The Go Radio Politics Show with Bernard Ponsonby

Go Radio Politics Show: August 31st, 2025

This is a catch-up version of Bernard Ponsonby's live, weekly Sunday show on Go Radio.

Guests:

Graham Simpson: Reform UK

Dave Doogan: SNP

Kezia Dugdale: Former Leader of Scottish Labour

Bernard Ponsonby dives into the political tremors shaking Holyrood as Graham Simpson defects from the Scottish Conservatives to Reform UK, marking a pivotal moment in Scottish politics.

Joined by Professor Kezia Dugdale and SNP MP Dave Doogan, the panel unpacks:

Reform UK's rise: Is it a populist surge or a symptom of voter disillusionment?

Election dynamics: What will shape next year's Holyrood vote—policy, personality, or protest?

Public service sustainability: Are parties ready to confront Scotland’s fiscal future?

Healthcare crisis: Why the NHS is topping voter concerns and what parties plan to do.

Politics of personality: Does charisma now outweigh ideology in winning votes?

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Go Radio Politics Show: August 24th, 2025

This is a catch-up version of Bernard Ponsonby's live, weekly Sunday show on Go Radio.

Guests:

Helen McDade: Reform U.K. 

This week’s episode dives deep into three hot-button issues shaping UK and Scottish politics:

Asylum & Immigration Crunch

State Pension Age & Triple Lock Debate

Scottish Conservatives in Crisis?

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Go Radio Politics Show: August 17th, 2025

This is a catch-up version of Bernard Ponsonby's live, weekly Sunday show on Go Radio.

Guests:

Kaukab Stewart: SNP MSP Glasgow Kelvin 

In this lively episode, Bernard Ponsonby deep dive into the political and social issues dominating Scotland.

Nicola Sturgeon's Memoir:

Sparks intense debate over her legacy, emotional honesty, and political missteps.

Critics accuse her of rewriting history and avoiding accountability.

Supporters praise her vulnerability and introspection, especially regarding her relationship with Alex Salmond.

Misogyny in Politics:

Roz Foyer and Kaukab Stewart highlight the gendered nature of political criticism.

Douglas Lumsden argues abuse is widespread across all politicians, regardless of gender.

Wealth Inequality in Scotland:

Shocking new stats reveal deep disparities in income and savings.

Council Tax Debate:

Heated exchanges over the outdated and unfair nature of council tax bands.

Bernard challenges politicians on their reluctance to commit to revaluation or reform.

Free Speech & Cancel Culture:

Arrests at pro-Palestinian protests and the controversy around Kate Forbes at the Edinburgh Fringe raise concerns about censorship.

Guests discuss the balance between freedom of expression and incitement, with calls for more respectful public discourse.

The episode ends with a call for cooler heads and respectful debate in an increasingly polarised political climate.

Bernard Ponsonby promises more spirited discussion in next week’s show. Hit subscribe to make sure you don't miss it!

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Go Radio Politics Show: August 10th, 2025

This is a catch-up version of Bernard Ponsonby's live, weekly Sunday show on Go Radio.

Guests:

Christopher Murray: Labour Party for Edinburgh East and Musselburgh.

David Melvyn Linden: Former Scottish National Party for Glasgow East 

In this episode of the Go Radio Politics Show, host Bernard Ponsonby and guests explore these major issues.

The episode begins with an in-depth discussion of Nicola Sturgeon’s newly released memoir, Frankly. The book reveals deeply personal aspects of her life, and her complex relationship with former mentor Alex Salmond. 

This segment tackles the Bank of England’s recent decision to cut interest rates, a move that has sparked debate among economists and politicians.

Bernard Ponsonby challenges Labour’s tax pledges, predicting that economic pressures will force the party to break its manifesto commitments

Kate Forbes’ Departure & Toxic Politics

This segment focuses on Kate Forbes’ announcement that she will not seek re-election, citing family commitments and the toxic nature of political discourse in Scotland. 

The final segment addresses Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s proposal to occupy all of Gaza, a move that has drawn international condemnation.

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Go Radio Politics Show: August 3rd, 2025

This is a catch-up version of Bernard Ponsonby's live, weekly Sunday show on Go Radio.

Guests:

Jeane Freeman: former Health Secretary, SNP.

Lynn Henderson: Scottish Secretary of the PCS Trade Union, Labour.

John Cooper: MP, Scottish Conservative. 

In this episode of the Go Radio Politics Show, host Bernard Ponsonby and guests Jeane Freeman, Lynn Henderson, and John Cooper explore three major issues.

The show opens with a heated debate on the UK’s potential recognition of a Palestinian state, exploring the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, accusations of genocide, and the political complexities between Hamas and the Palestinian Authority.

The episode also focuses on the proposal for a 2% wealth tax on assets over £10 million, with arguments around fairness, economic impact, and Labour’s fiscal challenges.

The final part of the show examines the SNP’s strategy for Scottish independence, with First Minister John Swinney suggesting that winning 65 seats would be a mandate. The panel debates whether this reignites the independence movement or distracts from key voter concerns like health, education, and economic reform

[00:00-17:19]

UK Recognition of Palestinian State

Key Discussion Points:

UK’s potential recognition of Palestine in September

Humanitarian crisis in Gaza and accusations of genocide.

Hamas vs. Palestinian Authority representation.

International law and proportionality in warfare.

Role of negotiation and historical parallels (Northern Ireland, South Africa).

[17:55]

Wealth Tax Debate

Key Discussion Points:

Proposal for a 2% annual wealth tax on assets over £10 million.

Arguments for fairness and reducing inequality.

Concerns about capital flight and economic competitiveness.

Treasury modelling and Labour’s fiscal challenges.

Broader tax reform and public service efficiency.

[37:35]

Scottish Independence Strategy

Key Discussion Points:

First Minister’s proposal: 65 SNP seats as mandate for independence.

Debate over whether this reignites or buries the independence issue.

Voter priorities: health, education, economy vs. constitutional matters.

Role of other pro-independence parties.

Trade union perspectives on election priorities.

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Scottish independence, SNP, John Swinney, de facto referendum, Holyrood election, voter priorities, trade unions, manifesto strategy, constitutional debate.Wealth tax, Rachel Reeves, fiscal headroom, Labour budget, tax avoidance, fairness, public services, economic growth, inheritance tax, capital gains.Scottish independence, SNP, John Swinney, de facto referendum, Holyrood election, voter priorities, trade unions, manifesto strategy, constitutional debate.

Go Radio Politics Show: July 28th, 2025

This is a catch-up version of Bernard Ponsonby's live, weekly Sunday show on Go Radio.

Guests:

Alex Neil: Former SNP MSP and Health Secretary

Martin McCluskey: Scottish Labour MP for Inverclyde and Renfrewshire West

In this episode, Bernard Ponsonby leads a robust discussion on the political implications of Donald Trump's visit to Scotland, the future of public sector reform, and the emergence of Jeremy Corbyn’s new political party.

The panel debates the cost of political visits, the recognition of Palestine, the state of the Conservative Party, and the sustainability of public services in Scotland.

[00:01:40]

Donald Trump’s Visit: Private or Political?

[00:03:11]

Palestinian Statehood Debate

[00:07:14]

Kemi Badenoch’s Reshuffle & Tory Turmoil

[00:11:02]

Reform UK’s Rise & Conservative Decline

[00:13:50]

Mhairi Black Quits SNP & Politics

[00:18:50]

Public Sector Reform & Fiscal Sustainability

Discussion about the Scottish Government’s £1 billion savings plan, inefficiencies in health boards, and the need for tax reform.

[00:28:53]

Local Government Reform

[00:33:55]

The Role of the State & Political Culture

[00:38:44]

Jeremy Corbyn’s New Party: Threat or Fizzle?

[00:48:32]

Fragmentation & Governability in 2026

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Scottish politics podcast, Bernard Ponsonby Go Radio, Donald Trump Scotland visit, Scottish public sector reform, Jeremy Corbyn new party, SNP vs Labour Scotland, Mhairi Black resignation, Scottish Parliament elections 2026, Reform UK Scotland, Palestine recognition UK

Go Radio Politics Show: July 20th, 2025

This is a catch-up version of Bernard Ponsonby's live, weekly Sunday show on Go Radio covering Trump in Scotland, Protest Politics, and Labour Dissent.

Summary

Donald Trump’s visit to Scotland sparks debate - should UK and Scottish leaders meet him?

Bernard Ponsonby and the panel explore the diplomatic stakes, trade tensions, and climate controversy. Artist Alastair McCallum discusses Glasgow’s protest art legacy, and Tommy Sheridan reflects on the anti-poll tax movement. Plus, Labour suspensions raise questions about party discipline and political loyalty.

Panel:

Rona Mackay: SNP MSP

Graeme Downey:Labour MP

Lord Malcolm Offord: Scottish Conservative Peer

Guests:

Tommy Sheridan: Former Parliamentarian

Alistair McCallum: Photographer

This week on the Go Radio Politics Show with Bernard Ponsonby:

[00:00:05]

Trump’s visit, protest art, Labour suspensions

[00:02:04]

Should Starmer and Swinney meet Trump? Panel debate

[00:06:51]

What will Trump hear from Scotland’s leaders?

[00:11:09]

Trade deals, tariffs, and UK–US economic ties

[00:12:05]

NATO, defence spending, and Europe’s security shift

[00:18:04]

Glasgow’s protest art exhibition with Alastair McCallum

[00:22:54] T

Tommy Sheridan on the anti-poll tax movement

[00:30:19]

Are young people today less politically active?

[00:36:44]

Labour suspensions: Starmer’s crackdown on dissent

[00:44:53]

Loyalty to party vs. constituents: where should MPs stand?

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Trump Scotland visit 2025, Donald Trump UK trip, Trump and Keir Starmer meeting, Trump and John Swinney, Trump Scottish golf courses, Trump UK trade relations, Trump and UK politics, Trump and climate change, Trump and Gaza comments, Trump and wind energy

Go Radio Politics Show: July 13, 2025

This is a catch-up version of Bernard Ponsonby's live, weekly Sunday show on Go Radio. 

Host: Bernard Ponsonby

Guests: 

Dorothy Grace Elder: Campaigning and investigative journalist and former MSP

Jim Eadie: Director of Strategy and Communications for ALBA Party

Daniel Johnson: Labour MSP currently leading business, economy and fair work

Ross Greer: Scottish Green Party, MSP for West Scotland

Jim Monaghan: Writer and Poet.

Episode Summary

In this episode, Bernard Ponsonby dives into the shifting sands of Scottish and UK politics. With the Scottish Greens entering a leadership contest, front-runner Ross Greer lays out his vision for the party’s future.

Meanwhile, veteran socialist Jim Monaghan discusses the potential launch of a new left-wing party led by Jeremy Corbyn.

The panel also debates political heroes and villains, from Harold Wilson to Margaret Thatcher.

Episode Highlights

[00:02:00] 

Scottish Greens: “Good guys or bad guys?”

[00:06:00]

Interview: Ross Greer on Green Party leadership, free bus travel, and independence

[00:16:00] 

Panel reaction to Greer’s proposals

[00:22:00] 

Interview: Jim Monaghan on a new left-wing party and Jeremy Corbyn’s role

[00:29:00] 

Panel analysis: Can a new party succeed in Scotland?

[00:40:00] 

Political Heroes: Wilson, Salmond, Canavan

[00:48:00] 

Political Villains: Thatcher, Sturgeon, Cameron

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Scottish Green Party leadership, Ross Greer interview, Free bus travel Scotland, Scottish independence 2026, Jeremy Corbyn new party, Jim Monaghan socialist party, Scottish politics podcast, Go Radio Politics Show, Bernard Ponsonby, Political heroes and villains, Margaret Thatcher Scotland, Harold Wilson legacy, SNP and Greens coalition, Scottish Labour response, ALBA Party strategy

Air Date: July 6, 2025

This is a catch-up version of Bernard Ponsonby's live, weekly Sunday show on Go Radio. 

Guests:

Zubir Ahmed (Labour MP, Glasgow South West)

Ruairi Kelly (SNP, Glasgow City Councillor)

Rachael Hamilton (Scottish Conservatives MSP)

Kenny MacAskill (Leader, Alba Party)

Headlines

One year of Labour government – success or failure?

Scottish independence movement – Kenny MacAskill interview

Chancellor's emotional moment in Parliament

[00:02:20]

Labour’s First Year in Government

Ruairi Kelly (SNP): Calls Labour’s year “atrocious.”

Zubir Ahmed (Labour): Defends achievements like the Employment Rights Bill, NHS roadmap, and trade deals.

Rachael Hamilton (Conservative): Criticises U-turns on winter fuel payments, welfare reform, and tax hikes.

[00:07:16]

Scottish Budget Consequentials

Ruairi highlights SNP’s use of block grant to reduce child poverty.

Rachael and Bernard debate fiscal responsibility and national debt.

[00:12:36]

Rise of Reform UK

Bernard notes that despite Labour’s struggles, SNP and Conservatives aren’t benefiting—Reform UK is.

Ruairi warns against reactionary politics and stresses need for hope-based campaigns.

[00:14:56]

Leadership & U-Turns

Bernard questions Starmer’s authority after repeated U-turns.

Zubir defends pragmatism and Labour’s £9.1B uplift to Scotland.

[00:17:33]

Future Tax Rises?

Rachael predicts tax increases due to abandoned welfare cuts.

Emphasises need for rebuilding public trust and offering a positive vision.

Scottish Independence 

[00:21:58]

Kenny MacAskill (Alba Party)

Criticises Nicola Sturgeon for stalling the independence movement.

Calls for 2026 Holyrood election to be on independence.

Accuses SNP leadership of drift and lack of strategy.

[00:26:39]

SNP’s Reluctance & Alba’s Strategy

Alba aims to pressure SNP and win over disillusioned independence supporters.

[00:30:34]

Alba vs. Greens on the List Vote

MacAskill argues Alba is now a better list vote than Greens.

Blames Greens for unpopular policies like LEZ and ferry issues.

[00:32:44]

SNP Governance Record

MacAskill criticises SNP’s competence and economic management.

Says Labour is worse, and Reform UK is a frightening prospect.

[00:35:25]

Alex Salmond Conspiracy Allegations

MacAskill alleges political conspiracy against Salmond.

Claims the ordeal contributed to Salmond’s early death.

Panel Reaction & Emotional Politics

[00:37:53]

Reaction to MacAskill’s Claims

Ruairi: Explosive but unverified.

Zubir: Highlights SNP’s internal fractures.

Rachael: Calls it a conspiracy theory, but respects Salmond’s legacy.

[00:45:35]

Emotions in Politics

Discussion on Rachel Reeves’ emotional moment in Parliament.

Ruairi: Emotions are human, not weakness.

Zubir: Politicians often hide emotions; Reeves showed strength.

Rachael: Criticises Starmer for lack of support; highlights abuse faced by women in politics.

[00:50:34]

Social Media & Abuse

Ruairi: Local councillors face less abuse, but women bear the brunt.

Zubir: Emotional toll is real; anonymity fuels toxicity.

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Keir Starmer first year in office, Labour government UK 2025, Labour U-turns and controversies, Scottish independence 2026, Alba Party vs SNP, Kenny MacAskill interview, UK politics podcast, Westminster Labour record, Scottish political debate, Rachel Reeves emotional moment, SNP leadership criticism, Reform UK surge, Holyrood 2026 election, UK welfare reform debate, Political conspiracy Alex Salmond

Air Date: June 29, 2025

This is a catch-up version of Bernard Ponsonby's live, weekly Sunday show on Go Radio. 

Guests:

Ian Blackford: Former SNP Westminster Leader

Douglas Lumsden: Scottish Conservative MSP

Sir Tom Clarke: Former Labour MP and author

This episode dives into Scotland’s most pressing political and social issues. The show opens with a heated debate on the NHS crisis, where guests Ian Blackford and Douglas Lumsden clash over cancer treatment delays, long waiting times, and the rise of private healthcare.

The conversation then shifts to Sir Tom Clarke’s explosive memoir, which delivers scathing critiques of Donald Dewar and candid reflections on Labour’s internal politics.

Finally, the panel looks ahead to the 2026 Holyrood election, discussing independence, coalition possibilities, and the future of Scottish leadership.

Episode Highlights

[00:02:10]

Ian Blackford on NHS Performance

Defends SNP’s record

Highlights recovery plans and increased appointments

Acknowledges patient frustration

[00:05:09]

Douglas Lumsden Responds

Criticises SNP’s 20-year record

Highlights long waits for basic services

Calls for NHS redesign and GP reform

[00:07:28]

Two-Tier Health System Debate

Discussion on private healthcare rise

BMA’s warning: NHS “dying before our eyes”

Equity and access concerns

[00:20:08]

Interview: Sir Tom Clarke

Reflections on John Smith and Tony Blair

Explosive claims about Donald Dewar

Labour Party internal politics and memoir insights

[00:34:33]

Reactions to Clarke’s Memoir

Guests reflect on political memoirs

Discussion on party infighting and leadership dynamics

[00:45:25]

Holyrood 2026 Election Preview

Will independence dominate the campaign?

Coalition scenarios and party strategies

SNP’s roadmap (or lack thereof) for independence

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