. the romantic Edward Hopper charm of Glasgow in the ‘70s - proto-goths, street lights, rain. … how Dr Robert of the Blow Monkeys and four months filming The Suicide Squad in Atlanta spurred him into writing songs.   … the greatest record of all time. Order the Sweet Illusions album here:https://shop.lastnightfromglasgow.com/products/peter-capaldi-sweet-illusions-vinyl-lp-cd-lossless-dlHelp us to keep the conversation going by joining our global Patreon community: https://www.patreon.com/wordinyourear Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Fiona, Marlene and Lynne as they look back at everything April threw their way - from local activism to international campaigning.   In this NOT-a-livestream episode, the trio break down their month, share behind the scenes stories and react to standout moments from Holyrood and Westminster. Subscribe for sharp chat, smart laughs and solid political insight - even when it's pre-recorded! Key themes included are:  00:00:19   Believe in Scotland's litter picking campaign 00:02:27   Yes4EU's Brussels delegation 00:07:00    Electoral Reform Society's Scottish Spring conference 00:12:14    Scottish election study polling 00:20:14    Dave Doogan takes on Starmer 00:21:53     Stephen Flynn on Grangemouth v Scunthorpe 00:24:41     Sarah Sultana calls out Rachel Reeves 00:25:50     Downie at the bottom of the barrel 00:27:41     Holyrood petitions committee considers the ICCPR 00:34:57     Angus Robertson unconvincing on independence 00:38:26     Tories digging for dirt get put back in their box 00:46:20      Democratic senator Jon Ossoff in the lion's den 00:49:49      Poundshop Trump gets the Led by Donkeys treatment 00:53:08     More dates for your diary in May Get tickets for Yes4EU's Europe Day Event here (in person and online options)  https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/scotland-in-the-eu-good-for-scotland-good-for-europe-tickets-1279560011439 Find our podcast about the ICCPR here https://scottishindypod.scot/all-scottish-independence-podcasts-episodes/iccpr-claiming-our-rights/ Find out more about the Scottish Election Study here https://scottishelections.ac.uk/ 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 Industrial Cinematic by Kevin MacLeod  

This week Scotland's only oil refinery ceased production, prompting outrage from unions that forecast the "wrath" of voters in next year's Holyrood election, European supermajors BP and Equinor unveiled their Q1 results and Octopus Energy's CEO defended his zonal pricing views.  Up first, Aberdeen features lead Ryan Duff discusses the closure of Grangemouth's oil refinery and its political ramifications, while news reporter Mathew Perry asks about the implications for the Acorn CCS project which is yet to see certainty. With the Scotland carbon capture project caught in limbo questions are asked of the future of Scottish industry.  Renewables reporter Michael Behr has been the man on the markets this week as he kept an eye on Equinor and BP's books. The Energy Voice Out Loud presenting trio play a game of Good News, Bad News and they debate whether the first quarter reports were positive or as one analyst said, "disappointing". Finally, Energy Voice has been at the Innovation zero conference in the capital as London correspondent Jessica Davies chats with Octopus Energy CEO Greg Jackson as he defended his views on zonal pricing. He has been a supporter of the structure that will see Scotland's energy prices plummet, however, others have said that the move would impact the economic viability of wind projects in the country. 

This week we look at energy failure in Spain and Portugal; fires in South Africa and Israel; the end of Grangemouth in Scotland; The Rest is History on the Rolling Stones; Comedy and cancer of Milton Jones; the controversy around Kneecap; Qatar and China buying US universities; Extremist journalist used by the BBC; Taylor Lorenz and Luigi Mangioni;  Oh Canada and its new globalist leader; the loudest noise in history; US Christians reject the Trinity; URC church rejects the Scriptures; Dawkins rejects Reason; Debating Stephen Law; Feedback and Psalm 29 -with music from the Proclaimers, the Rolling Stones, Kneecap and Matt Redman

Alexander Brown and David Bol discuss Tony Blair losing faith on Net Zero, the closure of Grangemouth, and Maggie Chapman keeping her place on the Equalities Committee. Plus, David sits down with Roz Foyer at the Scottish Trades Union Congress. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The STUC's Roz Foyer joins us in Dundee where union members held their annual congress. Roz sets out the big challenges ahead for jobs, the decline of Grangemouth refinery, higher education and the future of the economy. She reflects on speeches to union members from First Minister John Swinney and Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar. And she warns Labour in particular have not lived up to promises at last year's election, saying she wanted to hear some more 'humility' from the party leader.

Daily Record Political Editor Paul Hutcheon is joined by Sunday Mail Political Editor Hannah Rodger and Scottish Express Digital Editor Douglas Dickie on the Planet Holyrood podcast to discuss John Swinney and Anas Sarwar's flatly received speeches at STUC, the closure of Grangemouth after almost 100 years of refining oil, and the approach of a Holyrood vote on assisted dying. Host: Paul Hutcheon Producer: Molly Finlay Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Westminster was recalled last Saturday for and an emergency bill to save British Steel's Scunthorpe plant became law. It took around six and a half hours in total for Parliament to pass the legislation and the King to approve it.  Sir Keir Starmer said "We are acting to protect the jobs of thousands of workers, and all options are on the table to secure the future of the industry".We ask where was this urgency and commitment over Grangemouth, and Port Talbot steel works.Lesley questions the casual way every commentator accepts that energy prices in Britain are 50% higher than Germany and double the price of the United States. Ofgem has announced a change in the queuing regulations for wind and solar farms to eliminate so called "Zombie projects" and speed up the process of getting real projects up and running. Great news but have we been here before?Find Out Now has released results from an opinion poll carried out for The National  showing a rise in support for Scottish independence. We drill down into the poll and its potential significance.Ash Regan of Alba has issued a call for a cross party pro independence convention before next year's Holyrood elections. We look at the response from the SNP and the Greens.Meanwhile the Greens appear to be caught up in internecine conflict which doesn't seem to have been calmed down by its recent conference.The 15th of April is the 36th anniversary of the Hillsborough disaster which saw 97 Liverpool football supporters losing their lives.Starmer promised that the Hillsborough Law would be enacted by today. What was in that draft law? What has stalled its progress? What does the failure tell us about this Labour government and Starmer?Pat is still recovering from the nerve shredding final round of The Masters golf in Augusta and his beloved Dundee United achieving a top 6 finish in their first season back in the top flight. This doesn't stop him from talking about them both though and wondering why sport can grip even the most rational of us so fiercely.There's still a chance to catch Lesley's Denmark movie. To check out where it's showing click the link belowhttps://lesleyriddoch.com/events ★ Support this podcast ★

Le pétrole, le charbon et le gaz proviennent de la décomposition, sur des millions d'années, des forêts et des micro-organismes qui couvraient la planète. Depuis plus de 150 ans, nous les exploitons sans relâche pour alimenter notre électricité, nos transports et notre agriculture. Mais les gisements les plus accessibles et rentables s'épuisent, tandis que leur combustion libère des gaz à effet de serre perturbant notre climat. Il est donc temps, malgré les résistances comme celles de Donald Trump, de nous désintoxiquer. Mais comment y parvenir ? Donald Trump a signé mardi des décrets, entourés de mineurs en tenue de chantier, destinés à « doper » l'extraction de charbon aux États-Unis. Ces textes, ratifiés par le président, prévoient de lever les barrières réglementaires à l'extraction de charbon, et de suspendre les fermetures de nombreuses centrales à charbon pour « plus que doubler » leur production d'électricité, notamment pour répondre à l'essor de l'intelligence artificielle. Nous parlons de notre dépendance aux énergies fossiles avec Francis Perrin, directeur de recherches à l'IRIS (l'Institut des relations internationales et stratégiques) et chercheur associé au Policy Center for the New South, un centre de réflexion basé à Rabat, au Maroc.Puis, nous vous emmenons en Écosse, où l'an dernier la production de pétrole en mer du Nord a atteint son plus bas niveau depuis les années 70. Cependant, les projets d'énergies renouvelables, notamment dans l'éolien, peinent à se concrétiser. La fermeture de la raffinerie de Grangemouth cet été suscite des inquiétudes, avec des salariés espérant une reconversion vers la recherche ou la production de carburants verts. La transition énergétique met en péril les emplois et l'économie de toute la région. Reportage de Thomas Harms.Musique diffusée pendant l'émission : Franz Ferdinand – Build it up

Le pétrole, le charbon et le gaz proviennent de la décomposition, sur des millions d'années, des forêts et des micro-organismes qui couvraient la planète. Depuis plus de 150 ans, nous les exploitons sans relâche pour alimenter notre électricité, nos transports et notre agriculture. Mais les gisements les plus accessibles et rentables s'épuisent, tandis que leur combustion libère des gaz à effet de serre perturbant notre climat. Il est donc temps, malgré les résistances comme celles de Donald Trump, de nous désintoxiquer. Mais comment y parvenir ? Donald Trump a signé mardi des décrets, entourés de mineurs en tenue de chantier, destinés à « doper » l'extraction de charbon aux États-Unis. Ces textes, ratifiés par le président, prévoient de lever les barrières réglementaires à l'extraction de charbon, et de suspendre les fermetures de nombreuses centrales à charbon pour « plus que doubler » leur production d'électricité, notamment pour répondre à l'essor de l'intelligence artificielle. Nous parlons de notre dépendance aux énergies fossiles avec Francis Perrin, directeur de recherches à l'IRIS (l'Institut des relations internationales et stratégiques) et chercheur associé au Policy Center for the New South, un centre de réflexion basé à Rabat, au Maroc.Puis, nous vous emmenons en Écosse, où l'an dernier la production de pétrole en mer du Nord a atteint son plus bas niveau depuis les années 70. Cependant, les projets d'énergies renouvelables, notamment dans l'éolien, peinent à se concrétiser. La fermeture de la raffinerie de Grangemouth cet été suscite des inquiétudes, avec des salariés espérant une reconversion vers la recherche ou la production de carburants verts. La transition énergétique met en péril les emplois et l'économie de toute la région. Reportage de Thomas Harms.Musique diffusée pendant l'émission : Franz Ferdinand – Build it up

In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, the hosts assess the latest developments in Scottish politics, focusing on Nicola Sturgeon's recent legal relief amidst ongoing investigations into SNP finances. They discuss the public's reaction to Sturgeon's situation, her legacy, and the trust issues facing the SNP. The conversation also touches on Anas Sarwar's surprising new stance on energy policy, Douglas Ross's departure from Holyrood, and the dynamics within the Tory party regarding net zero policies. We also consider the future of the Grangemouth complex in Scotland, particularly in light of its potential closure and the impact on jobs. The conversation highlights the Acorn carbon capture and storage project as a critical component for decarbonising Scotland's industrial sector. The guests discuss the political support for the project, the maturity of carbon capture technology, and the significant economic and job creation potential associated with the Acorn project. We're joined by Nic Braley who leads the Acorn project. Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/holyroodsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With the stench of rebellion hanging around the tearooms of SW1 after ministers announced fresh welfare cuts, this week host Patrick Baker explores the backbench revolts of years past, asking how disobedient MPs really plan and plot against their own parties. Veteran Tory MP David Davis describes how he and other rebels defeated David Cameron's plans to bomb Syria almost by accident — and offers tips on shutting down confrontational government enforcers, or chief whips. Christopher Howarth, a secretive member of the European Research Group of Eurosceptic Tory MPs, was instrumental in defeating Theresa May's EU deal during the Brexit wars. He describes countering the cunning tactics of a Downing Street operation desperately trying to quell rebellions, and how he spotted a loophole in Tory rules that led to May's resignation.  POLITICO senior political correspondent Annabelle Dickson has been gauging the mood among angry would-be Labour rebels — and hearing why some are feeling disillusioned with the direction of their party.  One of those certain to rebel in a Commons vote on welfare is the Labour MP for Alloa and Grangemouth in Scotland, Brian Leishman, who explains why he's appalled at the cuts to benefits.  But rebels beware: Tony Blair's former no-nonsense chief whip Hilary Armstrong recalls threatening badly behaved MPs with being sent to work on obscure infrastructure committees unless they toed the line. But she insists the best way to deal with rebels — who Blair called his "little darlings" — is a "softly, softly" approach. And Blair's former political secretary John McTernan, sets out why he believes the huge new intake of Labour MPs might be more prone to rebellion and says the current rancor poses a bigger question for the party. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, the Energy Voice Out Loud team have been out and about to bring you the first word in UK energy. It's been a big week for GB Energy, with its first board meeting up in Aberdeen. Jessica Mills Davies, Mat Perry and Michael Behr discuss the proposed state-owned energy company's ambitions and what it will take to deliver on them. Reporter Mat recently travelled to Italy to learn more about the country's efforts to become a world leader in floating offshore wind, and what it might mean for UK firms". And at DeCarbScotland, Michael caught up with Storegga to talk about their Acorn Carbon Capture and Storage development and how it helps underpin the Scottish Cluster of projects and the proposed renovation of Grangemouth.

Alistair Grant, Rachel Amery, David Bol and Alexander Brown discuss the UK Government's welfare reform plans and the future of Grangemouth. Plus, The Scotsman's education correspondent Calum Ross details the crisis facing Dundee University after an extraordinary committee session in the Scottish Parliament. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The UK energy industry has reached a critical stage of the transition: at stake is the fate of tens of thousands of workers across the UK, including in the North Sea and Grangemouth, who have the skills to deliver the clean energy of the future. Tune in to the first ever episode of Energy Voice Live, where a live audience interacts with expert panellists who discuss how industry and government have just a few short months to shore up a plan that will close the gap between energy jobs now and those of the future. Chaired by Energy Voice news editor Erikka Askeland, hear Nick Dunn, chief executive of Peterhead-based energy services firm Score, and Professor Paul de Leeuw from the Robert Gordon University Energy Transition Institute highlight why we need to tell more people about the “biggest replumbing, rewiring, repurposing” of the energy system in the world.  

The Energy Voice crew are back in the studio, as Ryan, Mathew and Michael sit down to discuss an increasingly shaky energy transition. Case in point – BP and its recent decision to slash low-carbon investment by $5bn. They said went “too far too fast,” in its shift to renewable energy. Now the company is reevaluating its commitment to clean energy and refocusing on its core oil and gas business. We also chatted with Cameron Sword – he caught our attention when he put some pointed questions to Michael Shanks during a BBC Debate Night, so we spoke with him about his thoughts on the future of the energy sector. And to wrap things up, Mat talks about the latest manoeuvres to create a future for Grangemouth and save 400 jobs. But can clean energy, be it sustainable aviation fuel, hydrogen or carbon capture create a business case for the facility?

This week's episode focuses mainly on the rapidly changing shape of international relations under the influence of the Trump administration.Keir Starmer made a major speech at Westminster signalling an increase in defence spending from 2.3 to 2.6% from 2027 onwards. This at the expense of aid and development. We analyse the speech and how he sought to secure not only support in the Commons but across the nation.Starmer flies out to meet Trump on Thursday in the wake of the USA siding with Russia at the United Nations over the war in Ukraine. How will he handle this? What does the UK's abstention in the UN Security Council vote tell us about this? In Germany the CDU/CSU became the largest party after the recent elections. However the far right AfD surged into second place. Will Merz, the leader of the CDU be able to form a coalition with the Social Democrats? Do his outspoken statements on Trump, NATO and Russia mean a complete change in pan European defence and security policy?Anas Sarwar claimed that the £200 million pound "investment" by the National Wealth Fund had secured the future of Grangemouth and showed the benefit of a Labour government. We subject both those statements to scrutiny.Along the way we look at the threat of AI legislation to the creative industries, Michael Shanks on Eigg, and biscuits. ★ Support this podcast ★

Benjamin Netanyahu says southern Syria must be demilitarized, Friedrich Merz claims victory in Germany's elections, Volodymyr Zelenskyy praises the “heroism” of Ukrainians on third anniversary the war with Russia, Over 7K have reportedly been killed in Eastern DRC fighting this year, Sudan's RSF forms a parallel government, Sir Keir Starmer announces a £200M investment for Scotland's Grangemouth industrial site, Federal unions sue DOGE over its recent email, President Trump names Dan Bongino as FBI Deputy Director, The Trump admin. cuts thousands of USAID jobs, Apple pledges $500B in US Investment, and internet shutdowns hit a global record high in 2024. Sources:  www.verity.news

A bonus podcast episode from Rising Clyde, the Scottish Climate Justice Show.   Host Iain Bruce discusses the potentially unjust transition of workers at Grangemouth following the announcement that over 400 redundancy notices are being issued by refinery operator Petroineos.  Iain's guests are Rosie Hampton of Friends of the Earth Scotland and Ewan Gibbs, historian of industry, energy and protest at the University of Glasgow with contributions from Chris Hamilton, Unite convenor at the plant, aviation engineer Finlay Asher of Safe Landing and Lewis Conroy, one of five climate protestors from this is Rigged, up for trial for occupying part of the plant in 2023   #grangemouth #justtransition #petroineos  You can also watch the video version of this episode here  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  

I support Tory MSP Liz Smith is the bombshell from Lesley. Has Lesley lost it or has Liz finally come up with a proposal on outdoor education that all sensible Scots can rally behind? We discuss.Turning from the Tories it's been another helluva week for both UK and Scottish Labour.Is UK Labour running so scared after the latest polls that it's aping Reform in policies and media messaging?Meanwhile a gloves off doorstep interview with Anas Sarwar by STV's Colin Mackay over Sarwar's pre-election pledges on Grangemouth, has made it a difficult week for the Scottish Labour leader. There also appears to have been a rethink by the party hierarchy over its 2026 election strategy with a pledge( yup more of these) to "protect" the achievements of "devolution" such as free prescriptions, the baby box, free tuition. As UK Labour apes Reform is Scottish Labour doing the same with the SNP ?Sarwar, at the end of the Mackay car crash piece, reiterated Labour support for the expansion of nuclear energy in Scotland to tackle climate change, provide jobs and ( wait for this one) reduce bills. Lesley has a few thoughts on this.The latest headlines suggest that the Scottish Government is, finally, set on creating a "fairer","better" system of local taxation. Do its actions match the headline?There's all the usual stuff plus more on Sustainable Aviation Fuel, a movie review and wisdom teeth extractions. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this interview we recorded at COP29, Professor Hugh Hunt speaks with UK Climate Change Committee Chair, Piers Forster. [Order 'COPOUT - How governments have failed the people on climate' by Nick Breeze] Piers clearly asserts that Carbon Capture and Storage technologies (CCS), that are forecast to remove emissions from so-called hard-to-abate sectors like aviation and steel, will not be enough to offset the damage causing carbon pollution. Whether CCS is viable at any meaningful scale remains highly uncertain. At a time when global heating is accelerating and the destructive impacts, such as fires and floods, are making much of the planet uninsurable, phasing out fossil fuels and reducing carbon pollution has never been a more serious issue. Forster also responds to questions related to Al Gore calling CCS a fraud and whether the UK is anywhere near prepared for the more extreme climate impacts that are coming towards us.  The UK must take phasing out fossil fuels and protecting nature seriously, to send a signal that we are truly out of the extractive and destructive 20th century mindset that has become an existential threat. Thanks for listening. Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) in UK Decarbonisation Piers Forster confirmed that CCS plays a role in the UK's net-zero strategy, particularly for difficult-to-decarbonise industries and sectors like aviation, which faces major challenges in reducing emissions. He emphasised that "you can't get there all the way with carbon capture and storage," making it clear that reducing emissions must remain the priority. The UK government has earmarked £22 billion for CCS over 25 years, mainly to support two industrial clusters, ensuring a "just transition" without shutting down key industries like Port Talbot and Grangemouth. Response to Al Gore's Accusation that CCS “… is a fraud!” When asked about Al Gore calling CCS a "fraud," Forster acknowledged concerns, stating, "it depends on the context." He explained that CCS should not be used to justify fossil fuel expansion but should be reserved for sectors with no viable alternatives. "As soon as you say you want to use it for generating electricity, that's not a good use of it at all," he said, advocating for renewables like wind and solar instead. UK Preparedness for Extreme Weather Forster was clear about the UK's lack of readiness: "We are absolutely not prepared. We should be. We are encouraging the government to really think about climate resilience, just as it thinks about reducing its emissions.” He stressed the need for urgent action to protect infrastructure, homes, and lives from increasing climate risks.

SNP Westminster leader Stephen Flynn MP will introduce a 10 Minute Rule Bill on WASPI women compensation on which the SNP say they will force a vote. Even if it makes it past this stage it has limited, if no chance, of being implemented as Private Members Bills normally require government support to pass. What then does Stephen Flynn hope to achieve?Just as there seems to be dissent in Labour ranks both at Holyrood and Westminster over this issue Labour MP Brian Leishman has been extremely vocal over the future of Grangemouth. Is there more to his opposition than standing up for his constituents? Where do the Unions stand ? Why has a Labour government decided to continue with the Tory £600 billion loan to Ineos to set up a plant in Antwerp? What's the controversy surrounding that plant?Just like its U-Turn on WASPI women Labour now seems intent on reversing its position on a third runway at Heathrow. What does this, when allied to Rachel Reeves making concessions after listening to the "non dom community" tell us about the direction of travel of this government?Meanwhile the Trump "revolution" is in full swing in the USA. Deportations, threats of trade wars against nations who stand up to him, plans to take over Greenland, and a raft of distinctly dodgy health decisions.  He has also shown his true colours on Gaza with his "  we just clean out that whole thing" , and relocate one and half million Palestinians to neighbouring Arab nations. We discuss.Lesley has updated her YouTube channel with two short films on Iceland and (soon) a Greenland (explainer) - if you can like and subscribe to this channel, I'd be very grateful and you will get notified about new videos as soon as they are posted. https://www.youtube.com/@Lesley_Riddoch If you want to see/listen to the podcast on YouTube follow this link. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLWnxyoRlJxfMqJInR8kGf5iuVGThuEpL2Again like and subscribe thanks. ★ Support this podcast ★

Welcome to the PoliticsJOE Podcast.2024 has seen the continued closure of the industries that once fuelled the British economy. Ava and Laura discuss the towns they visited this year - from Grangemouth's oil refinery to Port Talbot's Steelworks - and what the future may hold for them.Presenters: Ava Santina and Laura BeveridgeProducer: Laura BeveridgeSting design: Chris WhiteProduction: Sam Sharrocks Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

First Minster John Swinney MSP takes questions from party leaders and other MSPs in this weekly question time. Topics covered this week included, when the Scottish Government last met with Ineos or Petroineos to discuss the refinery at Grangemouth, and road safety.

The impending closure of Grangemouth, one of the last six refineries in the UK, raises urgent questions about the future of Europe's refining landscape as profitability declines. Our experts examine the challenges facing the European downstream sector, including evolving supply chains and the impact of energy transition trends. In this Oil Markets podcast episode, join host Herman Wang, Elza Turner and Kelly Norways as they discuss the potential for further refinery shutdowns and the critical shifts shaping oil markets across the continent. Links:Energy Security Sentinel™ ULSD 10ppmS FOB ARA Barge - AAJUS00 Gasoline Prem Unleaded 10ppmS FOB AR Barge - PGABM00 Dated Brent - PCAAS00 Petroineos to close Scotland's Grangemouth refinery Q2 2025 (subscriber content) Mediterranean refiners cut runs due to margin squeeze (subscriber content) REFINERY NEWS ROUNDUP: SAF in focus in Asia, Europe (subscriber content) REFINERY NEWS ROUNDUP: Maintenance, closures, incidents in Europe (subscriber content) REFINERY NEWS ROUNDUP: Maintenance picks up in Asia-Pacific (subscriber content)

As Labour feels the heat over Keir Starmer's freebies scandal, there's a sense of glee in Tory party circles now the "holier-than-thou" party has something of a mess to clean up. Ed Balls and George Osborne mull how the government can reset their image, especially now the Sue Gray pay row is also threatening to rain on Starmer's conference parade ....Across the benches they reflect on the celebratory Liberal Democrat conference and whether the party has finally gotten over Nick Clegg. Could they be a thorn in the side for Labour and the Conservatives?Plus, amid the closure of the Grangemouth oil refinery they examine the dilemma Energy Secretary Ed Miliband faces in appeasing Labour's Scottish vote and upholding their climate pledges. Become a member of POLITICAL CURRENCY GOLD

Scotland's only oil refinery is set to close, and the winter fuel payments row continues. Petroineos have confirmed Grangemouth will close next year, putting at threat hundreds of jobs at the UK's oldest refinery, with First Minister John Swinney saying he was "deeply disappointed" at the news. The First Minister also faces the prospect of a stand-off over the Scottish Government's next budget, after the Government were defeated in a Holyrood vote over free school meals. Labour also saw its first defeat in the Commons, but successfully won its vote on its plans to remove winter fuel payments from 10 million pensioners in England and Wales. Where does a week of belt-tightening and bleak warnings leave the two Governments? The Podlitical team discuss this and more.

The First Minister takes questions from Members. Topics covered this week included the closure of the Grangemouth oil refinery, a Just Transition, and the reported rise in hospice care costs.   Transcripts are available on our website: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report/search-what-was-said-in-parliament   

The Prime Minister Keir Starmer is travelling to meet US President Joe Biden in Washington DC as momentum grows to permit Ukraine to fire Western long-range missiles into Russia. On the eve of the trip, Russian President Vladimir Putin said he would treat any such development as NATO participation in the war. But Starmer told journalists, "Russia started this conflict... Russia can end this conflict straight away."Scotland's only oil refinery is to close by the summer of next year, with the loss of 400 jobs. Petroineos said the closure of Grangemouth was due to it being unable to compete with sites in Asia, Africa and the Middle East. What does it mean for the so-called "just transition" to Net Zero?And an American athlete has smashed the world record for the fastest woman to circumnavigate the world on a bicycle.

With the election aftershocks settling, what does the "new normal" in politics look like? As MPs finish being sworn in after several days, the shape of the House of Commons sees an emboldened Labour and a much diminished Conservatives and SNP. With Ian Murray MP announced as the new Scotland secretary, what does this new office-holder and new political landscape have in store for Scotland - from Grangemouth & GB Energy to giveaways - and how might the next two years play out between Labour and the SNP as they embark on a potentially very long campaign in the lead up to the 2026 Holyrood election.