Bernard and Alex dive deep into Chancellor Rachel Reeves' Spring Statement, dissecting the harsh realities of the UK's economic growth crisis, looming tax rises, and controversial welfare cuts that could plunge 250,000 people—including 50,000 children—into poverty. They explore the political fallout within the Labour Party, a potential backbench rebellion, and Labour’s failure to control the narrative amid soaring public debt and £100bn in interest payments. The conversation heats up with sharp analysis of the SNP’s revived push for fiscal autonomy, described as “independence within the UK,” raising serious questions about Scottish public finances, the Barnett formula, and the future of devolution. With elections looming in Scotland and Labour’s messaging in disarray, this is essential listening for anyone tracking UK politics, economic policy, and the continuing constitutional question.

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#WelfareCuts

#RachelReeves

#SNP

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#FiscalAutonomy

#Budget2025

#OBR

#TaxRises

#BarnettFormula

#PonsonbyAndMassie

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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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