Podcasts about Scottish Labour

In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, the hosts discuss the latest developments in Scottish politics, including the upcoming spending review and its implications for key projects like carbon capture and a new supercomputer. They analyse the recent by-election results, focusing on the defection of Councillor Jamie McGuire from Scottish Labour to Reform UK, and explore the reasons behind this shift. The conversation also touches on the language used in political discourse, the potential for another independence referendum, and the future policy directions of Reform UK. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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

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

Daily Record Political Editor Paul Hutcheon is joined by Sunday Mail Editor John Ferguson and Scottish Express Editor Borland on the Planet Holyrood podcast to discuss Scottish Labour wininng Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse by-election after stunning victory over SNP. Anas Sarwar hailed the 'incredible' Hamilton by-election victory and says Scots have 'had enough' of the SNP as win win gives the Scottish Labour leader new hope of becoming First Minister after next year's Scottish Parliament election. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joining Iain Dale on Cross Question this evening are former Scottish Labour leader Jim Murphy, Conservative MP Harriet Cross, Green peer and former leader Natalie Bennett and commentator Ella Whelan.

Is our country well-defended?Joining Iain Dale on Cross Question this evening are former Scottish Labour leader Jim Murphy, Conservative MP Harriet Cross, Green peer and former leader Natalie Bennett and commentator Ella Whelan.

This week's episode focuses on our in-depth coverage of the fall-out from the St Andrews University rector's comments on Israel. We reveal the behind-the-scenes efforts to secure £2m from a spooked donor, and allegations of hate crimes in the ancient university town. The by-election in Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse is turning poisonous.  We look at Reform leader Nigel Farage and Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar's comments on minority communities and values. And we focus on how one grandmother's stress over the future of her sheltered home illustrates the real-life impact of tough budget choices

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

Paul Hutcheon, John Ferguson and Ben Borland discuss 'Black Monday' as stock market meltdown sees UK shares lose £100billion following Donald Trump's tariffs, Scottish Labour MPs and MSPs seek rebellion against Starmer's cuts to welfare and Patrick Harvie's resignation has potentially sparked a civil war amongst the Scottish Greens. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joining Iain Dale on Cross Question this evening are Labour MP who was in Corbyn's shadow cabinet Richard Burgon, Conservative MP and shadow foreign minister Wendy Morton, former Scottish Labour leader turned academic Kezia Dugdale and political comms strategist and former Boris Johnson adviser Jo Tanner.

Do the rich pay enough tax?Joining Iain Dale on Cross Question this evening are Labour MP who was in Corbyn's shadow cabinet Richard Burgon, Conservative MP and shadow foreign minister Wendy Morton, former Scottish Labour leader turned academic Kezia Dugdale and political comms strategist and former Boris Johnson adviser Jo Tanner.

In this bumper edition we begin with Labour's leaked plans to cut welfare spending by £6 billion. £5 billion to come from making it harder to claim Personal Independence Payments. Five Scottish Labour MPs have put their names to a letter supporting these "reforms" as " truly progressive". We look at the cuts, wonder if this could be the final nail in the coffin of Scottish Labour, and Lesley compares and contrasts the UK response to the Ukraine crisis with that of Germany.The USA's change in stance under Trump to the Ukraine war and the Western Alliance in NATO prompted erstwhile Westminster SNP leader Ian Blackford to call for the SNP to switch to a multilateral position on nuclear disarmament. We examine the UK's independent nuclear deterrent and question both its independence and its value as a deterrent.Lesley watched the C4 documentary about Michael Sheen's campaign to not only personally pay off £1 million of debt owed by folk from his local area but also his long term project aimed at highlighting social injustice and the impact of credit finance companies on vulnerable communities.https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2025/mar/10/michael-sheen-interview-secret-million-pound-giveaway-port-talbotOur attention also turns to the USA. Are we deluding ourselves over popular opposition to Trump's policies? Will the Democrats find the spine to use the disruptive tactics employed by the Republicans during the Obama and Biden presidencies?All this plus Elaine C Smith, Brian Cox, and Gone With The Wind. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this extremely jurisprudence-heavy episode, Ashleigh, Alyx and Flint go over: An update on the increasingly bleak situation in the USA, as well as aspects of the Trump regime's many defeats in the courtroom.  Conversations about Scottish Labour and the UK Liberal Democrats and their two different ways of approaching anti-trans activists. Details of the now-funded puberty blockers clinical trial.  A smattering of updates from tribunals and legal cases here in the UK and one extremely focused meat about an Arts Council employment tribunal.  References: https://whatthetrans.com/ep126  

On this somewhat heavy episode of What the Trans?! Flint, Alyx and Ashleigh talk about: Is anti-trans sentiment on the rise in the UK? One single, solitary poll says yes, but the team are unconvinced. Several difficult stories coming out of the US, with trigger warnings included.  The tribunal around NHS Fife nurse Sandie Peggie rumbles on, now vocally supported by Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar. Speaking of Labour, "gender critical" members of the party have performed their signature move and created another splinter group. And an interview with Dee Whitnell, a writer, creator and sex educator. Check out those two articles we mentioned! Did the Cass Review shred the truth? – What The Trans!? Trans Allies Systematically Intimidated Inside Tavistock References: https://whatthetrans.com/ep125/  

Starmer at Scottish Labour Conference https://www.standard.co.uk/news/politics/israel-keir-starmer-hamas-activists-labour-b1212679.html #peoplearerevolting twitter.com/peoplerevolting Peoplearerevolting.com movingtrainradio.com

Addressing the Scottish Labour conference in Glasgow today, Sir Keir Starmer said "peace only comes with strength” and said the UK must spend more on defence. But how far is he prepared to go to protect Ukraine when he goes to Washington next week?Laura, Paddy and Joe discuss what tools the UK government has at its disposal to negotiate or flatter Donald Trump ahead of their hugely significant meeting.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://discord.gg/NbuxWnmYNewscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. It was presented by Laura Kuenssberg and Paddy O'Connell. It was made by George Dabby with Bella Salteil. The technical producer was Dafydd Evans. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The editor is Sam Bonham.

Bernard and Alex chew over:SECUIRTY CRISIS - NATO and Europe in a Security crisis as "strongmen" Trump and Putin carve up the geopolitical map. GENDER - Last week's debate around gender issues and disagreements on the ability to debate them in the Scottish Parliament puts further pressure on First Minister, John Swinney, and the role of the Presiding Officer. SCOTTISH LABOUR - With the Scottish Labour conference underway in Glasgow, what can Anas Sarwar do to stop the party tanking in the polls? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

'What does a party get after nearly two decades in office, collapsing public services, an internal civil war and a £2 million police investigation? Re-election again - perhaps with an even bigger majority', writes James Heale in The Spectator this week. He's talking about the SNP, whose change in fortunes has less to do with their leader John Swinney and more to do with the collapse of support for Scottish Labour and their leader Anas Sarwar. Who could benefit from the increased fragmentation of voters in Scotland? Will demands for more time, money and attention cause even more issues for Rachel Reeves? As Scottish Labour meets for its conference in Glasgow this weekend, James and editor Michael Gove join Katy Balls to discuss the dynamics between Holyrood and Westminster. Michael also spots a positive avenue for Labour, should they wish to take it... Produced by Patrick Gibbons. 

Alistair Grant sat down with Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar ahead of his party's annual conference in Glasgow this weekend. They talked polls, council tax - and Mr Sarwar's recent U-turn over gender reform. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anas Sarwar joins us as his party's conference gets under way in Glasgow this weekend. Can he get over the obstacles since Labour's general election win and be next first minister of Scotland? The Glasgow MSP joins us to discuss policies, polling set-backs and more.

We're joined by the Scottish Labour leader and Scottish Labour deputy leader, Anas Sarwar and Jackie Baillie, to discuss their route to victory in 2026, NHS reforms, regionalisation of Scotland, nurse Sandie Peggie, energy policy and more.In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, the hosts delve into the current state of Scottish politics, focusing on the challenges faced by the Scottish Labour Party under the leadership of Anas Sarwar and Jackie Bailey. The conversation explores the implications of recent polling, the dynamics within the party, and the impact of Westminster politics on Scottish governance. The hosts and guests discuss strategies for revitalising Labour's image and addressing public concerns, particularly regarding the economy and public services. The episode emphasises the need for a clear vision and distinct identity for Scottish Labour as they approach the upcoming elections. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the pressing issues facing the NHS in Scotland, including the crisis in A&E, delayed discharges, and the need for reform in primary care. They emphasize the importance of a long-term vision for health and social care, addressing demographic changes and the need for adequate planning and investment. The discussion also touches on the intersection of gender identity and healthcare, particularly in relation to the Equality Act and the treatment of staff within the NHS. The speakers advocate for a focus on patient outcomes and the necessity of reforming the healthcare system to meet the challenges ahead. Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/holyroodsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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

In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, the hosts delve into the current state of Scottish politics, focusing on key figures like Anna Sarwar and the implications of Westminster's decisions on Scottish Labour. They discuss Sarwar's recent comments regarding potential collaboration with Reform UK, the impact of the Rosebank and Jackdaw oil and gas fields decision, and the public's perception of Sarwar's leadership. The conversation highlights the need for a more substantial policy discussion in Scottish politics, moving beyond the theatrics of coalition politics. The conversation delves into the current political landscape in Scotland, focusing on the performance of the Scottish Labour Party, public sentiment towards both the UK and Scottish governments, and the implications for independence. Key figures like Nicola Sturgeon and John Swinney are discussed in terms of their leadership and legacy, while the impact of Reform UK on Scottish politics is also examined. The discussion touches on pressing issues such as rent controls and the challenges of delivering on promises made to vulnerable populations. Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/holyroodsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rachel Reeves' big speech on growth. We ask where was Scotland in the raft of major projects? Hard on the heels of this came the shock, not to anyone who'd been paying attention, news that the CEO of GB Energy, Juergen Maier, could not only give no date for the £300 reduction in consumer bills promised by Labour at the General Election but also that the one thousand Scottish jobs would take around 20 years to materialise. Sticking with Labour is there another U-turn on policy in the pipeline despite the Court of Session ruling by Lord Ericht putting a stop on oil and gas production in the Rosebank and Jackdaw fields? Will Starmer side with Rachel Reeves, the GMB and Scottish Labour, and give the go ahead to drill? Or will Ed Milliband stand up to those voices and refuse to issue new licences?We, in the light of listener Simon Brooke's excellent contribution, re-examine the validity of the claims made by the  industry on so called sustainable aviation fuel?Donald Trump has called time out on his plans to impose tariffs on Canada and Mexico. What's the reality behind the bluster? What's in store for the UK and the EU?Lesley looks at the historical precedence for US expansionism and just why Trump might be so keen on taking over Greenland.Suella Braverman trotted off to the USA to display her MAGA credentials at Trump's inauguration. She hung around to go "full Trump" in her speech to the Heritage Foundation . Is she signalling a potential jump to Reform, or is this an ongoing  part of a campaign to oust Kemi Badenoch as Tory leader by shifting even further to the right? All of this within the context of Reform's rise in the polls.PlusLast in Iceland series that explains why Icelanders pay £60 pcm for heat, hot water & electricityhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rXBEDk_o_hI&t=610sWhy does Trump want Greenland explainer videohttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lYfSlQaIEXkBrave New Music book about Martyn Bennett https://luath.co.uk/products/brave-new-music?variant=54829697007992 ★ Support this podcast ★

Donald Trump was sworn in as the 47th US president on Monday. We look at the inauguration, Trump's raft of immediate Executive Orders and the worldwide implications of what his presidency heralds.Those potential effects are having to be factored into the UK government's economic strategies and diplomatic actions. Meanwhile apparent splits are appearing in Scottish Labour which were writ large in the "painting by numbers" interview with Kirsty McNeill Labour Parliamentary Under- Secretary of State for Scotland on the BBC's Sunday Morning Show.The Scottish government is currently arguing that measures such as creating a wealth tax and setting up a National Energy Company are snookered by The Scotland Act. Are there bold, innovative ways  to circumvent it and why is the SNP leadership so committed to playing by the UK's rules?Axel Rudabukana has pleaded guilty to the Southport murders. Yvette Cooper has promised an inquiry into why so many warning signs were missed by so many agencies. However big questions still remain over the Labour governments clampdown on the release of information on Rudakubana which may have squashed the anti immigrant, anti Muslim internet rumours which fuelled the subsequent riots.Lesley reacts to the first episode of An t-Eilean (The Island) – the UK's first ever high-end Gaelic drama series.Lesley has also launched the first of her YouTube films on Iceland and its green energy/heating revolution Hot Springs Town check it out herehttps://lesleyriddoch.com/filmsThere's also chat about music. Bob Dylan and Sibelius. Not so strange cultural bedfellows. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, Calum Macdonald, along with Geoff Aberdein, Andy Maciver, and Professor Sir John Curtice, delve into the current polling landscape in Scotland as it pertains to the upcoming Holyrood elections in 2026. We reveal results of our exclusive poll and analyse the implications. They discuss the implications of recent polling data, the rise of the Reform Party, and the challenges faced by both the SNP and Labour. The conversation also touches on the performance of the UK government and its impact on Scottish politics, the dynamics of leadership within the Scottish Labour and SNP parties, and the potential for coalition governments in the future. The insights provided by Professor Curtice highlight the complexities of voter sentiment and the shifting political landscape in Scotland. Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/holyroodsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Former Scotland First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has announced she is separating from her husband Peter Murrell, former chief executive of the SNP. The announcement comes as the police probe into the SNP's funds and finances remains ongoing, with Sturgeon and ex-SNP treasurer Colin Beattie under investigation while Murrell was charged with embezzlement in April 2024.  Katy Balls is joined by The Spectator's editor Michael Gove, and data editor Michael Simmons, to discuss the separation, why the investigation is still ongoing four years later, and what chances Scottish Labour or Reform have against the SNP in 2025. 

Calum, Geoff and Andy host a special podcast in association with Phoenix at Standard Life House in Edinburgh. Along with a gathered group of experts, we discuss Scotland's ageing population and how to pay for it. Adding policy solutions to the conversation are Kezia Dugdale, Associate Director at the Centre for Public Policy - and former leader of Scottish Labour - and SNP MSP Michelle Thomson. Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/holyroodsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The team discuss Labour's "reset" plans, and politicking ramping up in Holyrood. Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced Labour's "Plan for Change", but how has it gone down with the electorate, and Scottish Labour MSPs? As the 2026 Holyrood election continues to approach, the politicking ramps up in Holyrood, following the Scottish Budget, and polls suggesting Scottish Labour might not be on as sure footing as it may have hoped. And, with new leaders for both the UK and Scottish Conservatives, where do they fit into the upcoming electoral picture, as Nigel Farage's Reform UK threatens to make waves in the upcoming elections?

Alistair Grant, Rachel Amery, David Bol and Alexander Brown discuss some tough polling for Scottish Labour. Can Anas Sarwar, the party's leader, regain momentum? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lesley reflects on Alex Salmond's memorial service in this week's episode. How was the service itself? Can it prove to be a significant moment in unifying the struggle for Scottish independence?Wednesday saw the first Scottish Budget since the return of a UK Labour government. We give our first impressions on what it, and just as importantly ,what  it didn't contain. We also examine Scottish Labour's response to the challenges the Budget laid down for them.As Reform makes headway in recent Scottish and Welsh opinion polls and Nigel Farage is set to make his 38th appearance on Question Time Lesley says it's time to take off the gloves and oppose not appease the Right.Amnesty International has issued a 296 page report claiming that  Israel intended to commit genocide against the Palestinian people. Thus joining the UN and many other international bodies in this conclusion. It also stated that the international community had not only failed miserably to condemn this but through its delay in calling for a ceasefire and continuing to supply arms to Israel it was complicit in this atrocity. Meanwhile there was a record attendance at the Labour Friends of Israel lunch including Starmer, Reeves, Lammy and many other Cabinet members amongst the 100 Labour MPs. Starmer was a keynote speaker along with the far right Israeli ambassador Tzipi Hotovely.We also cast our eyes over the crises in Germany, France, and South Korea. ★ Support this podcast ★

As MPs back proposals for assisted dying in England & Wales, what's next for Scotland? Podlitical's Rajdeep Sandhu sits down with two MPs and two MSPs who are split on support/opposition for assisted dying - Scottish Labour's Graeme Downie MP, Scottish Conservative Murdo Fraser MSP, Scottish Liberal Democrat Liam McArthur MSP, and the SNP's Seamus Logan MP - to discuss the implications of the assisted dying vote in Westminster on Scotland, and the upcoming bill in Holyrood on assisted dying, as well as what it was like to be in the room of such an important vote. What lessons can be learned from the Westminster debate, and will a devolved approach to assisted dying work?

Farmers protest inheritance tax changes, and budget manoeuvres continue in Holyrood. This week saw thousands of farmers descend on the capital to protest Labour's changes to inheritance tax, while Labour claims the existing rules around inheritance tax aren't fair nor sustainable. In Holyrood, the row over Stephen Flynn's ambition to run as an MSP while staying on as an MP continues, and Scottish Parliament sees both the Scottish Government and opposition parties laying the political groundwork ahead of December's Scottish Budget. Plus, splits between UK Labour and Scottish Labour as leader Anas Sarwar pledges to expand eligibility for the winter fuel payment if they form the next Scottish government.

Former deputy prime minister John Prescott died yesterday at the age of 86. Often described as a ‘political bruiser', Ed Balls and George Osborne remember Prescott differently: as a policy powerhouse and as a skilled negotiator between Blair and Brown. Does a comparable player exist in today's Labour government? And, Ed recalls the moment he was involved in a car chase with ‘Two Jags' himself.With the assisted dying bill facing a second reading next week, the pair consider whether it will pass or be voted down. Is the issue set to be off the agenda for a generation, or could Starmer rescue the bill?Plus: the Budget may not have fallen apart, but with Scottish Labour sending different messages, farmers (and Jeremy Clarkson) on the march and mortgage rates rising, we take a look at its political impact. Are any u-turns on the horizon?Become a member of POLITICAL CURRENCY GOLD

In this episode, the hosts discuss various aspects of Scottish politics, focusing on the recent controversies surrounding double jobbing, particularly in relation to Stephen Flynn's ambitions within the SNP. They also reflect on the political dynamics within Scottish Labour, especially Anas Sarwar's recent statements regarding the winter fuel payment and the implications of these decisions on the party's future. The conversation delves into the intricate dynamics of Scottish politics, focusing on the influence of Westminster on local parties, the leadership of Anas Sarwar and Russell Findlay, and the implications of tax policy on economic growth. The speakers discuss the upcoming budget, the role of the SNP, and the challenges faced by Scottish Labour, while also evaluating the effectiveness of current political strategies and leadership styles. Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/holyroodsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Anas Sarwar has announced a U turn on Scottish Labour's stance on Winter Fuel Payments. If they form a Holyrood government in 2026 he has pledged to reverse the cuts and reintroduce the payments to pensioners on a universal but means tested basis. What lies behind this sudden change of heart. Political expediency in the light of recent polls and upcoming by elections? No matter his reasons it does present a challenge to the Scottish Government. How will it respond? How should it respond?The row over Stephen Flynn, and other SNP MPs , plans to seek a dual mandate in 2026 and become MSPs rolls on. Lesley has always highlighted the accident of the election cycle for the absence of so many talented SNP politicians from Holyrood. Why is she so opposed to Stephen's bid?How damaging are the revelations to the SNP of the use of ministerial cars to attend sporting events? How naive were these politicians to how this would look given the furore over Starmer's freebies?A lot has been made over the proposed appointments Trump has made to his Cabinet with much of the focus falling on Robert Kennedy Jr and Matt Gaetz. However in terms of foreign policy the nomination of Mike Huckabee as US ambassador to Israel has tended to go unreported. Who is Huckabee? What are his beliefs and why should  all who believe in a just peace be concerned?Meanwhile the 30 day deadline imposed by the Biden administration  for Israel to take specific steps to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza has come and gone with none of the promised "consequences" coming to pass.This denial of genocide was not only echoed but amplified by Sir Keir Starmer at Westminster.  What is the UN definition of genocide?  Is Starmer a hypocrite given his stance on Serbian actions in Croatia before the ICJ in 2014?The narrative of farmers under threat after the changes to include them in inheritance tax is picking up pace. What's the reality?Talking of reality Femke Halsema the Mayor of Amsterdam has signalled her regret at claiming there was an anti-Jewish pogrom after the Ajax v Maccabi Tel Aviv football match.  A welcome retraction but is it too late? ★ Support this podcast ★

Calum, Geoff and Andy discuss the recent reelection of Donald Trump and its implications for both US and Scottish politics. They explore voter sentiment, the effectiveness of political messaging, and the challenges faced by Scottish Labour in light of the UK government's budget. The conversation also touches on the tax strategies of former First Ministers and the public's perception of these actions. WhatsApp us: 0333 404 6507Sponsored by the Scotch Whisky Association's Made to be Measured campaign. Find out more about the campaign at scotch-whisky.org.uk/madetobemeasured Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/holyroodsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joining Iain Dale on Cross Question this evening are former Conservative Party Chairman Greg Hands, former Scottish Labour leader Kezia Dugdale, economist and broadcaster Liam Halligan and the journalist and author Christina Patterson.

The prospect of Israel invading Lebanon and Kemi Badenoch takes your callsJoining Iain Dale on Cross Question this evening are former Conservative Party Chairman Greg Hands, former Scottish Labour leader Kezia Dugdale, economist and broadcaster Liam Halligan and the journalist and author Christina Patterson.

Alistair Grant, Alexander Brown, Rachel Amery and David Bol discuss the UK Labour Party conference in Liverpool. Alex talks to Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar from the conference floor. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Guests Kezia Dugdale, former Scottish Labour leader and leading figure in the 2014 Better Together campaign, and Stephen Noon, former SNP strategist, and formerly Chief Strategist for Yes Scotland, join us to discuss their new paper which looks at a new way forward for political discourse and decision making in Scotland. Geoff Aberdeen and Andy Maciver analyse their suggestions as we discuss the current state of Scottish politics, particularly in light of the recent Labour Party conference and the ongoing conversation about independence and devolution. We explore the need for a new approach to political discourse in Scotland, emphasising the importance of shared values and collaboration across party lines. Kezia and Stephen's paper proposes a framework for further devolution, a process for a second independence referendum, and a reevaluation of the fiscal framework to better serve the needs of the Scottish people. Sponsored by the Scotch Whisky Association's Made to be Measured campaign. Find out more about the campaign at scotch-whisky.org.uk/madetobemeasuredSponsored by SSE: to verify what you've heard, click sse.com/change Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/holyroodsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joe Biden has been replaced by his Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic Presidential candidate in what seems like lightning speed.We look at how and why it happened , the impact she might have on the Democrats' electoral fortunes, who her running mate might be and the inevitable less than gracious response from Trump and his supporters.However we kick off with the news that Stephen Flynn and the SNP's amendment on scrapping the two child benefit cap will be debated and voted on this evening. Given the ,apparent opposition to the cap by Scottish Labour, how will those 37 Scottish Labour MPs vote?Though we may be sceptical about how much change this new Labour government may bring there is an air of activity and energy about it.In comparison is the SNP leadership still wedded to old ways of centralised party management and control? is this exemplified by the draft agenda for its annual conference in August? An agenda drawn up before the crushing General Election defeat. Is the party , as John Swinney recently claimed, in a strong position with secure foundations?The First Minister was also in the news announcing two new "green" pieces of funding. Nearly £42 million on zero emissions buses and a nationwide charging network and £2 million on the Acorn Project carbon capture project. Which of these will garner the headlines? Which of these will be of practical value in tackling climate change?Here's the promised link to the Progress Playbook, if like me you need cheering uphttps://theprogressplaybook.com/ ★ Support this podcast ★

Joining Iain Dale on Cross Question this evening are former Scottish Labour leader Kezia Dugdale, political commentator Yasmin Alibhai-Brown, UnHerd political editor Tom McTague and former Conservative adviser Charlie Rowley.

Martin Geissler sits down with Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar. The polls suggest Labour are doing well just now – but of course, two weeks is a long time in politics. Can they keep up the pace they've set themselves? In this audio version of the BBC Scotland Sunday Show interview, Martin asks Sarwar about tax, just how Labour will get that growth they need to fund their pledges, immigration, and independence.Part of a series of interviews with party leaders over the course of the general election campaign. To hear them all, subscribe to Podlitical on BBC Sounds, or tune in to the Sunday Show every Sunday from 10am on BBC One Scotland and Radio Scotland.

"Vote SNP for Scotland to become an independent country" - bold letters shout from the first page of the SNP manifesto. But is there still momentum for independence in Scotland? And what else is John Swinney pledging in his fight to retain seats from the hands of Scottish Labour.Hannah Barnes, associate editor, is joined by Chris Deerin, Scotland editor, and Ben Walker, senior data journalist.Sign up to the New Statesman's daily politics newsletter: Morning Call Submit a question for a future episode: You Ask Us Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The SNP have released their manifesto and, on the first page, they've promised again to make Scotland independent - but with polling suggesting that Labour are heading for a landslide victory, including a majority of the seats in Scotland, could this be the end of the independence cause?  Or, paradoxically, might it end up being the best thing for the independence campaign?  Support for Scottish independence has been decoupled from support for the SNP in the polls. So might a Labour government that sticks to Conservative spending limits be just the launch pad the independence campaign needs? Joining Krishnan Guru-Murthy to discuss all this and more on The Political Fourcast are the SNP's Mhairi Black, Scottish Labour's Pam Duncan-Glancy and chairman of the Scottish Conservatives Craig Hoy. Produced by Silvia Maresca, Calum Fraser, Shaheen Sattar, Rob Thomson, Nick Jackson.  

It's half time in the General Election campaign and the manifestos are coming thick and fast.It was Scottish Labour's turn this morning. We give our immediate reaction to the launch event, its narrative and themes , and wonder how, if at all, Scottish it was.Reform have overtaken the Tories in UK polling and look set to damage them in constituencies across England. For Pat's sins he took a look at Reform's manifesto.Much has been made of the predicted demise of the SNP given early polling. There is a fight between the SNP and Labour across Scotland but have certain polls exaggerated Labour support? We discuss the most recent MRP polls and the impact polling can have on voters and suggest that there is a different story unfolding.Scottish Opinion Polls (electoralcalculus.co.uk)The battle for Scottish marginals will be vital on July 4th. Best for Britain claims to give impartial advice on how to vote for pro EU candidates . Lesley questions their judgement and impartiality given their advice to vote Labour in Scotland.The battle for Scottish marginals will be vital on July 4th. Best for Britain claims to give impartial advice on how to vote for pro EU candidates . Lesley questions their judgement and impartiality given their advice to vote Labour in Scotland.If you want to submit your questions for Lesley to put to Lorna Slater,Stephen Flynn and Alex Salmond follow this linkWe're interviewing the pro-independence leaders – have your say | The NationalAll this plus rants on Scotland at the Euros and the dreaded, not all of them English, commentators and pundits. ★ Support this podcast ★

The team discuss the Debate Night Scottish Leaders' debate. Following a fiery hour, how did the leaders set out their pitches to the Scottish electorate, how did Scottish leaders differ from Westminster counterparts, and how did the audience react to their pledges and promises? From cost of living to independence, the team analyse the performances and claims made by Anas Sarwar from Scottish Labour, Douglas Ross from the Scottish Conservatives, John Swinney from the SNP, Alex Cole-Hamilton from the Scottish Liberal Democrats and Lorna Slater from the Scottish Greens.

Politicians reflect on the highs and lows of Holyrood to mark its 25th anniversary. Podlitical's Lucy Whyte and Glenn Campbell sit down with Scottish Labour's deputy leader Jackie Baillie, the SNP's Christine Grahame, and former Scottish Conservative leader Baroness Annabel Goldie, all of whom were elected in the first Scottish Parliamentary election in 1999, to look back on a quarter of a century of Holyrood. Has the devolved parliament lived up to expectations? Is politics more tribal? Should MSPs be more rebellious? From the initial exciting days, to the debates over independence, the panel discuss their feelings around some of the big events of the last twenty five years, what they would like to see done differently, and what the future holds for the Scottish Parliament.For a range of political interviews, subscribe to Podlitical on BBC Sounds.

Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows. Alexei Navalny is dead, and our government says Putin is responsible. The Tories lose again in by-elections, and Michael Tomlinson says a vote for Reform is a vote for Labour. Meanwhile, Labour themselves are split again, with Scottish Labour backing a motion calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.