Podcasts about Holyrood

What happens when Labour breaks its biggest election promise? This week on Holyrood Sources, Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein (former Chief of Staff to Alex Salmond), and Andy Maciver (former Scottish Conservative comms director) unpack Rachel Reeves' budget gamble — and why it could reshape Scottish politics.We break down:

The Record's Chris McCall, Mark Smith and Douglas Dickie of the Express talk through the biggest stories of the week. Alex Salmond died ‘penniless' - but was renting a £7,000 London flat. John Swinney held an ‘anti-Reform' cross-party summit in April, but support for Farage up 35% cent since then. And Reeves' budget - could it hammer Labour even further? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this week's eposide we give first reactions to Rachel Reeves' speech outlining all the terrible problems of the UK which land us with some of the highest Governent borrowing costs in the world.  We look at what might lie ahead in the UK budget and discuss how Reform's economic strategies are falling off the edge at a rate of knots with the council they actually run Kent County Council looks set to increase council taxes rather than managing to save money.We also discuss the land reform legislation that was going through Holyrood last week, which seems destined to make no difference whatsoever, except to complicate things even more. All this with a sprinkling of Edinburgh trams, Highland Council's seemingly robust response to SSEN's High Votage Transmission plans, and forays into the US and New York's mayoral election. But we end (before Lesley has to run out the door) with reflections on Scottish cultre and the life of the curator Elspeth King.LinksTacking stitches - The first thing you should do when you buy a new coathttps://www.esquire.com/uk/style/a46500500/tacking-stitch-coat-jacket-vent-men/Elspeth Kinghttps://www.thenational.scot/news/25589816.former-glasgow-peoples-palace-curator-elspeth-king-dies/https://news.stv.tv/west-central/peoples-palace-curator-elspeth-king-on-becoming-the-glasgow-midden-raker - great STV interview with Elspeth King 2022.Land ReformBriefing by Andy Whitemanhttps://andywightman.scot/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/stage_3_briefing.pdfCouncil Tax (not) Reformhttps://www.commonweal.scot/articles/magazine-e2ypeEdinburgh Tramshttps://padfletcher.substack.com/p/edinburgh-council-and-its-tram-extensionPaddy Fletcher piece on economics of new edinburgh tram.  ★ Support this podcast ★

Bernard and Alex delve into one of the bigget topics of the modern political age. Why can't Westminster or Holyrood seem to manage our public finances?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.

We discuss Petrofac's fall into administration and how the services giant fell from grace, the first minister's warning about Reform UK, and Shell and Equinor's third quarter results. This week's episode features Energy Voice's Ryan Duff, Michael Behr, and Mat Perry as they give their two cents on the week's headlines. Up first, the trio discuss Petrofac's administration and delisting from the London Stock Exchange. The beleaguered Tier 1 firm ended last week on an uncertain note as TenneT ditched a deal on a European offshore wind farm, which ultimately brought to an end Petrofac's restructuring plans. However, this was just the straw that broke the camel's back; the firm has never recovered from scandal and bribery, or the costly contracts it signed around the COVID-19 pandemic. Next up, Michael tells us about John Swinney's punchy comments concerning Reform UK's renewable energy stance. The first minister claims that Scotland's renewables industry would be led to ruin under a Reform government, as he and Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar laid out their stalls for next year's Holyrood election. Finally, Mat rounds up Shell's third-quarter results as the London supermajor beats analyst expectations. This comes as the firm looks to offload its UK assets to a new independent joint venture with Equinor. Speaking of the Norwegian state-backed firm, its books didn't paint as positive a picture as Shell's. It was revealed that the assets held for sale to form the new North Sea player, Adura, had cost the firm $650 million. However, both European majors have held true to Adura opening its doors by the end of 2025.

Alistair Grant, David Bol, Rachel Amery and Andrew Quinn discuss the latest rumours and pledges on tax policy north and south of the Border. Plus, Alistair interviews Chris Birt of the Joseph Rowntree Foundation about poverty in Scotland and what the charity wants to see in the party manifestos for Holyrood 2026. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Land Reform Bill is being debated at Holyrood and members of the Scottish Parliament will be voting on what's been described as landmark legislation. If passed, the bill could allow the government to intervene in private land sales and require large estates to be broken up. The proposals are controversial with landowners and some opposition politicians. Defra has announced that an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone will come into effect in the north, central and east of England. Poultry keepers with flocks of more than 50 birds will be required to keep their birds housed. The Chief Vet says prompt action is needed to prevent further spread of the disease. Himalayan balsam is an invasive species which proliferates along riverbanks. Its spread has been very hard to control. Could a fungus hold the key to controlling it? Historic man made features that lie on farmland from ancient walls to Roman forts help form the character of our countryside. For farmers however, historic features on their land can often seem like a headache rather than something to celebrate because they need conservation standard maintenance and restoration which is expensive and requires specialist skills. Historic England's ‘Countryside Stewardship Heritage Service' wadvises farmers on how to get funding for this. We visit a farm in Cumbria where a 19th century bridge and an 18th century lime kiln are in need of some tender loving care. Presenter = Caz Graham Producer = Rebecca Rooney

The Record's Paul Hutcheon is joined by Mark Smith and 'goon from the Express' Ben Borland to discuss controversy over an army barracks plan in Inverness, The FM and Sarwar addressing the IPPR in Edinburgh and Stephen Flynn downplaying talk of replacing John Swinney. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Record's Paul Hutcheon is joined by Mark Smith and 'goon from the Express' Ben Borland to discuss controversy over an army barracks plan in Inverness, The FM and Sarwar addressing the IPPR in Edinburgh and Stephen Flynn downplaying talk of replacing John Swinney. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Des and the teams break up the week's big news. Including: the dispute between Holyrood and Westminster over the bill for Trump's visit to Scotland, a heist at the Louvre Museum in Paris, changes to some of the nation's favorite biscuits, a new threat to Scotland's green spaces, late-night talk show host Jimmy Fallon's visit to Royal Deeside and more. Lead Writer: Elaine Malcolmson Additional material: Chris Ballard, Jennifer Walker, Barry Dunstall, Archie Keen, Nathan Cowley, Gregor Paton, Mike Shephard, Cooper Mawhinney Sweryt, Rebecca Bain & Alex Garrick Wright, Duane Roft and Jon Paisley.Producer: Chris Quilietti Senior Producer: Lauren Mackay Series Producer: David Flynn Researcher: Jodie White Script Editor: Keiron NicholsonAn Eco-Audio certified Production.

Producer Todd O'Brien followed along with a petrel patrol group in Holyrood + In terms of the snow crab market in the US, seafood analyst John Sackton says the unpredictability of 2025 could carry over into 2026.

Keir Starmer has rejected the SNP over their latest indy plan, Joani Reid and Susan Aitken go to war about who is to blame for the refugee housing crisis in Glasgow and the Scottish Greens back drugs legalisation and the UK Greens gain support with Zack Polanski. Paul Hutcheon, Ben Borland and Douglas Dickie discuss the latest in Scottish Politics. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

John Swinney says 'nobody knows the tactics I will deploy' in his bid to seek a second independence referendum, and Nicola Sturgeon is backing his ‘secret plan' all the way. The Daily Record politics team discuss whether an SNP majority is likely, as well as how Rachel Reeve's upcoming budget is about to hurt Scottish Labour in the Holyrood polls. Host: Chris McCallProducer: Molly Finlay Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Let us know your views now - text us hereSamantha Baines is back as she joins Ashley Byrne and Lewis Oakley for another packed show. This time the team are discussing the Scottish bi politician whose been forced to withdraw his candidacy in the forthcoming Holyrood parliamentary elections after the Daily Mail outed him as a bi member of a swingers club. We hear about a business woman in her 50s whose doing her bit for bi awareness in Lancashire. New research suggests bi men have to be social chameleons. There's a bi journey story from Wes in Pennsylvania and two Ask a Bisexual questions - one from Jade in Hebden Bridge and another from Jamie in Leeds. And a call to action at the start of the show. We need your support. Bisexual Brunch costs to produce and we don't currently have a sponsor. Can you help us? Do you know anyone who would like to sponsor the world's most popular online bi show with listeners in every country? Could you spare a donation every month or even just a one off (big or small)? All help appreciate. See below for details of how to donate via Buy Me a Coffee.Support the show

It's not often we cover the smaller parties, but we will make an exception this episode for the laid-low Tories. A Groundhog Day alert as well as John Swinney has another indy event, but has he got anything to say? And was it right for the pro-Palestine events to take place on Tuesday? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Why is New Labour suddenly going viral on TikTok? In this week's Ex-Ministers' Questions, Ed Balls and George Osborne respond to their Gen Z fans who are remixing their greatest political moments into social media edits.With Labour conference just finished, Ed and George ask whether Keir Starmer is really a Blairite, a Brownite, or breaking with New Labour altogether. They also debate what Starmer and Rachel Reeves need to do to put Scottish Labour back in contention at the Holyrood elections next May.And before the Conservative conference begins in Manchester, George warns that the second year in opposition is always worse than the first, and sets out how the Tories and Kemi Badenoch might plot a comeback.To get episodes early and ad-free, join Political Currency Gold or the Kitchen Cabinet:

(00:05) Set-up: Tory & SNP conference week — immigration, ECHR, and whether the Conservatives are “doomed.”(01:29) Are the Tories finished short–to–medium term? Leadership vs timing and arithmetic after a crushing defeat.(03:59) What the Conservatives are trying to sell: contrition on net migration; mooted ECHR exit; welfare/PIP tightening (incl. ADHD/mental-health references).(06:49) Both main parties “dancing to Farage's tune” — the Reform UK gravitational pull on immigration policy.(08:56) “Can you out-Reform Reform?” Why the answer is no — and why growth/economic confidence is the real antidote to populism. Threats to Labour from the left (Greens/Corbyn).(11:18) Tory identity crisis: talk of repealing the Climate Change Act vs the real problem of UK power prices — headline-grabbing vs serious policy.(13:18) What are the Tories for now? From coherent Thatcherism to today's knee-jerk opposition.(16:45) Scotland: Tory revival rode the constitutional (pro-Union) wave; with independence parked, what's their offer?(19:27) A quarter-century in devolved opposition and still no centre-right blueprint for Scotland (state size, tax, business, justice, “wokery”).(23:31) Holyrood “fanning around”: dog-theft bill as a symptom; why brand toxicity blunts “common-sense Conservatism.”(26:41) SNP conference preview: independence strategy debate; polls, minorities parliament, and why activists may not “rock the boat.”(30:06) “Steady-as-you-go” Swinney: on ~35% the SNP could still be largest party (≈58–60 seats) due to fractured opposition and candidate churn.(32:23) Voter mood: if “they're all useless,” stick with “the useless ones we know” — SNP success as least-worst option.(32:56) Longevity shocker: after 19–20 years in power, SNP still in pole position; next episode trail — Donald Dewar at 25 years.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.

Det Skotske nasjonalpartiet har hatt en formidabel tilbakegang de siste årene. Tilbakegangen har først og fremst gjort seg gjeldene i britiske parlamentsvalg. I valget i 2015 vant partiet 56 av de 59 setene Skottland har i Underhuset. Ved valget i fjor, var de redusert til 9 seter. Men selv med dalende oppslutning og hyppige lederskifter de siste årene, har partiet beholdt makten i det skotske parlamentet, Holyrood. Partiet har styrt Skottland de siste 17 år, selv med kraftig tilbakegang. Hvordan kan vi forklare denne tilbakegangen? Er SNP fortsatt et parti å regne med på den britiske politiske arenaen. Hør ukas episode av Pod Britannia hvor Trine Andersen og Erik Mustad diskuterer det majestetiske fallet og håpet om gjenreising.

The Holyrood Sources podcast takes you inside the heart of Scottish politics. This week, Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein (former Chief of Staff to Alex Salmond) and Andy Maciver (former Director of Communications for the Scottish Conservatives) discuss Labour Party Conference 2025.

Sir Keir Starmer leaves Labour's party conference in Liverpool with a bold new strategy: frame the fight as Labour vs Reform UK. But is calling Nigel Farage's immigration policies “racist” a huge political risk?On this episode of Whitehall Sources, Calum Macdonald, Kirsty Buchanan (former No.10 adviser to Theresa May) and Jo Tanner (political strategist) break down:What really happened at Labour conference – and why the media narrative may differ from the inside story.The launch of Senedd Sources – completing the “Sources family” across Westminster, Holyrood, Stormont and now the Welsh Senedd.Why Wales could deliver the biggest shock of the May 2026 elections if Labour loses power for the first time.Starmer's strategy against Reform UK and Nigel Farage – smart politics or a dangerous gamble?Reform UK's rapid pushback, claiming Labour's rhetoric endangers Farage's security.How this all shapes up for Labour ahead of the looming Budget and next year's elections.

Chris McCall, Mark Smith and Ben Borland return with news and discussion from Labour's conference.  Starmer's speech pleased members, but will the wider public notice? A firm linked to Michelle Mone has been ordered to pay back £122m in a PPE scandal. Should she booted out of the Lords? And Labour have said mobile phones should be banned in schools. The SNP say it's up to headteachers. Time for a clampdown? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Scottish polling: SNP still first; Reform's rise fractures the unionist vote and could hand SNP an outsized seat haul on a modest vote share.Scottish Labour's bind: must sell a credible policy offer while “owning” SNP record attacks — but Starmer's unpopularity in Scotland limits Sarwar's room.Reform dynamic: positioned as a “super protest vote”; mainstream parties risk losing if they try to outbid Farage on immigration.Electoral system: case made for shifting Holyrood to STV to avoid disproportional outcomes under a fractured party system.Approval ratings mood: Starmer underwater; Swinney seen as safer “adult in the room,” explaining SNP resilience despite policy discontent.Immigration: small boats symbolic of border control; debate increasingly about legal migration thresholds (ILR rules, salary/English requirements).Centre ground wobble: concern that political centre is collapsing, opening space for Reform beyond traditional limits.Leadership jeopardy: Starmer's authority tied to Budget performance and spring elections; internal manoeuvring (incl. Burnham) noted.Fiscal outlook: expectation of a tax-raising Budget; VAT hike flagged as the most likely manifesto breach.Post-election arithmetic: conditional openness to SNP–Labour cooperation if both in mid-30s seats range.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.

This Week on IndyPodcasters: Dr. Philippa Whitford – The Road to Holyrood 2026 Join us for an insightful conversation with Dr. Philippa Whitford, recently retired SNP MP and long-time advocate for Scottish independence and national wellbeing. In this episode, we explore: Campaign strategies ahead of Holyrood 2026 How to effectively counter the rising threat of the far right Breaking through media barriers in Scotland The unique, world-leading wellbeing policies of the Scottish Government With decades of political and medical experience, Dr. Whitford offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the challenges and opportunities facing the independence movement today. She reflects on the successes of the Scottish government despite the limitations of Westminster control and highlights the benefits awaiting us when we have the full levers and powers of an independent country. #scottishindependence #holyrood2026 #drphilippawhitford The Indypodcasters 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 Scottish Independence Podcasts is not party political.  Opinions expressed by guests do not necessarily represent our views.

Pack your bags and maybe a liver or two because Whiskey@Work went international. From Rob's first ever trip overseas to Houston's nonstop chatter, the guys covered ground from Inverness to Edinburgh with a pit stop in London. Along the way they sipped drams at Glenfiddich, Tomatin, Benromach, GlenAllachie, Cardhu, Glen Garioch, and Holyrood. They ducked into countless pubs, wandered castles that have seen centuries of history, and braved ghost tours in bone stacked graveyards. This episode is equal parts whiskey, travel, and chaos served neat from Scotland. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer faces mounting pressure from both the left and centre of his party ahead of conference. With questions over his leadership, his political voice, and Labour's direction on key issues like energy policy, immigration, and economic growth, this episode asks:Does Starmer have the authority to unite his party?Could figures like Andy Burnham challenge him?Is Labour heading for a damaging split – or a chance to reset?Will Ed Miliband's reported U-turn on North Sea oil and gas reshape the government's energy strategy?We also compare Labour's struggles to historic SNP and Lib Dem conferences, and discuss how Reform UK is reshaping the political battlefield.Plus:Why Scottish Labour's new Westminster ministers could act as a “shadow Scottish Government” to boost Anas Sarwar's election chances.The role of Douglas Alexander as Scotland Secretary – and whether he can coordinate Labour's strategy effectively.Could Reform UK split the Tory vote enough for the SNP to win all constituency seats?Should there be a clear constitutional process for another Scottish independence referendum?Plus: the bizarre scandal of Seagullgate, which forced a minister to resign after a row with Douglas Ross.We also hear from listeners on Scottish education, independence rules, and whether Holyrood needs reform to handle the growing scale of devolved powers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alistair Grant, Rachel Amery, David Bol and Catriona Stewart discuss all the latest from Holyrood, including a historic vote overturning centuries of legal history - and an allegation of physical assault by one MSP against another. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of Holyrood Sources, Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein (former Chief of Staff to Alex Salmond) and Andy Maciver (former Scottish Conservative Head of Comms) deep dive into the week's biggest political stories.

Scotland's First Minister John Swinney has secured a rare audience in the Oval Office with President Donald Trump — a diplomatic coup that could shape both Scotland's international standing and the next Holyrood election.In this episode of Holyrood Sources, Calum Macdonald, Geoff, Andy Maciver and Ayesha Hazarika break down:Why this Oval Office meeting is such a big win for Swinney's leadership.The Scotch whisky tariffs — Scotland's largest export industry is on the line. Could Swinney negotiate a breakthrough deal with Trump?How this plays into Swinney's election strategy: “standing up for Scotland” on the world stage.The SNP's shifting position on Donald Trump — from heavy criticism to pragmatic diplomacy.Whether this actually cuts through to ordinary Scots facing the cost of living crisis.The comparison with Keir Starmer: has Swinney managed to outmanoeuvre the Prime Minister on international diplomacy?We also explore the optics of Swinney's Washington trip, the political theatre around international diplomacy, and whether this moment really elevates him as Scotland's statesman.

The Labour Party dominates this week's podcast, which might be a bit of a shock for followers of Independents, but not in a very good way for Keir Starmer. We discuss the fall out of Angela Rayner's resignation and the further collapse in confidence since the departure of the golden girl of the working class side of Labour stepped out. We look at the fall out over her stamp duty debacle on her what actually was a third residence.We also take a look at the race for the deputy leadership and what that might mean for UK Labour and for Scottish Labour's chances in next year's Holyrood election. The election campaign which will be masterminded by Douglass Alexander after poor old Ian Murray, who sacrificed life principles actually over nuclear weapons to be loyal to Keir Starmer was brutally sacked on the phone. Have a wee look at Douglas Alexander and how liked he is north of the border by his own folk.And flags and more flags from the use of the Saltire in Scotland and English politicians obsession with mentioning the Union Jack in every press conference.LinksBirthplace of Scotland's Saltire - https://saltire.scot/Public opionon Frage and Reformhttps://yougov.co.uk/politics/articles/52896-how-do-britons-see-reform-uk-ahead-of-their-2025-conference ★ Support this podcast ★

The Scottish Parliament went back to Holyrood last week for the final session before the elections in 2026.   Following the Holyrood debate on Palestine and his very welcome decision to stop giving public money to companies helping to arm Israel in the commission of a genocide,  First Minister John Swinney began today with a speech announcing the publication of the new Scotgov  paper "Your Right to Decide"   This was followed by the first FMQs of the new term. We take a look at some of the stand out moments from these events in this extra Hot Topic episode: Key moments: 00:01:24  The Scottish Government's position on Israel 00:07:20   latest successes including ending peak rail fares 00:11:40   Scotland welcomes refugees 00:16:12   Stand up to Racism protest at Knightswood 00:19:45    Refugees in Glasgow, Saltires in Maryhill 00:24:06    Self determination and the exit process 00:32:52    Rallying cry for democracy Find the new paper Your right to Decide here:https://www.gov.scot/publications/right-decide/ #scottishindependence #democracy #johnswinney The Indypodcasters 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: Industiral cinematic and Inspired by Kevin MacLeod  

Alistair Grant, David Bol and Cat Stewart discuss Holyrood's return after the summer recess. Plus, Cat gives some behind-the-scenes insights following her on-stage interview with Boris Johnson at Edinburgh's Usher Hall. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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(00:00:00) Nocturno Groove Finale - Joseph Foley (00:03:32) Embotellar independientemente (00:07:46) Viaje a Países Bajos y nacimiento de Ediciones 05 & 06 (00:16:58) Cata de Millstone Founder's Reserve Rye 2013 (00:21:33) Amsterdam, Museo de Ana Frank y encuentro con Emma (00:25:54) Cata en La Whiskería de Barcelona (00:27:41) Independent Spirits Festival y World Premiere (00:32:08) Tour en Port of Leith y Holyrood (00:37:21) Logística, aranceles y hasta la próxima (00:41:53) Pablo's Peace - Joseph Foley En esta edición especial solo, el Catador Itinerante cuenta cómo surgieron las nuevas ediciones 05 & 06 del Catador Itinerante whisky, gracias a una serie de eventos fortuitos y un viaje a Barcelona, Amsterdam y Edimburgo. Logística, aranceles, single cask whisky de Zuidam, cata en La Whiskería de Barcelona, participación del festival Independent Spirits y en el nuevo docuseries de Greg Swartz.

Made by Edinburgh: Holyrood's Bold Take on Reviving Distilling in Auld Reekie Show Notes Thank you to Rob and Calum for entering the whiskey ring!  _________________________________________________________ If you haven't joined the Patreon community yet, please consider doing so at patreon.com/whiskeyinmyweddingring The Bottle Share Club - the $25/month Patreon level - is SOLD OUT! You can still support the podcast for as little as $1/month, and $5/month patrons will have first dibs if a $25/month member retires.  If you haven't yet, please follow Whiskey in my Wedding Ring and the Whiskey Ring Podcast on Instagram and Facebook. Holyrood Distillery Holyrood Distillery Website Holyrood Distillery Facebook Holyrood Distillery Instagram Holyrood Distillery LinkedIn Holyrood Distillery Twitter/X

In this episode, David Linden, a candidate for the SNP, shares his journey and motivations for running in the upcoming Holyrood election. Having previously served as a Westminster MP, Linden discusses his return to politics after a stint in the private sector. He emphasises the importance of experienced candidates in the evolving landscape of Scottish politics, particularly as the SNP faces challenges related to independence and public service reform. Linden highlights the socio-economic issues in his constituency, Glasgow Baillieston and Shettleston, such as high unemployment and health inequalities, and underscores the need for effective communication and policy solutions to address these challenges. In his own words, his candidacy reflects a commitment to contributing to Scotland's future, both in terms of governance and the ongoing constitutional debate. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Scotsman presents The Steamie, Scotland's premier politics podcast. Join the team of experienced reporters every week as they deep dive the big issues in Holyrood and Westminster and explain exactly why they matter to people in Scotland. You can find new episodes of The Steamie wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe so you never miss an episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jamie Greene, an MSP for the West of Scotland region, defected earlier this year from the Conservatives to the Liberal Democrats. Most defections in Scotland – indeed across the UK – seem to be from the Tories to Reform, so what is behind Jamie's motivations to go in a different direction? What are his reflections on the splintering of politics, particularly in Scotland, as we look ahead to next year's Holyrood elections? And does he agree that this is shaping up to be the most consequential Scottish Parliament election of modern times? In Jamie's view, Reform have shown to struggle with power in the areas they've been successful in, but admits that the Liberal Democrats could learn from Reform in some ways. Can the Lib Dems emulate Reform's Scottish surge?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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alistair Grant, Rachel Amery, David Bol and Catriona Stewart discuss some of the big political issues in Scotland as Holyrood's summer recess draws to a close. But before that, the team discuss Jeremy Balfour MSP's decision to quit the Tories and sit as an independent. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Indypodcasters bring you the latest in the meetings hosted by campaign group Glasgow Pensioners for Independencespeaking with politicians from all pro-independence parties. This time we're joined by Cllr Anthony Carroll of the Scottish Greens for a lively and informative discussion on Scottish independence, local politics, and the road to Holyrood 2026.   The conversation dives into the Scottish Greens' vision for a greener, fairer, independent Scotland and how that feeds into local issues too. key themes and audience questions: 00:01:32  Doorstep disillusionment 00:09:06  Why renovate George Square? 00:11:24  Community energy projects 00:15:22  Community funding from windfarms 00:17:53  Zonal energy pricing 00:18:36  Working with Labour 00:21:10  Engaging the electorate 00:25:38  John Swinney's plan 00:28:55  Salvo and the UN 00:31:51  Green's manifest 2026 00:38:20  Asylum seekers housing crisis 00:40:54  Was Grangemouth closure the Green's fault? 00:45:10   Extending Glasgow's subway 00:49:49  Maxing  indy supporting MSPs Whether you're a long-time supporter or just exploring the conversation, don't miss this timely episode in the run-up to Holyrood 2026.

Today, Newscast was recorded at the Edinburgh Fringe in front of a live audience.Adam was joined by Kirsty Wark, former Newsnight host, and James Cook, Scotland editor and friend of the podcast. They chat about the BBC's decision to air the new series of Masterchef, which was filmed before hosts Gregg Wallace and John Torode were sacked, and Kirsty's role in exposing Gregg Wallace's behaviour. Plus an AI MP and what are the polls saying about Holyrood 2026?You 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 producer was Joe Wilkinson. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham

Today we welcome Mairi Gougeon to the R2Kast!

Scotland's Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes has announced she will step down at the 2026 Holyrood election. In this bonus episode of Holyrood Sources, Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein (former Chief of Staff to Alex Salmond) and Andy Maciver (former Director of Comms for the Scottish Conservatives) unpack the political shockwave.

In this powerful episode of Holyrood Sources, historian and author James Hawes explains why Scottish independence is inevitable and argues the UK has been in terminal decline since 1922.Speaking with host Calum Macdonald, Hawes discusses:Why Labour's 2024 landslide won't save the UnionThe rise of Reform UK and Nigel Farage's “naked English nationalism”The SNP's crisis — and its historical parallel with Irish nationalism after ParnellWhether the UK is becoming a modern-day Habsburg EmpireWhat a post-UK future might look like for Scotland and Ireland

Scotland's First Minister John Swinney unveiled his strategy for pursuing a second independence referendum this week, arguing that an SNP majority at next year's Holyrood elections is the only way to guarantee it. This is seen as an attempt to put Scottish independence back on the table as well as combat the rising popularity of Reform. Pollster Mark Diffley of Diffley Partnership joins Lucy Dunn to unpack the SNP's independence strategy. Mark points out that while Reform are consistently outperforming expectations, their support still primarily comes from ex-Conservatives. This, plus the unpopularity of the current UK Labour government, could provide the SNP with an opening to exploit and shore up nationalist support. Could next year's Holyrood election be the most consequential election of the devolution era so far?Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Natasha Feroze.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

As the hostilities go on between Israel and Iran we try and get beneath the "We support the right of Israel to defend itself" to why Israel decided to launch its attacks, why now , and the realities of nuclear proliferation in the region.Meanwhile a  report by the Centre For Media Monitoring has forensically examined the BBC's coverage of Gaza. The results are damning in terms of revealing BBC bias.We take a look at the spending review  not only the decisions made but especially what impact Labour's decisions may have on Scottish politics. Lesley's latest article in The National not only covers this but asks if the SNP's old attack lines are now almost gone and its claims of success belong largely to the old glory days. Will John Swinney's Scotland 2050 speech bring them back?Despite Deputy Leader Keith Brown committing to an independence convention before the Holyrood elections at the 2024 SNP Annual Conference this has now been knocked firmly on the head by Angus Robertson. Was this a mistake? The trial of Kneecap member, Mo Chara, under Section 13 of the Terrorism Act will go ahead at Westminster Magistrates' Court  tomorrow. What does this tell us about the nature of the state and its decisions on who and who not to prosecute under the Act's provisions?As per usual there's other meanderings and maybe a wee mention of the golf. ★ Support this podcast ★

Scottish Labour have a new MSP today as Davy Russell won the Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse by-election, taking the seat from the SNP. Labour won with 31.6% of the vote with the SNP second on 29.4%, Reform close behind on 26.1% and the Conservatives a distance fourth with just 6% of the vote; this marks rare good news for both Keir Starmer and Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar. Both SNP and Reform will be disappointed not to have won, but Reform have been quick to highlight how close they came, considering how new the party is. Plus, there are signs that Reform took votes away from the incumbent SNP, demonstrating again that Reform can appeal to voters across the political spectrum – what does this mean for next year's Holyrood elections? This comes as Reform reels from the resignation of its chairman Zia Yusuf last night – how much impact will this have on the party? Lucy Dunn was in Scotland for the by-election and joins James Heale, alongside former Reform strategist Gawain Towler. Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Megan McElroy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The White House has played down speculation Donald Trump and Elon Musk could recover their relationship today. There had been suggestions they could speak on the phone, but the chances of the men making up appear to be fading. Also: The leader of Scottish Labour, Anas Sarwar, has said he's confident of becoming Scotland's next first minister after securing victory in a Holyrood by-election. And David Beckham is to be awarded a knighthood.