The recent English byelection results have thrown the possibility of a Labour government after the next general election into sharp relief.We examine those results and the messages both Labour and the Tories seem to be taking from,in particular,Uxbridge and South Ruislip. Will they both jettison their Net Zero commitments for short term political expediency?The Labour National Policy Forum,despite pressure from Unite and Momentum, endorsed Starmer's economic and social policies,rejecting,without a vote, amendments to abolish the two child benefit cap,institute a £15 per hour minimum wage, expand free school meals, and repeal anti-protest laws. Where,yet again, does this leave Scottish Labour? We also ask if Scottish Labour will stand up for the Scottish Parliament against attacks on its powers emanating from Labour Lord George Foulkes with support from the Conservative government?Chris Hanlon has,or has he,launched a bid to oust Humza Yousaf as leader of the SNP. What's behind the headlines and was his approach wise?The snap Spanish general election has resulted not in the predicted victory for the Right/Far Right but a hung parliament where "regional" parties could flex their muscle to secure significant concessions in return for supporting the return of a Socialist government. What could all this mean for Catalonian independence?  ★ Support this podcast ★ 

The recent English byelection results have thrown the possibility of a Labour government after the next general election into sharp relief. We examine those results and the messages both Labour and the Tories seem to be taking from,in particular,Uxbridge and South Ruislip. Will they both jettison their Net Zero commitments for short term political expediency? The Labour National Policy Forum,despite pressure from Unite and Momentum, endorsed Starmer's economic and social policies,rejecting,without a vote, amendments to abolish the two child benefit cap,institute a £15 per hour minimum wage, expand free school meals, and repeal anti-protest laws. Where,yet again, does this leave Scottish Labour?  We also ask if Scottish Labour will stand up for the Scottish Parliament against attacks on its powers emanating from Labour Lord George Foulkes with support from the Conservative government? Chris Hanlon has,or has he,launched a bid to oust Humza Yousaf as leader of the SNP. What's behind the headlines and was his approach wise? The snap Spanish general election has resulted not in the predicted victory for the Right/Far Right but a hung parliament where "regional" parties could flex their muscle to secure significant concessions in return for supporting the return of a Socialist government. What could all this mean for Catalonian independence? <a href="https://lesleyriddoch.com/podcast/subscribe" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">★ Support this podcast ★</a>

The World on Fire

Lesley's back frae her grand tour and it's provided her with plenty of food for thought on Brexit,land ownership,rural housing and the power of story to reconnect us with Scotland's past and potential future.Sir Keir Starmer is fond of repeating Harold Wilson's famous quote that Labour is a moral crusade or it is nothing. In the light of his abandonment of the pledge to get rid of the two child benefit cap, on top of all the other policy u-turns, we ask just what does Labour now actually stand for?We also look at the contortions performed by Anas Sarwar,Jackie Bailie, and Douglas Alexander et al to maintain the fiction that they oppose the cap,support Starmer's position, and it's all the fault of the SNP. The House of Lords caved in last night as all its amendments to the Illegal Migration Bill were defeated. The peers didn't even use their powers to delay the legislation for the permitted 12 months. Meanwhile a,mainly, Red Wall group of Tory MPs,The New Conservatives, have come up with a plan to circumvent the illegality of sending asylum seekers to Rwanda.Ship them off to a "remote(sic) Scottish island".There are thoughts on Thursday's three by elections, Dr Philipa Whitford's announcement that she won't be seeking re-election, and the September 2nd Indy rally.If you're inspired to experience Dundreggan after listening to Lesley find out more herehttps://visitdundreggan.co.uk/And to buy tickets for the tourhttps://treesforlife.digitickets.co.uk/ticketsPlus,yet another, Pat promises the last, chap at the door interruption.  ★ Support this podcast ★ 

Lesley's back frae her grand tour and it's provided her with plenty of food for thought on Brexit,land ownership,rural housing and the power of story to reconnect us with Scotland's past and potential future. Sir Keir Starmer is fond of repeating Harold Wilson's famous quote that Labour is a moral crusade or it is nothing. In the light of his abandonment of the pledge to get rid of the two child benefit cap, on top of all the other policy u-turns, we ask just what does Labour now actually stand for? We also look at the contortions performed by Anas Sarwar,Jackie Bailie, and Douglas Alexander et al to maintain the fiction that they oppose the cap,support Starmer's position, and it's all the fault of the SNP. The House of Lords caved in last night as all its amendments to the Illegal Migration Bill were defeated. The peers didn't even use their powers to delay the legislation for the permitted 12 months. Meanwhile a,mainly, Red Wall group of Tory MPs,The New Conservatives, have come up with a plan to circumvent the illegality of sending asylum seekers to Rwanda.Ship them off to a "remote(sic) Scottish island". There are thoughts on Thursday's three by elections, Dr Philipa Whitford's announcement that she won't be seeking re-election, and the September 2nd Indy rally. If you're inspired to experience Dundreggan after listening to Lesley find out more here <a href="https://visitdundreggan.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://visitdundreggan.co.uk/</a> And to buy tickets for the tour <a href="https://treesforlife.digitickets.co.uk/tickets" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://treesforlife.digitickets.co.uk/tickets</a> Plus,yet another, Pat promises the last, chap at the door interruption. <a href="https://lesleyriddoch.com/podcast/subscribe" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">★ Support this podcast ★</a>

Deja Vu

After the marathon political catch- up last week we have more of a meander through various topics this episode.We reflect on Mhairi Black's announcement that she, along with currently six other SNP MPs, won't be standing for re-election,the toxicity and the allure of Westminster and its bubble.Much is being made of tensions,even splits,in the SNP but all is not well in the Labour Party. It looks like left leaning candidates are not being selected and there's disquiet over shifts in policy over public ownership, green policies, and an acceptance of Tory fiscal policy. Despite the acceptance by Anas Sarwar of UK Labour's " No" will there be a Holyrood rebellion supporting the Scottish Government's decriminalisation of drug possession and use proposals?Lesley reflects on her Scottish "Thrive" tour and her soggy Highland bike holiday.Pat,meanwhile,manages to shoehorn Scottish independence into his house move. Both wax lyrical on the great Saint Andrew and the Woollen Mill. Follow the links below to vanish into the world o Dundee rap.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CWOFK7M0QBMhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0c4l_T3KRNo&amp;t=1shttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T14t0Be4moULesley completes the cultural exchange with an introduction to Gaelic poet Duncan Ban Macintyre and his epic nature poem In Praise of Ben Dorain"Honour over every benhas Ben Dorain;of all I have seen beneath the sun,I adore her:long, unbroken moor,storehouse of deer.Upland that is clearlyworth talking ofcoppices of boughs,woodland where grass grows,elegant are thosewhose abode it is.The hind with the taper-head sniffing so keenly,with sensitive sharp nostrilexploring the wind:short-tailed and long-shankedon mountainous summitshe stays in her fastnesslest gun-fire deceive her;although when she hurriesshe utters no wheezes.The hind’s in the forestas she ought to be,where she grazes on sweet grass,clean, fine-bladed,heath-rush and deer-grass,herbs full of substanceto put fat and tallowupon her loins.The hind is in this little glen,and no unskilled foolcould stalk her if he did not know ofmaking contact with her quietly;guarding against her warily,drawing near before she stirs,cautiously, most toilsomely,lest she should sense him.Honour over every benhas Ben Dorain;of all I have seen beneath the sun,I adore her:long, unbroken moor,storehouse of deer.Upland that is clearlyworth talking ofcoppices of boughs,woodland where grass grows,elegant are thosewhose abode it is."To find out more go tohttps://www.ardanaiseig.com/duncan-bans-monument/Oh, and there's a surprise ending. Nae pauchlin and fast forwardin tae the finish noo.  ★ Support this podcast ★ 

After the marathon political catch- up last week we have more of a meander through various topics this episode. We reflect on Mhairi Black's announcement that she, along with currently six other SNP MPs, won't be standing for re-election,the toxicity and the allure of Westminster and its bubble. Much is being made of tensions,even splits,in the SNP but all is not well in the Labour Party. It looks like left leaning candidates are not being selected and there's disquiet over shifts in policy over public ownership, green policies, and an acceptance of Tory fiscal policy. Despite the acceptance by Anas Sarwar of UK Labour's " No" will there be a Holyrood rebellion supporting the Scottish Government's decriminalisation of drug possession and use proposals? Lesley reflects on her Scottish "Thrive" tour and her soggy Highland bike holiday. Pat,meanwhile,manages to shoehorn Scottish independence into his house move. Both wax lyrical on the great Saint Andrew and the Woollen Mill. Follow the links below to vanish into the world o Dundee rap. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CWOFK7M0QBM" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CWOFK7M0QBM</a> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0c4l_T3KRNo&amp;t=1s" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0c4l_T3KRNo&amp;t=1s</a> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T14t0Be4moU" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T14t0Be4moU</a> Lesley completes the cultural exchange with an introduction to Gaelic poet Duncan Ban Macintyre and his epic nature poem In Praise of Ben Dorain"Honour over every benhas Ben Dorain;of all I have seen beneath the sun,I adore her:long, unbroken moor,storehouse of deer.Upland that is clearlyworth talking ofcoppices of boughs,woodland where grass grows,elegant are thosewhose abode it is.The hind with the taper-head sniffing so keenly,with sensitive sharp nostrilexploring the wind:short-tailed and long-shankedon mountainous summitshe stays in her fastnesslest gun-fire deceive her;although when she hurriesshe utters no wheezes.The hind’s in the forestas she ought to be,where she grazes on sweet grass,clean, fine-bladed,heath-rush and deer-grass,herbs full of substanceto put fat and tallowupon her loins.The hind is in this little glen,and no unskilled foolcould stalk her if he did not know ofmaking contact with her quietly;guarding against her warily,drawing near before she stirs,cautiously, most toilsomely,lest she should sense him.Honour over every benhas Ben Dorain;of all I have seen beneath the sun,I adore her:long, unbroken moor,storehouse of deer.Upland that is clearlyworth talking ofcoppices of boughs,woodland where grass grows,elegant are thosewhose abode it is."To find out more go to <a href="https://www.ardanaiseig.com/duncan-bans-monument/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.ardanaiseig.com/duncan-bans-monument/</a>Oh, and there's a surprise ending. Nae pauchlin and fast forwardin tae the finish noo. <a href="https://lesleyriddoch.com/podcast/subscribe" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">★ Support this podcast ★</a>

The wird on the pavey

If a week is a long time in politics, what's a fortnight?Yup, it's definitely a catch-up episode after the hiatus for the Joyce flit.After a labyrinthine link from the Lord's test match to the SNP Independence Convention in Dundee we get down to analysing Humza's speech and strategy of "A vote for the SNP is a vote for independence", at the next General Election.On a day when Orkney Council debated its future with the UK and Scotland we try and look behind the media feeding frenzy at the underlying issues of too much power being vested not only in Westminster and Holyrood but also in massive "local" authorities. This American Independence Day also sees the “thanksgiving” ceremony at St Giles’ Cathedral where King Charles will be  presented with the Honours of Scotland. Is it a piece of pointless vanity and should Humza attend?The Climate Change Committee has issued a report condemning the UK government's lack of action on implementing its policies on meeting Net Zero and missing key opportunities to reap the benefits of a Green Industrial Revolution. Is Sunak,and indeed Starmer, too focused on fiscal targets to see the big picture?And it's your last chance to buy Thrive for two weeks while Lesley is off cycling in the mists of Lochaber. You need to get your order in tonight to hit the post before she's on her way up the road on Wednesday.https://lesleyriddoch.com/books/thrive  ★ Support this podcast ★ 

If a week is a long time in politics, what's a fortnight? Yup, it's definitely a catch-up episode after the hiatus for the Joyce flit. After a labyrinthine link from the Lord's test match to the SNP Independence Convention in Dundee we get down to analysing Humza's speech and strategy of "A vote for the SNP is a vote for independence", at the next General Election. On a day when Orkney Council debated its future with the UK and Scotland we try and look behind the media feeding frenzy at the underlying issues of too much power being vested not only in Westminster and Holyrood but also in massive "local" authorities.  This American Independence Day also sees the “thanksgiving” ceremony at St Giles’ Cathedral where King Charles will be  presented with the Honours of Scotland. Is it a piece of pointless vanity and should Humza attend? The Climate Change Committee has issued a report condemning the UK government's lack of action on implementing its policies on meeting Net Zero and missing key opportunities to reap the benefits of a Green Industrial Revolution. Is Sunak,and indeed Starmer, too focused on fiscal targets to see the big picture? And it's your last chance to buy Thrive for two weeks while Lesley is off cycling in the mists of Lochaber. You need to get your order in tonight to hit the post before she's on her way up the road on Wednesday. <a href="https://lesleyriddoch.com/books/thrive" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://lesleyriddoch.com/books/thrive</a> <a href="https://lesleyriddoch.com/podcast/subscribe" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">★ Support this podcast ★</a>

Howzat!

In this podcast extra we speak with Naz Miah and Cameron Coyne of the Dunfermline Yes Hub. Cam and Naz are definitely from the younger generation of indy supporters and, in addition to all their activism, have been producing videos of folk telling their stories of how they came to support independence.Lesley features in one of these and was so impressed with their energy, enthusiasm, and commitment that she knew we had to have them on the podcast.After listening to them I think you'll agree with her.If you want to find their channel on YouTube follow this linkhttps://www.youtube.com/@YesintheCity/featured  ★ Support this podcast ★ 

In this podcast extra we speak with Naz Miah and Cameron Coyne of the Dunfermline Yes Hub. Cam and Naz are definitely from the younger generation of indy supporters and, in addition to all their activism, have been producing videos of folk telling their stories of how they came to support independence. Lesley features in one of these and was so impressed with their energy, enthusiasm, and commitment that she knew we had to have them on the podcast. After listening to them I think you'll agree with her. If you want to find their channel on YouTube follow this link <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@YesintheCity/featured" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@YesintheCity/featured</a> <a href="https://lesleyriddoch.com/podcast/subscribe" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">★ Support this podcast ★</a>

Naz and Cam-Podcast Extra

There's a definite fin de siècle feel about Westminster these days reminiscent of the last days of the Major government in 1997.The Prime Minister, who last weekend got all tough over Johnson's honours nominations, bottled the debate and vote on the Privileges Committee report, as did another 285 of his MPs. It duly passed but revealed the weakness of Sunak, and the extent, excluding the SNP, of mutual cross-party self-congratulation that permeated Tory and Labour benches.Westminster operates within the framework of a partially written, uncoded, constitution where it is supreme and as the spectacle of the Privileges Committee Report debate was unfolding Humza Yousaf launched the Scottish Government's latest independence paper outlining the path to a written constitution in an independent Scotland. We discuss.We also look at the SNP Special Conference in Dundee this weekend. Is it yet another talking shop where non-allgned Yessers like Lesley are there as "licensed dissenters"? Or will it be an opportunity for SNP members to "take back control"?Sunak wasn't the only missing party leader at Westminster, Sir Keir Starmer was in Edinburgh promoting Labour's Great British Energy Company, to be based in Scotland. Has he outflanked the SNP enough on this to sway Scottish voters?As the video emerged of the "Jingle to Mingle" party at Tory HQ the first phase of the Covid Inquiry saw excoriating condemnation by Professor Sir Michael Marmot not only of the failure to prepare for the pandemic, but the critical damage done by austerity to the NHS and to the health of the population.David Cameron, of course, "didn't accept that description". Osborne, the other architect of the policy, is up next.All this plus fitba, and Twitter bans for Joyce.The next AUOB rally for independence takes place this Saturday June 24th.MARCH FOR INDEPENDENCE- STIRLING SATURDAY 24 JUNE 2023AULD STIRLING BRIG TO BANNOCKBURN FIELDGATHER EARLY, LEAVE 12:30pm SHARPMAKE SURE TO ATTEND THE NATIONAL DEMONSTRATION FOR SELF DETERMINATION #YESMARCH FOR INDEPENDENCE STIRLING - SATURDAY 24 JUNE  ★ Support this podcast ★ 

There's a definite fin de siècle feel about Westminster these days reminiscent of the last days of the Major government in 1997. The Prime Minister, who last weekend got all tough over Johnson's honours nominations, bottled the debate and vote on the Privileges Committee report, as did another 285 of his MPs. It duly passed but revealed the weakness of Sunak, and the extent, excluding the SNP, of mutual cross-party self-congratulation that permeated Tory and Labour benches. Westminster operates within the framework of a partially written, uncoded, constitution where it is supreme and as the spectacle of the Privileges Committee Report debate was unfolding Humza Yousaf launched the Scottish Government's latest independence paper outlining the path to a written constitution in an independent Scotland. We discuss. We also look at the SNP Special Conference in Dundee this weekend. Is it yet another talking shop where non-allgned Yessers like Lesley are there as "licensed dissenters"? Or will it be an opportunity for SNP members to "take back control"? Sunak wasn't the only missing party leader at Westminster, Sir Keir Starmer was in Edinburgh promoting Labour's Great British Energy Company, to be based in Scotland. Has he outflanked the SNP enough on this to sway Scottish voters? As the video emerged of the "Jingle to Mingle" party at Tory HQ the first phase of the Covid Inquiry saw excoriating condemnation by Professor Sir Michael Marmot not only of the failure to prepare for the pandemic, but the critical damage done by austerity to the NHS and to the health of the population. David Cameron, of course, "didn't accept that description". Osborne, the other architect of the policy, is up next. All this plus fitba, and Twitter bans for Joyce. The next AUOB rally for independence takes place this Saturday June 24th. MARCH FOR INDEPENDENCE- STIRLING SATURDAY 24 JUNE 2023AULD STIRLING BRIG TO BANNOCKBURN FIELDGATHER EARLY, LEAVE 12:30pm SHARPMAKE SURE TO ATTEND THE NATIONAL DEMONSTRATION FOR SELF DETERMINATION <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YES?src=hashtag_click" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">#YES</a>MARCH FOR INDEPENDENCE STIRLING - SATURDAY 24 JUNE <a href="https://lesleyriddoch.com/podcast/subscribe" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">★ Support this podcast ★</a>

End Times?

It was some 72 hours in British politics beginning with the resignation as an MP on Friday by Boris Johnson,Nicola Sturgeon being arrested on Sunday, and the internal Tory Party fall out over Johnson's honours listWe try and pick through all this beginning,naturally, with the latest on Nicola Sturgeon  and analyse the reaction not just from the media but from within the SNP with calls for her party membership to be suspended.Meanwhile at Holyrood Lorna Slater announced the delay of DRS until October 2025 claiming the scheme had been sabotaged by the UK government. While some Yessers argue over who's to blame, Lesley suggests that the real point is that,once again, the will of the Scottish Parliament in a devolved area has been thwarted by an increasingly hostile Tory Party.Despite our distaste we had to plunge into the mire of the Johnson honours list,the roll call of supporters and sycophants ennobled in it,and the reaction(Yes you Nadine Dorries) of those whose promised peerages disappeared.All this plus an update on Lesley's "Thrive" tour,and some other meanderings.  ★ Support this podcast ★ 

It was some 72 hours in British politics beginning with the resignation as an MP on Friday by Boris Johnson,Nicola Sturgeon being arrested on Sunday, and the internal Tory Party fall out over Johnson's honours list We try and pick through all this beginning,naturally, with the latest on Nicola Sturgeon  and analyse the reaction not just from the media but from within the SNP with calls for her party membership to be suspended. Meanwhile at Holyrood Lorna Slater announced the delay of DRS until October 2025 claiming the scheme had been sabotaged by the UK government. While some Yessers argue over who's to blame, Lesley suggests that the real point is that,once again, the will of the Scottish Parliament in a devolved area has been thwarted by an increasingly hostile Tory Party. Despite our distaste we had to plunge into the mire of the Johnson honours list,the roll call of supporters and sycophants ennobled in it,and the reaction(Yes you Nadine Dorries) of those whose promised peerages disappeared. All this plus an update on Lesley's "Thrive" tour,and some other meanderings. <a href="https://lesleyriddoch.com/podcast/subscribe" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">★ Support this podcast ★</a>

Resignations and Investigations

Professor Adam Tomkins,erstwhile Tory MSP,reckoned he'd scored a gotcha with his independence referendum dead parrot claim. However,given the Conservative track record in government, isn't "No to indyref2" all his party has to offer in Scotland? We also explore Labour's pitch to voters in particular its Green Prosperity Plan. How does this tally with Scottish Labour's opposition to LEZs?Meanwhile the UK government and Boris Johnson are playing internal party politics with the Covid judicial inquiry.Answers to what went wrong during the pandemic contained in Whatsapp messages being denied as both sides play hide and seek with the truth.What hope for DRS given the stance of the UK government as expressed by Alister Jack? Should the Scottish government abandon it altogether or put in place an "imperfect" non- glass alternative?It takes a lot to get islanders riled up enough to get out and demonstrate but the good folk of South Uist finally have had enough of the ferry,lack of, situation. Lesley explains why.All this plus encounters at Lord's cricket ground, classic musicals,and legends in concert.  ★ Support this podcast ★ 

Professor Adam Tomkins,erstwhile Tory MSP,reckoned he'd scored a gotcha with his independence referendum dead parrot claim. However,given the Conservative track record in government, isn't "No to indyref2" all his party has to offer in Scotland? We also explore Labour's pitch to voters in particular its Green Prosperity Plan. How does this tally with Scottish Labour's opposition to LEZs? Meanwhile the UK government and Boris Johnson are playing internal party politics with the Covid judicial inquiry.Answers to what went wrong during the pandemic contained in Whatsapp messages being denied as both sides play hide and seek with the truth. What hope for DRS given the stance of the UK government as expressed by Alister Jack? Should the Scottish government abandon it altogether or put in place an "imperfect" non- glass alternative? It takes a lot to get islanders riled up enough to get out and demonstrate but the good folk of South Uist finally have had enough of the ferry,lack of, situation. Lesley explains why. All this plus encounters at Lord's cricket ground, classic musicals,and legends in concert. <a href="https://lesleyriddoch.com/podcast/subscribe" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">★ Support this podcast ★</a>

What's App Docs?

It was definitely some weekend for us.Pat suffered the ignominy of his beloved Dundee United being relegated and Lesley braved Radio 1's Big Weekend in Camperdown Park.The music event certainly led us down down some interesting rabbit holes about fame,fans,and faux rock stars.The National also published an extract from Lesley's new book Thrive which tackles that old Scottish sporting trope of ,"It's the hope that kills you." and how it has permeated the Scot's psyche when it comes to running our own affairs, the fear of making mistakes, and the belief that somehow the fowk in charge ken best. Lesley also makes a plea for Humza Yousaf in particular and the SNP in general to embrace the campaigning efforts of Yes groups like the Chain Of Freedom. Chain of Freedom are currently putting together a  website - but have a Facebook group https://www.facebook.com/groups/5785858594826639/And a great wee video explainer herehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VIZ2AvmigR0If you want to read Thrive  the first print run has almost sold out, so it'll be a week before there are more in But still 50 to go on https://lesleyriddoch.com/shop-mobile/thriveLesley also took part in an Aye Write event with former Labour MSP Neil Findlay whose new book Hope and Despair which he describes as  "Lifting the lid on the murky world of Scottish politics " has just been published. Her reflections on this and the position of a Corbynite socialist in a Starmer Labour Party are well worth the listen.All this plus the Viking head lump,honest it is a thing, in this week's episode.  ★ Support this podcast ★ 

It was definitely some weekend for us. Pat suffered the ignominy of his beloved Dundee United being relegated and Lesley braved Radio 1's Big Weekend in Camperdown Park. The music event certainly led us down down some interesting rabbit holes about fame,fans,and faux rock stars. The National also published an extract from Lesley's new book Thrive which tackles that old Scottish sporting trope of ,"It's the hope that kills you." and how it has permeated the Scot's psyche when it comes to running our own affairs, the fear of making mistakes, and the belief that somehow the fowk in charge ken best. Lesley also makes a plea for Humza Yousaf in particular and the SNP in general to embrace the campaigning efforts of Yes groups like the Chain Of Freedom.  Chain of Freedom are currently putting together a  website - but have a Facebook group <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/5785858594826639/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/groups/5785858594826639/</a> And a great wee video explainer here <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VIZ2AvmigR0" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VIZ2AvmigR0</a>If you want to read Thrive  the first print run has almost sold out, so it'll be a week before there are more in But still 50 to go on <a href="https://lesleyriddoch.com/shop-mobile/thrive" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://lesleyriddoch.com/shop-mobile/thrive</a>Lesley also took part in an Aye Write event with former Labour MSP Neil Findlay whose new book Hope and Despair which he describes as  "Lifting the lid on the murky world of Scottish politics " has just been published. Her reflections on this and the position of a Corbynite socialist in a Starmer Labour Party are well worth the listen. All this plus the Viking head lump,honest it is a thing, in this week's episode. <a href="https://lesleyriddoch.com/podcast/subscribe" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">★ Support this podcast ★</a>

Thank You For The Music

In the week where Lesley,in her own words,"got her jotters from the Herald", we return to the controversy over HPMAs .We ask in the light of the success of the COAST charity that pioneered the no-take zone at Lamlash Bay, should this be the model for an effective,locally based approach to marine conservation.This groundbreaking video was made 10 years ago by the divers who set up the COAST charity that pioneered the no-take zone at Lamlash Bay. Watch and be amazed!https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1tC2IAgeJrAThe Wild Isles episode number 5 - not shown on TV featuring award winning camera operator Doug Allan, who started his diving career at Lamlash Bay - speaks at 55.54'https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/p0f21klc/wild-isles-series-1-5-oceanThe SNP has scheduled a one day "Independence Convention" in Dundee on the same day as the AUOB march in Stirling. Is this a sign of an opening up of party democracy in the Humza Yousaf era or simply a rebranding effort to disguise the SNP talking to itself?Meanwhile at Westminster the anti-strike,minimum service levels, bill which will force workers in areas such as health and education to go to  work or face the sack, effectively removing their right to strike, was passed in the House of Commons last night. Despite the SNP,Labour and the Lib Dems voting for an amendment to make this an England only bill all Scottish Tories toed the party line to vote this down. What does it say about the state of Conservative Britain when this legislation mirrors that in place in such bastions of democracy as Russia and Belarus?While cracking the whip of "firm government" Sunak seems incapable of keeping the far right in his party under control.More Tory MPs are deciding to step down at the next General Election and jump from the sinking ship while Braverman and her supporters are on maneuvers to stage a post-defeat leadership coup.As the feart leave the Conservative benches Stellantis – one of the world’s biggest carmakers - has made it starkly clear that if there is no change in UK policy on Brexit they will pick up sticks and locate elsewhere. All this while Labour clings to  "Make Brexit Work" in another three word slogan so dominant in 2023 British political discourse.Copies of Lesley's new book,Thrive are available herehttps://lesleyriddoch.com/books/thriveAnd if you fancy hearing her talk about it and the ideas in it pop along to one of these eventshttps://lesleyriddoch.com/events-mobile  ★ Support this podcast ★ 

In the week where Lesley,in her own words,"got her jotters from the Herald", we return to the controversy over HPMAs .We ask in the light of the success of the COAST charity that pioneered the no-take zone at Lamlash Bay, should this be the model for an effective,locally based approach to marine conservation. This groundbreaking video was made 10 years ago by the divers who set up the COAST charity that pioneered the no-take zone at Lamlash Bay. Watch and be amazed! <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1tC2IAgeJrA" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1tC2IAgeJrA</a> The Wild Isles episode number 5 - not shown on TV featuring award winning camera operator Doug Allan, who started his diving career at Lamlash Bay - speaks at 55.54' <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/p0f21klc/wild-isles-series-1-5-ocean" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/p0f21klc/wild-isles-series-1-5-ocean</a>The SNP has scheduled a one day "Independence Convention" in Dundee on the same day as the AUOB march in Stirling. Is this a sign of an opening up of party democracy in the Humza Yousaf era or simply a rebranding effort to disguise the SNP talking to itself?Meanwhile at Westminster the anti-strike,minimum service levels, bill which will force workers in areas such as health and education to go to  work or face the sack, effectively removing their right to strike, was passed in the House of Commons last night. Despite the SNP,Labour and the Lib Dems voting for an amendment to make this an England only bill all Scottish Tories toed the party line to vote this down. What does it say about the state of Conservative Britain when this legislation mirrors that in place in such bastions of democracy as Russia and Belarus? While cracking the whip of "firm government" Sunak seems incapable of keeping the far right in his party under control.More Tory MPs are deciding to step down at the next General Election and jump from the sinking ship while Braverman and her supporters are on maneuvers to stage a post-defeat leadership coup.As the feart leave the Conservative benches Stellantis – one of the world’s biggest carmakers - has made it starkly clear that if there is no change in UK policy on Brexit they will pick up sticks and locate elsewhere. All this while Labour clings to  "Make Brexit Work" in another three word slogan so dominant in 2023 British political discourse.Copies of Lesley's new book,Thrive are available here <a href="https://lesleyriddoch.com/books/thrive" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://lesleyriddoch.com/books/thrive</a> And if you fancy hearing her talk about it and the ideas in it pop along to one of these events <a href="https://lesleyriddoch.com/events-mobile" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://lesleyriddoch.com/events-mobile</a> <a href="https://lesleyriddoch.com/podcast/subscribe" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">★ Support this podcast ★</a>

The Evidence

Scottish politics dissected from a left, pro-independence stance. Each week, award-winning broadcaster and journalist, Lesley Riddoch chews over the week’s news with former media lecturer and Dundee United fan, Pat Joyce. If you like intelligent, quirky chat about Scottish society and culture, and Scottish, UK and international politics analysed from a Scottish perspective; this podcast is for you.

From Alex Cole-Hamilton to Nigel Farage it's certainly been a week for public figures making bold statements.We look at them all starting with Cole Hamilton's "ancient nations that can never and should never exist again" then move on to examine whether there was more to Jacob Rees-Mogg's admission over Tory gerrymandering over voter ID than at first glance when taken in the context of Nat Con and the split in the party over immigration.The retiring Children's Commisioner for Scotland,Bruce Adamson,has come under fire for his damning remarks that the Scottish Government had"absolutely failedto deliver for young people". Despite Scotland having the lowest rates of child poverty in the UK did he have a point when it comes to the failure to progress the UN Convention on Rights for the Child after it was blocked by the UK Government? One of the former directors of Yes Scotland Ian Dommett, in a damning interview with Neil Mackay in The Herald claimed the SNP was the biggest contributor to its failure in 2014. Lesley gives her perspective as a major non SNP figure in that campaign.Lesley's two most recent articles in The Herald and The National throw into sharp relief the re-industrialisation and green " just transition" policies being pursued in Gothenburg and Aberdeen. The comparison is stark and disturbing.Lesley's new book "Thrive" is published this FridayIf you want to see her in conversation about it or get a signed copy here are the links Signed copy from Lesley https://lesleyriddoch.com/books/thriveMake sure to tick box asking if you want a dedication even if it's no. Otherwise you can't proceed.Also gigs;Aye Write Glasgow – May 26th 19.45 https://www.glasgowlife.org.uk/event/1/lesley-riddoch-and-neil-findlay-the-futures-of-scotlandDundee – June 6thRobert Falcon Scott Suite,Discovery Point 7-9pm with wineTickets £9 from Eventbrite:https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/come-and-hear-lesley-riddoch-tickets-630968863857Organiser Jane PhillipsFort William – June 9th Kilmallie Community centre 7PMAdmission freeOrganiser Bill LeesInverness – June 10th 13.30 Spectrum Centrehttps://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/lesley-riddoch-talk-and-new-book-tickets-629846125717?aff=ebdshpsearchautocompleteOrganiser Kay FrewPerth - June 15th AK Bell Library 7pmhttps://www.eventbrite.com/e/lesley-riddoch-thrive-the-freedom-to-flourish-tickets-635942299537Organiser Jacqui JensenEdinburgh –Thu 22 June 7.30 Toppings.https://www.toppingbooks.co.uk/events/edinburgh/lesley-riddoch-2023/with Tommy SheppardMaybole – Sunday 25th June YES Carrick Public Meeting at 14.00. in the Carrick Centre, Maybole by railway station.https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/yes-carrick-with-lesley-riddoch-tickets-636512394707Organiser Alec Oattes  ★ Support this podcast ★ 

From Alex Cole-Hamilton to Nigel Farage it's certainly been a week for public figures making bold statements. We look at them all starting with Cole Hamilton's "ancient nations that can never and should never exist again" then move on to examine whether there was more to Jacob Rees-Mogg's admission over Tory gerrymandering over voter ID than at first glance when taken in the context of Nat Con and the split in the party over immigration. The retiring Children's Commisioner for Scotland,Bruce Adamson,has come under fire for his damning remarks that the Scottish Government had"absolutely failedto deliver for young people". Despite Scotland having the lowest rates of child poverty in the UK did he have a point when it comes to the failure to progress the UN Convention on Rights for the Child after it was blocked by the UK Government? One of the former directors of Yes Scotland Ian Dommett, in a damning interview with Neil Mackay in The Herald claimed the SNP was the biggest contributor to its failure in 2014. Lesley gives her perspective as a major non SNP figure in that campaign. Lesley's two most recent articles in The Herald and The National throw into sharp relief the re-industrialisation and green " just transition" policies being pursued in Gothenburg and Aberdeen. The comparison is stark and disturbing. Lesley's new book "Thrive" is published this Friday If you want to see her in conversation about it or get a signed copy here are the links  Signed copy from Lesley <a href="https://lesleyriddoch.com/books/thrive" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://lesleyriddoch.com/books/thrive</a> Make sure to tick box asking if you want a dedication even if it's no. Otherwise you can't proceed.Also gigs; Aye Write Glasgow – May 26th 19.45 <a href="https://www.glasgowlife.org.uk/event/1/lesley-riddoch-and-neil-findlay-the-futures-of-scotland" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.glasgowlife.org.uk/event/1/lesley-riddoch-and-neil-findlay-the-futures-of-scotland</a>Dundee – June 6th Robert Falcon Scott Suite, Discovery Point 7-9pm with wine Tickets £9 from Eventbrite: <a href="https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/come-and-hear-lesley-riddoch-tickets-630968863857" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/come-and-hear-lesley-riddoch-tickets-630968863857</a> Organiser Jane PhillipsFort William – June 9th Kilmallie Community centre 7PM Admission free Organiser Bill LeesInverness – June 10th 13.30 Spectrum Centre <a href="https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/lesley-riddoch-talk-and-new-book-tickets-629846125717?aff=ebdshpsearchautocomplete" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/lesley-riddoch-talk-and-new-book-tickets-629846125717?aff=ebdshpsearchautocomplete</a> Organiser Kay FrewPerth - June 15th AK Bell Library 7pm <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/lesley-riddoch-thrive-the-freedom-to-flourish-tickets-635942299537" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.eventbrite.com/e/lesley-riddoch-thrive-the-freedom-to-flourish-tickets-635942299537</a> Organiser Jacqui JensenEdinburgh –Thu 22 June 7.30 Toppings. <a href="https://www.toppingbooks.co.uk/events/edinburgh/lesley-riddoch-2023/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.toppingbooks.co.uk/events/edinburgh/lesley-riddoch-2023/</a> with Tommy Sheppard Maybole – Sunday 25th June YES Carrick Public Meeting at 14.00. in the Carrick Centre, Maybole by railway station. <a href="https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/yes-carrick-with-lesley-riddoch-tickets-636512394707" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/yes-carrick-with-lesley-riddoch-tickets-636512394707</a> Organiser Alec Oattes <a href="https://lesleyriddoch.com/podcast/subscribe" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">★ Support this podcast ★</a>

Saying Things Out Loud

Saturday the sixth of May saw two major occasions, the coronation of King Charles III in London and the All Under One Banner march in support of Scottish independence in Glasgow.We compare and contrast the two events and examine their significance not only at UK level but for the Yes Movement and the SNP.The coronation also provided the first opportunity for the Met to exercise the muscle given to them in the rushed through Public Order Act. We discuss not only this but the revelation that if they came to power Labour would not seek to repeal the act.Talking of Labour, they, the Lib/Dems, and the Greens, had good results in last week's English local elections. However, not good enough to guarantee a majority Labour government if repeated at a General Election. The prospect of a hung Parliament prompted the SNP's Westminster leader, Stephen Flynn, to call on Labour voters to lend the SNP their votes to keep out the Tories in Scotland, and to lay out his demands to secure SNP support to prop up a minority Labour administration. We examine the feasibility of this strategy.We also look at the impact of the new voter ID requirements, the growing Conservative influence in public appointments and controversial proposals for "politicisation" of the Civil Service.Lesley's new book, Thrive, is now at the printers. If you want to go along to hear her talk about it here are the links to upcoming eventsGlasgow Aye Write with Neil Findlay May 26https://www.glasgowlife.org.uk/event/1/lesley-riddoch-and-neil-findlay-the-futures-of-scotlandEdinburgh June 22https://www.toppingbooks.co.uk/events/edinburgh/lesley-riddoch-2023/Other June events in Perth, Dundee, Inverness, Fort William and Maybole - details to follow.  ★ Support this podcast ★ 

Saturday the sixth of May saw two major occasions, the coronation of King Charles III in London and the All Under One Banner march in support of Scottish independence in Glasgow. We compare and contrast the two events and examine their significance not only at UK level but for the Yes Movement and the SNP. The coronation also provided the first opportunity for the Met to exercise the muscle given to them in the rushed through Public Order Act. We discuss not only this but the revelation that if they came to power Labour would not seek to repeal the act. Talking of Labour, they, the Lib/Dems, and the Greens, had good results in last week's English local elections. However, not good enough to guarantee a majority Labour government if repeated at a General Election. The prospect of a hung Parliament prompted the SNP's Westminster leader, Stephen Flynn, to call on Labour voters to lend the SNP their votes to keep out the Tories in Scotland, and to lay out his demands to secure SNP support to prop up a minority Labour administration. We examine the feasibility of this strategy. We also look at the impact of the new voter ID requirements, the growing Conservative influence in public appointments and controversial proposals for "politicisation" of the Civil Service. Lesley's new book, Thrive, is now at the printers. If you want to go along to hear her talk about it here are the links to upcoming events Glasgow Aye Write with Neil Findlay May 26 <a href="https://www.glasgowlife.org.uk/event/1/lesley-riddoch-and-neil-findlay-the-futures-of-scotland" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.glasgowlife.org.uk/event/1/lesley-riddoch-and-neil-findlay-the-futures-of-scotland</a> Edinburgh June 22 <a href="https://www.toppingbooks.co.uk/events/edinburgh/lesley-riddoch-2023/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.toppingbooks.co.uk/events/edinburgh/lesley-riddoch-2023/</a> Other June events in Perth, Dundee, Inverness, Fort William and Maybole - details to follow. <a href="https://lesleyriddoch.com/podcast/subscribe" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">★ Support this podcast ★</a>

One Fine Day

 Lesley is in Gothenburg for this episode and while she focuses on its sustainable transport system Pat still manages to get in his lasting pain over the 1987 UEFA Cup Final defeat for Dundee United.Lesley's latest article in The National certainly got the comments flying in its call to focus on the big issues facing the SNP and the broader Yes movement rather than engaging in grieving and gloating. We try and get beneath the reactions to the core of what challenges and opportunities face the SNP membership before the annual conference.Meanwhile Rishi Sunak on his flying visit to the Scottish Tory Party Conference decided that it was a braw idea to exclude the majority of the Scottish press from his post speech press conference. To say that this backfired was an understatement.It can't have escaped our notice, despite at best, apathy in Scotland, that this Saturday will see the coronation of Charles III. We reflect on the pomp and circumstance and the possible own goal by the English Premier League requesting that clubs play the national anthem before all games. A precedent not followed by the Scottish football authorities. We also discuss the tensions inherent in being Scottish FM and a republican for Humza Yousaf and compare his situation with that of Michelle O'Neil leader of Sinn Fein, who'll also be attending the coronation.Edinburgh University cancelled the showing of the documentary Adult Human Female on safety grounds after action by trans rights protestors. This seems to have had a knock-on effect with Joanna Cherry's appearance at The Stand Comedy Club as part of a series of shows during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe also being cancelled due to staff concerns.   ★ Support this podcast ★ 

Lesley is in Gothenburg for this episode and while she focuses on its sustainable transport system Pat still manages to get in his lasting pain over the 1987 UEFA Cup Final defeat for Dundee United. Lesley's latest article in The National certainly got the comments flying in its call to focus on the big issues facing the SNP and the broader Yes movement rather than engaging in grieving and gloating. We try and get beneath the reactions to the core of what challenges and opportunities face the SNP membership before the annual conference.Meanwhile Rishi Sunak on his flying visit to the Scottish Tory Party Conference decided that it was a braw idea to exclude the majority of the Scottish press from his post speech press conference. To say that this backfired was an understatement.It can't have escaped our notice, despite at best, apathy in Scotland, that this Saturday will see the coronation of Charles III. We reflect on the pomp and circumstance and the possible own goal by the English Premier League requesting that clubs play the national anthem before all games. A precedent not followed by the Scottish football authorities. We also discuss the tensions inherent in being Scottish FM and a republican for Humza Yousaf and compare his situation with that of Michelle O'Neil leader of Sinn Fein, who'll also be attending the coronation.Edinburgh University cancelled the showing of the documentary Adult Human Female on safety grounds after action by trans rights protestors. This seems to have had a knock-on effect with Joanna Cherry's appearance at The Stand Comedy Club as part of a series of shows during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe also being cancelled due to staff concerns.  <a href="https://lesleyriddoch.com/podcast/subscribe" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">★ Support this podcast ★</a>

Enough is Enough?

We're back after our two-week hiatus and straight into looking at the mess of the SNP's finances and the struggle to secure auditors before the May 31st deadline. Missing this could lead to the withdrawal of over a million pounds worth of "short money" state support for the Westminster party.The SNP's travails have led Baron Frost to float the idea of rolling back devolution and re-establishing a unitary UK state. Frost may seem like an outlier, but we ask if he is simply expressing the reality of a more muscular Tory unionism which can be seen in the UK internal market legislation and in the first use of a Section 35 Order to halt progress of the Gender Recognition Reform Bill.Humza Yousaf's first act as First Minister has been to challenge the Section 35 Order. We ask, was this wise?Meanwhile as a halt has been put on the Deposit Return Scheme it seems full speed ahead on HPMAs(Highly Protected Marine Areas). Lesley examines these proposals and asks if they are,yet another, example of a top-down centralised Scottish Government mindset.All this plus Dode Foulkes, seaweed, flits, and Jim Goodwin.  ★ Support this podcast ★ 

We're back after our two-week hiatus and straight into looking at the mess of the SNP's finances and the struggle to secure auditors before the May 31st deadline. Missing this could lead to the withdrawal of over a million pounds worth of "short money" state support for the Westminster party. The SNP's travails have led Baron Frost to float the idea of rolling back devolution and re-establishing a unitary UK state. Frost may seem like an outlier, but we ask if he is simply expressing the reality of a more muscular Tory unionism which can be seen in the UK internal market legislation and in the first use of a Section 35 Order to halt progress of the Gender Recognition Reform Bill. Humza Yousaf's first act as First Minister has been to challenge the Section 35 Order. We ask, was this wise? Meanwhile as a halt has been put on the Deposit Return Scheme it seems full speed ahead on HPMAs(Highly Protected Marine Areas).  Lesley examines these proposals and asks if they are,yet another, example of a top-down centralised Scottish Government mindset. All this plus Dode Foulkes, seaweed, flits, and Jim Goodwin. <a href="https://lesleyriddoch.com/podcast/subscribe" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">★ Support this podcast ★</a>

Self Control

The Imagine Belfast Festival is all about high-quality showcases for the discussion of contemporary political and societal issues including new ideas on politics, culture and activism.https://imaginebelfast.com/We were invited over to record an episode of the podcast in front of  both a live audience in the Accidental Theatre and on-line.An audience we wanted to join in.We enjoyed it and hope you do too.  ★ Support this podcast ★ 

The Imagine Belfast Festival is all about high-quality showcases for the discussion of contemporary political and societal issues including new ideas on politics, culture and activism. <a href="https://imaginebelfast.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://imaginebelfast.com/</a> We were invited over to record an episode of the podcast in front of  both a live audience in the Accidental Theatre and on-line. An audience we wanted to join in. We enjoyed it and hope you do too. <a href="https://lesleyriddoch.com/podcast/subscribe" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">★ Support this podcast ★</a>

Live at Imagine Belfast Festival-Podcast Special

A week is certainly a long time in Scottish politics these days and we begin with our thoughts (within the boundaries of the Scots Law of Contempt) on the arrest of Peter Murrell and Police Scotland's search of his and Nicola Sturgeon's home.This inevitably leads us on to the current state of the SNP given the admission of the interim Chief Executive, Mike Russell, and the new leader Humza Yousaf that the party is not in a great place right now.This week also saw the battle lines being drawn up for the next UK General Election with the launch of the Labour Party's attack ads. We ask what the thinking was behind this strategy and speculate on its potential to backfire.Labour, under Starmer, has wrapped itself in the Union Flag and trumpeted its "patriotism" and the media is currently awash with dewy eyed enthusiasm over the coronation of King Charles. Lesley reflects on not just this spectacle and the central role of the monarchy in the UK's class ridden society but the future constitution of an independent Scotland.All of this plus the 25th anniversary of the signing of the Good Friday Agreement and President Joe Biden's visit to both the Republic and Northern Ireland .  ★ Support this podcast ★ 

A week is certainly a long time in Scottish politics these days and we begin with our thoughts (within the boundaries of the Scots Law of Contempt) on the arrest of Peter Murrell and Police Scotland's search of his and Nicola Sturgeon's home. This inevitably leads us on to the current state of the SNP given the admission of the interim Chief Executive, Mike Russell, and the new leader Humza Yousaf that the party is not in a great place right now. This week also saw the battle lines being drawn up for the next UK General Election with the launch of the Labour Party's attack ads. We ask what the thinking was behind this strategy and speculate on its potential to backfire. Labour, under Starmer, has wrapped itself in the Union Flag and trumpeted its "patriotism" and the media is currently awash with dewy eyed enthusiasm over the coronation of King Charles. Lesley reflects on not just this spectacle and the central role of the monarchy in the UK's class ridden society but the future constitution of an independent Scotland. All of this plus the 25th anniversary of the signing of the Good Friday Agreement and President Joe Biden's visit to both the Republic and Northern Ireland . <a href="https://lesleyriddoch.com/podcast/subscribe" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">★ Support this podcast ★</a>

Party Games?

After all the speculation about the shape of Humza Yousaf's Cabinet it's here.We discuss who's in, who's out and the potential for rebellion from the Gang of 15, maybe 18, Kate Forbes supporting MSPs.We also take a closer look at the Green tail wagging the SNP dog narrative.Battle lines are being drawn up and strategies developed for the next General Election. How will all the parties play it? Tacit Tory and Labour agreements? And what about the SNP in light of a probable Labour victory?Sanna Marin's Social Democrats came a narrow third in the recent Finnish elections. Lesley examines this result, its implications, and Finland becoming a member of NATO.And we can't let Donald Trump being charged with falsifying business records and facing trial over his hush money payment to porn star Stormy Daniels just before the 2016 election go unmentioned.If you were intrigued by the two events at the Edinburgh Science Festival Lesley spoke about here are the linksWednesday April 5th at 6pmhttps://www.sciencefestival.co.uk/event-details/the-seaweed-revolutionFriday 14th April at 6pmhttps://www.sciencefestival.co.uk/event-details/how-to-save-a-planet-in-crisis  ★ Support this podcast ★ 

After all the speculation about the shape of Humza Yousaf's Cabinet it's here. We discuss who's in, who's out and the potential for rebellion from the Gang of 15, maybe 18, Kate Forbes supporting MSPs. We also take a closer look at the Green tail wagging the SNP dog narrative. Battle lines are being drawn up and strategies developed for the next General Election. How will all the parties play it? Tacit Tory and Labour agreements? And what about the SNP in light of a probable Labour victory? Sanna Marin's Social Democrats came a narrow third in the recent Finnish elections. Lesley examines this result, its implications, and Finland becoming a member of NATO. And we can't let Donald Trump being charged with falsifying business records and facing trial over his hush money payment to porn star Stormy Daniels just before the 2016 election go unmentioned. If you were intrigued by the two events at the Edinburgh Science Festival Lesley spoke about here are the linksWednesday April 5th at 6pm <a href="https://www.sciencefestival.co.uk/event-details/the-seaweed-revolution" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.sciencefestival.co.uk/event-details/the-seaweed-revolution</a> Friday 14th April at 6pm <a href="https://www.sciencefestival.co.uk/event-details/how-to-save-a-planet-in-crisis" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.sciencefestival.co.uk/event-details/how-to-save-a-planet-in-crisis</a> <a href="https://lesleyriddoch.com/podcast/subscribe" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">★ Support this podcast ★</a>

What'Cha Gonna Do About It

Humza Yousaf narrowly defeated Kate Forbes to become the new leader of the SNP and First Minister.We look back at the campaign, the result itself, the platform he stood and speculate on how he can re-unite the party, invigorate the broader Yes movement and advance the cause of independence.We also compare and contrast his moving tribute to his migrant grandparents, and how their story inspires his commitment to social and economic justice , with the continuing Westminster disgrace of the Illegal Migration Bill.Lesley looks at the bold agenda being pursued by Labour's Mark Drakeford in Wales, working in cooperation with Plaid Cymru, and asks what lessons both the Scottish Government and Scottish Labour could learn from this.  ★ Support this podcast ★ 

Humza Yousaf narrowly defeated Kate Forbes to become the new leader of the SNP and First Minister. We look back at the campaign, the result itself, the platform he stood and speculate on how he can re-unite the party, invigorate the broader Yes movement and advance the cause of independence. We also compare and contrast his moving tribute to his migrant grandparents, and how their story inspires his commitment to social and economic justice , with the continuing Westminster disgrace of the Illegal Migration Bill. Lesley looks at the bold agenda being pursued by Labour's Mark Drakeford in Wales, working in cooperation with Plaid Cymru, and asks what lessons both the Scottish Government and Scottish Labour could learn from this. <a href="https://lesleyriddoch.com/podcast/subscribe" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">★ Support this podcast ★</a>

All Change?

It should come as no surprise that we spend most of this week's episode focusing on the weekend events that saw Peter Murrell resign as Chief Executive of the SNP after taking responsibility for misleading the media about party membership numbers.We ask if this latest twist in the leadership contest will be a threat to the dominance of the SNP in Scottish politics or an opportunity for the new leader and their team?Political commentators have been quick to jump to the conclusion that these SNP travails present an opportunity for a resurgence in Scottish Labour. Do they?Much of the televised debates have been taken up with the candidates  and chairs highlighting failures and deficiencies in Scottish government policies however should more be made of its successes such as the effect Minimum Unit Pricing for Alcohol has had on saving lives and preventing hospitalisation?Meanwhile the Tory Westminster "Stop the Boats" policy took yet another step in its propaganda trail with the trip by Home Secretary Suella Braverman to Kigali where she posed laughing in front of the new camps being created for expelled asylum seekers all the while being followed by a select band of right wing media outlets eager to promote her agenda.We'll be recording two live events at the Imagine Belfast Festival on Thursday if either you or yours fancy seeing us in the flesh tickets are available athttps://imaginebelfast.com/events/the-lesley-riddoch-podcast-live/https://imaginebelfast.com/events/scottish-independence-mibbes-aye-mibbes-naw/  ★ Support this podcast ★ 

It should come as no surprise that we spend most of this week's episode focusing on the weekend events that saw Peter Murrell resign as Chief Executive of the SNP after taking responsibility for misleading the media about party membership numbers. We ask if this latest twist in the leadership contest will be a threat to the dominance of the SNP in Scottish politics or an opportunity for the new leader and their team? Political commentators have been quick to jump to the conclusion that these SNP travails present an opportunity for a resurgence in Scottish Labour. Do they? Much of the televised debates have been taken up with the candidates  and chairs highlighting failures and deficiencies in Scottish government policies however should more be made of its successes such as the effect Minimum Unit Pricing for Alcohol has had on saving lives and preventing hospitalisation? Meanwhile the Tory Westminster "Stop the Boats" policy took yet another step in its propaganda trail with the trip by Home Secretary Suella Braverman to Kigali where she posed laughing in front of the new camps being created for expelled asylum seekers all the while being followed by a select band of right wing media outlets eager to promote her agenda. We'll be recording two live events at the Imagine Belfast Festival on Thursday if either you or yours fancy seeing us in the flesh tickets are available at <a href="https://imaginebelfast.com/events/the-lesley-riddoch-podcast-live/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://imaginebelfast.com/events/the-lesley-riddoch-podcast-live/</a> <a href="https://imaginebelfast.com/events/scottish-independence-mibbes-aye-mibbes-naw/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://imaginebelfast.com/events/scottish-independence-mibbes-aye-mibbes-naw/</a> <a href="https://lesleyriddoch.com/podcast/subscribe" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">★ Support this podcast ★</a>

A Numbers Game?

As voting for the new leader of the SNP leader opens we look at the most recent candidates' debates and hustings and how they've been conducted.In particular we compare and contrast the style and content of the Sky debate and the STUG/National hustings.The BBC has hardly covered itself in glory this week with the Gary Lineker affair, Fiona Bruce's ill judged, to say the least, "One off"  domestic violence remark on Question Time and the missing David Attenborough episode. Is its much vaunted impartiality now forever tainted by inconsistency of application and the presence of Tories in significant senior management roles?We also examine the passage of the Tory government’s Illegal Migration Bill and the myth of  Britain as a haven for refugees.All this plus our trip to Belfast for the "Imagine Belfast" festivalhttps://imaginebelfast.com/  ★ Support this podcast ★ 

As voting for the new leader of the SNP leader opens we look at the most recent candidates' debates and hustings and how they've been conducted. In particular we compare and contrast the style and content of the Sky debate and the STUG/National hustings. The BBC has hardly covered itself in glory this week with the Gary Lineker affair, Fiona Bruce's ill judged, to say the least, "One off"  domestic violence remark on Question Time and the missing David Attenborough episode. Is its much vaunted impartiality now forever tainted by inconsistency of application and the presence of Tories in significant senior management roles? We also examine the passage of the Tory government’s Illegal Migration Bill and the myth of  Britain as a haven for refugees. All this plus our trip to Belfast for the "Imagine Belfast" festival<a href="https://imaginebelfast.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> https://imaginebelfast.com/</a> <a href="https://lesleyriddoch.com/podcast/subscribe" rel="payment nofollow" target="_blank">★ Support this podcast ★</a>

Fighting Talk

Zero ratings?  I stumbled upon this from my U.S. west coast home and thoroughly enjoyed the discussion. Nae doubt, as I listen more and learn more about Lesley Riddoch and her co-presenter, there will be some I like and some not so much. I do remember seeing a copy of Harpies &amp; Quines way back in the 90s and maybe that was where I first heard her name.

Lesley Riddoch show

The Lesley Riddoch Podcast

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