Podcasts about Plaid Cymru

Not only do Will Cooling and Dr Luke Middup failure to adequately explain the susicipious absence of Simon Alvey MA (as if a politics podcaster has a girlfriend or active social life) they also fail to talk about their favourite leadership elections or the World Cup. Instead they witter on about what's going on in Wales or Scotland, as if anyone cares about those countries. Thankfully Will liven things up by giving detailed descriptions of both how the D'Hondt electoral system works and how he screwed over his rivals for SU Exec 2007/8. Luke tries us back on track by talking about pleasant conversations he had with a workplace colleague. Maybe in the same way the Labour Party is like a bird in that it needs both wings to flap so it can fly, this podcast is a tricycle in that we need all three wheels spinning to stay in a straight line. Plus the vehicle is being driven by children. Enjoy the podcast everyone! It is actually the best, late UK m1d-TerMz 2o2six podcast you can find. (Apologies if there's audio issues towards the end my earphones were giving way)

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.

Welsh politics has been through the electoral tumble dryer of late, but does the rise of Reform and Plaid Cymru's success herald a new beginning, or are circumstances going to clog things up? We are joined by the always-brilliant Will Hayward to look at how things are panning out in Cardiff Bay. Plus, there's a glorious Grin And Share It to help you end the week on a high. ***SPONSOR US AT ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠KO-FI.COM/QUIETRIOTPOD⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠*** • You can buy Will's books from our bookshop, here • The opening clip is from Rhod Gilbert's tremendous set • We have put together a ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠BLUESKY STARTER PACK⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, if you would like to join us there • Email us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠quietriotpod@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Or visit our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.quietriotpod.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Cover image based on a photo by Nick Russill on Unsplash Brought to you by Naomi Smith, Alex Andreou and Kenny Campbell. Quiet Riot is a Cooler Heads production. ***SPONSOR US AT ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠KO-FI.COM/QUIETRIOTPOD⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠*** Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

To allow genocide to continue: those who oppose genocide must be silenced, intimidated, threatened, repressed. https://www.crowdjustice.com/case/legal-challenge-against-the-ih/ The IHRA definition of antisemitism labels those who oppose genocide as Racists. The states perpetrating the genocide then criminalise workers for speaking out against Israeli, British and US wars and genocide. THAT is its REAL role: WE MUST CHALLENGE IT! In Britain and across the “western” NATO countries, thousands of doctors, lawyers, teachers, workers and citizens are under legal attack for defending Palestine. I was suspended after criticising Israel's actions in Gaza, and the US-Israeli and British war on Iran. Police arrested me at my home, leaving my children to look after each other. This is the third time I've been targeted by the police and I have faced multiple vexatious complaints and attacks at work - all coming from the state and the zionist lobby working hand in glove with our government. The management are complicit and collaborate in creating this politically repressive environment. In every case of police and workplace harassment, it is the “IHRA definition of antisemitism” that is being used as a benchmark to adjudicate what is “legitimate speech”. The definition was designed as a data gathering tool, and was never intended to become a law, or to be used in this way. Theresa May adopted it for the UK together with Nicola Sturgeon in 2016 without any consultation. The major political parties followed suit (including Plaid Cymru, SNP, Liberal, Labour and the Greens). It was pushed on police forces, schools and colleges, and Wes Streeting has been pushing it actively into the heart of the NHS. So now we have a situation in which existing laws (Public order act, professional regulatory frameworks, university regulations and constitutions) are being interpreted in its light, and the IHRA definition is therefore being “applied” as “law” - to silence legitimate speech on Palestine, and criticism of Israeli, US and British genocide. *How to help*: £30,000 needed for the first stage of the legal challenge

In all corners of the United Kingdom, parties that back independence are now in charge.The SNP retained control in Scotland and Plaid Cymru took power in Wales for the first time following the May elections. And, with Sinn Fein becoming the biggest party in Northern Ireland back in 2022, it now means all three devolved legislatures in the UK are led by nationalist parties.So, what's behind their rise and are there similarities between them?Niall is joined by Professor Michael Keating, Emeritus Professor of Politics at the University of Aberdeen and Fellow of the Centre on Constitutional Change at the University of Edinburgh.Have you got a question for Niall? Email the show: why@sky.uk

The new Plaid Cymru government's cabinet minister for enterprise, connectivity and energy, Adam Price joins us in the studio. As world leaders flock to Beijing for trade deals and better relations, we ask Development Reimagined's CEO, economist Hannah Ryder about the rise of China. As the selection process for candidates to the Makerfield by-election faces a few bumps, we discuss where things are with the campaign with the Liverpool Echo's political editor Liam Thorp. The Scottish first minister John Swinney is holding a vote on a motion on independence this week. Abbie Garton-Crosby from the National newspaper compares and contrasts the two different independence journeys of Wales and Scotland. And drinking in the House of Commons: Green MP Hannah Spencer wants it banned. Former Conservative chief whip Lord Hart of Tenby is with us with his view.As we continue to meet new members of the Senedd, this week it's Sarah Cooper-Lessad's turn. She's Reform's shadow cabinet minister for children, young people and skills.

In this week's extended episode, Sam and Chern breakdown the results and fallout from the local and regional elections across England, Scotland and Wales. As the UK experiences three nationalist leaders of the sub-national assemblies for the first time, how did the SNP win a fifth term in Scotland, and Plaid Cymru top the Welsh polls for the first time? How did Labour lose so badly in Wales? Where were the big Reform UK successes in England? And how long will Keir Starmer retain the premiership following a national drubbing? All these questions and more answered in this week's episode.

Plaid Cymru's Rhun ap Iorwerth has been confirmed as Wales' first minister, calling it "the greatest privilege of my life".Born in Tonteg in south-east Wales, ap Iorwerth moved to Anglesey as a young child. His father was a teacher, prominent singer and composer, and an active campaigner for Plaid Cymru. His mother was also a teacher and went on to become president of several organisations promoting the Welsh language.After graduating from Cardiff University ap Iorwerth became a journalist and spent two decades as a reporter and presenter with BBC Wales. But in 2013, following the death of his mother, he left broadcasting and successfully contested the Ynys Môn by-election, winning the Anglesey seat in the Senedd.When the Plaid Cymru leader Adam Price resigned in 2023 ap Iorwerth quickly emerged as the obvious successor for many in the party. He was elected unopposed, at the age of 50. Three years later he has become the first Welsh minister from Plaid Cymru. Presenter: Becky Milligan Producers: Annabel Deas and Bethan Ashmead Editor: Justine Lang Production Coordinators: Maria Ogundele, Sabine Schereck Sound Designer: James Beard

In a week where:Trump visits China.New York judge declares mistrial in Harvey Weinstein rape retrial.Russia and Ukraine swap 205 prisoners of war.Jury hands victory to Sam Altman and OpenAI in court battle with Elon Musk.Up to 57 individuals and 20 companies could face criminal charges over the Grenfell Tower fire disaster.In the 1st of two Politics segments: (9:08) Trump's visit to China has been and gone. It turned out to be a seminal moment in geopolitics as China blinded Trump with pomp as they made their stances known. (Article By Franklin Foer)In Life: (19:50) There are many notable places, even countries in the world that may not exist come the new millennia. One place of note is New Orleans and the powers that be are thinking of calling it a day for the historic US location. (Article By Nathan Robinson & Emily Topping)In the 2nd Politics segment: (33:29) The Welsh-centric Plaid Cymru finally made the breakthrough during Wales' elections a couple of weeks ago. And with that, Welsh independence comes closer into view. (Article By Henry Rees-Sheridan)Lastly, in Society: (48:16) Despite all the things that the working class has been through since the 2008 Financial crisis, a third of Britons believe they have changed social class! (Article By Robyn Vinter)Thank you for listening! If you want to contribute to the show, whether it be sending me questions or voicing your opinion in any way, peep the contact links below and I'll respond accordingly. Let me know "What's Good?"Rate & ReviewE-Mail: the5thelelmentpub@gmail.comTwitter & IG: @The5thElementUKWebsite: https://the5thelement.co.ukPhotography: https://www.crt.photographyIntro Music - "Too Much" By VanillaInterlude - "Charismatic" By NappyHighChillHop MusicOther Podcasts Under The 5EPN:Diggin' In The Digits5EPN RadioBlack Women Watch...In Search of SauceThe Beauty Of Independence

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.

With Andy Burnham and Wes Streeting gunning for Sir Keir Starmer's job, Labour's Lord Peter Hain explains how his party got into such a bind. Plaid Cymru's first ever Welsh government has been formed. New culture and sport minister Heledd Fychan joins us in the studio. Reform gained 34 Senedd members in last week's election. Their leader Dan Thomas tells us his plans for the seventh Senedd. Where Reform succeeded, the Conservatives failed. Why? Former Conservative secretary of state for Wales Robert Buckland has ideas what went wrong, and how to put it right. And 100 years after the 1926 general strike came to an end, reader Stephanie Ward of Cardiff University reminds us how it all unfolded, and its significance.Two new Senedd members join us to tell us all about themselves: married couple Gwyn Williams and Safa Elhassan, two of Plaid Cymru's three members for Gwyr Abertawe.

Amb la victòria del Plaid Cymru a les eleccions gal·leses, les tres grans nacions celtes del Regne Unit tenen majories nacionalistes o independentistes. Aquesta situació arriba en un moment de canvi polític també a Anglaterra, on l'extrema dreta de Reform està fent esborrar el clàssic bipartidisme britànic. Elisabet Vives, investigadora doctoral de Ciències Polítiques a la Universitat d'Edimburg

This week, as Labour reels from a brutal set of election results, Nish and Coco try to make sense of Keir Starmer's fight to stay in Downing Street, a story moving faster than political journalists can refresh their phones. They're joined by Helena, aka NoJusticeMTG, Twitch streamer, YouTuber and Novara Media contributor, to break down Labour's post-election meltdown, the rise of Reform, and whether the Greens' surge points to a more hopeful progressive future. They also dig into who might replace Starmer, from Angela Rayner to Andy Burnham and Wes Streeting.Plus, what should we take from Plaid Cymru's win in Wales, Reform's new foothold, and the Greens breaking through in places Labour once took for granted?And former Google executive Mo Gawdat joins to discuss Chasing Utopia, the new documentary asking whether AI is about to transform our lives, our politics, and possibly the future of humanity itself.Watch Mo Gawdat in Atlantic Studios new release Chasing Utopia from Friday 15th May 2026 at Everyman Cinemas. Book tickets at everymancinema.com"GUESTS Mo GawdatNoJusticeMTGUSEFUL LINKSRaphael Behr https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2026/may/13/labour-battle-of-ideas-no-10-keir-starmer-leadership  CREDITS BBC ONE: Sunday with Laura KuenssbergYoutube: Novara MediaPod Save the UK is an Intelligence Squared production for Crooked Media.Like and follow us on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@PodSavetheUKInstagram: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/podsavetheuk.crooked.comFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukX: https://x.com/podsavetheuk

Rīt, 14. maijā, sākas Savienoto Valstu prezidenta Donalda Trampa divu dienu vizīte Ķīnas Tautas republikā. Pieticīgā 9. maijā parāde Maskavā ar Ukrainas atļauju. Divpartiju dominantes beigas britu politikā. Aktualitātes analizē Austrumeiropas politikas pētījumu centra vecākā pētniece un direktora vietniece Elīna Vrobļevska un portāla "LSM.lv" ārvalstu ziņu redaktors Ģirts Kasparāns. Mastodontu tango Sākas Savienoto Valstu prezidenta Donalda Trampa divu dienu vizīte Ķīnas Tautas republikā, tiekoties ar Ķīnas kompartijas un valsts līderi Sji Dziņpinu. Kā zināms, sākotnēji šī viesošanās bija plānota jau marta beigās, taču tika atlikta, ASV un Izraēlai uzsākot militāro kampaņu pret Irānu. Tagad, pusotru mēnesi vēlāk, konflikts Persijas līcī iestrēdzis zināmā spēku līdzsvarā. Irānas jaunāko noregulējuma priekšlikumu, kas faktiski ir no uzvarētāja pozīcijām diktētu prasību saraksts, pirmdien, 11. maijā, prezidents Tramps sagaidāmi noraidīja. Tādējādi uz Pekinu Baltā nama saimnieks dodas ar Hormuza blokādi un augšupvērstām naftas cenu līknēm bagāžā. Daudzu komentētāju ieskatā Tramps ir gatavs ja ne gluži lūgt Pekinas atbalstu konflikta pieņemamai izbeigšanai, tad noteikti labprāt pieņemt tās iesaisti. Arī pati Ķīna ir nepārprotami ieinteresēta karadarbības izbeigšanā, jo tās ekonomikai rada problēmas ne vien degvielas, bet arī naftas ķīmijas produktu pieejamība. Dažu sintētiskos materiālus saturošu ķīniešu ražojumu cenas jau pieaugušas par piektdaļu. Tomēr Ķīna par savu iesaisti visdrīzāk gribēs ko pretim, un iespējamā cena ir viens no galvenajiem jautājumiem gaidāmās tikšanās sakarā. Vizītes ekonomiskā bloka fonā ir Donalda Trampa pagājušajā gadā sarīkotais „tarifu šovs”, kas notušējis reālās starpvalstu ekonomisko attiecību problēmas. Savienotajās Valstīs turpinās izmeklēšanas process par Ķīnas īstenoto negodīgo uzņēmējdarbības praksi, un šīs izmeklēšanas rezultāti var paģērēt jaunas sankcijas. Attiecīgi Pekina labprāt redzētu šo izmeklēšanu izbeigtu, savukārt Vašingtonas galvenās vēlmes saistās ar lielāku amerikāņu lauksaimniecības produkcijas importu Ķīnā. Īsta „pretstatu vienība” sasaista abus globālos ekonomikas gigantus augsto tehnoloģiju sfērā. Ķīnas centieni mākslīgā intelekta un robotu tehnikas attīstībā pagaidām nevar iztikt bez Savienotajās Valstīs ražotajām jaunākās paaudzes mikroshēmām, savukārt Pekinas „trumpis” šai spēlē ir retzemju elementi – Ķīna piegādā pasaules tirgum līdz pat 90% šo izejvielu. Un, protams, sarunas neiztiks bez Taivānas jautājuma, ko Pekina jau iezīmējusi kā savu prioritāti. Tomēr diezin vai nākas sagaidīt kādas radikālas izmaiņas de facto neatkarīgās Ķīnas daļas situācijā. Prezidents Sji varētu vēlēties skaidrāk definētu Savienoto Valstu noliegumu Taivānas valstiskās suverenitātes iespējai, taču, kā raidsabiedrībai BBC norādījis starptautiskās bezpeļņas organizācijas „Āzijas asociācija” eksperts Džons Delūrijs, Ķīnas līderis diezin vai īpaši pūlēšoties to panākt. Galu galā Donalds Tramps, pat ja šodien pateiks kādu attiecīgas ievirzes frāzi, jau pēc pāris dienām kārtējā sociālo tīklu ierakstā var deklarēt gluži pretējo. Uzvaras karodziņš pagalam padilis Vēl pirms dažiem gadiem doma, ka Ukrainas lidroboti varētu reāli apdraudēt 9. maija parādi Maskavas Sarkanajā laukumā, šķita piederīga fantastikas romānu vai anekdošu žanram. Tomēr nu Ukrainas lidrobotu arvien efektīvākā darbība arvien dziļāk Krievijas teritorijā padarījusi to par aktuālo ziņu virsrakstu tēmu. Kādu nedēļu pirms simboliskā datuma no Maskavas sāka izskanēt draudi, ka ja Ukraina uzdrošināšoties maitāt svētkus, sekošot baiss prettrieciens pa Kijivas centru. Tomēr Ukrainas piekrišanu dažu dienu pamieram galu galā panāca prezidenta Trampa telefondiplomātija, cita starpā sarunājot arī karagūstekņu apmaiņu – tūkstoti pret tūkstoti. Tā nu ikgadējais rituāls varēja notikt bez baiļu trīsām, tomēr nebijusi pieticība ir galvenais, kas tiek piesaukts aizvadīto Uzvaras dienas svinību sakarā: nekādas militārās tehnikas, nožēlojama kusla oficiālo viesu saujiņa, toties pamatīgi mobilā interneta un īsziņu pakalpojumu atslēgumi Maskavā vairāku dienu ilgumā. Pasaules mediju nepamanīta nepalika arī Ukrainas prezidenta Volodimira Zelenska svinību priekšvakarā izdotā pavēle, ar kuru viņš Sarkano laukumu oficiāli izslēdzis no ukraiņu spēku potenciālo gaisa triecienu mērķu saraksta. Daudzi komentētāji šo žestu raksturojuši ar apzīmējumu „trollēšana”. Var piebilst, ka, pēc Ukrainas sniegtajām ziņām, ar reālo uguns pārtraukšanu frontē no Krievijas puses kārtējo reizi bijis, kā bijis. Pateicības vārdus no Kremļa vadoņa par izkāroto parādi Donalds Tramps gan nesagaidīja. Tā vietā savā uzrunā Putins ierasti pauda, ka Krievija karojot pret „agresīvo NATO bloku” un noteikti uzvarēšot. Mundrs un runātīgs agresorvalsts vadonis bija pēc parādes sarīkotajā preses brīfingā. Gana negaidīti, sevišķi neilgi pirms tam teiktās parādes uzrunas kontekstā, izskanēja viņa sacītais par karu Ukrainā – „lieta iet uz beigām”. Viņš, Putins, labprāt runāšot ar Eiropu par jaunu drošības izkārtojumu, sevišķi ja kā sarunvedis no Eiropas puses būšot bijušais Vācijas kanclers, pēc tam – Krievijas valstiskotā naftas un gāzes biznesa dāsni algotais darbonis Gerhards Šrēders. Gan Eiropas Savienības augstā pārstāve ārlietu un drošības jautājumos Kaja Kallasa, gan vairāku dalībvalstu ārlietu resoru vadītāji jau kategoriski noraidījuši šādu potenciālā sarunu procesa „šrēderizācijas” iespēju. Plaisas britu politikas marmorā 7. maijā Lielbritānijā notika vēlēšanas daļā no vietvarām, ievēlot vairāk nekā 5000 dažādu veidu Anglijas pašvaldību padomju deputātu. Vienlaicīgi notika arī Skotijas Parlamenta un Velsas parlamenta jeb Seneda vēlēšanas. Vēlētāju gribas izpaudums ir tik spilgts, ka licis runāt par tradicionālās divpartiju dominantes beigām britu politikā. „Trešais spēks”, kas uznācis britu politikas skatuvē, ir „Breksita” arhitekta Naidžela Farāža partija „Reform UK” – „Reformēt Apvienoto Karalisti”; dibināta 2018. gadā, toreiz ar nosaukumu „Breksita partija”. 2019. gadā „farāžisti” ieguva lielāko britu deputātu frakciju Eiroparlamentā, kur darbojās līdz izstāšanās brīdim 2020. gada janvārī. Tobrīd šķita, ka ar to gan partijas, gan tās līdera loma ir nospēlēta, taču pandēmijas un ekonomisko sarežģījumu radītie noskaņojumi britu sabiedrībā deva leknu augsni populismam, kur misters Farāžs saskatīja vēl vienu pielietojumu savam populista talantam. To, ka „Reform UK”ambīcijas jāņem nopietni, rādīja jau pirms gada notikušās vietvaru vēlēšanas, kad tika ievēlēti vairāk nekā 1600 deputāti, taču pagājušo ceturtdien notikušais daudziem ir šoks. Pirmām kārtām jau Lielbritānijas pašreizējai varas partijai – leiboristiem, kuri zaudējuši gandrīz pusotru tūkstoti deputātu vietu un varu vairākās pašvaldībās, kur nemainīgi saimniekojuši vismaz pusgadsimtu. Un teju proporcionāls leiboristu zaudējumam ir „farāžistu” ieguvums – vairāk nekā 1450 mandāti, pie tam pašvaldībās, kur viņu pārstāvju līdz šim bija mazāk par simtu. Populistiem tikusi ne vien daļa no leiboristu, bet arī no konservatīvo līdzšinējiem mandātiem, jo toriji šķīrušies no vairāk nekā 560 mandātiem. Tomēr par konservatīvajiem tiek teikts, ka viņu sniegums esot pat labāks nekā cerēts. Daļu leiboristu mandātu noteikti ieguvusi Zaļā partija, kas pirmo reizi vēsturē tikusi pie vairāku Londonas rajonu mēru amatiem. Zināmus panākumus guvusi arī Liberāldemokrātiskā partija, kaut ieguvums ir mazāks nekā cerēts, jo arī te lielumu nosmēluši „farāžisti”. Kopumā šajās Anglijas vietvaru vēlēšanās „Reform UK” ieguvuši vairāk nekā ceturtdaļu vietu, savukārt atlikušās apmēram līdzīgi sadalījuši leiboristi, konservatīvie, liberāldemokrāti un zaļie. Velsas parlamentā labākos panākumus guvusi kreisi centriskā velsiešu nacionālistu partija „Plaid Cymru”, lai gan līdz vairākumam tai dažu vietu pietrūkst. Proporcionāli vēl iespaidīgāki ir „Reform UK” Velsas atzara panākumi, no nulles tiekot pie trešdaļas deputātu vietu un otrās lielākās frakcijas. Apdalīto lomā arī Velsā ir britu politikas vecmeistari – leiboristi un konservatīvie. Gluži tāpat kā „Plaid Cymru” Velsā, arī Skotu Nacionālajai partijai Skotijas Parlamentā nedaudz pietrūcis līdz vairākumam, toties tai jau piekto sasaukumu pēc kārtas būs lielākā frakcija. Arī te jaunpienācēji „farāžisti” ir lielākie ieguvēji – diezgan nepārprotami uz lielāko zaudētāju konservatīvo rēķina. Leiboristi Skotijā zaudējuši samērā mazāk, kamēr zaļie un liberāldemokrāti savas nelielās frakcijas diezgan pamanāmi palielinājuši. Sagatavoja Eduards Liniņš.  

On this week's episode, we unpack a historic moment as Plaid Cymru unveils its new Cabinet following their victory in the 2026 Senedd election. Newly appointed Deputy First Minister Sioned Williams MS joins us to discuss the party's priorities and what this new era of leadership means for Wales. Meanwhile, in Westminster, pressure continues to mount on the Prime Minister as questions swirl around his leadership. Claire Hughes MP throws her support behind Sir Keir Starmer. Political consultant Cathy Owens and BBC Wales Political Editor Daniel Davies break down the key developments and deliberate on what it all means for Wales and Westminster.

After the Senedd election Wales has a new government led by Plaid Cymru. But what will this mean for education policy? Fin is joined by Tom Breeze from the Emma and Tom Talk Teaching podcast to discuss the post-election fallout. Social media:* Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/impactwales123* Private Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1099646660713906/* Bluesky: @impactwales.bsky.social* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/impactwales/Contact:Email: enquiries@impact.wales Tel: 029 2167 9140BOOKSPRE-ORDER FIN'S NEW BOOK:The Illustrated Pocket Guide to Teaching & Learning: https://amzn.to/3P9yJObThe Illustrated Guide to Pedagogy:https://amzn.to/4lsupnbClosing the Disadvantage Gap:https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/aw/d/1032824107/Power Up Your Pedagogy:https://www.amazon.co.uk/Power-Up-Your-Pedagogy-Illustrated/dp/1398388068Subscribe to ImpactPlus today:www.impact.wales/impactplusPRODUCTIONHost: Finola WilsonProducer: Darren EvansVisit us at: www.impact.walesMusic: Power Shutoff by Craig MacArthur

This week we talk about Keir Starmer, Labour, and the Reform UK party.We also discuss Tories, the Lib Dems, and two-party systems.Recommended Book: Peak by K. Anders Ericsson and Robert PoolTranscriptFor more than 100 years, the British political system has been dominated by two parties: Labour and the Conservative Party, often called the Tories.In practice, that means these two parties, which are center-left and center-right in their leanings, respectively, have tended to shape the direction of British politics and the Overton Window of thinkable proposals—things that might actually happen because they get the requisite support from politicians and the public.These two parties have usually had to work with other, smaller parties in order to get anything done, because the UK has a parliamentary system that often leaves the party with the most representatives lacking enough support to run a functioning government, solo. As a consequence, the Liberal Democrats, which is a fairly centrist party, the Green Party, which focuses on environmentalism and more left-wing concerns, Plaid Cymru (plied KUM-ree), which is the Welsh nationalist party, and the Scottish National Party, which is exactly what it sounds like, have long influenced Labour and the Tories, aligning their votes with whomever gives them a seat at the table. This has given some influence to smaller groups that might otherwise lack representation, though that influence has typically been moderate to meager, at best—the folks in Labour and the Conservative party have run things in the UK, and that's been the case for generations.Things started to shake up a bit in the 20-teens, however, when anti-immigration and EU-skepticism in Britain led to the creation of the far-right Brexit Party, which was co-founded by politician Nigel Farage, who was the leader of the UK Independence Party in the early 2000s and 20-teens, and who was previously a Tory, and Catherine Blaiklock, a politician and hotelier who stepped down from her position as party leader the year after the Brexit Party was founded after anti-Islamic and racist comments she'd previously made online were rediscovered.The Brexit Party existed, almost exclusively, to push for a no-agreement exit from the European Union by the UK, which was considered to be a fairly fringe ideology back then, but which gained a lot of steam as other populists began to add their support to the general concept.Both the government and the existing political structure of the UK was then caught flat-footed, by all indications very surprised by the eventual success of that push, and the UK left the EU on January 31, 2020, after a whole lot of skepticism that it would ever happen, even after a vote in favor of Brexit took place. This represented a serious come to Jesus moment for British politicians, but also British society, and there's been quite a lot of self-reflection and naval gazing in the years since, as the Brexit pullout from the EU has caused quite a lot of economic and diplomatic damage, while also shining a spotlight on numerous simmering issues that were previously overlooked or unaddressed, including the bubbling resentment and at times outright xenophobia felt by a significant portion of the British electorate, and persistent economic issues faced by folks at the middle and lower rungs of society.What I'd like to talk about today is the recent 2026 UK Local Elections, and what they seem to tell us about how things are going in British politics, and what they portend for the current Labour-run administration.—On May 7, 2026, the UK held local elections for 5,066 councillors, 136 local authorities, and six directly elected mayors. Some of these elections were postponed in 2025 to allow for government restructuring, but most of these positions were last up for election in 2022.This election was generally seen as an unofficial referendum on the governing Labour Party, and in particular the current Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, who has been in office for just under two years, and who stepped into the role of PM after the role was held by the Conservative Tories for 14 years; five different Prime Ministers taking the reins during that period, including David Cameron, Theresa May, Boris Johnson, Liz Truss, and Rishi Sunak.All that changing in leadership is indicative of the chaos the UK government was experiencing at the time, the May 2010 general election leading to a period of significant austerity—the government cutting tons of social programs in order to reduce spending—which then fed into more support for Brexit when some members of the party positioned the economic issues people were facing as the consequence of EU-related immigration, and shortly thereafter, the world succumbed to the Covid-19 pandemic.There was a lot of truly significant political change from about 2010 onward, then, and a lot for the general population to be upset about. The Conservatives held onto power despite it all for those 14 years, but the shift back to Labour was the result of Starmer and his party saying, listen, we hear you, a lot has to change, and we can instigate that change. Trust us.This new election suggests that the majority of voters in the UK feel that the Labour Party hasn't lived up to that trust.In Wales, Plaid Cymru has taken the most seats, 43, but failed to achieve the 49 seat majority they would require to govern, solo.In Scotland, the SNP took the most seats, but also fell short of a majority, netting 58 seats, not the 65 required for a majority.Both of those results are not terribly shocking, though in Wales Labour lost a lot of power, down 35 seats and holding onto just 9. The Conservatives also lost in Wales, holding onto seven seats and losing 22.In Scotland, too, Labor lost some of their influence, losing 4 seats and retaining 17, while the Conservatives lost a whopping 19 seats, holding onto just 12.In England, the change in seat allocation was stunning, though.Labour lost 1406 seats, leaving them with 997, while the Conservatives lost 557 seats, holding onto just 773.Even considering those losses, the biggest story in England is the surge in support for previously small parties, in particular a far-right party called Reform UK, previously called the Brexit Party, and run by the aforementioned proponent of the British exit from the EU, Nigel Farage.Reform UK went from 2 seats to 1,444; a shocking outcome, and one that makes them the biggest winner in this election, by far. They also gained 17 seats, up from zero, in Scotland, putting them at an equal level there with Labour, and they went from zero to 34 in Wales, putting them in a competitive second place after Plaid Cymru, which again, claimed 43 seats.Other, non-Labour, non-Conservative parties also gained seats in this election, though not at the level of Reform UK.The Green Party gained two seats in Wales and six in Scotland, bringing them up to 15 there. They also gained 374 sets in England, bringing them up to 515 total seats, which leaves them in fifth place, but just 258 seats shy of the Conservatives.The Lib Dems, which are the local Centrist party, gained 151 seats, putting them in third. And there was a small surge in independent politicians winning elections, as well, that group now controlling 199 seats, up from 27 before this vote.In the wake of this absolute shellacking of Keir Starmer's Labour party—which again, lost 1406 seats in England, and their opposition, and in many ways their polar opposite, the far-right Reform UK party, gained even more than Labour lost, up 1442 seats—in the wake of that, Starmer has been asked to resign, and as of the day I'm recording this, at least, he's saying that he will not resign, and since there's no formal challenge to his leadership, he can stay in power if he chooses.There is a growing movement amongst Labour lawmakers to ask him to set a timetable for stepping down, however, and there's a pretty good chance that will happen, as the British political system allows parties to change their Prime Minister mid-term without requiring a new election, so they could swap him out for someone else, making him the face of this immense electoral failure, then they could try to change course before the next election, which will happen by mid-August of 2029, during which the vote will be for the 650 seats in the House of Commons, which is currently dominated by Starmer's Labour party.The big takeaway here, from political analysts at least, is that what used to be a reliably two-party system, for over a century that's been the case, is now a five-way race within a cultural context in which voters seem to be a lot less loyal to politicians and parties, and in which a whole lot of previously reliable infrastructure, social systems, and cultural expectations have been recently disrupted.People in the UK seem to be generally unhappy about all sorts of things, and that kind of broad unhappiness often results in more populism, which means general anti-establishment stances and us-versus-them ideologies, including racial, religious, and nationalistic versions of such ideologies, and typically a lot more support for charismatic leadership over leaders who are generally qualified and will probably be good at their jobs because they're experienced and knowledgeable.In other words, you're more likely to get loudmouths and celebrities running for office, successfully, in populist electoral contexts, and you're also more likely to see parties leaning into superficial race, class, and elite-vs-everyman issues, as opposed to running on well-defined approaches to dealing with more complex issues.In the meantime, until that 2029 election, it's likely Farage's Reform UK will bang the drum against the governing Labour party to gather more power in the lead up to 2029, and that other non-Labour, non-Conservative parties will attempt to do the same, newly energized by these results.And depending on how that non-voting-year rallying goes, this could represent a foot in the door for these smaller parties. And we could consequently see more former Labour and Conservative politicians and voters leaving for Reform, for the Lib Dems, for the Greens, and for independents. All of which will make UK politics a lot more chaotic, but also probably more diverse, with power less centralized and the government's makeup a bit less predictable.Show Noteshttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2026_United_Kingdom_local_electionshttps://www.nytimes.com/2026/05/08/world/europe/uk-elections-local-takeaways.htmlhttps://www.nytimes.com/live/2026/05/08/world/uk-local-elections-resultshttps://apnews.com/article/uk-elections-starmer-labour-what-to-know-eb11ff39b1b74bbaf9f4ef6abfd60f64https://www.cnn.com/2026/05/08/uk/uk-local-election-reform-farage-starmer-intlhttps://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-05-08/how-bad-for-labour-britain-s-local-elections-in-six-chartshttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Politics_of_the_United_Kingdomhttps://www.bbc.com/news/live/c1428pev1n0t#election-englanhttps://www.politico.eu/article/nigel-farage-reform-uk-win-next-general-election/https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Next_United_Kingdom_general_electionhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catherine_Blaiklockhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reform_UKhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nigel_Faragehttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brexit This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit letsknowthings.substack.com/subscribe

In the wake of last week's devolved and local elections, Keir Starmer is once again fighting for his political future. Labour has almost completely vanished in Wales, came a distant second in Scotland (tied with Reform UK), and lost nearly 1500 councillors in England. But while Plaid Cymru and the SNP were victorious in Wales and Scotland, in many ways the results in England were a disappointment for everybody, with no party making the breakthroughs they hoped for and the Conservatives pushed to the fringes. James is joined by Richard King, Rory Scothorne and Andy Beckett to makes sense of this new political map and consider what the collapse of old party loyalties and the rise of nationalist politics means across all three countries. Read more on politics in the LRB: ⁠https://lrb.me/lrbpolitics⁠ From the LRB Subscribe to the LRB: ⁠⁠https://lrb.me/subslrbpod Close Readings podcast: ⁠https://lrb.me/crlrbpod⁠ LRB Audiobooks: ⁠https://lrb.me/audiobookslrbpod⁠ Bags, binders and more at the LRB Store: ⁠https://lrb.me/storelrbpod⁠ Get in touch: podcasts@lrb.co.uk

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.

As Starmer's cabinet begin turning against him, how long can he cling on to power? By challenging Starmer without a clear plan for what comes next, are Labour MPs unleashing a chaos they cannot control? As Wales and Scotland shift dramatically towards Plaid Cymru, the Scottish National Party, and Reform UK – are we witnessing the end of both Labour and the Conservatives as national parties? Join Rory and Alastair as they answer all these questions and more. __________ Go deeper into the world of The Rest Is Politics by signing up for our free newsletter HERE, featuring exclusive interviews, analysis and weekend reads from Alastair and Rory. Join The Rest Is Politics Plus. Start your free trial at therestispolitics.com to unlock exclusive bonus content – including Rory and Alastair's miniseries – plus ad-free listening, early access to episodes and live show tickets, exclusive newsletters, discounted book prices, and a private chatroom on Discord. The Rest Is Politics is powered by Fuse Energy. Stop overpaying for energy. Switch at fuseenergy.com/politics and get a free TRIP+ subscription. Lloyds. 250 years on and still backing the nation's aspirations. Get more from your business accounts. Search Lloyds Business Accounts.Get our exclusive NordVPN deal here ➼ nordvpn.com/restispolitics It's risk-free with Nord's 30 day money back guarantee ✅ __________ Instagram: @restispolitics Twitter: @restispolitics Email: therestispolitics@goalhanger.com __________ Social Producer: Celine Charles Video Editor: Vasco Andrade Assistant Producer: Daisy Alston-Horne Producer: Evan Green Exec Producer: Chris Sawyer General Manager: Tom Whiter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Farmers in Wales and Scotland are asking what last week's elections in Scotland and Wales will mean for agriculture. Neither Plaid Cymru in Wales nor the SNP in Scotland have ended up with an outright majority. In Scotland, Mairi Gougeon, the Rural Affairs Secretary, didn't stand for re-election, so a new appointment will have to be made. In Wales, Plaid Cymru have won 43 out of the 96 seats in an expanded Welsh parliament so are short of an outright majority. It means the Welsh pro-independence party will need the support of others to pass laws and a budget in future. So what does it all mean for agriculture and the environment - both policy areas that are largely devolved? The agriculture show season begins with Balmoral Show just outside Belfast this week. Farming Today will be reporting from the show, and all week, we'll be looking at different aspects of farming across Northern Ireland. Unique to the United Kingdom, Northern Ireland's Soil Nutrient Health Scheme is the largest baseline soil sampling programme ever undertaken. The £37 million government-funded scheme is managed by the Agri-Food and Bio-Science Institute (AFBI) and has taken four years to complete.A new centre to identify and address plant diseases is being set up with government funding of £3 million. The National Centre for Environmental Horticulture Plant Health will be virtual, operated by staff at the government's Animal and Plant Health Agency and the charity, the Royal Horticultural Society. It's hoped that commercial plant growers and gardeners too will send in evidence of pests and diseases to help stop their spread.Presenter: Anna Hill Producer: Rebecca Rooney

In the May 7, 2026 UK elections, Reform won biggly. They did so well that they even stole the show from the ascendent Celtic nationalists in the periphery. Gaining thousands of councillors in England, becoming the second largest party in Wales and the joint second biggest in Scotland. Meanwhile, in Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland the biggest parties (Plaid Cymru, SNP, and Sinn Fein) are all separatists. This has ushered in disorderly ‘five party politics' in England and a real threat to the union emanating from a Celtic periphery led by parties that wish to break up the UK.  On this special episode of Disorder we ask: does the UK have a future at all anymore? Will it be very disorderly? And what are Reform's actual policies? To find out – and in our attempt to present a range of views on Disorder – Jason and Mark are joined by Alan Mendoza, Chief Advisor on Global Affairs to Reform UK. The duo push Alan to clarify Reform's actual policies around local government, migration, and Reform's attitudes to Brexit. Jason sees Reform as Disorders, but Alan makes a full throated and quite eloquent case as to why he sees Reform as Orderers rather than Disorderers.  Hopefully the debate is podcasting at its best, filled with respectful disagreements that elucidate the underlying differences in world views. Either way, Reform UK is here to stay so we might as well understand them. To join our Mega Orderers Club for ad free listening, early episode releases and exclusive access to live events, visit disordershow.com/club To tell us more about Disorder, visit disordershow.com/survey  Producer: George McDonagh Subscribe to our Substack - https://natoandtheged.substack.com/ Disorder on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@DisorderShow Show Notes Links: To join our Mega Orderers Club for ad free listening, early episode releases and exclusive access to live events, visit disordershow.com/club How the winner-takes-all voting system has turned on Labour and the Tories: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cdxpqyndqwlo How Reform won votes from Swansea to Sunderland  https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cwy2nz4gwj5o Hear Alan's previous appearance on Disorder: https://pod.link/1706818264/episode/YTk0MzNmZDQtY2JhMS0xMWVmLWJjYTQtOGJjMjMxNmNhZTli  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As eleições locais britânicas revelaram o colapso da estratégia moderada dos trabalhistas, o avanço da extrema direita de Nigel Farage e o fortalecimento de forças regionalistas que colocam em xeque a própria unidade do Reino Unido. Thomás Zicman de Barros, analista político Menos de dois anos separam o momento de consagração de Keir Starmer, ainda primeiro-ministro trabalhista da Grã-Bretanha, daquele que pode marcar sua danação política. As eleições locais realizadas na última quinta-feira na Inglaterra, Escócia e País de Gales poderiam passar despercebidas fora desta ilha do norte, não fosse a dimensão da derrota trabalhista.Já há vozes pedindo a renúncia do premiê. Se não mudar de rumo, Starmer pode entrar para a história como o homem que abriu as portas do poder para a extrema direita britânica, ao mesmo tempo em que fortaleceu forças regionalistas que ameaçam a própria unidade do Reino Unido. Há menos de dois anos, os trabalhistas comemoravam uma vitória histórica. Após catorze anos na oposição, conquistaram uma supermaioria em Westminster, o parlamento britânico, e voltaram ao poder sob a liderança de Starmer. Na quinta-feira passada, porém, o partido perdeu mais de 1.400 conselheiros locais nas eleições regionais inglesas e sofreu graves reveses na Escócia e em Gales, em uma das piores derrotas desde a sua fundação. Starmer chegou à liderança do Partido Trabalhista após derrubar Jeremy Corbyn do comando da legenda. Corbyn, representante da ala esquerda do partido, era um líder que mobilizava multidões, mas acusado pelos adversários internos de ser radical demais e, por isso, incapaz de reconduzir os trabalhistas ao poder. Starmer representa o oposto. Muito mais moderado, entusiasmou menos eleitores, mas venceu graças ao desgaste dos conservadores e à fragmentação da direita britânica, já dividida pelo avanço do partido de extrema direita Reform UK, de Nigel Farage. Como não há segundo turno no sistema britânico, os trabalhistas colheram os frutos da cizânia direitista. Uma vez no poder, porém, a extrema moderação de Starmer cobrou seu preço. Apesar da ampla maioria parlamentar, o governo manteve a austeridade herdada dos conservadores. Para tentar conter o crescimento da extrema direita, Starmer chegou a evocar discursos racistas contra imigrantes. A frustração não demorou a aparecer, e os trabalhistas passaram a despencar nas pesquisas. A grande beneficiária desse processo não foi a direita conservadora tradicional, ela própria mergulhada em crises internas, mas sim a extrema direita do Reform UK. O partido de Farage conquistou 1.450 cadeiras locais na Inglaterra, além de tornar-se a segunda força na Escócia e sobretudo em Gales. Hoje, lidera com folga boa parte das pesquisas nacionais.Farage já havia transformado a política britânica dez anos atrás ao impor a agenda do Brexit, mesmo quando tinha apenas um único deputado em Westminster. Agora, pela primeira vez, sua extrema direita parece próxima de açambarcar a política institucional do país. Ao mesmo tempo, parte do eleitorado trabalhista parece buscar à esquerda a radicalidade perdida. O Partido Verde, frequentemente apresentado como uma esquerda mais radical e combativa, teve bons resultados e segue consolidando presença em regiões urbanas e universitárias. Ainda assim, talvez o aspecto mais impressionante das eleições locais da semana passada tenha sido o avanço das forças regionalistas e nacionalistas fora da Inglaterra. Na Escócia, o independentista Partido Nacional Escocês, de centro-esquerda, continua sendo a principal força política local e permanece à frente do governo regional. A surpresa maior veio do País de Gales, antigo bastião trabalhista onde o nacionalismo galês historicamente teve menos força. Nas eleições da semana passada, o partido independentista Plaid Cymru, também de linha progressista, alcançou seu melhor desempenho eleitoral em um século, chegando às portas do poder. Considerando que a Irlanda do Norte já é governada pelo Sinn Féin, defensor da reunificação da ilha sob a bandeira da República da Irlanda, o quadro que emerge é inédito: enquanto a Inglaterra parece cada vez mais dominada pelo nacionalismo inglês e pela extrema direita, Escócia, País de Gales e Irlanda do Norte aprofundam movimentos centrífugos. A desunião parece se tornar o traço dominante da política britânica. Os trabalhistas seguem com sua supermaioria em Westminster, o que lhes garante estabilidade para governar até 2029. A permanência de Starmer na liderança do partido e do governo, porém, já é menos evidente. Sem reatar com a radicalidade perdida, os trabalhistas correm o risco de assistir a um duplo desaparecimento: o seu, no horizonte político britânico, e o do próprio país que ainda governam.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/carmarthenshire-news-online--2583830/support.©Carmarthenshire News Online All Rights Reserved.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/carmarthenshire-news-online--2583830/support.©Carmarthenshire News Online All Rights Reserved.

Author James Hawes - who's bestseller 'The Shortest History Of Ireland' is out now - discusses the rise of nationalism in the UK, with Plaid Cymru the SNP achieving success in the recent elections. James - who has previously written 'The Shortest History...' of both England and Germany - tells Adrian Goldberg how the United Kingdom was created, and why its future is uncertain. Produced by Adrian Goldberg. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Plaid Cymru leader and prospective new First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth, Welsh Labour's new acting leader, Ken Skates, academics Richard Wyn Jones and Deian Hopkin, former SNP Westminster leader Ian Blackford and two Senedd newbies, Reform's Joe Martin and Plaid Cymru's Kiera Marshall join us to discuss last Thursday's election result.

Is anyone really prepared to put their head above the parapet to challenge Keir Starmer?After a disastrous set of election results, Labour backbencher Catherine West has launched a stalking-horse threat to force the Prime Minister out.But, with rival camps in disarray and would-be successors staying silent, will the cabinet unite around a successor or fracture even further?In this special debrief edition of Politics at Sam and Anne's, the duo reveal who's talking to who and whether Labour can stop the chaos before it spirals out of control.Elsewhere, as the SNP and Plaid Cymru look likely to lead the devolved administrations will the state of the union be put into further question.

After an awful set of elections for Labour across England, Scotland and Wales, are the Prime Minister's days numbered? Could the Cabinet revolt? Might a rival formally launch a leadership challenge? Or might it take another defining crisis – a further final straw – to trigger a revolt by the parliamentary foot soldiers? We also examine how Labour's leadership rules operate, including the nomination requirements for a leadership challenger to trigger a race. A key decision would be timing: would any contest timetable give Greater Manchester Mayor, Andy Burnham, the opportunity to attempt a return to the Commons. The elections have demonstrated that Labour is beset by political rivals on all sides – Reform on the right flank, the Greens, Lib Dems and SNP on the left, and now Plaid Cymru in what historically was its Welsh heartland. So, would an alternative leader offer a more effective response to these multiple threats than Sir Keir Starmer? Meanwhile the Scottish and Welsh results raise fresh political and constitutional tensions for the UK Government and Parliament to address. Will invigorated nationalist governments in Edinburgh and Cardiff start picking more fights with Westminster over policy, money and legislative consent? And in Cardiff, will the process of installing a new and non-Labour Welsh Government go smoothly? With no party winning an overall majority in Wales, it looks like there will be a Plaid-led administration: but it may find itself mired in week-to-week deal-making with smaller parties, and subject to professional fouls at key moments like the Budget. Could that provide a taste of things to come at Westminster, after the next general election?_____

Today, Labour suffered a historic loss in the Welsh Senedd elections coming in third behind Plaid Cymru and Reform UK.In Scotland, the SNP held onto it's majority with second place too close to call between Labour and Reform as Newscast began recording. And in England, a bruising run of results continued for Labour, who lost more than a thousand council seats. Reform won more than 1400 councillors and the Greens made gains. Adam, Chris and James break down the results.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://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet 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://bbc.in/4guXgXd Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Anna Harris with Shiler Mahmoudi. The social producer was Joe Wilkinson. The technical producer was Stephen Bailey. The assistant editor was Jack Maclaren. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Sa mBreatain Bheag, tá sé á thuar go ndéanfaidh an páirtí náisiúnach Plaid Cymru dul chun cinn agus go bhféadfaidís bheith i rialtas i gCaerdydd don chéad uair riamh.

Kosið er í Bretlandi í dag, þingkosningar í Skotlandi og Wales og sveitarstjórnarkosningar víða í Englandi. Þar er Reform, Umbótaflokki Nigels Farage, spáð mikilli fylgisaukningu. Flokkurinn er yst til hægri í breskum stjórnmálum og segja má að Grænir séu lengst til vinstri og þeim er einnig spáð fylgisaukningu. Frjálslyndir demókratar búast við góðum úrslitum en flokkarnir sem einu sinni báru höfuð og herðar yfir aðra breska stjórnmálaflokka mega muna fífil sinn fegri. Þetta eru Íhaldsflokkurinn og Verkamannaflokkurinn sem eiga í vök að verjast. Reform og Plaid Cymru, sem vill að Wales verði sjálfstætt ríki í framtíðinni, keppast um að verða stærsti flokkurinn í Senedd, þingi Wales. Verkamannaflokkurinn hefur stjórnað Wales í næstum þrjá áratugi en er spáð þriðja sæti að þessu sinni. Skoski þjóðarflokkurinn, SNP, virðist hins vegar eiga góða möguleika á að halda völdum. Sólveig Jónsdóttir, rithöfundur og blaðamaður, og Bogi Ágústsson ræddu um skosk stjórnmál og kosningabaráttuna.

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

durée : 00:04:35 - Le Reportage de la rédaction - Le Royaume-Uni est-il en train de se fragmenter, à l'approche des élections locales le 7 mai ? En Écosse, une majorité indépendantiste s'annonce porteuse d'un nouveau référendum. Au Pays de Galles aussi, l'idée d'indépendance progresse avec le parti Plaid Cymru.

durée : 00:02:05 - France Inter sur le terrain - Le Royaume-Uni est-il en train de se fragmenter alors que les élections locales ont lieu jeudi ? Au Pays de Galles, l'idée d'indépendance progresse. Reportage à Risca, au nord de Cardiff, auprès du chef de file du parti indépendantiste de Plaid Cymru, qui espère arriver en tête du scrutin. - réalisation : Gaële Joly Vous aimez ce podcast ? Pour écouter tous les épisodes sans limite, rendez-vous sur Radio France

durée : 00:04:35 - Le Reportage de la rédaction - Le Royaume-Uni est-il en train de se fragmenter, à l'approche des élections locales le 7 mai ? En Écosse, une majorité indépendantiste s'annonce porteuse d'un nouveau référendum. Au Pays de Galles aussi, l'idée d'indépendance progresse avec le parti Plaid Cymru. - réalisation : La Rédaction de France Culture, Caroline Bennetot, Éric Chaverou Vous aimez ce podcast ? Pour écouter tous les épisodes sans limite, rendez-vous sur Radio France

Labour and the Conservatives have dominated British politics for more than 100 years. But local and devolved elections being held across the UK could be about to change that forever, and potentially mark the end for Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer.ITV News' election expert Professor Jane Green has been given access to YouGov polling data that suggests that we might be at a tipping point, where challenger parties like Reform UK, the Lib Dems, the Green Party, Plaid Cymru, and the SNP could be set for some of their best results ever.In this video, we'll look at what this data reveals, how Nigel Farage's Reform UK and Zack Polanski's Green Party could potentially unseat Labour and the Conservatives, and how this all means the future of British politics could be set to change indefinitely.

Le 7 mai, le Royaume-Uni votera pour des élections locales et pour les Parlements écossais et gallois, qui ont une certaine souveraineté, en particulier en matière de santé et d'éducation. Depuis plus d'un siècle, ce sont les travaillistes qui gouvernent la nation galloise. Mais ce 7 mai pourrait bien marquer un changement de taille : les indépendantistes sont en tête des sondages. De notre envoyée spéciale de retour de Cardiff,  Dans une rue résidentielle du nord de Cardiff, la capitale galloise, Zaynub Akbar frappe aux portes pour convaincre les électeurs de voter Plaid Cymru, parti indépendantiste de gauche, ce 7 mai. À 28 ans, elle a toujours connu une administration travailliste au pays de Galles. Le gouvernement gallois pourrait pour la première fois être dirigé par les indépendantistes. Pour autant, le parti fait campagne sur les sujets du quotidien, les Gallois dénoncent le manque d'investissements dans les services publics et la perte de pouvoir d'achat. « L'indépendance du pays de Galles n'est pas au programme. Nous avons d'autres priorités, d'autres problèmes à régler : la santé, l'éducation, les transports, liste la candidate. Il faut déjà s'occuper de ces choses-là. L'indépendance, ce n'est pas le sujet pour ce mandat. »  Dans cette maison verte, qui a accroché le dragon gallois au-dessus de sa porte, on a toujours voté travailliste. « Mais ça fait 25 ans que les travaillistes sont là et la situation n'est pas terrible, déplore son habitante, ils accusaient toujours le gouvernement centralisé conservateur de ne pas donner assez d'argent. Maintenant qu'on a le Parti travailliste au gouvernement à Londres, rien ne change ! »  À lire aussi«La haine nous divise»: au Royaume-Uni, large mobilisation contre la montée de l'extrême droite Les indépendantistes contre le parti d'extrême droite Reform UK Dans les urnes, Plaid Cymru, à gauche, devra affronter Reform UK, le parti d'extrême droite nationaliste et anti-immigration, donné juste derrière les indépendantistes. La candidate s'adresse aux indécis. « Beaucoup d'électeurs veulent simplement du changement. Face à nous, il y a deux futurs très différents : Plaid Cymru ou Reform. Il s'agit seulement d'expliquer la différence entre les deux, qu'ils décident lequel leur parle le plus, défend Zaynub Akbar. Beaucoup de gens ont voté Labour ou conservateur toute leur vie, et ils ont du mal à changer ! »  Tasse de café à la main, Robin fait partie de ceux-là. « J'ai grandi dans une région minière où on a toujours voté travailliste. Je ne suis vraiment pas fan de Reform UK et de ses idées, explique-t-il. Or ici, ça va se jouer entre eux et Plaid Cymru, donc je voterai pour ces derniers. » Même s'il s'attend à une victoire électorale, Plaid Cymru aura fort à faire pour contenter tous les Gallois. « En général, en Angleterre, les zones urbaines tendent à voter Verts. Au pays de Galles, ces zones soutiennent largement Plaid Cymru, analyse Laura McAllister, professeur de politique galloise à l'université de Cardiff. Seulement, Plaid Cymru attire aussi la communauté agricole. Il faudra réussir à concilier ces deux électorats, en particulier sur les questions environnementales. »  Pour former une coalition, Plaid Cymru n'exclut ni les travaillistes, ni les Verts.  À lire aussiRoyaume-Uni: les Verts emportent une législative partielle et s'emparent d'un bastion travailliste

The LBC Welsh election debate - your calls decide the topics as Labour's Eluned Morgan, Conservative Darren Millar, Plaid Cymru's Rhun ap-Iorwerth, the Welsh Greens' Anthony Slaughter, Reform UK's Dan Thomas and Lib Dem Jane Dodds debate in Cardiff.Plus, why are some suggesting police in Golders Green went too far?

In this episode of the Explaining History Podcast, I examine the slow-motion collapse of the political order that has defined British politics for a century – and what is likely to replace it.The term "political earthquake" gets overused. What is happening in Great Britain is more like a once‑in‑a‑century end of a political order. It began in 2024 with the death of the Conservative Party – a party that is unlikely to restore itself. And it will continue over the next few years with the death of the Labour Party.The May local elections, just a week away, will mark a major step. Labour is almost certain to lose two of the places it has dominated for generations: Wales (for a century) and London (for half a century). But this isn't just about one bad election night. It is the culmination of decades of neoliberal economics, deindustrialisation, austerity, and the systematic destruction of any alternative vision within the mainstream parties.I draw a historical parallel with the last time Britain's party system realigned: the years after the First World War, when the Liberal Party – the party of 19th‑century capital, free trade, and limited government – collapsed, replaced by a two‑party system of Labour and Conservatives. That system, cemented in 1945, survived for nearly eighty years. Now it is dying.The culprits are not just individual leaders. Thatcherism broke union power, atomised communities, and left Britain poorer and more unequal. The 2008 financial crisis blew up the economic assumptions of that model. Brexit smashed Britain's role as a transatlantic bridge between Washington and Brussels. Austerity killed hundreds of thousands, collapsed public services, and turned the country into a nation in de‑development. The Labour right's merciless destruction of the Corbyn movement left the party in the hands of a centrist technocrat, Keir Starmer – a man who, despite his blandness, has gleefully embraced racist rhetoric on immigration, supported Israel's genocide in Gaza, and handed state functions over to private equity vultures.Starmer's Labour has tried to tack to the right, hoping that voters will hold their noses and vote for "not far‑right". But that strategy is failing. In recent by‑elections, voters ignored Labour's warnings and voted Green or Plaid Cymru – proving that the old "vote for us or you'll get the fascists" threat no longer works.So what comes next? The beneficiaries are two very different parties. Reform UK – funded by a reclusive Bitcoin billionaire, backed by the propaganda channel GB News – offers a populist, proto‑fascist nationalism. The Green Party – untainted by private donations, hostile to the tabloid press, and offering a genuine left‑wing economic alternative – has already won a stunning by‑election on an anti‑racist, cost‑of‑living platform.The next decade could see Britain's political landscape transformed. A two‑party system of Reform and Greens is possible – though each would feel like an enemy occupation to the other side's voters. What is certain is that the old order is being taken out to a field and put out of its misery. And what caused it? Five decades of neoliberalism – an economic project that both main parties embraced, whose contradictions they are now incapable of addressing.Explaining History helps you understand the 20th Century through critical conversations and expert interviews. We connect the past to the present. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and share.▸ Support the Show & Get Exclusive ContentBecome a Patron: patreon.com/explaininghistory▸ Join the Community & Continue the ConversationFacebook Group: facebook.com/groups/ExplainingHistoryPodcastSubstack: theexplaininghistorypodcast.substack.com▸ Read Articles & Go DeeperWebsite: explaininghistory.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is Labour about to lose Wales? That's what the polling suggests. After 27 years, Wales is seeking change. The beneficiaries look to be the outsiders, Plaid Cymru and Reform UK. Why is it this moment in particular that people are seeking new answers? In this special episode of Coffee House Shots, James Heale goes on the road across the Welsh valleys with Luke Tryl, UK Director of More in Common. Attending a series of focus groups, speaking to people on the doorsteps and across towns in the UK, they try to find out where Wales is heading in the local elections on May 7. Produced by Megan McElroy. 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.

Is Labour about to lose Wales? That's what the polling suggests. After 27 years, Wales is seeking change. The beneficiaries look to be the outsiders, Plaid Cymru and Reform UK. Why is it this moment in particular that people are seeking new answers? In this special episode of Coffee House Shots, James Heale goes on the road across the Welsh valleys with Luke Tryl, UK Director of More in Common. Attending a series of focus groups, speaking to people on the doorsteps and across towns in the UK, they try to find out where Wales is heading in the local elections on May 7. Produced by Megan McElroy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sean Farrington hears from the CEO of Pret a Manger amidst rising cost pressures. Meanwhile, Asian economies are on the front line of the energy crisis, and there's the next instalment of Wake Up To Money's election interviews, this time with Plaid Cymru.

Has the Prime Minister and No10 weathered the storm on the Peter Mandelson vetting scandal?With the dust only beginning to settle, Sam and Anne dissect the mixed, uncomfortable and carefully worded reactions from senior figures across the Labour party after Olly Robbins' combative session in parliament.Keir Starmer braces for another grilling from MPs at Prime Minister Questions on the Mandelson saga but has he contained the damage, or has he been left out in the cold to face it alone?Away from Starmer drama, the duo look at the latest polling in Wales where Reform seem to be making ground on Plaid Cymru.

Defence dominated a fiery return to PMQs as Tory leader Kemi Badenoch took on Prime Minister Keir Starmer in a war of words, seizing on criticism from former Labour defence secretary and NATO secretary general Lord Robertson over what he calls “complacency” on military spending.Camilla and Jacob-Rees Mogg react to the PM being pressed on defence investment plans as he says his military advisers are wrong to call him complacent, all while the British Army has shrunk to its smallest size in centuries.And an exclusive poll for The Telegraph suggests Labour could lose control of Wales for the first time since devolution, potentially falling to third place behind Plaid Cymru and Reform UK.

Fliss is joined by our Political Editor Gareth Lewis and David Philips from the Institute for Fiscal Studies to discuss a busy week of manifesto launches from Plaid Cymru and the Wales Green Party.

Trump says the “job in Iran” could be finished within 2 or 3 weeks. Plus: We interview The Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth, and the case for Chinese leadership and a new world order. With Michael Walker, Aaron Bastani & Rhun ap Iorwerth

On May 7, Labour faces losing some of its oldest heartlands. In Wales, the party has dominated elections for 104 years, but is, according to polls, fighting for third or fourth place against powerful forces on the left and right – Plaid Cymru and Reform. Host Sascha O'Sullivan and POLITICO's political editor Dan Bloom took the train to Newport and drove through South Wales, where the fight is fiercest, to find out how the parties are vying for the top spot in the Senedd, the Welsh Parliament. They spoke to first minister Eluned Morgan as she launched the Welsh Labour campaign in Newport Market. And newly-appointed Welsh leader of Reform Dan Thomas explained why the party there differs from the one led by Nigel Farage. Westminster Insider speaks to Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth about how the party has ditched their message on independence in a bid to scoop up voters on the left disillusioned with Labour. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Eluned Morgan, the first minister of Wales speaks to Megan Kenyon about her relationship with Keir Starmer, Welsh Labour's prospects in the upcoming Senedd election and the threat of Plaid Cymru and Reform.SAVE £££ THIS CHRISTMAS:⭐️ Gift big ideas, bold politics, and proper journalism from just £2LISTEN AD-FREE: