Bernard Ponsonby and Alex Massie discuss the news today that Fergus Ewing is leaving the SNP and standing as an independent candidate at the 2026 Scottish Parliament Election, bringing to an end an era of constant representation under the SNP banner for the Ewing dynasty since the Scottish Parliament was formed.

Also - What is the role of independents in the Scottish Parliament and why do so few succeed? Only 3 have been elected as independents but can you name them?

Scottish Disability numbers

The Winter Fuel Allowance

Assisted dying

.... and Bernard cutting the podcast a little shorter to get out for a pint in the sun!

Focussing on UK, Scottish and Global politics, if you like other great political podcasts like The Rest is Politics, The News Agents, Newscast, Questions Time, Holyrood Sources, Planet Holyrood, The Stooshie, The Steamie, Scotcast, Americast etc etc then The Ponsonby and Massie Podcast could be a great show to add to your list of favourites.

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