Podcasts about Scottish Labour

This is astonishing.Malcolm Offord is the leader of Reform in Scotland and led them to a huge result in May, tying with Scottish Labour on 17 seats. But that day had mixed feelings for him as he was diagnosed with prostate cancer. It was the latest chapter in an incredible life that led him from Greenock on the west coast of Scotland, to the House of Lords via the City of London.Made a peer and a minister by Boris Johnson, Malcolm has brilliant stories about dealing with him, Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak. See the Political Party Live on Stage:9 November: Liz Kendall (London)21 December: Wes Streeting (London)GET TICKETS for Matt's brand new stand-up show Project Holy Moly at the Edinburgh Festival and touring nationwide in 2027:www.mattforde.comMARCH19 FAVERSHAM The Alex20 DORKING HallsAPRIL7 STOURBRIDGE Town Hall8 GLOUCESTER Guildhall9 LEICESTER Y Theatre12 SALFORD Lowry16 NORTHAMPTON Royal & Derngate21 EXETER Northcott Theatre24 LONDON Bloomsbury Theatre28 ALNWICK Playhouse29 BARNARD CASTLE Witham30 HULL AsylumMAY6 BIRMINGHAM The Glee Club12 COVENTRY Warwick Arts Centre13 WORCESTER Huntingdon Hall14 CHORLEY Theatre18 STAMFORD Corn Exchange19 SHEFFIELD Steamworks20 SHREWSBURY Theatre Severn21 NOTTINGHAM Theatre Royal23 LEEDS City Varieties Music Hall26 NORWICH Playhouse27 NORWICH PlayhouseJUNE2 SCUNTHORPE Plowright4 CANTERBURY Gulbenkian Theatre5 READING Concert Hall8 CARDIFF The Glee Club9 BATH Komedia10 MONMOUTH Savoy Theatre11 CHIPPING NORTON The Theatre15 BURY ST EDMUNDS Theatre Royal16 MILTON KEYNES The Stables18 TUNBRIDGE WELLS Trinity Theatre30 LIVERPOOL Everyman PlayhouseJULY1 CARLISLE Old Fire Station2 GLASGOW The Glee Club4 EDINBURGH Lyceum Theatre Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Either Michael Marra or Joe Fagan will be the next leader of the Scottish Labour Party. What's happening in the race, what does the new leader need to do and will it make any difference in their goal of Labour unseating the SNP?PLUS - It's reported the John Swinney's World Cup junket with entourage cost the tax payer around £95k? Was it worth it?Anger in Glasgow over the state of the City. Why can't opposition parties hold the SNP to account?Focussing on UK, Scottish and Global politics, if you like other great political podcasts like The Rest is Politics, The News Agents, Newscast, Questions Time, Holyrood Sources, Planet Holyrood, The Stooshie, The Steamie, Scotcast, Americast etc etc then The Ponsonby and Massie Podcast could be a great show to add to your list of favourites. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Holyrood Sources, Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein and Andy Maciver unpack another week Scottish politics.The team reacts to the official Government Expenditure and Revenue Scotland (GERS) figures, analysing Scotland's £25.3 billion public spending deficit, falling North Sea oil revenues, and what upcoming public service reforms mean for John Swinney's government.We also dive deep into the Scottish Labour leadership contest as candidates Joe Fagan and Michael Mara prepare to battle it out following Monica Lennon's exit.Plus, the team addresses listener questions on the environmental impact and energy demands of large-scale data centres versus net zero targets, and runs a political thought experiment: what would Scottish politics look like today if Rishi Sunak had won the 2024 general election? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Political Correspondent Rachel Amery, Deputy Political Editor David Bol and Westminster Correspondent Andrew Quinn to discuss the latest in the Scottish Labour leadership election, as the contest is whittled down to just two: Michael Marra MSP and Joe Fagan MSP.  We will also take a look at the impact of the Clacton by-election and the recent redundancies at Ferguson Marine. Take a listen now. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the latest episode of Planet Holyrood, the Daily Record's Paul Hutcheon is joined by Douglas Dickie of the Scottish Daily Express and Dan Vevers of the Sunday Mail, to discuss some of this week's hot topics in politics. The panel look at the battle for the Scottish Labour leadership and how it will now be slugged out by Michael Marra and Joe Fagan, they ponder whether Prime Minister Andy Burham should call a general election and dissect the BBC's controversial documentary on the troubles facing Glasgow city centre. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Paddy Duffy is joined by Hannah Brown, Political Correspondent at The Herald. They discuss what it's like to get into journalism at the moment, the way stories are chosen and prioritised at the paper, as well as chatting about Scottish Labour's Silly Season, Q Manivannan's controversial comments, the Athenian basis for Count Binface (seriously!) and more on this week's Talk Media! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bernard Ponsonby and Alex Massie discuss Farage's post Clacton by-election propects as it's announced that the parliamentary investigation into substantial donations made to Mr Farage by a donor is active again. Plus - the Scottish Labour leadership contest is gathering pace. It's all smiles in public but what's really happening and who will emerge victorious. GERS figures - we've read them so you don't have to - Alex explains and Bernard takes a critical view. Focussing on UK, Scottish and Global politics, if you like other great political podcasts like The Rest is Politics, The News Agents, Newscast, Questions Time, Holyrood Sources, Planet Holyrood, The Stooshie, The Steamie, Scotcast, Americast etc etc then The Ponsonby and Massie Podcast could be a great show to add to your list of favourites. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alistair Grant, Rachel Amery, David Bol, Andrew Quinn and Catriona Stewart bring you a round-up of everything you need to know in the world of Scottish politics as recess trudges on. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Calum MacDonald, Geoff Aberdein, and Andy Maciver break down Scotland's latest GERS figures, examining revenue vs. public spending, the Barnett Formula, and Scotland's fiscal deficit. Plus, the Holyrood Sources team discuss the realities of North Sea oil vs. renewables, and whether John Swinney can escape Sturgeon's legacy.Later, George and Andy share their thoughts on former Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar's comments that the House of Lords should be abolished. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There's never a dull moment in Scottish politics and in this week's episode of Planet Holyrood, the panel had plenty to chew over. Paul Hutcheon was joined by Ben Borland and John Ferguson, to dissect the Scottish government's Gers report - which was released today, look at the latest in Scottish Labour's leadership race and question whether it's time for Nicola Sturgeon to disappear from the political scene. You can listen to this episode of Planet Holyrood on Spotify or Apple podcasts, or watch it on the Daily Record youtube channel. Don't forget to follow us on instagram and Tiktok for the latest news and the best bits of the podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

 After a three-week summer break, Lesley Riddoch and Fraser Thompson return to dissect Scotland's political landscape. From Anas Sarwar's sudden elevation to the House of Lords to Nicola Sturgeon taking public lumps out of John Swinney in the paperback edition of her book and in interviews, the pair unpack the internal friction, leadership manoeuvring, and communication breakdowns across Scottish politics.Meanwhile, as Europe and the Cairngorms burn amidst record heat, the hosts examine the stark realities of climate change, food inflation, and the ongoing tug-of-war over North Sea oil licences. Add in lessons on local democracy from Sweden, Icelandic EU ambitions, and a trip to the Killin Highland Games, and this return episode covers the full political and cultural spectrum.In this episode, we discuss:Anas Sarwar's Peerage & The Scottish Labour Leadership: We unpack Anas Sarwar taking a seat in the House of Lords and stepping into a UK trade role, leaving Scottish Labour in a lurch. Lesley and Fraser critique the party's defensive media spin and analyse the upcoming leadership race—looking at why candidates like Monica Lennon and Michael Marra face structural hurdles while South Lanarkshire Council leader Joe Fagan emerges as the party machinery's favoured pick.Nicola Sturgeon vs. John Swinney: Former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon re-emerges at the Edinburgh Book Festival to criticise John Swinney's campaign and vision. Fraser compares her interventions to Margaret Thatcher's post-power backseat driving, while Lesley highlights insider reactions—including Liz Lloyd's sharp observation that while the party respected Nicola, members love John Swinney.Rosebank, European Wildfires & Climate Economics: With wildfires raging from Southern Europe to Nethy Bridge in the Cairngorms, we look at the climate crisis hitting home. We examine First Minister John Swinney's hesitation over North Sea licences like Rosebank and Jackdaw, BP's scale-back in the North Sea, and expert warnings that 40% of recent food inflation is directly linked to climate-driven agricultural disruption.Iceland's EU Referendum & International Borders: We look at Iceland's upcoming referendum on restarting EU accession negotiations, analysing how the bloc courts a nation of 355,000—and what potential fishing opt-outs mean for Scotland's constitutional future. Plus, we look at the pragmatic border deal reached in Gibraltar.Manchester Apathy vs. Swedish Democracy: Following the Greater Manchester mayoral by-election, we discuss winner Bev Craig and the dismal 25% voter turnout. Lesley contrasts Britain's top-down regional mayor model with Sweden's hyper-local democracy, where 290 municipal councils collect basic income tax and command 90% voter turnouts.Coigach Filming & Highland Games Catch-Up: Fraser recounts his time at the Commonwealth Games, while Lesley shares updates on her documentary filming in Coigach and Strathnaver, commemorating the 1852 clearance protests at the newly opened An Lòrg stone circle.Links & Mentioned Events:Bute Highland Games: Saturday, 22nd August in Rothesay. https://butehighlandgames.org/  ★ Support this podcast ★

Alistair Grant, Rachel Amery, Andrew Quinn and David Bol discuss the Scottish Labour leadership race. Who's running, what do they stand for - and what sort of party will they be left with? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What's going on? Former SNP FM Nicola Sturgeon criticising John Swinney's SNP? Is this a serious analysis or part of the latest round of book promotion?The SNP hit back saying John Swinney is the best First Minister yet. Also, the race for the Scottish Labour leadership is warming up. Michael Marra looks like the front runner with Joe Fagan also in contention but Monica Lennon may struggle to get the required nominations to stand in the vote. Bernard Ponsonby and Alex Massie discuss. Focussing on UK, Scottish and Global politics, if you like other great political podcasts like The Rest is Politics, The News Agents, Newscast, Questions Time, Holyrood Sources, Planet Holyrood, The Stooshie, The Steamie, Scotcast, Americast etc etc then The Ponsonby and Massie Podcast could be a great show to add to your list of favourites. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nicola Sturgeon faces fierce backlash from her own former cabinet colleagues after criticising the SNP's election strategy in a new book foreword. Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein and Andy Maciver break down the response from the First Minister and Cabinet Secretaries.Plus, as the Scottish Labour leadership contest opens with Monica Lennon, Michael Marra, and Joe Fagan announcing their leadership, we ask: what is Labour's long-term plan to challenge the SNP, is there any possibility of a party win in 2031?Later, we revisit Scotland's income tax debate. Economist Laurie Macfarlane (Co-Director of Future Economy Scotland) responds to Dan Neidle's analysis on Scotland's 48p top tax rate. Does the data really show a £22m loss, or are volatility and broader economic factors being overlooked? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why did Scotland's new 48p top rate of income tax actually backfire and lose £22 million in revenue?On this episode of Holyrood Sources, Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein, and Andy Maciver analyse the fallout from Scotland's tax policy with tax expert Dan Neidle from Tax Policy Associates.Will John Swinney reverse a major policy decision originated by his predecessors, Humza Yousaf and Nicola Sturgeon?We also discuss the Scottish Labour leadership contest following Anas Sarwar's departure to the House of Lords. We're joined by Francesca Brennan, Inverclyde Councillor and Scottish Representative for Labour in Local and Regional Government. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Scottish Labour leadership contest | Andy Burnham bounce effect | Worst job in Scottish politics? Daily Record Political Editor Paul Hutcheon is joined by Sunday Mail Editor John Ferguson and Scottish Express Editor Ben Borland on the Planet Holyrood podcast to discuss who will be Scottish Labour's 11th leader of the devolution era, if it is the worst job in Scottish politics, Monica Lennon's Mick McCarthy jibe and if Scottish Labour could be riding on Andy Burnham's coattails. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Des and the teams break up the week's news, including: The first week of new Prime Minister Andy Burnham, Anas Sarwar standing down as Scottish Labour leader, research into our music habits, the us of therapy-speak in everyday conversation, Scottish strong man Tom Stoltman and more Lead Writer: Jennifer WalkerAdditional material: Chris Stanners, Matt Kingsley, Claire Cox, James Docherty, Dan Welton & Sarah Tattersall, Jon Paisley, Gregor Paton, Lucy Rycroft Smith & Chris Willshaw, Stuart Beale, Stephen Holford, Nathan Cowley, Terry Hughes, Rebecca Bain & Alex Garrick Wright Producer: Chris Quilietti Senior Producer: David Flynn Researcher: Jodie White Script Editor: Keiron NicholsonAn Eco-Audio certified Production

Bernard and Alex discuss a good start for Andy Burnham in terms of communications but does it really change any of the fundamental issues facing the country. Also, who are the runners and riders for the Scottish Labour leadership after Anas Sarwar accepted a peerage and is not a Westminster Trade Minister? Michael Marra? Monica Lennon? Paul Sweeney? Daniel Johnson?Focussing on UK, Scottish and Global politics, if you like other great political podcasts like The Rest is Politics, The News Agents, Newscast, Questions Time, Holyrood Sources, Planet Holyrood, The Stooshie, The Steamie, Scotcast, Americast etc etc then The Ponsonby and Massie Podcast could be a great show to add to your list of favourites. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Andy Burnham has announced the return of the £2 bus fare cap in most of England - taking effect from January 2027. Bus fares had initially been capped at £2 in 2023 by the Conservatives, and was later increased to £3 by Keir Starmer. Andy Burnham has reversed the Starmer policy, but how will it be funded?And, Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar, one of the first and most senior Labour politicians to pubilicly call for Keir Starmer to go, is expected to join Andy Burnham's government. He'll be joining fellow Starmer dissenters Wes Streeting and John Healey in the cabinet. Adam is joined by Chris Mason and Henry Zeffman to unpack it all.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/4guXgXdNewscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Chris Gray with Rosie Merotra and Shiler Mahmoudi. The social producer was Beth Pritchard. The technical producer was Philip Bull. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

On today's episode of Holyrood Sources, Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein and Andy Maciver are joined by Scottish Labour MSP, Paul Sweeney to discuss the shock news that Anas Sarwar is set to resign to join new PM Andy Burnham's team in Westminster.What will Sarwar's departure mean for Scottish Labour and the UK Labour Party overall.Has Sarwar blindsided his Holyrood colleagues by accepting a job out of the blue?And what kind of leader is Burnham going to be, now he is officially the top dog in Westminster? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Daily Record Political Editor Paul Hutcheon is joined by Sunday Mail Editor John Ferguson and special guest Monica Lennon on the Planet Holyrood podcast to discuss outgoing Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar's legacy and if Monica Lennon is considering becoming an MSP again and stand for leadership of the party. The panel also discuss the early days of Andy Burnham who was formally appointed Labour Party leader and Prime Minister this week. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On a summer special of Holyrood Sources, Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein and Andy Maciver are joined by the 2026 Scottish Labour candidate for Galloway and West Dumfries, Jack McConnel (the other one).Jack is one of the leading voices in a growing movement within the Scottish Labour Party, that wants to break away from UK Labour and stand as an independent body.Jack explains why he thinks a breakaway party would be good for the Scottish Labour movement and Scottish politics as a whole and compares the move to similar political arrangements in other countries.You can read more about the just for Scotland movement here at https://www.justscotland.win/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Following the sentencing of former SNP Chief Executive Peter Murrell to over five years in prison, Calum, Geoff, and Andy sit down with The Scotsman's Catriona Stewart to dissect the staggering evidence released by the Crown Office. From the infamous campervan to Nicola Sturgeon's bookcase, we break down what this means for the future of the SNP.Later in the episode, we look at the rumblings of a leadership challenge facing Scottish Labour's Anas Sarwar as Westminster transitions under Andy Burnham. Plus, we are joined by the newly elected Conservative MP for Aberdeen South, Douglas Lumsden, fresh off a historic by-election victory driven by the energy policy battle.If you enjoyed this episode, please SUBSCRIBEListen on Apple Podcasts/Spotify: holyroodsources.comFollow us on X (Twitter): @holyroodsourcesRead Catriona Stewart's latest column in The Scotsman: https://www.scotsman.com/news/politics/no-forgiveness-for-peter-murrell-as-his-ex-snp-peers-find-his-sins-beyond-redemption-8757602 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This. Is. Superb. The former leader of Scottish Labour gives an impassioned and engrossing analysis of everything happening in Scottish and UK politics: · SNP corruption· Triple by-election reaction· Scottish media pig pen· PLUS! Tartan Army action It's everything you'd want and more. THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE 9 November: Liz Kendall 21 December: Wes Streeting https://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ SEE the final dates of Matt's stand-up tour 'Defying Calamity' across the UK:https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows June 26 Bristol 1532 - EXTRA DATEJuly 3 Basingstoke The Haymarket - EXTRA DATE 8 Birmingham Glee Club - EXTRA DATE 10 Bedford Quarry Theatre - EXTRA DATE 16 Maidenhead Norden Farm - EXTRA DATE DONATE to the RNOH Charity here:https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/mattforde Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alistair Grant, David Bol and Catriona Stewart discuss the future of Scottish Labour, following last month's election defeat. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nicola Sturgeon's estranged husband Peter Murrell, the former chief executive of the Scottish National Party, has admitted to embezzling over £400k of party funds in order to fund his “lavish lifestyle” - using the money to buy everything from luxury watches and fountain pens to a motorhome.Camilla and Tim speak to the deputy leader of Scottish Labour, Jackie Baillie MSP, who says both Sturgeon herself and the SNP leader and Scotland's first minister John Swinney have questions to answer about what they knew at the time.Elsewhere, with Restore deciding to field a candidate in the Makerfield by-election and sexist tweets posted by Reform's candidate Robert Kenton coming to light, are Nigel Farage's chances of beating Andy Burnham slipping away?Producers: Emma Williams and Georgia CoanSenior Producer: John CadiganExecutive Producer: Charlotte SeligmanVideo Producer: Will WaltersStudio Operator: Meghan SearleEditor: Camilla TomineyHighlightsWhat did Nicola Sturgeon know and not know about Murrell's spending habits?Will Restore end up splitting the vote on the right in Makerfield? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Explaining History Podcast, we are joined by cultural historian Murray Pittock to discuss his new book, The Shortest History of Scotland – a concise but richly detailed journey through two millennia of Scottish history, from the Picts to the present day.Scotland's geography – the “land of the mountain and the flood”, in Walter Scott's phrase – made it virtually impenetrable until modern roads and railways. For centuries, the sea was the highway, and Scotland's east‑coast ports looked as much to continental Europe as to England. Understanding that terrain is key to understanding how Scotland became a state in historical time – and why the union with England was never a foregone conclusion.Murray explains the origins of his book, written as part of the bestselling Shortest History series, and the opportunity it offered to refresh a field dominated by either heavy tomes or outdated accounts. He focuses not just on kings and battles, but on people's lived lives, culture, and the built environment – while also signposting readers towards deeper dives, such as the Declaration of Arbroath.We then turn to the present. The story of modern Scottish nationalism begins with Winnie Ewing's shock by‑election victory in Hamilton in 1967, and her slogan “Stop the world – Scotland wants to get on”. The post‑imperial era marginalised Scotland's distinctive identity; Britishness, once a broad, inclusive identity shared by Australians, Canadians and New Zealanders, suddenly became something narrower and more insular. The memory of the two world wars – particularly the myth of 1940 as an English, south‑east England story – has played a complex role in the union's longevity.Murray explores the drivers of Scottish nationalism: economic anxiety, a desire for democratic control, and an internationalist outlook that became visible in the 2016 Brexit vote, where Scotland's pattern diverged dramatically from England's. He also reflects on the 2014 independence referendum – where pensions and currency fears likely tipped the balance – and on devolution, which Labour hoped would “kill nationalism stone dead” but which failed partly because Scottish Labour never truly became a nationalist party.We also discuss the formation of the union in 1707, a vote “forced” by economic weakness, English obstruction of Scottish overseas trade, and a lack of alternatives. The mercantile class later profited handsomely from the British Empire, shifting Scotland's economic centre of gravity from east to west – from the European ports to Glasgow and the American trade.Topics covered:The geography of Scotland and its historical impactWalter Scott's “land of the mountain and the flood”The Declaration of ArbroathWinnie Ewing and the birth of modern Scottish nationalismPost‑imperial Britishness and the Festival of Britain (1951)The memory of the world wars and its role in the unionDrivers of Scottish nationalism: economic, democratic, internationalistThe 2014 independence referendum and the currency/pensions questionDevolution: Labour's miscalculationThe 1707 union: economic weakness, Darien, and a forced voteMurray Pittock's The Shortest History of Scotland is available now from all good bookshops. Please consider buying from an independent retailer or directly from the publisher.If you enjoy the podcast, please consider supporting us – we are migrating from Patreon to Substack. Details in the show notes.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.

On this special live episode of Holyrood Sources: Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein and Andy Maciver are joined by MSPs, journalists and backroom staff at the Edinburgh Gin Distillery, a stone's throw from The Scottish Parliament. They are joined by three brand new MSPs from the three biggest parties at Holyrood to discuss what the next five years could bring: Katherine Sangster from Scottish Labour, Reform UK Scotland Leader Malcolm Offord and former SNP Westminster Leader Stephen Flynn. What does the future hold for Anas Sarwar and Keir Starmer? Can either survive after devastating results across the UK and in Scotland. Will Reform be the foxes in the hen house... are they as cunning as they make out to be? How does the SNP actually get stuff done, and how does Stephen Flynn live up to his promise as a "champion" of Aberdeen's oil and gas industry. This Holyrood Sources live event was sponsored by Scottish Renewables and SSE. ---Subscribe to our mailing list at holyroodsources.comEmail us with thoughts, questions and your own analysis: hello@holyroodsources.comDrop us a Voice Note or WhatsApp: 0333 404 6507 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As part of a series of special party leader interviews, Andrew Quinn played pool with Scottish Labour's Anas Sarwar, while Rachel Amery caught up with John Swinney for some pizza on Portobello beach. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Does the Leader of Scottish Labour regret calling for Keir Starmer to resign over his appointment of Peter Mandelson as US Ambassador? In the upcoming election, would he consider putting Scottish Labour into a coalition with the Reform Party to defeat the SNP? How does he plan to tackle the rise of Islamophobia and the politics of despair that are increasingly gripping Scotland and the UK? Rory and Alastair are joined by Anas Sarwar, Leader of the Labour Party in Scotland, to discuss all these questions and more. __________ Search IG.com to find out more and/or Look for IG in your app store. __________ Instagram: @restispolitics Twitter: @restispolitics Email: therestispolitics@goalhanger.com __________ Social Producer: Celine Charles Video Editor: Josh Smith Assistant Producer: Daisy Alston-Horne Senior Producer: Nicole Maslen Exec Producer: Chris Sawyer General Manager: Tom Whiter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of Holyrood Sources, Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein, and Andy Maciver dive into the most heated moment of the campaign so far: the Channel 4 leaders' debate. We break down the explosive exchange between Scottish Labour's Anas Sarwar and Reform UK's Malcolm Offord, and ask if the alleged "backroom deal" has any basis in reality.In this episode:The Debate Fallout: Was the Sarwar-Offord clash a turning point or just "petulent nonsense"?Polling Deep Dive: We analyse the latest YouGov MRP poll—is an SNP majority of 67 seats actually possible?Manifesto Week: Breaking down the key pledges from Scottish Labour and the Scottish Greens.The "Battle Bus" Myth: Geoff reveals why you rarely see leaders actually traveling on their branded buses.Listener Questions: From the UK's counter-argument for independence to the journey of a barrel of North Sea oil.---Subscribe to our mailing list at holyroodsources.comEmail us with thoughts, questions and your own analysis: hello@holyroodsources.comDrop us a Voice Note or WhatsApp: 0333 404 6507 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Holyrood Sources special, the team sit down with Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar ahead of the upcoming election.Sarwar outlines a "boldly different" vision for Scotland, addressing the growing crisis in the NHS, the decline in Scottish education, and the future of clean nuclear energy. He responds to tough questions on the Grangemouth refinery, the procurement of buses from China over Scottish firms, and his public call for Keir Starmer to resign.Is Scottish Labour truly different from the SNP? Can Anas Sarwar move from opposition to Bute House?In this episode:NHS Emergency: The plan to ramp up operations and let "money follow the patient."Education Crisis: Addressing the 19% drop in ASN teachers and banning mobile phones in classrooms.Industry & Jobs: The fallout at Alexander Dennis and the future of North Sea energy.The Starmer Dynamic: Why Sarwar stood by his call for the PM to step down.Subscribe for more interviews with Scotland's political leaders.#ScottishPolitics #AnasSarwar #ScottishLabour #SNP #Holyrood #ScotlandElection #NHSScotland #KeirStarmer** The Holyrood Sources podcast brings the best analysis of Scottish politics with those who have lived it as Special Advisers, and those who are current and former politicians and political party leaders. Join Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein (Former Chief of Staff to First Minister Alex Salmond) and Andy Maciver (Former Director of Communications for the Scottish Conservatives).Subscribe nowApple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/holyrood-sources/id1673972192Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Fj3emmRONEr8aSkhcMgoH?si=789c7874034340c6---Subscribe to our mailing list at holyroodsources.comEmail us with thoughts, questions and your own analysis: hello@holyroodsources.comDrop us a Voice Note or WhatsApp: 0333 404 6507 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

One month on from calling for Keir Starmer's resignation, Anas Sarwar – the leader of Scottish Labour – joins Michael Gove to reflect on British politics ahead of the May elections. Does he stand by his call for the Prime Minister to go? And, having spoken to Wes Streeting the weekend before, what advice did his close ally give? The May local and regional elections promise to be the 'fiercest battle' for Scotland's future. Yet after over two decades in power, what does he make of polling that suggests the SNP will win – again? Is Reform posing a threat to Labour? And how can Scottish Labour offer a realistic alternative? Plus: which Westminster cabinet minister would he like to see campaign in Scotland – and who are his political heroes?Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Patrick Gibbons. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Angela Rayner has stepped back in the spotlight this week and straight into controversy.Her blunt intervention - warning the government is running out of time, criticising its record on “change” and calling parts of Labour's immigration policy “un-British” - has sparked a big question: is Rayner simply saying what others are thinking, or going too far?Harriet certainly thinks it's a bit much. She says Rayner's approach could be undermining the government at a critical moment just weeks out from the May elections. Beth says Rayner's tax affairs could be sorted sooner than a lot of people thought.On the elections, Beth has been in Scotland speaking to Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar. Does he still think Starmer should resign?Plus, what support should the government be offering to help with rising energy costs because of the war in Iran? And can we even afford it as a country?Got a question for the burner phone? WhatsApp 07934 200 444 or email electoraldysfunction@sky.uk.And if you didn't know, you can also watch Beth, Ruth and Harriet on YouTube.

Rachel Amery sits down with Kate Forbes, the Deputy First Minister, who is standing down in May. Plus, The Scotsman's politics team reflect on Scottish Labour's chances as the party gathers for its conference in Paisley. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Keir Starmer's standing has gone from bad to worse this week, with the Peter Mandelson scandal giving way to a series of resignations in No. 10 and the Scottish Labour leader openly calling for Starmer to go. Ed Balls and George Osborne look at what might be Starmer's worst week yet, and assess if he can survive or if we're reliving the final days of Boris Johnson, and Theresa May.Away from Westminster, the Munich Security Conference begins this weekend, which means we're one year on from JD Vance's consequential address in which he claimed the greatest threat to the continent came from within. Has that speech set the tone for the Trump administration's relationship with Europe? What reverberations has that had for the UK? How will European leaders manage in a world without America as a reliable ally? Finally, they tackle one of the great debates in British politics: what do you do about the Palace of Westminster? The British parliament has been crumbling for decades and the dilemma of how to fix a working government building has been a live issue since Ed and George first the Commons. As the issue is delayed, the costs continue to rise. They ponder the solution to this while reminiscing about crumbling offices, leaks and mice running across their feet. Is it in the British public's interest to spend billions refurbishing the Palace of Westminster? We love hearing from you, so please don't forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question. Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad- free join Political Currency Gold or our Kitchen Cabinet. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

This week, Ellen and Alona are joined again by Prospect editor and former Labour speechwriter Philip Collins to unpack the government's ongoing crisis.With Peter Mandelson currently under investigation by the Metropolitan Police, Starmer's premiership came close to collapse. He appears to have clung on for now—but how long can he survive as prime minister? And why, in his moment of peril, did no other contenders for PM come to the fore?Philip discusses what surprised him about Wes Streeting's WhatsApp messages to Mandelson, and whether the departure of Morgan McSweeney from 10 Downing Street will have any impact on the government's direction. He also analyses the implications of Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar's call for Starmer to resign. Will it harm his chances in the upcoming Holyrood elections?Plus, beyond Mandelson, they explore whether political culture is now too close to money—and if politicians, in general, are too vulnerable to the wealthy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Keir Starmer says that he will "never walk away from the country that I love” after surviving a turbulent 24 hours that saw the Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar call for him to step down. Speaking to the BBC, his energy secretary Ed Miliband said the Labour Party had "looked over the precipice” and decided to back their leader leading to a rallying of support from the cabinet and other senior party figures. So, the Prime Minister is in the clear for now, but is he truly safe? Alex and James break down another turbulent 24 hours in Westminster before catching up with Daniela Relph senior royal correspondent and Caitríona Perry, BBC News chief presenter in Washington to discuss the wider fallout from the Epstein files in the US and for the royal family. 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 presenters were James Cook and Alex Forsyth. It was made by Anna Harris with Shiler Mahmoudi and Chloe Scannapieco. The technical producer was Philip Bull. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

After a day of turmoil where the Scottish Labour leader, Anas Sarwar, called for Keir Starmer to resign, Labour MPs and cabinet members seem to be rallying around the prime minister. Can Starmer bounce back from this latest blow to his leadership? And what might the road to recovery look like for Labour? Lucy Hough speaks to columnist Aditya Chakrabortty – watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/infocus

Sir Keir Starmer told MPs he was “not prepared to walk away”, hours after Anas Sarwar, the Scottish Labour leader, urged him to resign. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Scottish labour leader comes out against Keir Starmer, Ed Starmer comes on to support him, and should Prince William be meeting Mohamed Bin Slaman

Today, Keir Starmer has addressed his MPs and seems to have rallied some support after Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar called for him to quit.In a press conference in Glasgow, Sarwar emphasised his concerns for Scotland ahead of the May elections, and told reporters “the leadership in Downing Street has to change". The move prompted statements supporting the prime minister from cabinet ministers and other key labour figures including potential rivals Angela Rayner and Wes Streeting.The PM has been facing mounting pressure in recent days with two of his top aides Tim Allen and Morgan McSweeney resigning following the aftermath of revelations about the appointment of former US ambassador Peter Mandelson. James and Alex are in for Adam to talk through what it all mean.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 presenters were Alex Forsyth and James Cook. It was made by Anna Harris with Shiler Mahmoudi, Chloe Scannapieco and Sophie van Brugen. The technical producer was Hannah Montgomery. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Sir Keir Starmer's entire cabinet has come out in a coordinated show of support for the Prime Minister after the leader of the Scottish Labour Party, Anas Sarwar, publicly called for him to step down. Also: a statement on behalf of the King has said he stands ready to support the police if needed as they investigate his brother's relationship with the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. And one of Scotland's last surviving D-Day veterans, Albert Lamond, has died at the age of 100.

Keir Starmer's future as prime minister suffered another major blow when the Scottish Labour leader, Anas Sarwar, called for him to go. With the cabinet rallying around him, the PM seems to be safe for now, but for how much longer? Pippa and Kiran look at what might happen next Please send your questions and messages for Pippa Crerar, Kiran Stacey and John Harris to politicsweeklyuk@theguardian.com. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod

Are Keir Starmer's days numbered? Plus: The implications of Epstein's Mossad links are going mainstream. With Michael Walker & NoJusticeMTG.

The government is in full-on leadership crisis - with pressure building on Keir Starmer to resign. The Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar was the first major figure to go over the top - saying there have been too many mistakes and Starmer should go. A lot of the cabinet are out declaring their support for the PM but it is clear things are moving fast. Starmer's Chief of Staff Morgan McSweeney quit on Sunday over his advice to appoint Peter Mandelson as US ambassador. Today the No 10 director of communications, Tim Allan, also quit. So what next - and if Starmer is going what and who should follow? On this episode of the Fourcast, Krishnan Guru-Murthy is joined by Polly Toynbee, a columnist at the Guardian, Tom Baldwin, former Labour communications chief who has also written a biography of Sir Keir Starmer, and Luke Tryl, executive director of the More in Common UK thinktank.

In this week's episode, we digest a heavy couple of weeks of news, including the latest killing by ICE agents in Minneapolis. We ask how long can Reform in the UK continue to get away with their references to America, connections with the Trump administration, and leaning on the sort of DOGE style of efficiencies in government as their big offer in the Scottish elections? We look at Lesley's column and discussion of whether Scotland should have boycotted the World Cup if Trump had gone further with Greenland threats. We also look at Andy'King of  the North' Burnham's knockback from standing, in the forthcoming by-election that would have let him jump in as a replacement Labour leader. Will it all just be brushed under the carpet? How successful will that be? Scottish Labour seems to have got a new tactic of ‘mandamification' of Anas Sarwar. We digest the attempts to ape the social media style of the New York Mayor with groovy videos, the walking, talking, jazzy music, and jumping camera shots. Will that work?Edinburgh Cameo screening of the Finland filmUnfortunately the Cameo double booked themselves. The February 20th screening of the Finland film HAS MOVED to Sunday March 22nd 5.15pm. TTicket-holders for the original date will be refunded but must buy a new ticket for the March date. Sorry about that. A new booking link for March 22nd will be online soon at https://lesleyriddoch.com/events.LinksScottish Labour is a party stuck in long-term declinehttps://www.heraldscotland.com/news/25789020.scottish-labour-party-stuck-long-term-decline/Gavin Newsome  World Economic Forum Davoshttps://www.youtube.com/live/ObkKhPt1QM0?si=lzSpDW8FWWTrWB_UDeacon Blue 'appalled' after Malcolm Offord quotes Dignityhttps://www.thenational.scot/news/25800409.deacon-blue-appalled-malcolm-offord-quotes-dignity/ ★ Support this podcast ★

Former Wales Office advisor Lauren McEvatt discusses Robert Jenrick's defection to Reform. Prof Scott Lucas analyses the latest on the US and Greenland, ahead of the Senedd debate on the health committee's report on obesity, Dr Sue Kenneally is in the studio. Scottish journalist and podcaster Lesley Riddoch recalls the history of Scottish Labour since the dawn of devolution and former number 10 advisor and journalist Guto Harri remembers u-turns of governments past.Cllr Dmitri Batrouni of Newport Council and Dr Emma Yhnell review the papers.

The Scottish Budget dominates this week's episode - did Scottish Labour produce a massive own goal by not bothering to contest or argue for anything in the budget? Has their decision to abstain made life easier for the SNP and led to muted criticism in the press? There seems to be the impression, in the press at least, that there's not an awful lot to say about the budget and the SNP have sailed through a fairly steady as she goes and uninspring pre-election budget with little pain.We look at the situations across the world at the moment, in Minnesota in the aftermath of the terrible shooting there, the situation in Iran, and the continuing pressure on Greenland. All this and more.LinksSee the latest film showings for the new Finland Filmhttps://lesleyriddoch.com/eventsGreenland filmsUncovering the history of America's secret cold war base on Greenlandhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rIw8pEqJMHwHow did Greenland become part of Denmark and why does Trump want to buy it?https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lYfSlQaIEXk ★ Support this podcast ★

This morning Kemi Badenoch has staged a presser setting out the terms for a new (alternative) national grooming gangs inquiry – a move that has reopened wounds for many survivors and intensified criticism of Labour's handling of the existing process. What will this mean for the government, for survivors, and for the political fight ahead?Meanwhile in Scotland, the defection of former Scotland Office minister Lord Offord to Reform UK has sent shockwaves through the Scottish Conservatives – and raised fresh questions about the balance of power ahead of the Holyrood elections. Could Reform genuinely challenge Labour for second place? And how worried should Scottish Labour be as scandals continue to mount?Plus, Labour Together – the McSweeney-linked think tank which basically put Keir in power – has turned on the PM and is reportedly canvassing members on who they'd prefer as an alternative to Keir Starmer. Is he now in more danger than Kemi?James Heale is joined by Lucy Dunn and Tim Shipman to discuss a tumultuous week in Westminster and beyond.Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Megan McElory. 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.