A Bag of Spanners

After the launch of Labour's new White Paper on immigration we ask, despite Starmer's protestations, if Farage and Reform are already dictating not just UK politics but UK government policy.
We also delve into the detail of the changes outlined in the paper.
The Labour leadership is also facing a  backbench rebellion over its cuts to disability benefits and is also being urged by 69 MPs to recognise a Palestinian state. Will they listen to either of these calls?
Lesley's latest column in The National examined the rise of Reform and speculated on its potential to break out of its unionist bubble and attract disappointed SNP voters in next year's Holyrood elections.
First Minister John Swinney was grilled by Martin Geissler on whether independence would be page 1 line 1 of the SNP manifesto at those elections. We analyse his response.
Is the UK/US trade deal worth the paper it's written on? Not according to US economist Joseph Stiglitz. Was getting such a quick sectoral agreement a sign of weakness or strength for the UK's position?
Ahead of the Holyrood vote on assisted dying Lesley gives her thoughts on this difficult decision facing MSPs.
 There are a few seats remaining for 'A Night for MAP' at the Queen's Hall, Edinburgh. Friday 30th May.
https://www.thequeenshall.net/whats-on/night-map