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Holyrood Sources

Shortbread Media holyroodsources.com

The Holyrood Sources podcast analyses Scottish politics through the experiences of those who have lived and breathed it as Special Advisers to the Scottish Government, SNP and opposition parties. Join hosts Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein (Chief of Staff to the First Minister, 2007-2014) and Andy Maciver (Former Head of Communications for the Scottish Conservatives) as they take you inside Scottish politics. Their insight is second to none - they've been there, lived it, and maintain remarkable connections to Scotland's politicians and the world of Scottish politics.


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Episodes

A Quiet Summer... with Angus Robertson

The Scottish government has announced it will not hold any more meetings with Israeli ambassadors until progress is made in ceasefire talks. The SNP has faced criticism after External Affairs Secretary Angus Robertson met Israel’s Deputy Ambassador to the UK. Angus joins Calum and Andy to explain his stance on the conflict, and also what more Scotland needs to do to improve its international standing. Plus, The Spectator's Lucy Dunn and Catriona Stewart unpick the state of the Scottish Conservat...

Aug 21, 20241 hr 4 minSeason 3Ep. 50

The Islands Tour: Kirkwall

The Holyrood Sources Island Tour continues at the Orkney Distillery in Kirkwall and Calum, Geoff and Andy are joined by local Liberal Democrat MSP for Orkney, Liam McArthur, Scottish Labour Economy Spokesperson Daniel Johnson and Scottish Government Business Minister Ivan McKee to pick apart the details of immigration, housing, skill retention and so much more. The Islands Tour is powered by SSE. This episode is sponsored by Port of Aberdeen. Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/holyroods...

Aug 14, 20241 hr 45 minSeason 3Ep. 49

The Politics of Riots, Results and Murdo Fraser Enters The Race

Calum, Andy and Geoff discuss the fallout from rioting across England over the past week, and why there hasn't been any in Scotland. Plus, Murdo Fraser enters the Scottish Conservative leadership race, it's results day, and dressage isn't a real Olympic sport. This episode is sponsored by Port of Aberdeen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 07, 202436 minSeason 3Ep. 48

Who Should Lead The Scottish Conservatives?

Calum, Geoff and Andy debrief on last week's candid interview with Murdo Fraser and Liz Smith, as well as assess Rachel Reeves's less-than-optimistic speech on the state of the economy this week. Plus, what would a positive SNP conference look like? And would a particular new leader of the Scottish Conservatives get the party out of it's electoral rut - or does something more significant have to change? This episode is sponsored by Port of Aberdeen. Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/ho...

Jul 31, 202431 minSeason 3Ep. 47

The Future of Scottish Conservatives...with Liz Smith and Murdo Fraser

MSPs for Mid Scotland and Fife Liz Smith and Murdo Fraser join Calum and Andy to unpick what the future holds for the Scottish Conservatives, as well as reflect on its past. Potentially the next leader of the party, Murdo Fraser admits it was a mistake to try and split from the UK party in 2011 (which derailed his previous leadership bid), and suggests that he would be open to working with a new party, headed by...Kate Forbes. Plus, does Holyrood need an upper chamber? And why is Scotland's devo...

Jul 24, 202444 minSeason 3Ep. 46

The Islands Tour: Stornoway

The Holyrood Sources Island Tour begins at Lews Castle in Stornoway and Calum, Geoff and Andy are joined by new Labour MP for Na h-Eileanan an Iar, Torcuil Crichton to pick apart the details of GB Energy, whether to introduce toll roads in Scotland and how to kickstart the development of the islands and begin the shift away from a Westminster and Holyrood-focussed perception of their management. The Islands Tour is powered by SSE. This episode is sponsored by Port of Aberdeen. Hosted on Acast. S...

Jul 17, 20241 hr 40 minSeason 3Ep. 45

New MPs and Labour's First week... with Angus Macdonald & Sam White

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 t...

Jul 10, 202453 minSeason 3Ep. 44

The General Election: Flash Reaction

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 d...

Jul 05, 202425 minSeason 3Ep. 43

The General Election: Last Orders

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...

Jul 03, 202458 minSeason 3Ep. 42

To Bet Or Not To Bet

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? An...

Jun 26, 202448 minSeason 3Ep. 41

Manifestos, Scottish Tories and should polling stop?

We discuss the recent launch of the SNP manifesto for the upcoming general election. We explore the purpose of a manifesto in a general election and the tactics at play. Plus, we discuss the potential impact of the polls on the outcome of the election and the future of the Scottish Conservative Party. We take your questions on the achievements of the SNP at Westminster and the possibility of a leadership contest within the Scottish Conservatives. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more i...

Jun 20, 202434 minSeason 3Ep. 40

Growing Scotland's Economy: Holyrood Sources Live

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 ...

Jun 19, 20241 hr 38 minSeason 3Ep. 39

The SNP/Labour Poll Gap Closes...with Emily Gray

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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information....

Jun 12, 202431 minSeason 3Ep. 38

An Invitation to you: Growing Scotland's Economy

Click holyroodsources.com/live to get tickets for our big conversation on Scotland's economy - the only event focusing on Scotland's economy ahead of the General Election. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 11, 20242 minSeason 3Ep. 37

Douglas Ross U-Turns and will run to be an MP

Douglas Ross has U-turned on a pledge to quit Westminster to focus on leading the Scottish Conservatives at Holyrood and will once again stand as a candidate at the general election. He will replace David Duguid, who was sacked last night as the candidate for Aberdeenshire North & Moray East because he suffered a serious spinal injury. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 06, 202417 minSeason 3Ep. 36

The Leaders Debate... We Discuss

Calum, Geoff and Andy are joined by former Labour candidate Cat Headley to pick apart the key moments from last night's first television debate between Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer. There was a lot of back and forth, and interrupting, but what cut through? Plus, Nigel Farage is back - so what does that mean for the Conservatives, or for the future of the of the Right of politics? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 05, 202445 minSeason 3Ep. 35

Deputy Leaders analyse the debates and campaign

The podcast episode features post-debate analysis with the deputy leaders of Scottish political parties. Chapters 5:05 - Jackie Baillie (Labour) The discussion covers the recent debate, party strategies, and key messages. It also delves into the topic of GB Energy and its potential impact on the energy sector. The conversation concludes with a discussion on Keir Starmer's U-turn on Diane Abbott's candidacy. 23:02 - Kate Forbes (Deputy First Minister, SNP) The conversation covers party positionin...

Jun 04, 20241 hr 24 minSeason 3Ep. 34

Election Bulletin 1: What You Might Have Missed

Our first (maybe last, if you don't like it) Election Bulletin to catch you up on events from the week including: Michael Matheson, Diane Abbott, policy announcements and TikToks. Plus, Tales from the Campaign Trail where some of our journalist friends drop in to let us know how they're getting on. And we tell you what's on the agenda today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 31, 202438 minSeason 3Ep. 33

Polls, Diane Abbott and Campaigning Tales... with Allan Faulds

Ballot Box's Allan Faulds and former Labour Scottish Parliamentary candidate Cat Headley join Calum, Geoff and Andy to pick apart what new polling, the treatment of Dianne Abbott by the Labour party and also reflect on some of their favourite (or not-so-favourite) memories of being on the campaign trail. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 29, 202457 minSeason 3Ep. 32

Snap Election Snap Analysis

A general election has been called for the 4th of July. We discuss the strategic decisions and execution of the announcement. There are questions about the rationale behind the chosen date and the decision to hold the event outside in the rain. We also discuss the potential impact on the Conservative Party and the Scottish Tories in particular. The conversation then shifts to the SNP and the suspension of Michael Matheson for breaching the MSP Code of Conduct. The hosts debate the political impl...

May 23, 202426 minSeason 3Ep. 31

An Election? And Progressive Taxation...with Laurie Macfarlane

Calum, Andy and Geoff weigh up the latest polling data, the role of special advisors in Scottish politics, and the comments made by Wes Streeting on the NHS: that "all roads lead to Westminster". Plus, the co-Director of Future Economy Scotland, Laurie Macfarlane, joins to discuss progressive taxation, in light of Andy's view from the last episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 22, 202453 minSeason 3Ep. 30

Swinney's First Week, Mayors and Independence Extremists

Calum, Geoff and Andy discuss John Swinney's first week as First Minister, Anna Sarwar's plans for regional mayors, and Rishi Sunak's comments on Scottish nationalism. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 15, 202441 minSeason 3Ep. 29

John Swinney's Cabinet

Kate Forbes is John Swinney's Deputy First Minister, but what does that mean for the SNP, the election and for Scotland? Calum, Andy and Geoff discuss it all. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 08, 202450 minSeason 3Ep. 28

What's Next? (Swinney, Forbes, Faith, Unity)

We reflect on John Swinney's announcement to run for SNP leader and the potential role of Kate Forbes in the new government. They also address concerns about Forbes' past statements on social issues and the need for unity within the party, as raised by you on email. The emphasis, as far as the SNP is concerned, is on the importance of bringing together different factions and talents within the SNP to ensure a strong and competent government. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more inform...

May 03, 202428 minSeason 3Ep. 27

John Swinney or Kate Forbes...with Gina Davidson

LBC's Scotland Political Editor Gina Davidson joins Calum, Andy and Geoff to discuss who will take the reigns of the SNP following Humza Yousaf's departure. Plus, your questions are answered. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 01, 202453 minSeason 3Ep. 26

Humza Yousaf Resigns: The Opposition Reacts

Humza Yousaf's resignation as First Minister of Scotland has sparked discussions about the future of the Scottish National Party (SNP) and the leadership contest that will follow. The conversation explores the personal and political reactions to Yousaf's resignation, the mistakes made during his tenure, and the need for change within the SNP. The potential candidates for the next First Minister, including John Swinney and Kate Forbes, are discussed, with an emphasis on the importance of unity an...

Apr 29, 20241 hr 7 minSeason 3Ep. 25

Votes of No Confidence...with Ross Greer

Scottish Green Party MSP Ross Greer joins us for an extended conversation about the termination of the Bute House Agreement, the Greens' time in Government and how the party plan to vote in the votes of no confidence being brought against Humza Yousaf and The Scottish Government. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 26, 202459 minSeason 3Ep. 24

Humza Yousaf Dumps The Scottish Greens

The Bute House agreement between the SNP and the Scottish Greens has ended, leading to a minority government in Scotland. We discuss the reasons for the end of the agreement including policy challenges and frayed relationships. Humza Yousaf, the leader of the SNP, will now have to chart a new course and focus on issues that have public support. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 25, 202426 minSeason 3Ep. 23

Embezzlement Charges, Climate Targets, and The Bute House Agreement

In this episode of Hollywood Sources, Calum, Geoff and Andy are joined by Kathleen Nutt, Political Correspondent, The Herald, to discuss various topics including the charging of Peter Murrell, former chief executive of the SNP, with embezzlement, the approval of the Green Volt offshore wind farm project, and the Scottish Government's decision to abandon its target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 75% by 2030. The conversation also delves into the implications of these developments for the...

Apr 23, 202445 minSeason 3Ep. 22

By-Elections, The Cass Review and Holyrood's Rural Caucus

Calum, Andy and Geoff discuss the relationship between SNP MSPs and its MPs at Westminster, the representation of rural areas in government policy-making, and the need for rural MSPs to caucus together. They also touch on the upcoming local and mayoral elections and the impact of dissatisfaction with the Conservatives. The conversation ends with a discussion on the importance of rural areas in Scotland's future prosperity. We reflect on the Scottish Government's response to the Cass review, and ...

Apr 17, 202438 minSeason 3Ep. 21
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