The Go Radio Politics Show with Bernard Ponsonby

By Go RadioNews News Commentary Politics

The Go Radio Politics Show with Bernard Ponsonby episodes

June 08Fault Lines in Power: Scandals, Elections, and Public Trust
Go Radio Politics Show: June 7th, 2026.
This is a catch-up version of Bernard Ponsonby's live, weekly Sunday show on Go Radio.
This week on The Go Radio Politics Show, the fallout from the Peter Murrell scandal continues to dominate the political landscape, raising urgent questions about trust, transparency, and accountability within the SNP. Can John Swinney truly draw a line under the controversy—or is this story far from over?
The panel digs into the growing calls for a parliamentary inquiry, the public’s demand for answers, and whether political damage has already been done.
Beyond Scotland, all eyes turn to a high-stakes series of by-elections that could reshape UK leadership—potentially triggering a Labour leadership battle and redefining the future of Keir Starmer.
And in a deeply sensitive final discussion, the show confronts the national debate sparked by Nigel Farage’s comments on policing, race, and public trust following a tragic killing—asking whether his rhetoric reflects real concerns or dangerously fuels division.
Key highlights:
The Murrell scandal: accountability, governance failures, and public trust
Swinney under pressure: inquiry or move on?
By-election battlegrounds: could the Prime Minister’s future be decided this month?
Reform UK’s rise and the shifting political map
The Farage controversy: policing, rhetoric, and responsibility
Follow us @thisisgoradio on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Tik Tok
For more Go Studio Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ATeQD...
51 min
May 31Is Anyone in Charge? Scandal and Strategy in UK Politics
Go Radio Politics Show: May 31st, 2026.
This is a catch-up version of Bernard Ponsonby's live, weekly Sunday show on Go Radio.
This week on The Go Radio Politics Show, the fallout from the Peter Murrell embezzlement case takes centre stage as politicians clash over accountability, governance, and trust in Scottish politics.
Should there be a full probe into the SNP’s internal failures—or is the matter already settled?
Beyond the scandal, the panel dives into the growing turmoil inside UK Labour, as Tony Blair delivers a stinging critique of Keir Starmer’s leadership and raises questions about the party’s direction. Is this a crisis of leadership—or vision?
Plus, a forward-looking debate: should Scotland appoint a dedicated minister for older people, or is the real issue deeper systemic neglect?
Key highlights:
Heated debate on whether a parliamentary or independent inquiry is needed into SNP governance
Sharp divisions on Nicola Sturgeon’s credibility and political accountability
Tony Blair’s explosive intervention—and what it means for Labour’s future
Real talk on the cost-of-living crisis, policy direction, and political trust
A generational crossroads: pensions, fairness, and the future of ageing in Scotland
Follow us @thisisgoradio on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Tik Tok
For more Go Studio Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ATeQD...
Follow us @thisisgoradio on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Tik Tok
For more Go Studio Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ATeQD...
52 min
May 24A New Cabinet, A New Era… or More of the Same?
Go Radio Politics Show: May 24th, 2026.
This is a catch-up version of Bernard Ponsonby's live, weekly Sunday show on Go Radio.
Power shifts, tough choices, and the future of politics.
In this episode, Bernard Ponsonby and a panel of political heavyweights unpack a seismic moment in UK and Scottish politics. With a newly appointed Scottish Government cabinet, questions loom over whether fresh faces can deliver real change—or if it’s more of the same.
The debate heats up as guests tackle the harsh reality of public sector reform, balancing budgets, and whether tough decisions on taxes, services, and jobs are unavoidable. Beyond Holyrood, the conversation zooms out to a bigger question: are we witnessing a fundamental political realignment? With Labour and the Conservatives faltering, is a new political era emerging—or just a temporary shake-up?
Plus, the panel dives into heated cultural territory—disorder in football, pitch invasions, and whether government must step in where the game itself has fallen short.
Key highlights:
Breakdown of Scotland’s new cabinet—and the pressure to deliver quickly
The £ billion-scale challenge of reforming public services without austerity
Is the UK entering a post-Labour/Conservative political landscape?
The rise of smaller parties and the growing debate over electoral reform
Football chaos: where does responsibility lie—clubs, police, or Parliament?
Big Question: Is this the start of a lasting political transformation—or just another storm before the status quo returns?
Follow us @thisisgoradio on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Tik Tok
For more Go Studio Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ATeQD...
Follow us @thisisgoradio on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Tik Tok
For more Go Studio Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ATeQD...
51 min
May 17Westminster in Meltdown, Holyrood Reset Begins
Go Radio Politics Show: May 17th, 2026.
This is a catch-up version of Bernard Ponsonby's live, weekly Sunday show on Go Radio.
This week Bernard is joined by Thomas Kerr MSP - Reform UK Scotland, Joe Fagan MSP - Scottish Labour and via Zoom, Alyn Smith MSP - SNP.
A political storm is brewing—and this episode dives right into the chaos. From mounting pressure on UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer to a potentially game-changing by-election that could reshape Labour’s future, the panel unpacks a week of high-stakes drama at Westminster.
With a newly elected Scottish Parliament now underway, the conversation turns to what comes next for Holyrood—covering everything from independence tensions and economic pressures to the tone and direction of politics over the next five years.
The episode wraps with a gripping debate on electoral rules sparked by a controversial MSP case—raising big questions about eligibility, fairness, and representation in modern democracy.
Expect sharp insights, candid exchanges, and no shortage of political fireworks.
Key Highlights
🇬🇧 Labour in Crisis: Is Keir Starmer’s leadership on borrowed time—and who could replace him?
🗳️ The “Manufactured” By-Election Debate: A bold political move or a democratic stretch too far?
🏴 Holyrood Reset: New MSPs, new leadership, and fresh battles over independence and the economy.
💷 Cost of Living vs Constitutional Politics: What really matters to voters right now?
⚖️ Who Gets to Stand?: A controversial MSP case sparks a wider debate on fairness and eligibility rules.
Watch the replay on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/live/SHgv8yufxTc?si=8hFwitB4Z0frrJE0

Follow us @thisisgoradio on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Tik Tok
For more Go Studio Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ATeQD...
Follow us @thisisgoradio on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Tik Tok
For more Go Studio Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ATeQD...
52 min
May 10 Scotland Votes: Winners, Losers, and a Fractured Future
Go Radio Politics Show: May 10th, 2026.
This is a catch-up version of Bernard Ponsonby's live, weekly Sunday show on Go Radio.
Scotland’s election has reshaped the political map—and the fallout is only just beginning. In this episode of The Go Radio Politics Show, Bernard Ponsonby is joined by voices from across Holyrood to unpack what really happened at the ballot box and what it means for Scotland’s future.
With the SNP extending its dominance, Reform UK breaking through in a big way, Labour struggling to convert Westminster success into Holyrood gains, and the Conservatives suffering a bruising defeat, this is a no‑holds‑barred conversation about winners, losers, and voters left behind.
The panel tackles fractured unionism, low turnout, the rise of political frustration, and the explosive constitutional question of independence—asking whether Scotland is heading for gridlock or renewal.
From accusations of cynicism and voter apathy to sharp exchanges over mandates, reform, and the future of the Union, this episode captures Scottish politics at a pivotal—and volatile—moment.
Expect insight, argument, and uncomfortable truths about where Scotland goes next.

Follow us @thisisgoradio on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Tik Tok
For more Go Studio Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ATeQD...
Follow us @thisisgoradio on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Tik Tok
For more Go Studio Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ATeQD...

51 min
May 03Counting Down to Polling Day: Voters, Turnout and Trust
Go Radio Politics Show: May 3rd, 2026.
This is a catch-up version of Bernard Ponsonby's live, weekly Sunday show on Go Radio.
With polling day just days away, Bernard Ponsonby is joined by Paul Sweeney (Scottish Labour), Alex Kerr (SNP) and former Conservative MSP Brian Monteith to dissect a campaign many voters see as uninspiring, shallow, and disconnected.
The panel explores fears of low turnout, the absence of serious debate on public finances, the NHS and Scotland’s economic future, and whether televised leaders’ debates are generating more heat than light. In part two, the conversation turns constitutional, asking whether the end of hereditary peers should spark wider reform — including a written constitution and clearer rules for holding referendums.
The final segment reflects on Sir John Major’s warning about political instability, questioning whether Britain’s revolving-door prime ministers are a symptom of deeper problems in modern politics.
A frank, wide-ranging discussion about democracy, leadership, and what’s missing from this election campaign.
Episode Highlights
A campaign failing to engage voters
Concerns over low turnout and democratic fatigue
Public finances and a looming budget challenge
The absence of serious debate on the NHS and the economy
Leaders’ debates criticised for noise over substance
Personal campaign highs and lows from the panel
Calls for constitutional reform after the end of hereditary peers
Written constitution: clarity or distraction?
Sir John Major’s warning on political instability
Why Prime Ministers — and First Ministers — don’t last
Follow us @thisisgoradio on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Tik Tok
For more Go Studio Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ATeQD...
Follow us @thisisgoradio on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Tik Tok
For more Go Studio Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ATeQD...
52 min
April 26Scottish Election 2026: The Most Boring Election & Why It Matters More Than Ever
Go Radio Politics Show: April 26th, 2026.
This is a catch-up version of Bernard Ponsonby's live, weekly Sunday show on Go Radio.
In one of the most candid and clear-eyed discussions of the Scottish election so far, Bernard Ponsonby is joined by Johann Lamont (former Scottish Labour Leader), Stewart McDonald (former SNP Defence Spokesman), and Professor Adam Tomkins (former Conservative MSP)—three seasoned political figures speaking freely, without party lines to defend. Together, they deliver a bracing critique of an election campaign many voters seem barely to notice.
From the growing disconnect between manifesto promises and lived reality, to the failure to confront hard choices on public spending, taxation, education, and public service reform, this episode cuts through the spin. The panel examines Scotland’s looming fiscal crisis, the exhaustion of political culture, the fragmentation of unionism, and whether devolution itself is failing to deliver serious, grown‑up politics.
As the prospect of another independence referendum looms, the conversation asks tougher questions than most campaigns dare to raise:
Are Scotland’s political parties prepared for what comes next—and are they willing to tell voters the truth?
Episode Highlights
“The most boring election ever?”
Why this Scottish election campaign is failing to cut through—with voters, politicians, or even seasoned political observers.
Politics in a parallel universe
Panelists argue campaigns are obsessed with giveaways and messaging while public services, education, the NHS, and household finances deteriorate.
A £5 billion fiscal black hole no one will debate
Why parties are ducking honest conversations about tax rises, spending cuts, and tough trade‑offs.
Manifestos without meaning
A critique of pledge‑card politics, short‑termism, and the absence of serious economic and public‑service reform.
Has devolution failed Scotland?
A provocative discussion on whether Holyrood has delivered growth, effective services, or mature politics—and why it may be falling short.
The collapse of grown‑up political culture
How fear of controversy, centralised party control, and media cycles are strangling new ideas.
Education, inequality, and unintended consequences
Why well‑intentioned policies may be harming the very communities they claim to help.
Unionism splintered, nationalism united
How fragmented opposition is helping the SNP maintain dominance—and what that means for accountability.
Independence: mandate versus readiness
Why another referendum may be inevitable politically—but dangerously under‑prepared in policy terms.
Extremes thrive when honesty disappears
A warning that avoiding hard truths on money and reform creates space for populism on both left and right.
Follow us @thisisgoradio on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Tik Tok
For more Go Studio Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ATeQD...
50 min
April 19 Scottish Election 2026: The Battle for Scotland’s Future
Go Radio Politics Show: April 19th, 2026.
This is a catch-up version of Bernard Ponsonby's live, weekly Sunday show on Go Radio.
A fiery, wide‑ranging political showdown at a crucial moment for Scotland.
Bernard Ponsonby is joined by voices from the Scottish Greens, Liberal Democrats, and Reform UK Scotland as election manifestos land and fault lines deepen.
The panel clashes over taxation, the cost‑of‑living crisis, NHS reform, welfare, and free public transport, exposing starkly different visions for Scotland’s future.
Election manifestos collide
The Scottish Greens, Liberal Democrats, and Reform UK Scotland lay out sharply different blueprints on tax, spending, and public services—with no common ground on how Scotland should pay for change.
Tax cuts vs progressive taxation
A heated exchange on whether cutting income tax can drive growth or whether higher, progressive taxes are essential to protect public services and tackle inequality.
The NHS under the microscope
Is Scotland’s health service underfunded—or badly managed? Guests clash over GP access, wasted bureaucracy, workforce burnout, and whether reform or investment is the real cure.
The cost‑of‑living crisis, up close
Stark moments as panellists debate food insecurity, welfare, and work incentives, with radically different views on how government should intervene.
Free buses for everyone?
A standout debate on the Greens’ proposal for universal free bus travel—praised as liberating and climate‑friendly by supporters, branded expensive and unrealistic by critics.
The Mandelson affair explodes again
The panel dissects the political fallout threatening Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, with damning questions over judgement, vetting failures, and whether he misled Parliament.
Ministerial responsibility on trial
Did civil servants fail—or does the buck stop with the Prime Minister? A gripping discussion on accountability at the very top of government.
Indyref 2: mandate or mirage?
With polls suggesting a possible pro‑independence majority, the panel debates whether Westminster can—or should—block another referendum indefinitely.
Democracy vs the constitution
A fundamental question runs through the final act: what really constitutes a mandate in modern Scotland—and who gets to decide?
Follow us @thisisgoradio on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Tik Tok
Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/live/MYIp9FpRH20?si=St5qKDrfhcP2Wflu
For more Go Studio Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ATeQD...
51 min
April 12Scottish Election 2026: Manifestos, Medicine & the Mood of the Nation
Go Radio Politics Show: April 12th, 2026.
This is a catch-up version of Bernard Ponsonby's live, weekly Sunday show on Go Radio.
In this episode of The Go Radio Politics Show, Bernard Ponsonby brings together leading voices from the SNP, Scottish Labour, and the Scottish Conservatives for a fast‑paced, revealing conversation as Scotland’s election campaign heats up.
Ivan McKee, Isla McCay, and Brian Whittle go head‑to‑head on the week’s biggest political flashpoints — from tax policy and the true state of Scotland’s public services to GP access, justice reform, and the credibility of party manifestos.
Packed with sharp exchanges, candid insights, and real electoral stakes, this episode is essential listening for anyone trying to make sense of Scotland’s political moment.
Tax Battles & Election Tensions
Parties clash over whether Scotland is “over‑taxed,” with Conservatives pushing tax cuts, Labour arguing for smarter spending, and the SNP defending progressive thresholds.
Heated debate on fiscal drag and whether higher-rate burdens are driving professionals out of Scotland.
GP Appointments & NHS Pressure
Conservatives pitch a headline promise: GP appointments within 48 hours — questioned by other parties as unrealistic without major workforce changes.
SNP highlight new GP walk-in centres, while Labour warns rural areas risk being left behind without a credible staffing plan.
Justice System Under Fire
Tories call current remission rules “soft touch” and argue some sentences are effectively halved.
SNP defends early release as a response to prison capacity limits, while Labour stresses tackling causes of crime, not just sentencing.
Leaders' Debates: Game-Changer or Theatre?
All guests weigh in on whether debates truly sway undecided voters or simply create media spectacle.
Concerns over reform UK’s shaky campaign performance and how TV exposure could reshape perceptions.
Polls & Political Momentum
Polling surge shows the SNP on track for a majority, Labour and Reform neck‑and‑neck for second, and Conservatives sliding.
Panellists debate whether polls should even be allowed during campaigns due to their influence on turnout and voter psychology.
Social Media vs. Reality
Acknowledgment that more people see debate clips than full debates — raising concerns over selective editing, polarisation, and misinformation.
Parties concede the need to reach young voters online while maintaining ethical standards.
Follow us @thisisgoradio on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Tik Tok
Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/live/IzXvaUxd8Wk?si=y68d4qdn3OoEC6g4
For more Go Studio Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ATeQD...
51 min
April 05Politics Without Illusions: A Hard Look at Scotland’s Future
Go Radio Politics Show: April 5th, 2026.
This is a catch-up version of Bernard Ponsonby's live, weekly Sunday show on Go Radio.
Bernard Ponsonby is joined by Stephen Boyd, director of IPPR Scotland, Holly Bruce (Scottish Greens), Christine Jardine (Scottish Liberal Democrats) and Moira Ramage (Reform Uk).
In this episode of the Go Radio Politics Show, host Bernard Ponsonby dives deep into the defining issues of Scotland’s election campaign — guided by a new framework set out by IPPR Scotland.
Joined by representatives from the Scottish Greens, Scottish Liberal Democrats, and Reform UK Scotland, the discussion tackles five big questions shaping every party’s manifesto:
Scotland’s £4.7 billion fiscal gap — Is it tax hikes, spending cuts, or economic growth that will close the black hole?
Public service reform — Is the Scottish state too big, too inefficient, or simply underpowered locally?
Economic growth reality check — Can any party truly deliver rapid growth, or is that political fantasy?
Climate commitments — Are Scotland’s climate policies credible, or sliding backwards?
Child poverty — With statutory targets looming, what are the real (and costly) actions needed to lift families out of poverty?
Expect sharp exchanges, candid admissions, and stark contrasts in philosophy — from wealth taxes to quango cuts, from renewables expansion to oil and gas debates, and from childcare expansion to direct cash transfers.
Follow us @thisisgoradio on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Tik Tok
For more Go Studio Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ATeQD...
52 min

About The Go Radio Politics Show with Bernard Ponsonby

From the publisher's feed

The Go Radio Politics Show is hosted by veteran political journalist Bernard Ponsonby, this is the show for the people—cutting through the noise to focus on what truly matters in Scottish politics. …

Share The Go Radio Politics Show with Bernard Ponsonby

Sign up to save your podcasts

The Go Radio Politics Show with Bernard Ponsonby

The Go Radio Politics Show with Bernard Ponsonby episodes

About The Go Radio Politics Show with Bernard Ponsonby