Podcasts about Scottish Government

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

The Scottish Government has published a tranche of documents after it missed a series of deadlines to produce papers relating to an ethics investigation into Nicola Sturgeon. The files were finally uploaded to the Government's website today - running to an estimated 5,000 pages - after ministers initially blocked publication. Meanwhile, Keir Starmer will reportedly not make an appearance Scottish Labour's spring conference - weeks after Scottish leader Anas Sarwar called for his resignation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Scottish Government has published a tranche of documents after it missed a series of deadlines to produce papers relating to an ethics investigation into Nicola Sturgeon. The files were finally uploaded to the Government's website today - running to an estimated 5,000 pages - after ministers initially blocked publication. Meanwhile, Keir Starmer will reportedly not make an appearance Scottish Labour's spring conference - weeks after Scottish leader Anas Sarwar called for his resignation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The First Minister answers questions from Party Leaders and other MSPs in this weekly question time. Topics covered this week include: Christine Grahame To ask the First Minister what measures the Scottish Government is taking to standardise the criteria for urgent referrals to child and adolescent mental health services for an assessment, in light of reports that it is currently a postcode lottery. Roz McCall To ask the First Minister what the Scottish Government's response is to reports that hundreds of teachers have sought medical treatment following attacks by pupils in the last five years. Maggie Chapman To ask the First Minister whether he will provide an update on the development of a Just Transition plan for the north east of Scotland, including how communities and workers have been engaged. A full transcript of this week's First Minister's Questions will be available on the Scottish Parliament website: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report

The Scottish Information Commissioner David Hamilton sits down with The Stooshie to talk about Freedom of Information in Scotland, transparency in our NHS, the Scottish Government and local authorities - and how AI could be a gamechanger. 

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

JANUARY 2026 NEW CAR REGISTRATION FIGURESNew car registrations rose 3.4% compared to January 2025. In what is typically a slow month, BEVs rose in total numbers but lost market share compared to a year ago. The industry is not confident it will meet the mandate target of 33% for 2026, when it comes to zero emission vehicles. The calls for the Government to re-evaluate the ZEV mandate grow in volume and validity. Click this article link, from SMMT, to read more.STELLANTIS WRITES-DOWN €22 BILLIONOn Friday, last week, Stellantis shocked the markets by announcing that they had written down €22 billion in a pivot from their EV focus. They have made the move as buyer interest is less than previous assumptions stated. You can read more, by clicking this Yahoo! Finance article link here.Also announced was the news that the company are selling their 49% stake in NextStar Energy to LG Energy Solution. NextStar Energy was a joint venture between the two companies where Canada's first large battery factory was to be built. If you want to find out more, click this Yahoo! Finance article link here.Automotive Cells (ACC), which is backed by Stellantis, has stated that the planned battery factories in Italy and Germany will no longer be built. They have been on pause for some time. Click this Yahoo! Finance article link here, to read more.JLR 2025 Q4 RESULTS ANNOUNCEDThere is little shock that JLR announced a loss for the final three months of 2025, thanks to the fallout from the cyber attack. The company suffered a £310 million loss, with revenues down 39%. The cost of the attack has risen to £260 million. If you wish to learn more, click this EVO article link here.TOYOTA GETS A NEW CEOToyota announced that they have appointed Kenta Kon, currently the Chief Financial Officer, as the new CEO from 1 April 2026. Koji Sato, who has only been in the role for three years, will move to the role of Vice-Chairman and Chief Industrial Officer. Details are yet to be made clear as to why this change is happening. To read more, click this electrive article link here.OX DELIVERS IN RISK OF LIQUIDATIONOx Delivers is the company that makes the OX, a low-cost flat pack electric truck, stated that they will go into liquidation on 5 February 2026 unless urgent investment can be found. There is no news on whether this has actually happened or not. A franchise, OX Rwanda, will continue to operate. Click this Autocar article link for more.EZO CHARGERS ROLLING OUT TO NORTHERN SCOTLANDEZO has started their project of doubling the charging infrastructure of north and north-east Scotland. Initial steps are converting 177 ChargePlace Scotland chargers to the EZO network. These are the first steps of a 20 year contract, awarded via the Scottish Government's Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Fund. To read more on this story,

You are listening to Agri Culture, a podcast that aims to explore the stories of the people that make up our agricultural industry and culture of farming, in Scotland and beyond. On today's episode Mary-Jane Lawrie is joined by Bertie Troughton, Hugh Chamerlain and Laura McDonald of Atholl Estates. They join us to talk about how in recent years they have started to move towards regenerative farming practices, a big shift in focus for the farms and the staff who work there. They share what has worked well for them, balancing agricultural productivity, with biodiversity and sustainability goals. It's clear that community resilience is important to them as they refer to the longer-term initiatives such as peatland restoration and woodland planting, in hand with shorter term wins such as sward diversity and enjoying the flora and fauna now found on Atholl Estates. Thanks for joining us for this episode of Agri Culture. If you'd like to find out more about Atholl Estates, you can find links in the show notes. If you are interested in regenerative farming practices, you may also want to listen to the Farm Advisory Service natural capital podcast. This episode was presented by Mary-Jane Lawrie, produced by Kerry Hammond and edited by Cameron Waugh, in association with the Scottish Government. Resources: Atholl Estates in Pitlochry | Scottish Highland Estate in Perthshire Natural Capital | Helping farmers in Scotland For more information, visit www.FAS.scot Twitter: @FASScot Facebook: @FASScot National Advice Hub Phone: 0300 323 0161 Email: advice@fas.scot

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

Martin Lewis on whether you should use savings to overpay your mortgage - factoring in your emergency fund, your rates, and whether overpayments come with penalties. Martin gives his reaction to the Bank of England announcing just before we recorded that interest rates have remained unchanged at 3.75%. We look at what has happened to Ofgem's no standing charges tariff options promise.This week's Tell Us is what money rule do you follow now that you once thought pointless or over the top, and we're joined by a special guest for that at the end of the pod.Martin explains why he has written a letter urging the Scottish Government to improve their Power of Attorney system.And Money Mastermind is on travel rights, but this week, Martin didn't write the question!If you want to ask Martin a question, you now can! His Question Time podcast lets you ask Martin absolutely anything and everything (within reason!) – so if you've always wanted to know what colour his eyes are, what he's planning to do in his eventual retirement, or have a very complicated question about your personal finances, email it to MartinLewisPodcast@bbc.co.uk.

In this episode of Holyrood Sources, we remember Scotland's first Deputy First Minister, Jim Wallace as Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein and Andy Maciver are joined by former Scottish Liberal Democrat Leader Tavish Scott to discuss Jim's political career and legacy.Before that, this episode also discusses reports that the Scottish Greens will stand aside in most constituency seats, giving the SNP a clear run — and whether this could boost John Swinney's chances of an outright majority. Andy and Geoff also examine the growing impact of Reform UK, and why they may be the SNP's biggest unintended ally.The panel also reacts to Anas Sarwar's pledge to ban trans women from female prisons, exploring Labour's U-turns on gender policy and the risks for the Scottish Government as a court challenge unfolds.Later, Calum speaks to Chris Herd, founder of Firstbase, who explains why he had to leave Scotland for the US to build a nine-figure tech company — and what Scotland must change to stop the flight of talent and capital.

Scotland has introduced legislation to set legal targets on nature restoration and halt the loss of biodiversity. The Scottish Government says this will ensure that the country is 'on a bold ambitious journey to be nature positive by 2030'. The Natural Environment bill, which was passed by the Scottish parliament last week, also gives ministers new powers over land use and deer management. The right to roam in Scotland, which gives people access rights, is being 'hollowed out' by a lack of money according to a new report from the walkers' group Ramblers Scotland. It says that some of the essential infrastructure needed to ensure the rights of both walkers and land managers has disappeared, with too few local staff to handle issues when people don't stick to the rules, and not enough money spent on maintaining paths. All week we're talking about new entrants: the people who come into farming with no family farm to work on, or inherit. The vast majority of farmers who own land pass it on to other members of the family, so it can be hard for people from outside the industry to get hold of land. Land is expensive too, which forms another barrier. Tenant farms where all or some of the land is rented make up about a third of farmland in England, but getting a tenancy is hard work and again requires some capital. One rural charity, The Addington Fund, has set up a new new entrant scheme to help people get a foot on the farming ladder.Presenter = Charlotte Smith Producer = Rebecca Rooney

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

GERMANY REINTRODUCES EV CAR GRANTThe German Government has reintroduced their electric car grant that is between €1500 and €6000. Criteria for eligibility include the vehicle's size, buyer's earnings and family size. To find out more, click this EV Powered article link here.RENAULT BECOMES EUROPE'S NO.2 CAR COMPANYRenault Group became the No.2 car maker in Europe after a jump in sales. By doing so they overtook Toyota. They increased their sales by 7.4%, which includes light commercial vehicles. Click this Autocar article link here, to read more.BYD INCREASED BATTERY WARRANTYBYD, the Chinese EV maker, has increased the warranty for their batteries to 155,000 miles. This increases from the previous 93,000 miles but still remains at eight years. To learn more, click this Motoring Research article link here.SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT ALLOCATES £85M TO LOW CARBON PROGRAMMESIn the 2026/27 budget, from the Scottish Government, they announce that they will be allocating £85 million to ‘low carbon programmes', with vague language about expanding public charging and support for low emission vehicles. The details, currently, are scant and it would be unwise to get too excited until knowing more. More can be found by clicking this electrive article link here.If you like what we do, on this show, and think it is worth a £1.00, please consider supporting us via Patreon. Here is the link to that CLICK HERE TO SUPPORT THE PODCASTNEW NEW CAR NEWS -Volvo EX60Volvo has unveiled their new electric SUV, the mid sized EX60. Boasting a ‘game-changing' new platform and ‘radical in-car technology'. With a range of up to 503 miles, prices start at £56,850 and rise to £70,360. Click this Autocar article link here for more.Leapmotor B05Leapmotor has finally revealed the interior of their B05 hatchback, at the recent Brussels Motor Show. Following the trend of a minimalist space, there are virtually no physical buttons to be seen. A maximum range of 285 miles is better than the Astra Electric but much less than the VW ID.3 and Kia EV4. The brand is hoping the price will sway buyers as it is expected to start below £30,000. Exact prices and availability timings are yet to be announced. Click this EV Powered article for more.Encor S1The Encor S1 is a restomod based on the Lotus Esprit Mk1. See, restomods don't just need to be 911s! It comes with a carbon fibre body, a 400bhp V8 and will set you back at least £500,000. It looks fantastic. Click this EVO article link here, to see more.LUNCHTIME WATCH: ALRIGHT, WHICH RICH DIPSH*TS COMMISSIONED THESE ROLLS-ROYCESWe are sharing a wonderful article from Victoria Scott,

In this episode George Chalmers is joined by SAC Consultant David Ross, to discuss crop margins from 2025 and predictions for 2026. Welcome to CropCast, your go to podcast for all the latest information on arable crops. Each month, SAC advisor, George Chalmers will be joined by a range of industry experts, bringing you timely updates to help you make decisions in the field. Producer George Gauley, Editor Cameron Waugh, Executive Producer Kirstyn Blackwood, in association with the Scottish Government. Time Stamps 1:12 Introduction to David Ross 5:00 Impact of weather on 2025 yields 11:12 AHDB Farmbench 13:44 2025 Winter Wheat 19:20 2025 Oilseed Rape 24:50 2025 Spring Barley 28:32 2025 Winter Barley 30:58 Variations between farm 32:55 Projections for Winter Wheat 38:27 Projections for Oilseed Rape 2026 42:04 Projections for Barley 2026 45:35 Alternative crops for 2026 53:30 Key messages Related FAS ResourcesCrops and soils | Helping farmers in ScotlandOther Related ResourcesFarmbench - a farm business comparison tool | AHDBAgricultural Reform Route Map

In this episode of the Scottish Property Podcast, Steven is joined by Fraser Walsh, an architect with over 20 years' experience and co-founder of W9 Architects, to explore what really happens when investors move beyond buy-to-let and into commercial property and complex conversions.Fraser shares a behind-the-scenes look at commercial-to-residential projects, planning risk, listed buildings, and why even seasoned investors can get caught out when scaling up. Drawing on his experience working with major housebuilders, Scottish Government, and his own property investments, Fraser explains how projects can be de-risked, phased, and structured to stack up financially.This episode is packed with practical insight for investors looking to move into commercial conversions, apart-hotels, guest houses, and mixed-use projects — and avoid expensive mistakes along the way.Episode Highlights:Why commercial conversions are a completely different challenge from buy-to-letThe biggest risks investors underestimate when scaling upHow to buy property subject to planning to reduce exposurePlanning vs building warrant: what really causes delays and cost overrunsFire safety, sprinklers, sound insulation, and compliance costs explainedHow to assess whether a commercial building is viable — or a deal-breakerThe importance of phasing developments to create early cash flowLessons from large housebuilders that property investors can applyHow networking accelerates learning and unlocks unexpected opportunities

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

You are listening to Agri Culture, a podcast that aims to explore the stories of the people that make up our agricultural industry and culture of farming, in Scotland and beyond.Welcome to part one of a two-part episode series about Steading and Co and the family. Mary-Jane Lawrie is joined by Phillip, Konrad, Symone and Alex, a multigenerational family running a regenerative farming business in Fife. They talked about their journey from a dairy farm in Ireland to an arable farm in Canada, and now building a life of health from the ground up on their farm in Scotland. The family have come together after time spent working in different careers, with the common goal of running a sustainable farming business. They are focussed on the benefit of regenerative practices to improve soil health, food quality, nutrition and health.Make sure you catch the second part of this episode series right now wherever you normally listen. If you'd like to get in touch or find out more about Steading and Co, you can find links in the show notes.This episode was presented by Mary-Jane Lawrie, produced by Kerry Hammond and edited by Cameron Waugh, in association with the Scottish Government.Part 2: Agri Culture - Building A Life Of Health From The Ground Up: Steading & Co Family (Part 2) | FASResources:Discover Sustainable Farming Practices at Steading & Co. - Enhance Soil Health & WellnessSteading&Co (@steadingandco) • Instagram photos and videosAbout - Soil Food Web School - Regenerating SoilFor more information, visit www.FAS.scotTwitter: @FASScotFacebook: @FASScotNational Advice HubPhone: 0300 323 0161Email: advice@fas.scot

You are listening to Agri Culture, a podcast that aims to explore the stories of the people that make up our agricultural industry and culture of farming, in Scotland and beyond.Welcome to part two of a two-part episode series about Steading and Co and the family. Mary-Jane Lawrie is joined by Phillip, Konrad, Symone and Alex, a multigenerational family running a regenerative farming business in Fife. They talked about their journey from a dairy farm in Ireland to an arable farm in Canada, and now building a life of health from the ground up on their farm in Scotland. The family have come together after time spent working in different careers, with the common goal of running a sustainable farming business. They are focussed on the benefit of regenerative practices to improve soil health, food quality, nutrition and health.If you missed the first part of this episode series, you can catch it right now, wherever you normally listen. If you'd like to get in touch or find out more about Steading and Co, you can find links in the show notes.This episode was presented by Mary-Jane Lawrie, produced by Kerry Hammond and edited by Cameron Waugh, in association with the Scottish Government.Part 1: Agri Culture - Building A Life Of Health From The Ground Up: Steading & Co Family (Part 1) | FASResources: Discover Sustainable Farming Practices at Steading & Co. - Enhance Soil Health & WellnessSteading&Co (@steadingandco) • Instagram photos and videosAbout - Soil Food Web School - Regenerating SoilFor more information, visit www.FAS.scot Twitter: @FASScotFacebook: @FASScotNational Advice HubPhone: 0300 323 0161Email: advice@fas.scot

Wildlife and environment groups say this government could become the first to break the law by missing targets to restore nature. The Office for Environmental Protection, the OEP, has published its annual report on the government's progress and it shows that it is not on track to meet 21 of the 43 legally set out in its Environmental Improvement Plan. We speak to Richard Benwell, CEO of Wildlife and Countryside Link, which represents 94 countryside and wildlife groups across Britain and ask why progress has been so slow.Agriculture is devolved so each of the four home nations has different plans for their post-Brexit support schemes for farmers. Today we ask Jim Fairlie, Minister for Agriculture and Connectivity in the Scottish Government, how Scotland's scheme is going to work.All this week, we're focusing on cheese, and today we're talking about goat's cheese. We meet a husband and wife team who graze around 250 goats in Carmarthenshire. They graze their animals outside most of the year and have a milking parlour like the ones you'd find on a dairy farm. They make mostly soft cheese but are now making hard cheese too to help use up excess milk in the summer, when demand for cheese is lower.Presenter = Anna Hill Producer = Rebecca Rooney

The Welsh Government's Sustainable Farming Scheme has come into force. It replaces the Basic Payment Scheme which has been phased out since the UK left the EU. What will it mean for Welsh farmers? We speak to a farmer near Brecon to find out.Environmental groups in Scotland are leaving the advisory boards on the country's new agriculture schemes in protest at what they say is a failure to address climate change and nature depletion. RSPB Scotland, Scottish Environment Link and other groups say they no longer have confidence in what they say was supposed to be to co-design of the post-Brexit schemes but in fact has ignored their views and failed to deliver meaningful reform. The Scottish Government says it is creating new policies that will deliver for both nature and the climate.Thousands of farmers, environmentalists and policy makers converge on Oxford this week for the annual Oxford Farming Conference and Oxford Real Farming Conference. This year, the Oxford Farming Conference theme is growing resilience, concentrating on how farmers can create the conditions on their land, and in their businesses, to weather future challenges. Climate change is just one of those. We visit a farmer in Herefordshire whose land has been repeatedly flooded. He's working with other farmers to make their businesses more resilient on a landscape scale.Presenter = Anna Hill Producer = Rebecca Rooney

The First Minister answers questions from Party Leaders and other MSPs in this weekly question time. Topics covered this week include: David Torrance To ask the First Minister what steps the Scottish Government is taking to support households with the cost of living this winter. Tim Eagle To ask the First Minister what the Scottish Government's response is to the partial collapse of the Spey Viaduct, including what support it can offer to Moray Council in responding to the immediate consequences and the next steps for the local community. Monica Lennon To ask the First Minister what the Scottish Government's response is to the recent EIS findings that young people with additional support needs are being let down, and teachers are experiencing stress due to inadequate resourcing, in light of the reported reduction of nearly 20% in specialist ASN staff since 2010, despite a rise of over 710% in the number of pupils requiring such support since 2007. Beatrice Wishart To ask the First Minister what the Scottish Government's position is on local authorities, which host renewable energy infrastructure, receiving Scottish Crown Estate revenue allocations, such as a share of the income from ScotWind projects. A full transcript of this week's First Minister's Questions will be available on the Scottish Parliament website: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report

The First Minister answers questions from Party Leaders and other MSPs in this weekly question time. Marie McNair To ask the First Minister what assessment the Scottish Government has made of the potential implications for its work to eradicate child poverty in Scotland of the UK Government's child poverty strategy. Miles Briggs To ask the First Minister what assessment the Scottish Government has made of, and support it is providing to, childhood dementia awareness. Jackie Baillie To ask the First Minister what the Scottish Government's response is to the independent investigation into NHS Scotland by the retired consultant surgeon and former President of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow, Mr Mike McKirdy. A full transcript of this week's First Minister's Questions will be available on the Scottish Parliament website: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report

A world-first demonstration combining tidal power, battery storage and hydrogen production has been completed at the European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC) in Orkney, Scotland. Led by EMEC, the demonstration successfully integrated three technologies - Orbital Marine Power's O2 tidal turbine, vanadium flow batteries supplied by Invinity Energy Systems, and an ITM Power 670 kW electrolyser, at EMEC's onshore site on the island of Eday. EMEC completes 3-in-1 tidal energy, hydrogen and battery demonstration Multiple energy flow scenarios were trialled. During high generation periods, power from the O2 was used to charge the battery system, supply electricity directly to the electrolyser and export power to the grid. When tidal generation was low, the battery system discharged power to the electrolyser to keep the electrolyser operating. This approach effectively smoothed out the cyclical nature of tidal energy, enabling on-demand electricity to power the electrolyser for hydrogen production. In addition, battery power was used to support operations at EMEC's onshore Caldale site. This is the first time globally that tidal power, vanadium flow battery storage and hydrogen production technologies have been integrated into a single energy system. This approach could help overcome future grid constraints and open up new offtake opportunities, paving the way for more resilient, responsive renewable energy systems. All planned operational scenarios were completed, demonstrating the flexibility of the integrated system. Additional safety mitigation measures were put in place during the demonstration and proved effective. As an example, the team responded to an electrolyser trip within seconds to prevent a full site shutdown. The demonstration validated the 3-in-1 concept, highlighted areas for improvement such as battery management and electrolyser controls, and underscored the value of increased automation to minimise human error and enhance system reliability. The demonstration was part of the Interreg North-West Europe funded project, ITEG, which explored how tidal and hydrogen production could be combined as a solution in coastal areas to overcome grid constraints. It has also been supported with funding from Scottish Government via Highlands and Islands Enterprise, and by the EU-funded FORWARD2030 project which has completed detailed monitoring study into how to optimise the integration of tidal energy and battery storage with hydrogen and other offtake routes. Graeme Harrison, Head of Marine Energy at Highlands and Islands Enterprise, said: "HIE and Scottish Government are pleased to have supported the deployment of innovative technologies at EMEC which have combined in this ground-breaking demonstration. "The project illustrates how the highly predictable flows of power from tidal streams can be successfully harnessed in a variety of forms to meet the energy needs of business and communities throughout Scotland and beyond." Leonore Van Velzen, Operations and Maintenance Manager at EMEC said: "This world-first demonstration represents the culmination of years of effort to integrate tidal energy, battery storage and hydrogen production. Bringing together three innovative technologies was a complex challenge, but reaching this milestone has provided invaluable insights. "Running all planned scenarios, responding swiftly to an electrolyser trip and identifying opportunities for greater automation have given us a clear roadmap for optimising future systems. The trial also highlights an alternative pathway for tidal energy in scenarios where grid export capacity is limited, a likely feature in the future as we transition to a fully renewable energy system. "Building on our practical experience with hydrogen, we're now exploring other offtake routes such as synthetic fuel production using renewable hydrogen as a feedstock, a practical solution to decarbonise hard-to-electrify sectors like aviation and maritime. This is especially relev...

As the SNP's justice secretary faces a vote of no confidence, The Scotsman's politics team takes you through the saga engulfing Angela Constance and the Scottish Government. Plus, we take a look at the spike in flu cases and the ruling in the Sandie Peggie employment tribunal. Take a listen now. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A major new Ipsos poll drops — and the implications for Holyrood 2026 are huge. The SNP hold a stable lead. Labour has fallen sharply. Reform UK has surged into second place in the constituency vote, fuelled by the rise of immigration as a top concern for Scottish voters.• Why Reform UK is gaining Scottish voters from both Labour and the Conservatives • How immigration became a top-three issue in Scottish politics • Why the SNP vote remains “sticky” • Labour's worsening poll numbers after Keir Starmer's difficult months • The Greens' highly effective regional-vote strategy • Whether Reform has reached its ceiling in Scotland • What demographic groups are driving Reform's riseWe also speak to Mark McGeoghegan of Ipsos, who analyses the polling in depth — approval ratings, demographic breakdowns, voting-intention shifts, and how Scottish voters feel about taxation and public spending.And later: an interview with Michael Matheson, the outgoing SNP MSP, and former Transport Secretary. Will the A9 ever be fully dualled? Has the Scottish Government failed on delivery? Matheson responds.Finally, we react to your messages about Malcolm Offord's defection to Reform UK, including whether he boosts their credibility, fundraising and appeal — or whether he's tied to rhetoric that will hurt the party in Scotland.

The First Minister answers questions from Party Leaders and other MSPs in this weekly question time. Topics covered this week include: Paul McLennan To ask the First Minister whether he will provide an update on the Scottish Government's latest engagement with the UK Government regarding any impact on poverty levels in Scotland of the freeze to Local Housing Allowance. Murdo Fraser To ask the First Minister what funding is in place to ensure that the A9 dualling project is completed by the target date of 2035. Stuart McMillan To ask the First Minister whether he will provide an update on whether the Scottish Government will instigate a direct award to Ferguson Marine for the replacement of MV Lord of the Isles. A full transcript of this week's First Minister's Questions will be available on the Scottish Parliament website: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report

The UK has temporarily banned all imports of pig products from Spain afrer an outbreak of African Swine Fever in wild boars there. It's their first case since 1994. The disease is spread by ticks and can be devastating to commercial herds. The National Pig Association here says it's vital our government puts adequate controls at borders to keep the disease out. Northern Ireland has had its first case of bluetongue, in County Down. The government has introduced a 20km restriction zone to control the spread. There have been around 200 cases in England and Wales this year, though none in Scotland. A farmer is calling on the Scottish Government to fund a multi-million pound dairy development programme, which would encourage farmers to keep cows with their newborn calves for longer. David Finlay has been pioneering the unconventional system on his farm near Kirkcudbright - which is now the largest commercial 'cow-with-calf' dairy in Europe. And all this week we're looking at the jobs farmers need to do over winter - today, cleaning up ready for next season. Presented by Anna Hill and produced by Sally Challoner.

In today's deep-dive episode of Holyrood Sources, we break down one of the most contentious and politically charged budgets in years — Rachel Reeves' first full Labour Budget. With Scotland at the centre of the economic and political fallout, the team scrutinises what this Budget means for Scottish jobs, taxation, public services, welfare, the North Sea, and the Scottish Government's own finances ahead of its budget in January.Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein and Andy Maciver offer a forensic, often fiery discussion about the political strategy behind the Budget, the reaction from business, the impact on the working-class vote, and why Scotland's oil and gas sector has been thrown into turmoil.We are also joined by Mairi Spowage, Director of the Fraser of Allander Institute, who delivers an expert, evidence-based explanation of what the Budget really means for Scotland's economy, the Barnett consequentials, and the decisions now facing the Scottish Government. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A Conference of Ideas Join indypodcasters Fiona and Marlene as they share their favourite moments from the Scottish Currency Group conference held in Dunfermline on 25th and 26th October. Featuring behind-the-scenes commentary and chats with presenters Craig Dalzell and Colin Fox, plus insights on Scotland's economic future, currency options, and more.   One key theme which emerged from several of the speakers was the issue of Foreign Direct Investment, which the Scottish Government seem to embrace enthusiastically while others watch with concern at the level of profits being extracted from Scotland due to extensive foreign ownership of land and assets.   Key topics: 00:01:25  Ian Stewart introduces the Conference of Ideas 00:08:23  Craig Dalzell explains the pins in the map 00:16:35  William Thompson - Scotgov has got the wrong approach 00:28:29  Robin McAlpine - recapturing the Scottish economy 00:43:44  Colin Fox - A vision for a better Scotland Find out more from the Scottish Currency Group's new website https://scg.scot watch all the sessions from the conference at https://www.youtube.com/@UCbTZJrFgbalSJTNMfrb0N6A  Read more from Scotonomics on Scotland's Sectoral balances here https://scotonomics.org/private-sector-debt-in-scotland/ #scottishcurrencygroup #scottishindependence #economics 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 pro independence but not party political.  Opinions expressed by guests do not necessarily represent our views.  

The First Minister answers questions from Party Leaders and other MSPs in this weekly question time. Topics covered this week include: Kenneth Gibson To ask the First Minister what impact the Chancellor's Autumn Statement will have on Scotland. Dr Pam Gosal MBE To ask the First Minister how the Scottish Government plans to commemorate the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence. Alex Rowley To ask the First Minister, in light of ExxonMobil's announcement of the closure of the Mossmorran ethylene plant, what action the Scottish Government is taking to mitigate any damage this will cause to the Cowdenbeath area and the wider Scottish economy. A full transcript of this week's First Minister's Questions will be available on the Scottish Parliament website: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report

Actor Sydney Sweeney on her role in the boxing biopic Christie. Olivia Laing, author of The Silver Book, and Adrian Wootton discuss Italian film director and writer Pier Paulo Pasolini exactly fifty years after his controversial film Salò and horrific murder.Rising countertenor star Hugh Cutting performs live.The Scottish Government's review of Creative Scotland. Presenter: Samira Ahmed

Well, there's the football and the football and the reaction to the football and the football, and the goals and the radio commentary and the hope and the exhilaration and the football. So we talk about that even though Fraser's nae all that keen. We talk also about the lessons you might learn from Denmark, which is being heralded by Labour as their template for their new crackdown on refugees and asylum seekers.We look at the recent Copenhagen mayoral election where the Social Democrats have lost the control that they have held for 100 years, mostly over the pact with the far right. So beware what you wish for Labour. We talk also about the new Good Morning Scotland that isn't called that anymore. Is it all that different, and what could it be doing more? We look at the COVID inquiry verdicts and the tragedy of the UK  establishment telling the Scottish Government that their big mistake was not deviating completely from what the British government was doing. All this and more..LinksCelebrate Saint Andrew's Day at the birthplace of Scotland's FlagPipes and Drums from 1.30pm, Flag Ceremony 2pm followed by a service in Athelstaneford Parish Church. (small hand flags only, plesase, no personal flags, saltires or banners) https://www.facebook.com/events/800678686169345Pennie Taylor - scroll to 1:27:49  https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002mp06Richard Murphy and budget - https://www.thenational.scot/politics/25643726.scotland-needs-budget-wont-get/Guardian and Danish left resurgent - https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2025/nov/22/danish-model-centre-left-parties-labour-doesnt-workDown Cemetery Road 5 stars from Graudian https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2025/oct/29/down-cemetery-road-review-emma-thompson-thriller-apple-tv ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Scottish Property Podcast, Nick and Steven sit down with John Blackwood, Chief Executive of the Scottish Association of Landlords (SAL), who has spent nearly 25 years representing landlords across Scotland.John brings unparalleled insight into the private rented sector (PRS), the political pressures landlords face, and the complex legislative landscape shaping housing today. From rent controls to the Housing Scotland Bill, ADS reform, empty homes, and the moral debate surrounding private renting, this conversation offers one of the most balanced and honest breakdowns of Scotland's housing challenges — directly from someone on the front line.Episode Highlights:

In CI News this week: The Christian Institute launches a new resource to help street preachers and the police, in Northern Ireland, RE lessons and assemblies that are exclusively Christian have been deemed unlawful by the Supreme Court, and the Scottish Government is urged to reject proposals for an extreme abortion regime. You can download the video via this link. Featured stories The Street Preacher's Charter: ‘An invaluable asset for gospel freedom' ‘Make the Charter your own': CI street preaching resource welcomed by leaders Supreme Court reinstates ruling against ‘proselytising' in NI RE lessons Scots report pushes extreme abortion agenda Baby born at 23 weeks now 1 year old and ‘absolutely thriving'

What did the UK Covid-19 Inquiry report say about the Scottish Government and Nicola Sturgeon? Alistair Grant and Andrew Quinn delve into the details. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode our guests Isobel Lindsay and Bill Ramsay help unpack the deeper message behind Deputy PM David Lammy's extraordianry claim that the Scottish Government is a "national security threat". But which nation is he talking about?  From a Scottish perspective, many argue that Scotland's continued place within the UK poses the greater risk to Scotland's own national security. We also revisit a powerful highlight from the recent Scottish CND conference: former Scottish Labour leader Richard Leonard's eloquen and forceful speech challenging the Uk Labour Government's increasingly militarised foreign and economic policies. Join us for a forthright conversation about power, security and Scotland's future role in the world. key themes: 00:00:31  Lammy insults a nation 00:03:24  Who poses the biggest threat to Scotland? 00:16:00  Resilience and Security 00:28:19  Richard Leonard calls our UK Labour's path to war 00:30:33  Role and purpose of arms industry in creating as narrative of fear 00:38:43  Richard Leonard on US ownership of UK nuclear weapons 00:45:14  Craig Dalzell on nuclear power as a cover story 00:49:19  Uk labour government policy of escalating militarisation 00:50:43  Our message to Mr Lammy  #davidlammy #ScottishCND #scottishindependence 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 pro independence but not party political.  Opinions expressed by guests do not necessarily represent our views.

The First Minister answers questions from Party Leaders and other MSPs in this weekly question time. Topics covered this week include: Clare Haughey To ask the First Minister, in light of the UK Government's reported decision to revisit compensating Women Against State Pension Inequality, what assessment the Scottish Government has made of the potential social security implications for those affected in Scotland. Douglas Ross To ask the First Minister what action the Scottish Government will take in response to reported figures from the road safety charity, Brake, which show that over the last year road deaths and serious injuries rose by 2.8% nationally, with Moray recording the highest increase with a rise of 83%. Carol Mochan To ask the First Minister what the Scottish Government's response is to news that public satisfaction with the NHS has dropped to its lowest level in more than a decade, according to the Scottish Household Survey. A full transcript of this week's First Minister's Questions will be available on the Scottish Parliament website: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report

The First Minister answers questions from Party Leaders and other MSPs in this weekly question time.   Topics covered this week include: Kevin Stewart  To ask the First Minister what the Scottish Government's response is to the report on regional economic growth by former University of Glasgow principal, Professor Sir Anton Muscatelli. Rachael Hamilton To ask the First Minister whether the Scottish Government will maintain its manifesto commitment to freeze income tax rates and bands. Ariane Burgess  To ask the First Minister whether the Scottish Government is still on track to restore 250,000 hectares of peatland by 2030.

'A win for people-led rewilding' - new hutting law to unlock public land to connect people and nature. Last night (4 November) MSPs in the Scottish Parliament voted to create a new hutting law compelling the Scottish Government to publish a model lease for hutting on public land. The change to the law will make it easier for people across Scotland to access public land for low-impact, sustainable hutting in future. New hutting law to unlock public land to connect people and nature Huts are simple homes where people can reconnect with nature and experience the land off-grid. Reforesting Scotland's 1000 Huts Campaign says that a culture of recreational hut use would benefit people greatly, including by bringing people close to nature, cultivating practical skills in low-carbon living, fostering community, and offering benefits for health and wellbeing. With hutting depending on access to land for huts, campaigners from Reforesting Scotland and the Scottish Rewilding Alliance had called on the Scottish Government to publish a draft lease for hutters on public land. The successful campaign for a legal change was inspired by a pilot project at Carnock in southwest Fife, which has seen a pioneering lease enable a group of hutters to build 12 huts on the national forest estate. Al Whitworth, Director of Reforesting Scotland, said: "This is another success for our ongoing 1000 Huts Campaign, and we're delighted that the Scottish Government has again recognised the benefits of making a model lease available for hutting on public land. We hope this will help unlock more sites where hutters can enjoy nature protected by a strong legal agreement." Steve Micklewright, co-convenor of the Scottish Rewilding Alliance and chief executive of Trees for Life, said: "It's great to see the Scottish Government supporting the need for a model lease for hutting in the new Land Reform Bill. As well as restoring nature in a big way, rewilding is about people and restoring our relationship with the land. Hutting offers a fantastic way for more people to share in, and care for, Scotland's landscapes. This is a win for people-led rewilding." The successful changes to the bill were proposed in Parliament by Ariane Burgess, Scottish Greens MSP for the Highlands and Islands. "Opening up more public land for hutting will in turn create all sorts of opportunities for people to get closer to nature and develop practical skills, and will foster community and co-operation. I'm really pleased to see the Scottish Government recognising the importance of hutting in the new Land Reform Bill by supporting my proposed amendment. This positive result should benefit people for years to come," said Ariane Burgess. The hutting win represents a double success for the Scottish Rewilding Alliance's recommendations on the Land Reform Bill. MSPs voted on 28 October to create a law obliging the owners of large landholdings over 1,000 hectares to publish plans on how they will increase biodiversity - which the Alliance says represents a 'big step towards a Rewilding Nation'. While celebrating the two new laws, the Alliance says that with Scotland one of the world's most nature-depleted countries, the Scottish Government needs to be more ambitious going forwards. Although the Scottish government is committed to protect at least 30% of land and sea for nature by 2030, just 2.5% of Scotland's land is currently rewilding - with current rates of increase meaning it will take 65 years before major nature restoration is underway across 30% of the country. Rewilding is the large-scale restoration of nature to a state where it can look after itself, focusing on restoring natural processes and, where appropriate, reintroducing missing species. The Scottish Rewilding Alliance is calling on the Scottish Government to declare Scotland the world's first Rewilding Nation, bringing in bold legislation to support rewilding. Polling has shown this is supported by over 80% of the Scottish public....

An all party parliamentary group of MPs is launching what it calls a 'new action plan for fishing.' The group believes that the industry is being challenged by a series of problems including a declining workforce, restrictions at sea because of environmental protection and avoiding windfarms. The former fisheries minister and Cambridge MP Daniel Zeichner is writing the report. Farmers and crofters are criticising the Scottish Government over the allocation of grants for the Future Farming Investment Scheme. About 7,500 applications were submitted for the £21 million fund, but around 3,500 applications did not meet the criteria. Some farmers and politicians claim the distribution of money was "unfair". The Scottish Government says it understands some people are disappointed and says it is already reviewing the scheme.Researchers at the University of Worcester are carrying out research to find out how arthritis affects farmers and the farming industry.All week we're finding out more about growing mushrooms. We eat more than a £100 million worth in the UK every year. We visit the second-largest mushroom farm in the UK at Littleport in The Fens. It produces 160 tonnes a week, from tiny buttons, to large flat mushrooms.Presenter = Anna Hill Producer = Rebecca Rooney

The First Minister answers questions from Party Leaders and other MSPs in this weekly question time. Topics covered this week include: Christine Grahame To ask the First Minister what discussions the Scottish Government has had with the UK Government regarding the implementation of the proposed scheme for the renovation of military homes in Scotland. Douglas Lumsden To ask the First Minister when the Scottish Government will announce a timetable for improvement works on the A96 north of Inverurie, following the publication of its corridor review consultation report. Michael Marra To ask the First Minister what the Scottish Government's response is to the Auditor General's report, 2024/25 audit of the Scottish Government Consolidated Accounts, which indicates a £1 billion underspend by the Scottish Government. Beatrice Wishart To ask the First Minister what the Scottish Government's response is to the recent news that Eastern Airways, which runs lifeline regional services in the Highlands and Islands, has entered administration. A full transcript of this week's First Minister's Questions will be available on the Scottish Parliament website: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report

The First Minister answers questions from Party Leaders and other MSPs in this weekly question time. Topics covered this week include: Emma Harper To ask the First Minister whether the Scottish Government has had any initial response from the UK Government in relation to the letter sent to the Minister of State for Food Security and Rural Affairs on 22 October regarding the Fishing and Coastal Growth Fund. Roz McCall To ask the First Minister what the Scottish Government's response is to reports that Babcock, in Fife, has had to hire workers from overseas as a result of reductions in some college courses. Pauline McNeill To ask the First Minister what the Scottish Government's position is regarding the reported 200,000 public sector workers who are still waiting on their pension entitlement following the 2018 McCloud judgement on pension discrimination. Ash Regan To ask the First Minister for what reason the Scottish Government has reportedly abandoned key provisions of the Fireworks and Pyrotechnic Articles (Scotland) Act 2022, including the proposed licensing system, as communities prepare for potential disorder during Bonfire Night. A full transcript of this week's First Minister's Questions will be available on the Scottish Parliament website: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report

The First Minister answers questions from Party Leaders and other MSPs in this weekly question time. Topics covered this week include: Clare Adamson To ask the First Minister what assessment the Scottish Government has made of any implications for its work to mitigate the two-child benefit cap of the UK Government's reported proposals to replace the cap with a tapered system. Brian Whittle To ask the First Minister what the Scottish Government's response is to reports that the mental health budget has been reduced in the 2025-26 Autumn Budget Revision. Michael Matheson To ask the First Minister, following Scotland's Global Investment Summit 2025, whether he will provide an update on the Scottish Government's work to attract international investment into Scotland's economy. A full transcript of this week's First Minister's Questions will be available on the Scottish Parliament website: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report

In CI News this week: Dame Sarah Mullally has been chosen by the Crown Nominations Commission to be the next Archbishop of Canterbury, the Scottish Government advises schools to separate toilets according to biological sex, and Wycliffe Bible Translators has reported historic growth in producing Bibles in new languages. You can download the video via this link. Featured stories CofE appoints first female Archbishop of Canterbury Scot Govt amends school toilet guidance to refer to biological sex Communities Secretary: ‘Islamophobia definition will not be allowed to infringe on free speech' ‘Historic' year for Bible translation as 118 Bibles and New Testaments launched

The First Minister answers questions from Party Leaders and other MSPs in this weekly question time. Topics covered this week include: Gordon MacDonald To ask the First Minister, regarding the potential impact on marginalised communities and public services in Scotland, what the Scottish Government's response is to UK Government proposals to introduce a mandatory digital ID scheme. Liz Smith To ask the First Minister what the Scottish Government's position is on whether NHS Tayside should exempt legal claims by former patients of Professor Sam Eljamel from the three-year time-bar which is currently in place. Jackie Baillie To ask the First Minister what the Scottish Government's response is to reported comments from the chair of the British Medical Association in Scotland, that Scotland's NHS is "dying before our eyes". A full transcript of this week's First Minister's Questions will be available on the Scottish Parliament website: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report

The First Minister answers questions from Party Leaders and other MSPs in this weekly question time. Topics covered this week include: Elena Whitham To ask the First Minister what assessment the Scottish Government has made of any implications for its work to address poverty amongst older people of recent findings by the Living Wage Foundation that a majority of people on a low-income pension in the UK are unable to cover basic living costs. Brian Whittle To ask the First Minister what the Scottish Government's response is to reports that proposed changes to the counting method for NHS waiting lists will result in numbers falling despite no more patients being seen. Foysol Choudhury To ask the First Minister what urgent action the Scottish Government is taking in light of Public Health Scotland's estimate that dementia in Scotland is set to rise by more than 50% by 2044. A full transcript of this week's First Minister's Questions will be available on the Scottish Parliament website: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report

The First Minister answers questions from Party Leaders and other MSPs in this weekly question time. Topics covered this week include: Gordon MacDonald To ask the First Minister what assessment the Scottish Government has made of the potential impact on households in Scotland of the forecasts from the Food and Drink Federation that food and drink inflation could reach 5.7% by December. Murdo Fraser To ask the First Minister how the Scottish Government will support town and city centres as retail destinations.   Maggie Chapman To ask the First Minister what action the Scottish Government is taking to protect renters in the private sector from homelessness. A full transcript of this week's First Minister's Questions will be available on the Scottish Parliament website: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report

The First Minister answers questions from Party Leaders and other MSPs in this weekly question time. Topics covered this week include: Ruth Maguire To ask the First Minister, in light of reports of the rising rate of poverty for families with a baby under one and new evidence from Save the Children that increasing Best Start Grant and Best Start Foods payments could significantly reduce the child poverty rate for this priority group, whether the Scottish Government will consider increasing these payments. Brian Whittle  To ask the First Minister what urgent steps the Scottish Government is taking in response to reports that nursing and midwifery vacancies have risen by 60% in six months.   Paul Sweeney  To ask the First Minister what additional support the Scottish Government is giving to the Public Dental Service, in light of reports that there has been a 10% rise in spending over the last two years due to increased demand.   A full transcript of this week's First Minister's Questions will be available on the Scottish Parliament website: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report

The First Minister answers questions from Party Leaders and other MSPs in this weekly question time. Topics covered this week include: Evelyn Tweed To ask the First Minister what action the Scottish Government is taking to reduce the number of road traffic incidents on the trunk road network, in light of reports of a number of serious accidents over the summer. Tess White To ask the First Minister whether he will provide an update on the steps that the Scottish Government is taking as a result of the Supreme Court judgment in For Women Scotland Ltd v The Scottish Ministers Alex Rowley To ask the First Minister, in light of SEPA's warnings of water scarcity over the summer and the introduction of restrictions on water abstraction last week in some areas, including North Fife, what action the Scottish Government is taking to secure water supply in Scotland in the face of changing climate conditions.   A full transcript of this week's First Minister's Questions is available here: https://www.parliament.scot/chamber-and-committees/official-report/search-what-was-said-in-parliament/recent-publication?meeting=16549&iob=141274