Assisted Dying, Buildings Burn & Starmer Under Pressure

Go Radio Politics Show: March 15th, 2026.

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

Bernard Ponsonby leads a panel of political heavyweights through three of the most contentious topics dominating Scottish and UK politics right now.

Assisted Dying: Scotland’s Tipping Point?

With a knife‑edge vote looming, Rona MacKay (SNP,) Brian Whittle (Conservatives), Katherine Sangster (Labour) and Brian Monteith (Reform UK) dissect Scotland’s Assisted Dying Bill — its safeguards, moral dilemmas, political pressures, and whether palliative care is ready for such a historic shift.

Key highlights:

• Why this bill is “too close to call” — and why MSPs are agonising over it.
• The clash between personal conscience and parliamentary evidence.
• Does assisted dying strengthen or undermine palliative care?
• Predictions: will it pass or fall by just a handful of votes?

Glasgow Fire & Scotland’s Built Heritage Crisis

Following the devastating Union Street fire, the panel takes on the growing crisis around Scotland’s architectural heritage.
From under‑funded councils to the rise of risky, unregulated vape shops, they explore whether Scotland is doing enough to protect its historic heart.

Key highlights:

• Why Glasgow’s architectural gems are “sleepwalking into decline.”
• The real fire risks behind lithium batteries and vape stores.
• Should councils get more powers — or just more money?
• Glasgow vs. Edinburgh: are both cities losing their shine?
• Should the city compulsorily purchase iconic sites to protect them.

The Mandelson Papers & Starmer’s Judgement Under Fire

The newly released documents surrounding Peter Mandelson’s appointment ignite a fiery debate on Keir Starmer’s decision‑making.
From ignored warnings to political fallout, the panel unpacks what this means for Labour in Scotland, Reform UK’s rise — and whether the Prime Minister is now a “dead man walking.”

Key highlights:

• Did we learn anything new — or just confirm the worst?
• Why ignoring official red flags may haunt Labour in the election.
• Does Starmer’s leadership help or hurt Labour north of the border?
• Is the SNP’s best asset… the PM himself?
• Who really comes second on election night: Labour, Tories, or Reform?

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