Podcasts about Scottish Parliament

Bernard Ponsonby and Alex Massie discuss the news today that Fergus Ewing is leaving the SNP and standing as an independent candidate at the 2026 Scottish Parliament Election, bringing to an end an era of constant representation under the SNP banner for the Ewing dynasty since the Scottish Parliament was formed. Also - What is the role of independents in the Scottish Parliament and why do so few succeed? Only 3 have been elected as independents but can you name them?Scottish Disability numbersThe Winter Fuel AllowanceAssisted dying.... and Bernard cutting the podcast a little shorter to get out for a pint in the sun! 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.

To celebrate the Scottish Parliament building's 20th anniversary, our art curator Fiona McDougall chatted to artist Soraya Smithson, who designed the Canongate Wall on the Royal Mile. This part of the Holyrood campus had not yet been finalised when head architect, Eric Miralles, tragically died during construction. As a close family friend, Smithson was tasked with completing the design of the wall, and used it highlight some of the ideas that had inspired Miralles when he took on the project. You can find our more about the Canongate Wall on our website: https://www.parliament.scot/visit/events-and-exhibitions/canongate-wall

Labour defeats the SNP to win the by-election in Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse - a Scottish Parliament seat - with Reform UK finishing third. We bring you instant analysis. 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 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

Dissatisfaction with the established political parties is driving a ‘tartan bounce' in Scotland for Nigel Farage's Reform UK. Far from being an English phenomenon, Reform is polling favourably with Scottish voters. There will be a by-election next week for the Scottish Parliament seat of Hamilton, in what will be Reform's first big test inside the politics of devolved government.For councillor Thomas Kerr, who defected from the Scottish Conservatives to Reform earlier this year, Reform's appeal in Scotland is no surprise. He joins Lucy Dunn to explain why he thinks the ‘sky is the limit' for Reform, why Farage is an asset to the party in Scotland and to explain Reform's current views around devolution powers.Produced by Patrick Gibbons. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Between late 2024 and mid-May 2025, I briefed over 70 cross-party UK parliamentarians. Just over one-third were MPs, a similar share were members of the House of Lords, and just under one-third came from devolved legislatures — the Scottish Parliament, the Senedd, and the Northern Ireland Assembly. I also held eight additional meetings attended exclusively by parliamentary staffers. While I delivered some briefings alone, most were led by two members of our team. I did this as part of my work as a Policy Advisor with ControlAI, where we aim to build common knowledge of AI risks through clear, honest, and direct engagement with parliamentarians about both the challenges and potential solutions. To succeed at scale in managing AI risk, it is important to continue to build this common knowledge. For this reason, I have decided to share what I have learned over the past few months publicly, in [...] ---Outline:(01:37) (i) Overall reception of our briefings(04:21) (ii) Outreach tips(05:45) (iii) Key talking points(14:20) (iv) Crafting a good pitch(19:23) (v) Some challenges(23:07) (vi) General tips(28:57) (vii) Books & media articles--- First published: May 27th, 2025 Source: https://www.lesswrong.com/posts/Xwrajm92fdjd7cqnN/what-we-learned-from-briefing-70-lawmakers-on-the-threat --- Narrated by TYPE III AUDIO.

In CI News this week: The majority of Brits support the Supreme Court's ruling on the definition of ‘woman', parents in Jersey are outraged by guidance saying they need not be informed if their child ‘changes gender' at school, and the Scottish Parliament is told that voices of people with faith should not be sidelined in politics. You can download the video via this link. Featured stories Poll: Over half of adults back Supreme Court's trans ruling Jersey school guidance pushes trans ideology behind parents' backs Councils powerless as 'addictive' slot machine firms target deprived areas Voices of faith in politics should not be silenced, MSPs told

Building a Democracy for the 21st Century On 26th April the Electoral Reform Society held a conference in Edinburgh called A Scottish Spring with a range of excellent speakers covering topics such as the rise of polarisation in democracy, Scottish public opinion, Civic and local democracy in Scotland , engagement and debate. Indypodcasters Fiona and Marlene were there and very much enjoyed the discussions and presentations.   It was a full day event so we weren't able to film every session in its entirety but these are some of our particular highlights of the day: 00:03:00  Willie Sullivan, ERS Senior Director in conversation with Professor Nicola McEwen, Director of the Centre for Public Policy 00:15:16  Marlene's question 00:16:40  Mark Diffley provides an overview of Scottish public opinion including exclusive polling commissioned for the conference 00:31:00  Esther Roberton, former Co-ordinator of the Scottish Constitutional Convention on the aspirations for the Scottish Parliament and how well it has lived up to those 00:40:17  Pauline Smith, Chief Executive, Development Trusts Association Scotland on local democracy 00:45:00  Mark Drakeford, former First Minister of Wales on alternative forms of democracy for the Uk  #democracy #scottishpolitics #electoralreform  Find our previous episode on building a local democracy in Scotland here https://yescowal.podbean.com/e/building-a-local-scotland/   find out more about the Electoral Reform Society here  https://electoral-reform.org.uk/ers-scotland/ The Scottish Independence Podcasts 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  

Février 1692. Sous les toits des MacDonald, des soldats du gouvernement partagent repas, chaleur et histoires avec leurs hôtes. Pendant deux semaines, les familles de Glencoe pratiquent l'hospitalité sacrée des Highlands, sans se douter qu'elles hébergent leurs futurs bourreaux. Cette deuxième partie du documentaire explore la période la plus troublante du massacre de Glencoe : ces quatorze jours où les soldats ont vécu en proximité avec leurs victimes, partageant leur quotidien, jouant avec leurs enfants, buvant leur whisky. Comment ces hommes ont-ils pu dissimuler leurs intentions ? Quels liens se sont tissés pendant cette cohabitation ? Et comment ont-ils réagi lorsque l'ordre d'exécuter leurs hôtes est finalement arrivé ?Pour approfondir vos connaissances, voici la bibliographie complète :- Dalrymple, John (Master of Stair). "Letters Concerning Highland Affairs, 1691-1692." Scottish Record Office, Edinburgh.- "Depositions of the Glencoe Investigation." Proceedings of the Scottish Parliament, 1695. Edinburgh: National Records of Scotland.- Hamilton, Lt. Colonel James. "Orders to Captain Robert Campbell of Glenlyon, February 12, 1692." National Archives of Scotland, GD112/1/144.- Hill, Colonel John. "Correspondence with the Privy Council, 1691-1692." Highland Papers, Volume I. Edinburgh: Scottish History Society.- "Report of the Commission of Inquiry into the Massacre of Glencoe, 1695." Acts of the Parliament of Scotland, Vol. IX.- Campsie, Alison. The Massacre of Glencoe: History, Context, and Representation. Edinburgh University Press, 2018.- Cheape, Hugh. Tartan: The Highland Habit. National Museums of Scotland, 2006.- Devine, T.M. The Scottish Nation: A Modern History. Penguin, 2012.- Hopkins, Paul. Glencoe and the End of the Highland War. John Donald Publishers, 1998.- Buchan, John. The Massacre of Glencoe. Spellmount, 1999. (Fiction historique)- Lee, Maurice. The Road to Revolution: Scotland Under Charles I, 1625-37. University of Illinois Press, 1985.- MacDonald, Donald J. Slaughter Under Trust: Glencoe 1692. Birlinn Ltd, 2005.- MacKenzie, W.C. The Highlands and Isles of Scotland: A Historical Survey. The Moray Press, 1949.- Prebble, John. Glencoe: The Story of the Massacre. Penguin Books, 1968.- Roberts, John L. Clan, King and Covenant: History of the Highland Clans from the Civil War to the Glencoe Massacre. Edinburgh University Press, 2000.- Szechi, Daniel. The Jacobites: Britain and Europe, 1688-1788. Manchester University Press, 2019.- Thomson, Oliver. The Great Feud: Campbells and MacDonalds. Sutton Publishing, 2000.- Kennedy, Allan. "Managing the Early-Modern Periphery: Highland Policy and the Highland Judicial Commissions, c. 1692-c. 1705." Scottish Historical Review, Vol. 96, No. 1, 2017, pp. 32-60.- Macinnes, Allan I. "Slaughter Under Trust: Clan Massacre and British State Formation." The Massacre in History, edited by Mark Levene and Penny Roberts, Berghahn Books, 1999, pp. 127-148.- Glencoe Archaeology Project. "Archaeological Survey of Settlement Patterns in Glencoe, 1500-1750." Historic Environment Scotland, 2013.- National Trust for Scotland. "Glencoe: Archaeological Findings 2008-2018." Conservation Report Series, Edinburgh.- BBC Scotland. "Blood of the Clans: The Massacre of Glencoe." Directed by John Bridcut, 2010.- National Trust for Scotland. "Glencoe: The Story." Visitor Center Documentary, Glencoe, 2015.- Scotland History Tours. “What They Don't Say About the Massacre of Glencoe.”- Scotland History Tours. “What Happened to Campbell After the Massacre of Glencoe”.Hébergé par Ausha. Visitez ausha.co/politique-de-confidentialite pour plus d'informations.

Dans ce troisième épisode bouleversant des "Montagnes Se Souviennent", nous assistons à l'ultime trahison lorsque des soldats violent le code sacré de l'hospitalité des Highlands. Pendant deux semaines, les soldats du gouvernement ont vécu sous les toits des MacDonald, partageant leur pain, leur whisky et leurs histoires. Puis vinrent les ordres d'Édimbourg qui transformèrent les hôtes en bourreaux. Revivez la terrible nuit du 12 février 1692, lorsque le capitaine Robert Campbell de Glenlyon reçut ses ordres, et l'aube fatidique du 13 février, quand les coups de mousquet brisèrent le silence hivernal. Cet épisode nous confronte à des questions intemporelles sur les choix moraux face à des ordres immoraux, alors que certains soldats prévinrent leurs hôtes tandis que d'autres accomplissaient leur sanglant devoir avec une précision mécanique.Pour approfondir vos connaissances, voici la bibliographie complète :- Dalrymple, John (Master of Stair). "Letters Concerning Highland Affairs, 1691-1692." Scottish Record Office, Edinburgh.- "Depositions of the Glencoe Investigation." Proceedings of the Scottish Parliament, 1695. Edinburgh: National Records of Scotland.- Hamilton, Lt. Colonel James. "Orders to Captain Robert Campbell of Glenlyon, February 12, 1692." National Archives of Scotland, GD112/1/144.- Hill, Colonel John. "Correspondence with the Privy Council, 1691-1692." Highland Papers, Volume I. Edinburgh: Scottish History Society.- "Report of the Commission of Inquiry into the Massacre of Glencoe, 1695." Acts of the Parliament of Scotland, Vol. IX.- Campsie, Alison. The Massacre of Glencoe: History, Context, and Representation. Edinburgh University Press, 2018.- Cheape, Hugh. Tartan: The Highland Habit. National Museums of Scotland, 2006.- Devine, T.M. The Scottish Nation: A Modern History. Penguin, 2012.- Hopkins, Paul. Glencoe and the End of the Highland War. John Donald Publishers, 1998.- Buchan, John. The Massacre of Glencoe. Spellmount, 1999. (Fiction historique)- Lee, Maurice. The Road to Revolution: Scotland Under Charles I, 1625-37. University of Illinois Press, 1985.- MacDonald, Donald J. Slaughter Under Trust: Glencoe 1692. Birlinn Ltd, 2005.- MacKenzie, W.C. The Highlands and Isles of Scotland: A Historical Survey. The Moray Press, 1949.- Prebble, John. Glencoe: The Story of the Massacre. Penguin Books, 1968.- Roberts, John L. Clan, King and Covenant: History of the Highland Clans from the Civil War to the Glencoe Massacre. Edinburgh University Press, 2000.- Szechi, Daniel. The Jacobites: Britain and Europe, 1688-1788. Manchester University Press, 2019.- Thomson, Oliver. The Great Feud: Campbells and MacDonalds. Sutton Publishing, 2000.- Kennedy, Allan. "Managing the Early-Modern Periphery: Highland Policy and the Highland Judicial Commissions, c. 1692-c. 1705." Scottish Historical Review, Vol. 96, No. 1, 2017, pp. 32-60.- Macinnes, Allan I. "Slaughter Under Trust: Clan Massacre and British State Formation." The Massacre in History, edited by Mark Levene and Penny Roberts, Berghahn Books, 1999, pp. 127-148.- Glencoe Archaeology Project. "Archaeological Survey of Settlement Patterns in Glencoe, 1500-1750." Historic Environment Scotland, 2013.- National Trust for Scotland. "Glencoe: Archaeological Findings 2008-2018." Conservation Report Series, Edinburgh.- BBC Scotland. "Blood of the Clans: The Massacre of Glencoe." Directed by John Bridcut, 2010.- National Trust for Scotland. "Glencoe: The Story." Visitor Center Documentary, Glencoe, 2015.- Scotland History Tours. “What They Don't Say About the Massacre of Glencoe.”- Scotland History Tours. “What Happened to Campbell After the Massacre of Glencoe”.Hébergé par Ausha. Visitez ausha.co/politique-de-confidentialite pour plus d'informations.

Dans cette première partie des Montagnes Se Souviennent, nous explorons la tempête politique qui a englouti l'Écosse suite à la Glorieuse Révolution. Alors que William d'Orange s'emparait du trône d'Angleterre en 1688, les clans des Highlands se retrouvent pions dans un dangereux jeu d'échecs européen.Voyagez à travers le réseau complexe de loyautés qui liait les chefs de clan au roi James en exil, alors qu'un nouvel ordre politique exige leur allégeance. Découvrez comment l'Écosse devient un échiquier où ambitions françaises, craintes anglaises et traditions des Highlands entrent en collision avec des conséquences mortelles.Cet épisode pose le décor de l'une des trahisons les plus notoires de l'histoire et explore les décisions fatidiques qui mèneront à la tragédie dans une vallée enneigée des Highlands.Pour approfondir vos connaissances, voici la bibliographie complète :- Dalrymple, John (Master of Stair). "Letters Concerning Highland Affairs, 1691-1692." Scottish Record Office, Edinburgh.- "Depositions of the Glencoe Investigation." Proceedings of the Scottish Parliament, 1695. Edinburgh: National Records of Scotland.- Hamilton, Lt. Colonel James. "Orders to Captain Robert Campbell of Glenlyon, February 12, 1692." National Archives of Scotland, GD112/1/144.- Hill, Colonel John. "Correspondence with the Privy Council, 1691-1692." Highland Papers, Volume I. Edinburgh: Scottish History Society.- "Report of the Commission of Inquiry into the Massacre of Glencoe, 1695." Acts of the Parliament of Scotland, Vol. IX.- Campsie, Alison. The Massacre of Glencoe: History, Context, and Representation. Edinburgh University Press, 2018.- Cheape, Hugh. Tartan: The Highland Habit. National Museums of Scotland, 2006.- Devine, T.M. The Scottish Nation: A Modern History. Penguin, 2012.- Hopkins, Paul. Glencoe and the End of the Highland War. John Donald Publishers, 1998.- Buchan, John. The Massacre of Glencoe. Spellmount, 1999. (Fiction historique)- Lee, Maurice. The Road to Revolution: Scotland Under Charles I, 1625-37. University of Illinois Press, 1985.- MacDonald, Donald J. Slaughter Under Trust: Glencoe 1692. Birlinn Ltd, 2005.- MacKenzie, W.C. The Highlands and Isles of Scotland: A Historical Survey. The Moray Press, 1949.- Prebble, John. Glencoe: The Story of the Massacre. Penguin Books, 1968.- Roberts, John L. Clan, King and Covenant: History of the Highland Clans from the Civil War to the Glencoe Massacre. Edinburgh University Press, 2000.- Szechi, Daniel. The Jacobites: Britain and Europe, 1688-1788. Manchester University Press, 2019.- Thomson, Oliver. The Great Feud: Campbells and MacDonalds. Sutton Publishing, 2000.- Kennedy, Allan. "Managing the Early-Modern Periphery: Highland Policy and the Highland Judicial Commissions, c. 1692-c. 1705." Scottish Historical Review, Vol. 96, No. 1, 2017, pp. 32-60.- Macinnes, Allan I. "Slaughter Under Trust: Clan Massacre and British State Formation." The Massacre in History, edited by Mark Levene and Penny Roberts, Berghahn Books, 1999, pp. 127-148.- Glencoe Archaeology Project. "Archaeological Survey of Settlement Patterns in Glencoe, 1500-1750." Historic Environment Scotland, 2013.- National Trust for Scotland. "Glencoe: Archaeological Findings 2008-2018." Conservation Report Series, Edinburgh.- BBC Scotland. "Blood of the Clans: The Massacre of Glencoe." Directed by John Bridcut, 2010.- National Trust for Scotland. "Glencoe: The Story." Visitor Center Documentary, Glencoe, 2015.- Scotland History Tours. “What They Don't Say About the Massacre of Glencoe.” - Scotland History Tours. “What Happened to Campbell After the Massacre of Glencoe”.Hébergé par Ausha. Visitez ausha.co/politique-de-confidentialite pour plus d'informations.

We talk with Ariane Burgess MSP, Convener of the Local Government, Housing and Planning Committee about the committee's Housing Inquiry. A year on from the official declaration of the national housing emergency by the Scottish Parliament, the Local Government, Housing and Planning Committee say a Housing Emergency Action Plan with clear milestones and outcomes would ensure progress towards ending the crisis can be properly assessed. It is one of ten recommendations for the Scottish Government made in the Committee's Housing Inquiry Report. Read the report in full: https://digitalpublications.parliament.scot/Committees/Report/LGHP/2025/5/15/5e27adfd-6d08-4d34-a701-17fc4ffe5f83#Annex-A

In a week that saw Reform UK make seismic advances in the English Local Elections and the Runcorn & Helsby Parliamentary By Election, Bernard Ponsonby and Alex Massie deep dive into the current state of the parties in Scotland - one year from the 2026 Scottish Parliament Elections. What does the rise of Reform UK mean in Scotland, what are the implications of the coming Scottish Parliament By Election in Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse and has Keir Starmer ultimately dug "Anas Sarwar's electoral grave"? 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.

As calls grow louder for the UK to withdraw from the European Convention on Human Rights, we talk with Parliament's in-house human rights watchdog: Lord Alton of Liverpool, Chair of the Joint Committee on Human Rights.A former Liberal MP who now serves as a crossbench peer, Lord Alton was an unexpected choice to lead the Committee – traditionally chaired by a member of the House of Commons, and usually by a party politician. But his tireless advocacy on human rights around the world, especially his campaigning against China's treatment of the Uyghur people in Xinjiang, has earned him widespread respect across the political spectrum and many cross-party alliesIn a wide-ranging conversation, Lord Alton talks about his ongoing push for a “Hillsborough Law” to impose a duty of candour on public officials involved in future disasters, to prevent cover-ups. He also discusses his Committee's work on the new Mental Health Bill, and his efforts to ensure the government's flagship green energy initiative, Great British Energy, does not spend public money on equipment like solar panels that are made with forced labour. Meanwhile, it's been all quiet on the assisted dying bill front at Westminster this week, but not in the Scottish Parliament. Ruth and Mark discuss how the approach to a Members Bill on assisted dying in Edinburgh compares favourably to the handling of Kim Leadbeater's Private Members Bill at Westminster. Plus, the appointment of a new Gentleman Usher of the Black Rod brings back memories for Mark of how this key House of Lords official has found themselves caught up at the centre of political controversies in the recent past.--------Learn more using our resources for the issues mentioned in this episode. ❓ Send us your questions about Parliament: ✅ Subscribe to our newsletter. �� Follow us across social media @HansardSociety / @hansardsociety.bsky.social £ - Support the Hansard Society and this podcast by making a donation today. Parliament Matters is a Hansard Society production supported by the Joseph Rowntree Charitable Trust. Presenters: Mark D'Arcy and Ruth FoxProducer: Richard Townsend Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bernard and Alex discuss:Religion's relevance today: They explore how religion is now more comfortably discussed by Scottish politicians compared to 20–30 years ago. There's a nuanced conversation about Scotland's move from a heavily religious society to a secular one, and a new resurgence of faith among younger Scots.The gender recognition legal ruling: They analyse the fallout from the UK Supreme Court ruling and how politicians like John Swinney and Keir Starmer have been caught between public opinion and previous statements on gender identity.Swinney's summit on extremism: They critique John Swinney's call for political unity against the far-right, warning that mislabelling politicians like Nigel Farage as "fascist" risks backfiring and emboldening populism.Reform UK's rise in Scotland: They suggest Reform's growing support could fragment the anti-SNP vote, paradoxically helping the SNP win the upcoming by-election and Scottish Parliament election with even a modest share of the voteFocussing 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.

Episode 167 is a little different: we're sharing an excerpt from my chat on the Cinora YouTube channel with filmmaker – and returning pal – Ashley Dick. We dive into the shock cancellation of BBC Scotland's flagship soap River City and what the decision signals for drama production across Scotland and the wider UK.Since the recording, the fight to save the show has exploded. Famous faces – Richard E. Grant, Ewan McGregor, Miriam Margolyes and Nicola Sturgeon among them – have lent their voices, and a motion to keep River City on air will soon be heard in the Scottish Parliament.In this chat we talk about:How River City was axed and why it matters – timelines, budget pressures and the creative fallout.The concern for the wider TV industry – what the cancellation tells us about an already‑strained sector.Why we need to future‑proof the soap format (or find a new kind of long‑running drama).Why local voices are important – the cultural impact of losing a home‑grown show.What potential solutions we can pursue as an industry – ideas, funding routes and collective action.Hit play, share your thoughts, and help keep Scotland's storytelling future alive. Check out the full video over on the Cinora Channel. Full video from Cinora

Bernard and Alex consider today's ruling from the Supreme Court in which Lord Hodge said "The unanimous decision of this court is that the terms 'woman' and 'sex' in the Equality Act 2010 refer to a biological woman and biological sex." ​"Successive SNP-led Scottish Governments have championed gender reform and opined on the definition of a woman - as did other parties in the Scottish Parliament. Where does this leave them, and do they need to revisit previous policies?"PLUS HAMILTON, LARKHALL AND STONEHOUSEThe By Election date has been set. What challenges will the parties face. It's a real test for Labour before the 2026 Scottish Parliament Election. Will Reform UK perform well? GRANGEMOUTHIt's a political football but is it even feasible for Governments to privatise the business?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 the Holyrood Sources podcast, Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein and Andy Maciver discuss the significance of Tartan Week, the recent defection of Jamie Greene from the Scottish Conservatives to the Liberal Democrats, and the challenges faced by political parties in Scotland. The conversation highlights the tribal nature of the Scottish Parliament, the shifting political landscape, and the implications of these changes for the future of the Scottish Conservatives and the broader political environment. We also hear from newly elected Alba Party leader, Kenny MacAskill on his strategy for independence. Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/holyroodsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It could take seven decades before large-scale nature restoration is underway across 30% of Scotland's land, new figures from the Scottish Rewilding Alliance show. The coalition of more than 20 organisations calculates that rewilding across Scotland is now underway across 2.5% of the country's land, with 195,615 hectares rewilding. This is an increase of 32,985 hectares since the Alliance's last assessment one year ago, which reported that 2.1% of Scotland's land was rewilding. Long haul to reach nature recovery In line with global targets, the Scottish Government is committed to protect at least 30% of its land and sea for nature by 2030. But at current rates of increase, it will take 65 years before major nature restoration is underway across 30% of Scotland's land. Rewilding has been surging in recent years, and across Scotland there are now nearly 200 projects led by communities, charities, farmers, landowners, public bodies and others. But the Alliance says a significant increase in political support is now needed to reach the target. Thousands of people across the country have backed the Alliance's call for Scotland to be declared the world's first Rewilding Nation, with nature recovery across 30% of its land and sea. This week the Scottish Rewilding Alliance is taking those voices to parliamentarians by speaking with MSPs at a dedicated display stand in the Scottish Parliament. "Urgent political action is needed. Leaving it until 2090 before Scotland can benefit from nature recovery across 30% of its land is something we can't afford," said Steve Micklewright, Scottish Rewilding Alliance co-convenor and chief executive of Trees for Life. "Politicians from all parties need to step up. With political will, rewilding can help us tackle the nature and climate emergencies while benefiting health, jobs, sustainable food production and re-peopling, and ensuring clean air and water, and healthy rivers and seas." Rewilding 30% of Scotland can be achieved by restoring habitats including peatlands, native woodlands, wetlands, rivers and seas, while maintaining and benefitting productive farmland. Scotland is ranked one of the world's most nature-depleted countries. Research shows that intensive agriculture and climate breakdown are having the biggest impacts on habitats and wildlife, with other threats including non-native forestry, pollution, and introduced species. Polling shows that 80% of Scots think the Scottish Government should have policies in place to support rewilding. But rewilding is not yet included in the Government's key policies and frameworks, such as the planning framework, net zero plan, and biodiversity strategy. There are fears that planned legislation, including the Land Reform Bill, may be less ambitious than planned when it comes to nature restoration. Levels of marine recovery are unknown, due to government delays on ensuring effective Marine Protected Areas and lack of support for large-scale marine restoration. Based on known rewilding projects, however, the total area of Scotland's seas in recovery is believed to be dangerously low at less than 1%. "With political leadership in line with its international commitments, Scotland could become a world leader in nature recovery - the opportunities and benefits are huge," said Karen Blackport, the Alliance's co-convenor and chief executive of Bright Green Nature. "Declaring Scotland a Rewilding Nation would lead to meaningful action with ministers committing to restoring the country's natural environment through legislation and funding to enable rewilding and empower local communities." The Rewilding Nation Charter at www.rewild.scot/charter, calling on the Government to declare Scotland a rewilding nation, has been signed by thousands of people. The campaign has been backed by high-profile names including Hollywood star Leonardo DiCaprio, actor Brian Cox, singer Nathan Evans, and activist Laura Young (Less Waste Laura). At this week's display in the Scott...

This month's market update brings you a major insider scoop, as Rob B reveals the story that's crippling the construction industry right now and what it could mean for the market and you as an investor.    (0:55) Kicking off this month's market update with house prices...  (4:05) Key details from the planning and infrastructure bill.  (5:05) Rob B's huge insider insights revealed…  (9:55) What's the latest on commonhold?  (11:02) Let's get an update on mortgages…  (12:29) Interesting research on rental affordability.  (14:13) News from the Scottish Parliament.  (15:25) Hub Extra.    Links mentioned:  House prices:  Halifax house price index  Rightmove house price index  Zoopla house price index  Building/Commonhold:  Guide to the Planning and Infrastructure Bill  Commonhold White Paper  Mortgages/Rents/Politics:  Mortgage lenders slash rates but deals going fast  Just 5% of rental homes now affordable for benefits claimants  Green politician wants to ban all evictions during winter  Hub Extra: AeroPress  Enjoy the show?  Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts - it really helps others find us!  Sign up for our free weekly newsletter, Property Pulse  Find out more about Property Hub Invest

Alistair Grant, Rachel Amery, David Bol and Alexander Brown discuss the UK Government's welfare reform plans and the future of Grangemouth. Plus, The Scotsman's education correspondent Calum Ross details the crisis facing Dundee University after an extraordinary committee session in the Scottish Parliament. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Liz Kendall revealed Labour's much speculated welfare "reforms" in the House of Commons this lunchtime.We give our immediate reaction to the speech and try and pick our way through the dense details.The University of Dundee has announced over 600 job losses, with more to come, to address the £30 million financial blackhole it finds itself in.Where does the blame lie for this disastrous situation?Nicola Sturgeon is the most prominent SNP MSP to announce that they will not stand for Holyrood in 2026.Lesley reflects on her legacy and we discuss the impact of not only so many front benchers leaving but also the potential influx of ex MPs to the Scottish Parliament.Israel launched a devastating attack on Gaza last night killing over 400 folk. Was the ceasefire doomed from the moment Israel refused to move to Phase 2. Is this latest massacre an attempt by Netanyahu to appease his ultra right coalition partners and stave off mounting opposition at home?We also discuss the results of the Greenland elections and indulge in all the usual non political badinage. ★ Support this podcast ★

The US Dept. of Education slashes its workforce, Greenland's opposition wins an unexpected victory, Pres. Trump's tariffs on steel and aluminum come into effect, at least 190 hostages are rescued amid the Pakistan train hijacking incident, Nicola Sturgeon won't seek re-election to the Scottish Parliament in 2026, Colombia's Gustavo Petro calls for a referendum on stalled reforms, the US House passes a stopgap funding bill, the US Dept. of Agriculture suspends $30M to the Univ. of Maine, Argentina kicks off its trial over the death of soccer legend Maradona, and astronomers discover 128 new moons orbiting Saturn. Sources: www.verity.news

Nicola Sturgeon has announced her intention to step down at the next Scottish Parliament election in May 2026. One of the original MSPs elected to Holyrood in 1999, Sturgeon has dominated Scottish and UK politics over the past two decades. The Salmond-Sturgeon era began in 2004 and she went on to serve as First Minister for the best part of a decade. Stewart McDonald, former SNP MP for Glasgow South 2015-24, and Lucy Dunn join James Heale on this special Coffee House Scots to discuss Sturgeon's legacy. She brought Scotland the closest to independence for 300 years, yet resigned in 2023 under a cloud over party management. Attention turns to next year's election, could the SNP's winning streak continue without her? Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Natasha Feroze. 

Is Scotland's salmon farming industry on a sustainable path? In this episode, we hear from Finlay Carson MSP, Convener of the Rural Affairs and Islands Committee, and Deputy Convener Beatrice Wishart MSP as they discuss the findings of the Committee's latest report. With calls for stronger regulation, more research and urgent action from the Scottish Government, they outline what needs to change to ensure the industry can grow sustainably.   Read the full report on the Scottish Parliament website.

Each week, on RNIB Connect Radio we sit down with Matt Stringer, CEO of RNIB, to look at some of the big stories coming from the UK sight loss charity. This week Matt started by talking about the two RNIB Braille 200 events in Scotland, the Braille and Beyond event at the Mitchell Library in Glasgow and the RNIB Scotland Braille 200 reception at the Scottish Parliament, then to the RNIB transformation programme and ending with news about audio description of the Six Nations rugby games on ITV.     If you, or someone you know, would like information on the support and services available from RNIB, go to www.rnib.org.uk You can call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or ask your Amazon device to call RNIB's Helpline. #RNIBConnect Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underline with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font.

RNIB recently held an event to celebrate the bicentenary of the invention of braille. The Scottish Parliament reception, organised by RNIB Scotland, marked 200 years of the tactile code which enables blind and partially sighted people to read and write. RNIB Connect Radio's Barry Snell chats to Sue Marshall who was one of the guest speakers at the event. To find out more about braille and how the RNIB is celebrating 200 years since Louis Braille invented the system visit: https://www.rnib.org.uk/about-us/braille-200 Image shows the Braille 200 logo with 'Braille 200' written at the top in white text on a pink background with a visual Braille representation of the same text below it. Across the bottom is written Powered by RNIB and EBU written in their respective logos.

RNIB Scotland recently organised a reception at the Scottish Parliament to celebrate 200 years of Braille. Amelia spoke to Dr Hazel McFarlane MBE who is the ALLIANCE Senior Sensory Hub Officer and has been campaigning for disability rights since the 90s. To find out more about braille and how the RNIB is celebrating 200 years since Louis Braille invented the system visit: https://www.rnib.org.uk/about-us/braille-200 Image shows the Braille 200 logo with 'Braille 200' written at the top in white text on a pink background with a visual Braille representation of the same text below it. Across the bottom is written Powered by RNIB and EBU written in their respective logos.

RNIB Scotland recently organised a reception at the Scottish Parliament to celebrate 200 years of Braille. Amelia spoke to Rosie Dempsey, the Deputy Lead, Children, Young People, Families & Education, Devolved Nations at RNIB to learn about how young people benefit from braille. To find out more about braille and how the RNIB is celebrating 200 years since Louis Braille invented the system visit: https://www.rnib.org.uk/about-us/braille-200 Image shows the Braille 200 logo with 'Braille 200' written at the top in white text on a pink background with a visual Braille representation of the same text below it. Across the bottom is written Powered by RNIB and EBU written in their respective logos.

On Wednesday 29th of January RNIB Scotland's Braille 200 reception was held at the Scottish Parliament.  A night of celebration for the tactile reading and writing system, our Paulina Kuchorew was there and spoke with Provost of North Ayrshire Anthea Dickson. Image shows the Braille 200 logo with 'Braille 200' written at the top in white text on a pink background with a visual Braille representation of the same text below it. Across the bottom is written Powered by RNIB and EBU written in their respective logos.

At the Braille 200 reception at the Scottish Parliament, guests were serenaded by blind harpist Fiona Kyle. Robert Kirkwood spoke to her after her performance. To find out more about braille and how the RNIB is celebrating 200 years since Louis Braille invented the system visit: https://www.rnib.org.uk/about-us/braille-200 Image shows the Braille 200 logo with 'Braille 200' written at the top in white text on a pink background with a visual Braille representation of the same text below it. Across the bottom is written Powered by RNIB and EBU written in their respective logos.

Ahead of the Braille 200 reception at the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh, Robert Kirkwood spoke with Alan Stewart, Volunteer Campaigner with RNIB Scotland.  They spoke about the night's event as well as Alan's connection to the radio station. Image shows the Braille 200 logo with 'Braille 200' written at the top in white text on a pink background with a visual Braille representation of the same text below it. Across the bottom is written Powered by RNIB and EBU written in their respective logos.

RNIB recently held an event to celebrate the bicentenary of the invention of braille. The Scottish Parliament reception, organised by RNIB Scotland, marked 200 years of the tactile code which enables blind and partially sighted people to read and write. RNIB Connect Radio's Barry Snell caught up Emma Tracey, who is the presenter of BBC's Access All podcast, and a lifelong braille user. To find out more about braille and how the RNIB is celebrating 200 years since Louis Braille invented the system visit: https://www.rnib.org.uk/about-us/braille-200 Image shows the Braille 200 logo with 'Braille 200' written at the top in white text on a pink background with a visual Braille representation of the same text below it. Across the bottom is written Powered by RNIB and EBU written in their respective logos.

RNIB recently held an event to celebrate the bicentenary of the invention of braille. The Scottish Parliament reception, organised by RNIB Scotland, marked 200 years of the tactile code which enables blind and partially sighted people to read and write. RNIB Connect Radio's Barry Snell caught up with RNIB Connect Radio presenter Alan Dudley, who himself is a huge advocate of braille. To find out more about braille and how the RNIB is celebrating 200 years since Louis Braille invented the system visit: https://www.rnib.org.uk/about-us/braille-200 Image shows the Braille 200 logo with 'Braille 200' written at the top in white text on a pink background with a visual Braille representation of the same text below it. Across the bottom is written Powered by RNIB and EBU written in their respective logos.

On Wednesday 29th of January RNIB Scotland's Braille 200 reception was held at the Scottish Parliament.  A night of celebration for the tactile reading and writing system, our Paulina Kuchorew was there and spoke with RNIB's Chair of Trustees following her speech at the event. Image shows the Braille 200 logo with 'Braille 200' written at the top in white text on a pink background with a visual Braille representation of the same text below it. Across the bottom is written Powered by RNIB and EBU written in their respective logos.

RNIB recently held an event to celebrate the bicentenary of the invention of braille. The Scottish Parliament reception, organised by RNIB Scotland, marked 200 years of the tactile code which enables blind and partially sighted people to read and write. RNIB Connect Radio's Barry Snell caught up with former RNIB volunteer and presenter Alan Dudley, who himself is a huge advocate of braille. To find out more about braille and how the RNIB is celebrating 200 years since Louis Braille invented the system visit: https://www.rnib.org.uk/about-us/braille-200 Image shows the Braille 200 logo with 'Braille 200' written at the top in white text on a pink background with a visual Braille representation of the same text below it. Across the bottom is written Powered by RNIB and EBU written in their respective logos.

Who owns Scotland? How did they get it? What happened to all the common land in Scotland? Has the Scottish Parliament made any difference? Can we get our common good land back? In this updated edition of The Poor Had No Lawyers: Who Owns Scotland and How They Got it (Birlinn, 2024), Andy Wightman updates the statistics of landownership in Scotland and explores how and why landowners got their hands on the millions of acres of land that were once held in common. He tells the untold story of how Scotland's legal establishment and politicians managed to appropriate land through legal fixes. Have attempts to redistribute this power more equitably made any difference, and what are the full implications of the recent debt-fuelled housing bubble, the Smith Commission and the new Scottish Government's proposals on land reform? For all those with an interest in urban and rural land in Scotland, this updated edition of The Poor Had No Lawyers provides a fascinating analysis of one the most important political questions in Scotland. This interview was conducted by Dr. Miranda Melcher whose new book focuses on post-conflict military integration, understanding treaty negotiation and implementation in civil war contexts, with qualitative analysis of the Angolan and Mozambican civil wars. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

Who owns Scotland? How did they get it? What happened to all the common land in Scotland? Has the Scottish Parliament made any difference? Can we get our common good land back? In this updated edition of The Poor Had No Lawyers: Who Owns Scotland and How They Got it (Birlinn, 2024), Andy Wightman updates the statistics of landownership in Scotland and explores how and why landowners got their hands on the millions of acres of land that were once held in common. He tells the untold story of how Scotland's legal establishment and politicians managed to appropriate land through legal fixes. Have attempts to redistribute this power more equitably made any difference, and what are the full implications of the recent debt-fuelled housing bubble, the Smith Commission and the new Scottish Government's proposals on land reform? For all those with an interest in urban and rural land in Scotland, this updated edition of The Poor Had No Lawyers provides a fascinating analysis of one the most important political questions in Scotland. This interview was conducted by Dr. Miranda Melcher whose new book focuses on post-conflict military integration, understanding treaty negotiation and implementation in civil war contexts, with qualitative analysis of the Angolan and Mozambican civil wars. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/history

Who owns Scotland? How did they get it? What happened to all the common land in Scotland? Has the Scottish Parliament made any difference? Can we get our common good land back? In this updated edition of The Poor Had No Lawyers: Who Owns Scotland and How They Got it (Birlinn, 2024), Andy Wightman updates the statistics of landownership in Scotland and explores how and why landowners got their hands on the millions of acres of land that were once held in common. He tells the untold story of how Scotland's legal establishment and politicians managed to appropriate land through legal fixes. Have attempts to redistribute this power more equitably made any difference, and what are the full implications of the recent debt-fuelled housing bubble, the Smith Commission and the new Scottish Government's proposals on land reform? For all those with an interest in urban and rural land in Scotland, this updated edition of The Poor Had No Lawyers provides a fascinating analysis of one the most important political questions in Scotland. This interview was conducted by Dr. Miranda Melcher whose new book focuses on post-conflict military integration, understanding treaty negotiation and implementation in civil war contexts, with qualitative analysis of the Angolan and Mozambican civil wars. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/european-studies

Who owns Scotland? How did they get it? What happened to all the common land in Scotland? Has the Scottish Parliament made any difference? Can we get our common good land back? In this updated edition of The Poor Had No Lawyers: Who Owns Scotland and How They Got it (Birlinn, 2024), Andy Wightman updates the statistics of landownership in Scotland and explores how and why landowners got their hands on the millions of acres of land that were once held in common. He tells the untold story of how Scotland's legal establishment and politicians managed to appropriate land through legal fixes. Have attempts to redistribute this power more equitably made any difference, and what are the full implications of the recent debt-fuelled housing bubble, the Smith Commission and the new Scottish Government's proposals on land reform? For all those with an interest in urban and rural land in Scotland, this updated edition of The Poor Had No Lawyers provides a fascinating analysis of one the most important political questions in Scotland. This interview was conducted by Dr. Miranda Melcher whose new book focuses on post-conflict military integration, understanding treaty negotiation and implementation in civil war contexts, with qualitative analysis of the Angolan and Mozambican civil wars. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/public-policy

Who owns Scotland? How did they get it? What happened to all the common land in Scotland? Has the Scottish Parliament made any difference? Can we get our common good land back? In this updated edition of The Poor Had No Lawyers: Who Owns Scotland and How They Got it (Birlinn, 2024), Andy Wightman updates the statistics of landownership in Scotland and explores how and why landowners got their hands on the millions of acres of land that were once held in common. He tells the untold story of how Scotland's legal establishment and politicians managed to appropriate land through legal fixes. Have attempts to redistribute this power more equitably made any difference, and what are the full implications of the recent debt-fuelled housing bubble, the Smith Commission and the new Scottish Government's proposals on land reform? For all those with an interest in urban and rural land in Scotland, this updated edition of The Poor Had No Lawyers provides a fascinating analysis of one the most important political questions in Scotland. This interview was conducted by Dr. Miranda Melcher whose new book focuses on post-conflict military integration, understanding treaty negotiation and implementation in civil war contexts, with qualitative analysis of the Angolan and Mozambican civil wars. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/politics-and-polemics

Who owns Scotland? How did they get it? What happened to all the common land in Scotland? Has the Scottish Parliament made any difference? Can we get our common good land back? In this updated edition of The Poor Had No Lawyers: Who Owns Scotland and How They Got it (Birlinn, 2024), Andy Wightman updates the statistics of landownership in Scotland and explores how and why landowners got their hands on the millions of acres of land that were once held in common. He tells the untold story of how Scotland's legal establishment and politicians managed to appropriate land through legal fixes. Have attempts to redistribute this power more equitably made any difference, and what are the full implications of the recent debt-fuelled housing bubble, the Smith Commission and the new Scottish Government's proposals on land reform? For all those with an interest in urban and rural land in Scotland, this updated edition of The Poor Had No Lawyers provides a fascinating analysis of one the most important political questions in Scotland. This interview was conducted by Dr. Miranda Melcher whose new book focuses on post-conflict military integration, understanding treaty negotiation and implementation in civil war contexts, with qualitative analysis of the Angolan and Mozambican civil wars. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There has been a 'lack of progress' from the Scottish Government in implementing reforms recommended for the salmon farming industry, according to MSPs. Members of the Rural Affairs and Islands Committee in the Scottish Parliament warned that such delays could be 'detrimental to the long-term viability' of the sector. Farmer protests against the introduction of inheritance tax are continuing up and down the country, with more planned for the end of the month. But many agree that the row has at least made families talk about what should happen when one generation passes on the farm to the next. Professor Matt Lobley from Exeter University says while around 60% of farmers in their 60s have a successor lined up, the transfer of ownership can be a painful process.This week we'll be looking at some of the jobs that need to be done at this time of year to ensure the maintenance of the farm all year round. Today it's fencing, vital for keeping animals in, and your neighbours' animals out.Presented by Charlotte Smith and produced by Beatrice Fenton.

Lynx to Scotland, a three-charity partnership working to restore lynx to the Scottish Highlands, welcomes the humane capture of two lynx illegally released in the Cairngorms National Park. Photo credit -> scotlandbigpicture.com Peter Cairns, Executive Director of SCOTLAND: The Big Picture, one of the charities involved, said: "It's excellent news that experts from the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) were able to humanely trap the lynx so rapidly, and that the lynx are safe. Lynx could return to Scotland "The Lynx to Scotland Project is working to secure the return of Lynx to the Scottish Highlands, but irresponsible and illegal releases such as this are simply counter-productive." The native Eurasian lynx was made extinct in Scotland through hunting and habitat loss more than 500 years ago. Lynx are 'keystone species' which play a vital role in maintaining healthy living systems, and biodiversity is negatively affected by their absence. Lynx are shy and elusive woodland hunters and pose no danger to people. They have successfully returned to European countries such as Germany, France and Switzerland. Research suggests the Highlands has the habitat to sustainably support around 400 lynx. "The Lynx to Scotland project is working towards a carefully planned reintroduction of lynx that respects the views of farmers and other stakeholders - so that Scotland would once again benefit from having lynx in the natural environment," said Steve Micklewright, Chief Executive of Trees for Life. "Scotland is one of a handful of European countries still lacking a large terrestrial mammal predator. If we are serious about tackling the nature and climate emergencies, we need lynx back. A lynx reintroduction would require Scottish Government approval, with habitat assessments and full public consultation." Scotland has more woodland deer than any other European country, and the absence of predators such as lynx leaves the country's forests diminished and overgrazed by too many deer. By preying on roe deer - their preferred prey - and invasive sika deer, lynx could reduce browsing pressure on regenerating woodlands, helping to expand and enrich the country's forests. Lynx would be high-profile ambassadors for nature recovery, attracting valuable tourism revenue for rural communities. Currently, a cross-sector range of stakeholders are engaging in discussions about the possibility of a responsibly managed and fully resourced legal reintroduction of lynx. There is growing public and political support for a managed lynx reintroduction with polls showing widespread backing. In April 2023, lynx reintroduction was discussed in the Scottish Parliament for the first time. The Lynx to Scotland partners are SCOTLAND: The Big Picture, Trees for Life and The Lifescape Project. For more information, see www.scotlandbigpicture.com/lynx-to-scotland. See more breaking stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

In 2023, Humza Yousaf made history when he was elected as Scotland's first minister, making him the first Muslim leader of a Western democracy. Yet, that term was cut short this past spring after Yousaf was forced to resign from the post, as his coalition government fell apart.Since then, Yousaf has remained a backbench member of the Scottish Parliament.However, in this exclusive interview with Zeteo in London, Humza Yousaf announces that he will not be seeking re-election to the Scottish Parliament in 2026, telling Mehdi that it's time for him to “step away from frontline politics.”“I think the time is right for me to step down, step away from frontline politics and make way for the next generation of elected members,” Yousaf says to Mehdi.In this wide-ranging interview, the former leader of Scotland discusses his fallout with the Green Party earlier this year, which ultimately led to the collapse of his coalition government, saying that terminating the power-sharing agreement with the Greens was, “the right thing to have done.”“My successor is no longer encumbered with that deal, [he] can make decisions in policy that he wants to take forward in our country's interest without having to negotiate and compromise with the Greens. They can do that on an issue by issue basis, which I think is the best way to do it,” Yousaf says.Yousaf also discusses the Middle East with Mehdi, telling him that the UK Labour Party is complicit in Israel's genocide on Gaza.“There's no doubt in my mind at all they are complicit. And I hope and pray that I live to see the day that all of those who are complicit are held accountable for these crimes,” Yousaf tells Mehdi.Mehdi asks Yousaf about his feud with billionaire Elon Musk, with the former first minister reiterating why he thinks Musk is, “one of the most dangerous men on the planet.”Yousaf also sounds the alarm about reports that Musk has been considering donating to the hard-right Reform UK party (Musk has denied these reports).Watch the full exclusive interview above to hear Mehdi and Yousaf also discuss the rise of Islamophobia and the UK race riots from this past summer, his party's catastrophic performance in the UK's general election this year, and the Pakistani government's continued imprisonment of former prime minister Imran Khan. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit zeteo.com/subscribe

Join us for an exciting collaboration as Witch Hunt meets Witches of Scotland in this special crossover episode. Hosts Josh Hutchinson and Sarah Jack sit down with Zoe Venditozzi and Claire Mitchell to explore the parallel paths of witch trial justice advocacy across the Atlantic. From Connecticut to Scotland, discover how these podcasters are working to right historical wrongs while preventing modern-day witch hunts. Key topics include contrasts between American and Scottish witch trial histories, the unique challenges of tracing witch trial ancestry in different cultures, Dorothy Good's heartbreaking story: imprisoned at age 4 in Salem, current advocacy efforts for exoneration and remembrance, and modern witch hunt phenomena and their global impact. The discussion also features Connecticut's witch trial history and recent exoneration efforts, Scotland's unique legal framework for addressing historical injustices, the challenges of creating memorials in both countries, modern-day witch hunts and their global prevalence, and the role of gender in historical and contemporary witch accusations. ## Resources Mentioned - Petition to clear the names of those convicted of witchcraft in Massachusetts - Connecticut Witch Hunt Exoneration Project - Massachusetts Witch Hunt Justice Project - Witches of Scotland podcast - Scottish Parliament consultation on witch trial pardons --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/witchhunt/support

The SNP presented their budget this week in Holyrood with the news that all pensioners would receive a winter fuel allowance and a pledge to scrap the two-child benefit cap. Questions remain about how they will make this budget work financially, but it is clear that they have one eye on the 2026 Scottish Parliament elections. How could this impact Labour north, and south, of the border? And, after a torrid year for the SNP, can First Minister John Swinney turn things around?  Iain MacWhirter and Lucy Dunn join James Heale to discuss.  Produced by Patrick Gibbons.

Scottish farmers are demanding a bigger agriculture budget from the Scottish Government. Hundreds of farmers and crofters joined a rally outside the Scottish Parliament to lobby MSP's ahead of next week's Scottish budget and also to protest against the UK Government's decision to put inheritance tax on farmland. The farming union, NFU Scotland wants the overall agriculture budget to increase by £50 million pounds to £776 million - and for the £46 million which was taken from the agricultural budget in 2022-2023 to fund other priorities to be returned. Cumbria may not be the first place you think of when thinking about growing veg here in the UK, but this week as we focus on winter veg we've come across a network of farmers and growers there feeding an increasing appetite for local, sustainably produced vegetables. . Growing in fields and polytunnels the Home Grown Here co-operative sells at farmers' markets and delivers hundreds of weekly veg boxes to doorsteps around the county.We visit the last of our three finalists in our Farming for the Future category of the BBC Food and Farming Awards. Andy Howard is a regenerative farmer who's invited scientists, conservationists and agri-tech businesses onto his arable farm in Kent to try out theories in a multitude of on-farm trials. He's tested out drones that use AI to analyse crop nutrition, experimented with adding compost extract to his soils when planting seeds and in the same field, grown lentils with other crops.Presenter = Charlotte Smith Producer = Rebecca Rooney

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.

It's Wednesday, September 25th, A.D. 2024. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 125 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark Christian suffering in Gaza Christians continue to suffer in the Gaza Strip during the Israel-Hamas War.  International Christian Concern reports there are an estimated 900 Christians in the territory. They have faced the hardship of war with death and devastation all around them. Beyond that, Christians there who have converted from Islam face persecution if their new faith is discovered.  Many Christians have sought refuge in church buildings during the conflict only to have them bombed. And believers who leave for countries like Egypt and Israel face the challenges of starting a new life. Please pray for our brothers and sisters in Christ in Gaza.  Hebrews 13:3 says, “Remember those who are in prison, as though in prison with them, and those who are mistreated, since you also are in the body.” Scottish abortion mill buffer zones Buffer zones around abortion mills went into effect in Scotland yesterday. The new legislation bans praying and offering help to women outside abortion mills. Violations carry fines of up to £10,000 -- the equivalent of over $13,000.  Humza Yousef, a member of the Scottish Parliament, loves the idea of criminalizing free speech outside Scottish abortion mills. YOUSEF: “You want to protest anywhere you should be protesting outside of the Scottish Parliament or wherever else. But where women are going to get an abortion, it can be one of the most traumatic days of their lives. They don't need to be faced with that type of protest.” Lois McLatchie of Alliance Defending Freedom U.K. was incredulous about the parliament's proposal to prohibit compassionate Christians from offering a woman help and hope before she hires an abortionist to kill her unborn baby. McLATCHIE: “We want to make sure that we're keeping a free and open society and making sure that these buffer zones don't go so as far and be so disproportionate as to take out perfectly legal and good activities like prayer and charitable offers of help. Let women help, let volunteers help, and keep those choices open for women.” The Society for the Protection of Unborn Children is protesting the buffer zones. John Deighan, the CEO of the pro-life group, said, “As well as outlawing compassion, buffer zones set a terrible precedent, breaching fundamental rights to free speech and freedom of religion. … Buffer zones have introduced thoughtcrime into Scottish society. The Society for the Protection of Unborn Children  will stand up to this assault on our freedoms.” Judge rules in favor of Catholic groups in abortion case In the U.S., a federal judge ruled in favor of Catholic groups in an abortion-related case on Monday.  At issue was the federal government's enforcement of new regulations that would require employers to offer time off for employees to get abortions. The regulations also included accommodations for in vitro fertilization visits and protections for transgenderism.  The ruling protects 7,000 Catholic parishes and 1,380 Catholic employers.  The ruling noted, “This challenge to religious liberty is a reminder of the danger of government action that is clearly anti-religion.” Kamala Harris raised four times as much money as Trump Vice President Kamala Harris raised $189 million for her presidential campaign last month. Meanwhile, during the same time, former President Donald Trump only raised $44 million. However, the two candidates remain virtually tied in national polls. The latest CNN poll shows 48% of voters support Harris and 47% support Trump. In terms of swing states, the latest New York Times poll found that Trump leads Harris in Arizona, Georgia, and North Carolina by two to five percentage points.  Overdose deaths dropped by 10% The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released provisional data on drug overdose deaths last week. Overdose deaths dropped by 10% between April 2023 and April 2024. It's the first decline since drug deaths spiked during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the decline, there are still about 100,000 overdose deaths per year, a trend which has been in place since 2021. States with big declines in overdose deaths include Kentucky, North Carolina, Ohio, Arizona, Maine, and Vermont. Other states have not seen much declines or have even gotten worse like Alaska, Colorado, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming. People with an anti-Biblical worldview more prone to anxiety And finally, Dr. George Barna  released a report suggesting the consequences of anti-Biblical worldviews are often misdiagnosed and treated as mental illness. An estimated one quarter of adults have some kind of diagnosable mental disorder. The number increases to a third among Millennials and Gen Z. The most common type of disorder is anxiety.  The report found numerous unbiblical beliefs often produce feelings of anxiety, depression, and fear. Such beliefs include having no purpose in life, rejecting God, denying objective truth, and accepting reincarnation.  Dr. Barna noted, “People do not frequently experience anxiety, depression, or fear as a result of possessing the Biblical worldview. The profile of those who possess a Biblical worldview also tend to have longer-lasting and happier marriages, a clear and compelling sense of meaning in life, more enduring and satisfying relationships, greater spiritual clarity and joy, a deeper commitment to forgiving other people, and regular engagement in service to other people.” Romans 8:15 says, “For you did not receive a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear. Instead, you received the Spirit of adoption, by whom we cry out, ‘Abba, Father!'” Close And that's The Worldview on this Wednesday, September 25th, in the year of our Lord 2024. Subscribe by Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.