Podcasts about Scottish Parliament

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

To submit your urgent questions to Michael and Maddie, go to: spectator.co.uk/quiterightThis week on Quite right! Q&A: Could Britain see a snap election before 2029? Michael and Maddie unpack the constitutional mechanics – and explain why, despite the chaos, an early vote remains unlikely. They also turn to Labour's troubles: growing pressure on Keir Starmer, restive backbenchers, and whether Angela Rayner's sacking has boosted her chances as his successor.Plus: should the Scottish Parliament be abolished? And on a lighter note, if you won a free holiday but had to take one Labour MP, who would you choose?Produced by Oscar Edmondson. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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

The Ordinary Elite is a Scottish podcast brought to you from Glasgow by John McGovern and Mike Dailly. Both are Solicitor Advocates - John a criminal defence lawyer and Mike a civil litigation practitioner and social justice campaigner. In our 11th episode of Season 4, we are we're joined by Annmarie Ward, the founder and CEO of the charity Faces & Voices of Recovery UK (FAVOR UK). Last month, the Right to Addiction Recovery (Scotland) Bill fell at Stage 1 in the Scottish Parliament. We ask Annmarie now that the Bill has fallen, what hope is there to reduce the horrendous death rate from drug overdoes in Scotland?

Morse code transcription: vvv vvv Scottish Parliament passes land reform bill Man drove at Huntingdon train stabbings attack suspect In pictures Beaver supermoon seen around the world Crime fixer caught by BBC offering to erase 60K fines on migrant workers Police hunt for two men mistakenly released from London prison Mone linked firm PPE Medpro owes 39m in tax Jeremy Vine completely devastated by Joey Barton X posts Inside Gaza, BBC sees total devastation after two years of war US elections Four takeaways after Democrats seal key wins Murder arrests after child killer Kyle Bevan found dead at HMP Wakefield

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

Morse code transcription: vvv vvv Mone linked firm PPE Medpro owes 39m in tax Police hunt for two men mistakenly released from London prison Man drove at Huntingdon train stabbings attack suspect US elections Four takeaways after Democrats seal key wins Jeremy Vine completely devastated by Joey Barton X posts Scottish Parliament passes land reform bill Crime fixer caught by BBC offering to erase 60K fines on migrant workers In pictures Beaver supermoon seen around the world Murder arrests after child killer Kyle Bevan found dead at HMP Wakefield Inside Gaza, BBC sees total devastation after two years of war

Morse code transcription: vvv vvv Scottish Parliament passes land reform bill US elections Four takeaways after Democrats seal key wins Police hunt for two men mistakenly released from London prison Jeremy Vine completely devastated by Joey Barton X posts Murder arrests after child killer Kyle Bevan found dead at HMP Wakefield Mone linked firm PPE Medpro owes 39m in tax Inside Gaza, BBC sees total devastation after two years of war Man drove at Huntingdon train stabbings attack suspect Crime fixer caught by BBC offering to erase 60K fines on migrant workers In pictures Beaver supermoon seen around the world

Morse code transcription: vvv vvv US elections Four takeaways after Democrats seal key wins Jeremy Vine completely devastated by Joey Barton X posts Inside Gaza, BBC sees total devastation after two years of war Scottish Parliament passes land reform bill Man drove at Huntingdon train stabbings attack suspect In pictures Beaver supermoon seen around the world Police hunt for two men mistakenly released from London prison Mone linked firm PPE Medpro owes 39m in tax Murder arrests after child killer Kyle Bevan found dead at HMP Wakefield Crime fixer caught by BBC offering to erase 60K fines on migrant workers

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

The Land Reform Bill is being debated at Holyrood and members of the Scottish Parliament will be voting on what's been described as landmark legislation. If passed, the bill could allow the government to intervene in private land sales and require large estates to be broken up. The proposals are controversial with landowners and some opposition politicians. Defra has announced that an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone will come into effect in the north, central and east of England. Poultry keepers with flocks of more than 50 birds will be required to keep their birds housed. The Chief Vet says prompt action is needed to prevent further spread of the disease. Himalayan balsam is an invasive species which proliferates along riverbanks. Its spread has been very hard to control. Could a fungus hold the key to controlling it? Historic man made features that lie on farmland from ancient walls to Roman forts help form the character of our countryside. For farmers however, historic features on their land can often seem like a headache rather than something to celebrate because they need conservation standard maintenance and restoration which is expensive and requires specialist skills. Historic England's ‘Countryside Stewardship Heritage Service' wadvises farmers on how to get funding for this. We visit a farm in Cumbria where a 19th century bridge and an 18th century lime kiln are in need of some tender loving care. Presenter = Caz Graham Producer = Rebecca Rooney

From Russian aggression, to culture wars in the aisles of a Dundee Hobbycraft, this week's Stooshie covers ground. We start with a catch up after Scottish Parliament recess and what we gleaned from a few days in Whitehall and Westminster. Defence is a hot topic, with German planes using RAF Lossiemouth and big questions about the threat from Russia off Scotland's coasts. The team gets into the new plan to use an Inverness barracks as migrant accommodation – how are locals reacting? And we look at toxic culture wars on gender and freedom of speech, including a Tory “joke” about Rangers, and a gender rights row in a craft shop.

On this weeks nature news Nadia kicks off with a potentially trailblazing bill from Scottish Parliament to criminalise actions that are defined as ecocide. Ryan shares an up beat story about re-wriggling a chalk stream in Hertfordshire before ending on some thoughts & feelings about the recent global temperatures causing natural tipping points. Show notes: Links to all stories mentioned: Ecocide / Rewiggling / Tipping Points Support us: If you'd like to say "cheers" to the Into The Wild team & help support us with running costs, you can make a one off donation or sign up for a monthly tip on www.ko-fi.com/intothewildpod Chat with us: We're on Instagram & BlueSky or you can chuck us an email at intothewildpod@mail.com. To follow the hosts of the show, Ryan & Nadia, follow them at @mrryanjdalton & @buteblackbird   

England's current approach to planning for floods is "underpowered and fragmented". That's according to a report from MPs which is published today. The Environmental Audit Committee says the Government should set up a single joint flood reporting and information service and spend more on flood resilience, with a fairer funding formula for rural areas. The MPs say farmers can play a key role, for instance in storing water, but should be paid for their work. We've been talking to all the major political parties over the past few weeks, during party conference season. The SNP conference continues in Aberdeen today and with elections to the Scottish Parliament in May there is a lot to discuss.Over the past few decades many councils have been reassessing their property portfolios and council farms have been sold off. This week we'll look at why, and why some feel that's a mistake. Presented by Charlotte Smith and produced by Beatrice Fenton.

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

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

Maurice Golden is calling time on dog thieves. He hopes a new law that could seem them caged for five years will pass its first Scottish Parliament hurdle. In the Stooshie, the North East MSP sets out why dog theft is different and describes surprising links to organised crime gangs. First, the team discusses the impact of placing asylum seekers at a university campus in Aberdeen full of international students. And how a wall of silence in Perth & Kinross led to important discussions about reporting immigration stories.

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

Many of the highest-profile political issues – including trade, security, and immigration – are now shaped by international treaties and agreements. These agreements are negotiated by ministers and officials, and recent years have seen complaints that the UK's parliaments lack the scrutiny tools they need. So why does parliamentary scrutiny of international agreements matter? Does the current system allow for adequate scrutiny? And if not, what needs to change?Speakers:Lord (Peter) Goldsmith KC – Chair of the House of Lords International Agreements CommitteeArabella Lang – Head of Public Law at the Law SocietyClare Adamson MSP – SNP MSP for Motherwell and Wishaw, and Convener of the Scottish Parliament's Constitution, Europe, External Affairs and Culture Committee.Chair: Lisa James – Senior Research Fellow, Constitution UnitFurther reading:'Treaty scrutiny in Westminster: addressing the accountability gap' (House of Lords International Agreements Committee, 11 September 2025). Links:Website: www.ucl.ac.uk/constitution-unitMailing list: www.ucl.ac.uk/constitution-unit/get-involved/mailing-listBlog: constitution-unit.com

Today we welcome Michaela Scott onto the R2Kast!

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

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

The Scottish Parliament went back to Holyrood last week for the final session before the elections in 2026.   Following the Holyrood debate on Palestine and his very welcome decision to stop giving public money to companies helping to arm Israel in the commission of a genocide,  First Minister John Swinney began today with a speech announcing the publication of the new Scotgov  paper "Your Right to Decide"   This was followed by the first FMQs of the new term. We take a look at some of the stand out moments from these events in this extra Hot Topic episode: Key moments: 00:01:24  The Scottish Government's position on Israel 00:07:20   latest successes including ending peak rail fares 00:11:40   Scotland welcomes refugees 00:16:12   Stand up to Racism protest at Knightswood 00:19:45    Refugees in Glasgow, Saltires in Maryhill 00:24:06    Self determination and the exit process 00:32:52    Rallying cry for democracy Find the new paper Your right to Decide here:https://www.gov.scot/publications/right-decide/ #scottishindependence #democracy #johnswinney The Indypodcasters team produce a NEW podcast episode every Friday search for Scottish Independence Podcasts wherever you get your podcasts.  Remember to like and subscribe! Contact Us: indypodcasters@gmail.com  Visit our website https://scottishindypod.scot for blogposts, newsletter signup and more episodes Subscribe for free to our Youtube channel @scottishindypodExtra for more of our video footage and clips.  video premieres most Tuesdays at 8pm If you've enjoyed this podcast you might like to buy us a coffee?   https://ko-fi.com/scottishindependencepodcasts or choose us as your Easyfundraising good cause. Music: Industiral cinematic and Inspired by Kevin MacLeod  

As part of the launch of an exhibition on the Scottish Parliament building, internationally renown architect and co-founder of EMBT, Benedetta Tagliabue, chats to us about her work. She oversaw the completion of the Parliament project after the untimely death of her partner, lead architect Enric Miralles, during construction. She discusses the history of the project, the inspiration behind elements of the design, and what can be found in the exhibition.

Israel is claiming discrimination against after the UK disinvited its delegation from an arms fair. Plus: A Labour MSP has been accused of planting a camera in a bathroom of the Scottish Parliament. With NoJusticeMTG and Aaron Bastani.

As James Heale writes online for the Spectator today, 'two issues continue to plague the government': how best to attack Nigel Farage. and how to frame an incrementalist approach to policy 'when the national mood favours radical change'. Nick Thomas-Symonds, the Cabinet Office minister responsible for UK-EU relations, attempted to tackle both today as he came to the Spectator to set out Labour's Europe strategy.Labour are pursuing 'pragmatic alignment' – what they argue is greater co-operation when beneficial to the British interest. But what does this mean? James joins Michael Simmons on the podcast to unpack the speech. And, on a day when Reform have claimed another defector (this time Graham Simpson, their first Member of the Scottish Parliament), can anything stall Farage's momentum?Produced by Patrick Gibbons.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.For more Spectator podcasts, go to spectator.co.uk/podcasts.Contact us: podcast@spectator.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jamie Greene, an MSP for the West of Scotland region, defected earlier this year from the Conservatives to the Liberal Democrats. Most defections in Scotland – indeed across the UK – seem to be from the Tories to Reform, so what is behind Jamie's motivations to go in a different direction? What are his reflections on the splintering of politics, particularly in Scotland, as we look ahead to next year's Holyrood elections? And does he agree that this is shaping up to be the most consequential Scottish Parliament election of modern times? In Jamie's view, Reform have shown to struggle with power in the areas they've been successful in, but admits that the Liberal Democrats could learn from Reform in some ways. Can the Lib Dems emulate Reform's Scottish surge?Produced by Patrick Gibbons.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.For more Spectator podcasts, go to spectator.co.uk/podcasts.Contact us: podcast@spectator.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Matthew Bannister onDame Stella Rimington, the first woman to be Director General of MI5, who made the service more open and accountable.Sylvia Young, whose drama school turned out countless stars of stage, screen and music.Sir Jamie McGrigor, the Conservative Member of the Scottish Parliament for the Highlands and Islands, who introduced a bill to protect tartan.And Joan Anderson the former model who brought the hula hoop to America.Producer: Ben MitchellArchive: Al Murray's Great British Spy Movies, BBC Four, 21/04/2015; Woman's Hour, BBC Radio 4, 28/07/2011; Newsround, BBC One, 25/02/1992; BBC News, BBC One, 16/07/1993; Stella Rimington: Security and Democracy – Is There a Conflict?, The Richard Dimbleby Lecture, BBC One, 12/06/1994; Death on the Rock, ITV (uploaded to YouTube), first broadcast 28/04/1988; BBC News, BBC One, 08/09/2001; EastEnders Feuds: The Beales vs The Mitchells, BBC Three, 18/05/2007; Doctor Who trailer – “Rose: I've got a choice”, BBC One (uploaded to YouTube), c.2005; BBC Radio Wales – Aled Jones, 06/06/2010; Through the Keyhole, BBC 1, 10/05/1999; Saving Our Salmon, BBC Two Scotland, 16/10/2018; The Radio Café, BBC Radio Scotland, 31/12/2008; Desert Island Discs: Allan Ahlberg, BBC Radio 4, 12/07/1980; Hula Girl (documentary), dir. Amy Hill & Chris Riess, Snap Pictures, 2018

What happens when a society finally confronts one of its darkest chapters? In Scotland, a growing movement is demanding recognition for the thousands of women killed during the country's brutal witch hunts—a campaign that reveals how historical injustices continue to shape us today. Dr. Margaret Malloch from the University of Stirling joins us to discuss her project "Memorializing Injustice," examining different campaigns of remembrance and exploring why remembering these forgotten victims matters now more than ever, and what Scotland's reckoning can teach us about confronting uncomfortable truths. A thought-provoking conversation about memory, how we understand justice, and the stories society chooses to tell.Formal Apology: Statement by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon opening the debate, International Women's Day 2022 in the Scottish Parliament, Edinburgh, on Tuesday 8 March 2022Formal Apology: The Church of Scotland Apologising for Historic WrongsRemembering the Accused Witches of Scotland CampaignListen to Witches of Scotland Episode Listen to Episode with Author Mary W. Craig on Witch Trials in ScotlandListen to Episode on the Paisley Witch HuntListen to Episode on the play Prick Help Us Build Our Patreon Community⁠The Thing About Witch Hunts WebsiteThe Thing About Salem WebsiteCheck out our new podcast: The Thing About Salem on YouTube!⁠⁠Sign up for our Newsletter⁠

Award-winning actor Fiona Shaw has starred in Killing Eve, Bad Sisters, Fleabag, True Detective: Night Country, Echo Valley and even as Aunt Petunia in Harry Potter, among many other things. She's won and been nominated for several Laurence Olivier awards for her work on stage and she's even directed opera. Now starring in a new film adaptation of Deborah Levy's novel, Hot Milk, Fiona plays Rose, who goes to Almería, Spain with her daughter, Sofia, played by the brilliant Emma Mackey, to try to find a cure for Rose's mysterious paralysis at an experimental clinic. Fiona joins Nuala McGovern live in the studio to discuss it.The Scottish Parliament is looking for opinions on a proposed bill which would change the laws on prostitution in the country. It targets those who buy sexual services by creating a new criminal offence of paying for a sexual act. If passed, it would criminalise those buying sex, while decriminalising those selling it. The woman behind the bill, MSP Ash Regan, speaks to Woman's Hour about why she wants the change, and responds to criticisms that it could make sex work less safe. Today government ministers have launched a review of UK parental leave and pay to reset the system and speaking yesterday the Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said people were scared of having children because of the high costs and she wanted “more young people to have children, if they so choose”. But getting to become a parent can sometimes require ongoing fertility treatment meaning time away from work. And Fertility Matters at Work are calling for those undergoing this support to have the legal right to take time off for their appointments. They've published a report on it and the author Becky Kearns joins Nuala. She's the co-founder and CEO of Fertility Matters at Work. A new production of Eugene O'Neill's A Moon for the Misbegotten, starring Ruth Wilson, is on at the Almeida theatre in London. Nuala is joined by multi award-winning director Rebecca Frecknall to discuss the central character Josie, and why the father-daughter relationship at the heart of the play spoke to her. Women's cricket in England has been through trials and tribulations recently. The team lost 16-0 to Australia in the Women's Ashes at the start of this year, and were knocked out of the T20 World Cup at the end of last year. But in June, after the appointment of a new coach and captain, had a clean sweep in their T20 series against the West Indies. Now they're facing India in a series of T20 matches, and suffered a defeat in their first match. Player, commentator and podcast host Melissa Story shares her thoughts on the team's performance, as well as what's happening in women's cricket on a local level. Presenter: Nuala McGovern Producer: Emma Pearce

Colin Kelly with reaction following the former Principal of Dundee University's appearance at the Scottish Parliament's Education Commitee.

Bonny Days. Fit wye dis athin happen at eence. The Scottish Languages Bill wis passed in the Scottish Parliament an wir gettin reaction fae Dr Jamie Fairbarin. Oor Doric Film Festival raises the curtain again. Fowk gaither at Ingliston outside Edinburgh for the Heilan Show. Willie Johnston spiks tae fairmer Andrew McCornick. An Judith Taylor […]

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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. 

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

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.

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.