Unspun Live

Ahead of a vote on the general principles of the Assisted Dying for Terminally Ill Adults (Scotland) Bill in the Scottish Parliament on Tuesday, political editor Andrew Learmonth and political correspondent Hannah Brown discuss the issue with those for and those against: Liberal Democrat MSP Liam McArthur and Scottish Labour MSP Pam Duncan-Glancy.

This week in Holyrood marks a year since John Swinney became First Minister. But instead of reflecting, he will deliver a Programme for Government for his next year ahead. In episode five of The Herald's Unspun Live, political correspondent Hannah Brown interviews STUC general secretary Roz Foyer on the Supreme Court and the asks of the Scottish and UK Governments. Joined by colleague Rebecca McCurdy, they take a look at the week ahead in Holyrood with in depth analysis on the First Minister's year in charge.

When Scottish Conservative MSP Jamie Greene dramatically defected to the Liberal Democrats, it sent shockwaves through Holyrood. In an exclusive interview, Greene reveals to Unspun Live how the death of SNP minister Christina McKelvie – a close cross-party ally – became the emotional catalyst for his decision. He opens up about his growing disillusionment with the Conservative Party’s direction, its stance on minority rights, and why staying true to his values ultimately meant walking away.

In episode three of The Herald's Unspun Live, Thomas Kerr speaks to our political correspondent Rebecca McCurdy about Holyrood 2026, John Swinney's populist summit and Nigel Farage's upcoming trip to Scotland. Hannah Brown and Rebecca McCurdy also discuss the Supreme court ruling on the legal definition of a woman.

In episode two of The Herald's Unspun Live, Lorna Slater shares her views on entering another Bute House Agreement, party infighting and the issue of creating a gender balance in the Scottish Parliament. Political Correspondents Hannah Brown and Rebecca Mccurdy also take a look at the week ahead in Scottish politics.

In the first episode of Unspun Live, The Herald’s new Scottish politics podcast, First Minister John Swinney speaks candidly about grief, resilience and leadership.

He reflects on the loss of his colleague Christina McKelvie, how stepping back helped him return as “a different character,” and whether the SNP would consider another deal with the Greens.

Swinney also talks about the 2026 election, the rise of Reform UK — and why so many of his MSPs are set to leave Holyrood.