Holyrood Sources

In this conversation, the hosts discuss the first week of Keir Starmer's leadership of the Labour Party, the challenges facing the SNP and the Scottish Conservatives, and the future of the Scottish Liberal Democrats. They also interview Angus MacDonald, the newly elected Liberal Democrat MP for Inverness, Sky and West Rosshire, who shares his experiences and goals as a member of parliament.

Plus, Sam White, former Chief of Staff for Sir Keir Starmer, discusses his time working with Starmer and the Labour Party's political strategy. He reflects on the party's turnaround from a low point to a 170+ majority in just one term of office. White describes Starmer as an evidence-led politician and policymaker who weighs decisions carefully. He also addresses concerns about Starmer's ability to adapt to the pressures of government and the challenges of the media landscape. White emphasises the importance of conveying the truth about the need for long-term change and renewal.

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The podcast discusses the results of the general election and the implications for various political parties in Scotland. The Labour Party achieved a landslide victory, adding more than 200 seats, while the SNP suffered a significant defeat, losing 38 seats. The Scottish Conservatives held onto five seats but faced criticism for their performance. The conversation explores the lessons learned from the election, the role of independence in Scottish politics, and the need for parties to focus on delivering results for the electorate.

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With less than 24 hours to go until the United Kingdom goes to the polls, Calum, Andy, Geoff and Cat Headley pick over the last remaining questions: how much influence can Scottish MPs play in a (potentially) Labour government? How much is voter disillusionment going to be the theme of the election? What's it like to be a candidate on election night? 

Plus, they give their Scottish seat predictions... and wrestle some mental maths, too.

This episode is sponsored by Port of Aberdeen. Find out more at https://www.portofaberdeen.co.uk/ Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/holyroodsources.

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Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer says “the culture of politics" needs to change in light of the investigations into allegations of gambling on the general election from both Conservative and Labour figures. Calum, Geoff, Andy and Cat Headley discuss what can be done to address the relationship between politics and gambling, and whether anything should be done at all. 

Plus, if IndyRef2 becomes a fading prospect, what is the point of the Scottish Conservatives? Who's had a good election campaign? And who's had a bad one? All in today's episode. 

This episode is sponsored by Port of Aberdeen. Find out more at https://www.portofaberdeen.co.uk/

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We're diving deep into the various economic challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for Scotland.

With:

Kate Forbes MSP (SNP), Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Gaelic.

Murdo Fraser MSP (Conservative), Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Business, Economic Growth and Tourism.

Michael Marra MSP (Labour), Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Finance.

Willie Rennie MSP (Liberal Democrat), Spokesperson for Education, Economy and Communities.

We'll be discussing key concerns raised by investors regarding infrastructure projects, planning, and the general business environment. Plus, we'll address the ambiguous terminology often used in policy-making, like the phrases "wellbeing economy" and "startup," which can hinder real progress. Our discussion today will also cover persistent issues of poverty and social mobility, the critical state of Scotland's education sector, the impact of Brexit on skilled workers, and the urgent need for immigration policies that support economic growth. We delve into the energy sector, focusing on offshore wind development, the fiscal constraints facing green prosperity plans, and the importance of a just transition from oil and gas to renewables. Moreover, we'll explore the impact of tax policies on the economy and public services, highlighting the need for a reevaluation of the taxation system to foster growth and retain talent.

Holyrood Sources is sponsored by Port of Aberdeen, find out more at https://www.portofaberdeen.co.uk/

This special episode is brought to you with our delivery partners, Scottish Financial Enterprise and in association with EY.

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Ipsos’ first Scotland poll since the General Election indicates the SNP and Labour in Scotland share 36% of the country's voting intention. Managing Director of Ipsos in Scotland, Emily Gray, joins the podcast to discuss what it means. Plus, after predicting it would happen, Calum, Andy and Geoff assess what next for the Scottish Conservatives after Douglas Ross announced he would stand down as leader.

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