Podcasts about Scottish Parliament

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.

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

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. 

Bernard and Alex discuss the news that after being an MSP since 1999, Nicola Sturgeon has announced that she will not stand for re-election at the next Scottish Parliament election. Why has she done this?A look back at her careerWhat does it mean for the SNP?What was she like to work with? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Scottish First Minister John Swinney speaks to The Stooshie for a feature-length interview as he nears a year in the top job. He talks about the vital support of family, and how early morning runs listening to The Jam (and his friend Pete Wishart's band Runrig) keep him going. We cover the big challenges he faces in the NHS and education - including troubled Dundee University - as focus turns to the next year before the Scottish Parliament election. He admits he sees all his political opponents as a threat to the SNP after nearly 20 years in power. And as Nicola Sturgeon prepares to publish her memoirs, does John Swinney have book in him too?

Although they're common in Europe, this will be the first city-wide tourist tax in the UK. 虽然游客税在欧洲已经十分常见，但这个新设的游客税将是英国首个覆盖整个城市的游客税。 The Scottish Parliament passed legislation paving the way last year, and now Edinburgh councillors are set to introduce the charge. It will apply to anyone booking overnight accommodation including hotels, AirBnBs, hostels and campsites. The 5% charge will be capped at five consecutive nights. 苏格兰议会于去年通过的相关法案为收取游客税铺平了道路，而如今爱丁堡的政务委员们已经做出了施行这项税法的决定。该游客税将适用于所有在爱丁堡预定宾馆、民宿、青年旅舍和露营地等住宿场所的游客。这项税收将收取每晚住宿费用的 5%，以连续收费五晚为上限。 Edinburgh City Council believes that the levy could eventually raise up to £50 million a year with the funds reinvested in the city to support housing, infrastructure and cultural events. 爱丁堡市政务委员会相信这项税收最终每年能带来近五千万英镑的收入，这部分资金会被重新投资于该市，以支持住宅建设、基础设施建设和举办文化活动。 But a number of accommodation operators are sceptical about the scheme. Concerns have been raised about the time scale, and some self-catering operators have argued that this is an extra burden on top of a new licensing scheme that was introduced in 2023. 但不少住宿设施的经营者都对这项税收计划持怀疑态度。已经有人提出了对游客税中时间规定的担忧，一些提供自炊住宿的经营者还认为这项税收是 2023 年引入的新经营许可证要求之外新增的额外负担。 But, despite these complaints, the direction of travel seems clear. A number of other Scottish councils are developing their own proposals for a similar visitor levy.尽管有这些抱怨，但设立旅游税的发展趋势似乎十分明显。许多苏格兰城市政务委员会都在起草自己的方案，以收取类似的游客税费。词汇表city-wide 全市范围的，覆盖全市的paving the way 为…铺平道路，为…打下基础are set to 准备好capped 以…为上限，被限制在…内levy 税收，税款sceptical 持怀疑态度的burden 负担direction of travel 行进方向，发展趋势

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.

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.

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 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 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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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/british-studies

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.

In this episode of Riddoch Questions Lesley spoke with Alex Salmond who had just led the SNP to become the largest party in the Scottish Parliament. He was literally in the throes of trying to form that first ever SNP government and spoke from the car park outside a pub in the pouring rain.  ★ Support this podcast ★

We've been reporting over the last couple of weeks about a £358m underspend over the last three years from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs' £2.4 billion agriculture annual budget for England. Farmers are furious at the scale of this underspend and there are concerns that the money will be lost for good in cuts in this autumn's government spending review. Now a former Defra director says it's critical that this money isn't lost from the farming budget. Henry Dimbleby was Defra's lead non-executive board member for five years up until spring last year when he resigned over what he said was the then Government's failure to tackle obesity, something he'd highlighted as a priority in his independent National Food Strategy, commissioned by the Government. An animal welfare charity says it's filmed tonnes of dead and dying salmon being removed from a fish farm just hours before Members of the Scottish Parliament visited the site for a fact finding mission. Holyrood's Rural Affairs committee visited Dunstaffnage fish farm near Oban on Monday as part of their inquiry into whether the industry's made progress in tackling significant environmental concerns. The campaign group Animal Equality has accused the industry of trying to cover up the fish deaths, but Scottish Sea Farms who own the farm, says the workers were carrying out routine clearance of the pens. The need for clean energy has led to a large increase in offshore wind farms and electricity generated in them has to be brought inland. That means hundreds of miles of underground cabling is being channelled through the countryside with some farmers having little choice about whether they go across their land. Presented by Caz Graham and produced by Beatrice Fenton.

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.

Martin Geissler sits down with SNP leader John Swinney. His party are coming into this general election off the back of what he himself described as a “rough time”. They're offering voters “a new chapter”, with calls for more powers for Scottish Parliament, and eventually, they hope, full independence for Scotland, but given they've been in power in Holyrood for 17 years, how is that message landing with voters? In this audio version of the BBC Scotland Sunday Show interview, Martin asks Swinney about Scottish independence, taxation, and what exactly makes a mandate for a referendum.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.

On Thursday this week campaigners gathered outside the Scottish Parliament to protest the proposed plans for a new powerline between Kintore and Tealing. SSEN Transmission says the upgrade is needed to meet net zero targets, while protestors say they haven't been properly consulted and the scheme will blight the countryside. Mark went along to speak to Thomas Nicoll from SSEN Transmission and some of the protestors from Angus Action Against Pylons and Save Our Mearns.TV Nature series Wild Isles was a big hit for the BBC last year. Much of it was filmed in Scotland and recently Rachel chatted to producer Alastair Fothergill for the Scotland Outdoors podcast. We hear an excerpt where he chats about how they filmed Orca hunting whales in Shetland.Later this month Ullapool is hosting Lugger Fest '24. It's the village's inaugural maritime festival of traditional boats and will feature talks, food, music plus the chance to get aboard the Luggers- small fishing boats that use a particular kind of sail. Dan Holland went along to find out more about what will be going on and explore one the luggers.Nikki and Ollie Lake are familiar faces to those who watch the BBC series This Farming Life. They farm near Dallas in Moray and have a rather interesting mix of animals including water buffalo and wallabies! Rachel went along to meet the couple and their marsupials to hear how they got started.Sunday 5th May is International Dawn Chorus Day so to mark the occasion we're joined live by renowned sound recordist Chris Watson. Chris tells us what makes the dawn chorus so special to record and we hear an excerpt of a recording he did in Glen Affric.A community owned woodland in Aberdeenshire with links to a famous Doric poet has become part of a major European study. It's being used as an example of how people can use what's on their doorstep to tackle big issues like climate change. Rachel went to visit while they were planting some trees.

Today, we look at Humza Yousaf facing a vote of no confidence in the Scottish Parliament.The First Minister says he won't resign and is ‘very confident' he'll win the vote. The vote was triggered after he ended a power-sharing agreement between the SNP and Scottish Greens, because of disagreements over climate policy and the use of puberty blockers for under 18s. Adam is joined by Laura Kuenssberg and BBC Scotland Editor James Cook.And Tim Shipman, author of All Out War and No Way Out, speaks to Adam about the Brexit years and the role of the ‘mating porcupines'. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://tinyurl.com/newscastcommunityhere Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. It was presented by Adam Fleming. It was made by Jack Maclaren with Gemma Roper, Sam McLaren and Natasha Mayo. The technical producer was Michael Regaard. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

It's Wednesday, April 24th, A.D. 2024. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard at www.TheWorldview.com. I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark Sudanese Muslim militants have damaged 150 churches Last April, a civil war broke out between factions in Sudan's military government.  The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom reports the conflict has damaged or destroyed over 150 church buildings. Combatants are targeting houses of worship and religious leaders. Pastors and congregants have faced threats over their faith and even death. Evangelical Pastor Kowa Shamal noted that both military factions dislike Christians. Combatants threatened the pastor and even killed his nephew. Shamal recounted, “[My nephew] refused to remove the cross he wore around his neck, so the [fighters] killed him.” Revelation 2:10 says, “Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested. …  Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.” According to Open Doors, Sudan, Africa is the eighth most dangerous country worldwide in which to be a Christian. Scotland no longer gives puberty blockers to gender-confused kids Scotland is halting new prescriptions of puberty blockers for children with gender confusion. The move comes after England's National Health Service released a report it commissioned on the issue. The report found that medical evidence surrounding so-called transgender treatments for children is “remarkably weak.”  England already halted new prescriptions of transgender drugs for children last month. Belgium and the Netherlands are also questioning the use of the drugs following England's report. Scottish buffer zone around abortion mills Speaking of Scotland, the country is considering a bill to create buffer zones around abortion mills. Pro-life advocates who try to persuade abortion-minded women not to kill their babies would face hefty fines. A Scottish Parliament consultation on the issue received nearly 6,000 submissions from the public. Seventy-seven percent of submissions disagreed with the buffer zone, and only 22% agreed. Catherine Robinson with Right To Life UK warned, “This Committee has totally ignored the overwhelming opposition to this bill and instead is supporting the introduction of the world's most extreme [abortion clinic] buffer zone law in Scotland.” California Governor wants to kill more babies In the U.S., California's Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom is pushing for more abortions. Arizona's Supreme Court upheld a near total abortion ban earlier this month. In response, Newsom proposed legislation allowing Arizona abortionists to come into California to kill more unborn babies. On Monday, a day after Newsom's proposal, thousands of people joined the fourth annual March for Life California in Sacramento.  Biden includes sexual preference and gender identity under Title IX Last Friday, the Biden administration announced changes to Title IX. The 1972 civil rights law protects people from discrimination based on their sex. The new rule requires schools to protect children from sex discrimination. And it expands the meaning of sex discrimination to include discrimination based on so-called “sexual orientation” and “gender identity.” The new protection for students living sexually perverted lifestyles goes into effect in August.  Isaiah 10:1-2 says, “Woe to those who decree unrighteous decrees, who write misfortune, which they have prescribed to rob the needy of justice, and to take what is right from the poor of My people, that widows may be their prey, and that they may rob the fatherless.” Trump stands with House Speaker Johnson Former President Donald Trump issued support for Republican U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson this week. This comes after several Republicans in the House called on Johnson to resign for supporting a $1.2 trillion spending bill.  On Monday, Trump supported Johnson during an interview with radio host John Fredericks. Listen. TRUMP: “We have a majority of one. Okay? So, it's not like he can go and do whatever he wants to do. I think he's a very good person. It's a tough situation when you have one [person in the GOP Majority]. I think he's a very good man. I think he's trying very hard. And again, we've got to have a big election.” Florida greenlights volunteer school chaplains Florida Republican Governor Ron DeSantis signed House Bill 931 into law last week. Now, schools in the state can have volunteer chaplains.  DeSANTIS: “It's totally voluntary for a parent or a student to participate. No one's being forced to do anything. But to exclude religious groups from campus, that is discrimination. You're basically saying that God has no place. That's wrong. That's not what our Founding Fathers intended!” Texas authorized a similar chaplain program last year. Spiritual State of Nation survey And finally, Coral Ridge Ministries released its 2024 Spiritual State of the Nation Survey last week.  The survey of hundreds of evangelical Americans showed broad support for religious liberty and human life. When asked about the three most critical issues facing the new Congress and presidential administration, 56% of respondents included immigration. Other issues were America's sovereignty at 33%, abortion at 32%, federal spending at 30%, and religious freedom at 24%. Close And that's The Worldview in 5 Minutes on this Wednesday, April 24th in the year of our Lord 2024. Subscribe 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.