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The Go Radio Politics Show is hosted by veteran political journalist Bernard Ponsonby, this is the show for the people - cutting through the noise to focus on what truly matters in Scottish politics. Bernard leads the way with sharp analysis, spirited debate, and unfiltered commentary. Whether you’re deeply political or just politically curious, this is your space to listen, learn, and join the conversation.
Episodes
Monday Jul 28, 2025
Monday Jul 28, 2025
Go Radio Politics Show: July 28th, 2025
This is a catch-up version of Bernard Ponsonby's live, weekly Sunday show on Go Radio.
Guests:
Alex Neil: Former SNP MSP and Health Secretary
Martin McCluskey: Scottish Labour MP for Inverclyde and Renfrewshire West
In this episode, Bernard Ponsonby leads a robust discussion on the political implications of Donald Trump's visit to Scotland, the future of public sector reform, and the emergence of Jeremy Corbyn’s new political party.
The panel debates the cost of political visits, the recognition of Palestine, the state of the Conservative Party, and the sustainability of public services in Scotland.
[00:01:40]
Donald Trump’s Visit: Private or Political?
Martin McCluskey argues it's a working visit; Alex Neil discusses who should foot the bill.
[00:03:11]
Palestinian Statehood Debate
Discussion on whether the UK should recognise Palestine.
[00:07:14]
Kemi Badenoch’s Reshuffle & Tory Turmoil
Martin calls it “shuffling deck chairs on the Titanic.” Alex compares it to historical political reshuffles and critiques Tory credibility.
[00:11:02]
Reform UK’s Rise & Conservative Decline
Debate on whether Reform UK could replace the Tories. Concerns raised about Farage’s influence and Labour’s performance.
[00:13:50]
Mhairi Black Quits SNP & Politics
Reflections on Mhairi Black’s early exit from politics. Both guests lament the loss of a talented young voice.
[00:18:50]
Public Sector Reform & Fiscal Sustainability
Discussion about the Scottish Government’s £1 billion savings plan, inefficiencies in health boards, and the need for tax reform.
[00:28:53]
Local Government Reform
Debate on the need to restructure Scotland’s 32 councils and reduce duplication.
[00:33:55]
The Role of the State & Political Culture
Bernard challenges the panel on the lack of strategic thinking in Scottish governance.
[00:38:44]
Jeremy Corbyn’s New Party: Threat or Fizzle?
Martin dismisses its chances; Alex warns it could siphon votes from Labour and SNP, affecting marginal seats.
[00:48:32]
Fragmentation & Governability in 2026
Concerns raised about a “rainbow parliament” and the difficulty of forming a stable government post-election.
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Scottish politics podcast, Bernard Ponsonby Go Radio, Donald Trump Scotland visit, Scottish public sector reform, Jeremy Corbyn new party, SNP vs Labour Scotland, Mhairi Black resignation, Scottish Parliament elections 2026, Reform UK Scotland, Palestine recognition UK
Sunday Jul 20, 2025
Sunday Jul 20, 2025
Go Radio Politics Show: July 20th, 2025
This is a catch-up version of Bernard Ponsonby's live, weekly Sunday show on Go Radio covering Trump in Scotland, Protest Politics, and Labour Dissent.
Summary
Donald Trump’s visit to Scotland sparks debate - should UK and Scottish leaders meet him?
Bernard Ponsonby and the panel explore the diplomatic stakes, trade tensions, and climate controversy. Artist Alastair McCallum discusses Glasgow’s protest art legacy, and Tommy Sheridan reflects on the anti-poll tax movement. Plus, Labour suspensions raise questions about party discipline and political loyalty.
Panel:
Rona Mackay: SNP MSP
Graeme Downey:Labour MP
Lord Malcolm Offord: Scottish Conservative Peer
Guests:
Tommy Sheridan: Former Parliamentarian
Alistair McCallum: Photographer
This week on the Go Radio Politics Show with Bernard Ponsonby:
[00:00:05]
Trump’s visit, protest art, Labour suspensions
[00:02:04]
Should Starmer and Swinney meet Trump? Panel debate
[00:06:51]
What will Trump hear from Scotland’s leaders?
[00:11:09]
Trade deals, tariffs, and UK–US economic ties
[00:12:05]
NATO, defence spending, and Europe’s security shift
[00:18:04]
Glasgow’s protest art exhibition with Alastair McCallum
[00:22:54] T
Tommy Sheridan on the anti-poll tax movement
[00:30:19]
Are young people today less politically active?
[00:36:44]
Labour suspensions: Starmer’s crackdown on dissent
[00:44:53]
Loyalty to party vs. constituents: where should MPs stand?
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For more Go Creative Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/
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Trump Scotland visit 2025, Donald Trump UK trip, Trump and Keir Starmer meeting, Trump and John Swinney, Trump Scottish golf courses, Trump UK trade relations, Trump and UK politics, Trump and climate change, Trump and Gaza comments, Trump and wind energy
Sunday Jul 13, 2025
Sunday Jul 13, 2025
Go Radio Politics Show: July 13, 2025
This is a catch-up version of Bernard Ponsonby's live, weekly Sunday show on Go Radio.
Host: Bernard Ponsonby
Guests:
Dorothy Grace Elder: Campaigning and investigative journalist and former MSP
Jim Eadie: Director of Strategy and Communications for ALBA Party
Daniel Johnson: Labour MSP currently leading business, economy and fair work
Ross Greer: Scottish Green Party, MSP for West Scotland
Jim Monaghan: Writer and Poet.
Episode Summary
In this episode, Bernard Ponsonby dives into the shifting sands of Scottish and UK politics. With the Scottish Greens entering a leadership contest, front-runner Ross Greer lays out his vision for the party’s future.
Meanwhile, veteran socialist Jim Monaghan discusses the potential launch of a new left-wing party led by Jeremy Corbyn.
The panel also debates political heroes and villains, from Harold Wilson to Margaret Thatcher.
Episode Highlights
[00:02:00]
Scottish Greens: “Good guys or bad guys?”
The panel debates the Greens’ record and internal party tensions.
[00:06:00]
Interview: Ross Greer on Green Party leadership, free bus travel, and independence
Ross Greer lays out his vision for a greener, fairer Scotland.
[00:16:00]
Panel reaction to Greer’s proposals
Critics weigh in on the feasibility and fairness of Greer’s policies.
[00:22:00]
Interview: Jim Monaghan on a new left-wing party and Jeremy Corbyn’s role
Could Corbyn lead a new political force on the left?
[00:29:00]
Panel analysis: Can a new party succeed in Scotland?
The guests explore whether a new left party can break through.
[00:40:00]
Political Heroes: Wilson, Salmond, Canavan
Tributes to political giants who shaped modern Scotland and the UK.
[00:48:00]
Political Villains: Thatcher, Sturgeon, Cameron
The panel names and shames their most reviled political figures.
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For more Go Creative Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/
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Scottish Green Party leadership, Ross Greer interview, Free bus travel Scotland, Scottish independence 2026, Jeremy Corbyn new party, Jim Monaghan socialist party, Scottish politics podcast, Go Radio Politics Show, Bernard Ponsonby, Political heroes and villains, Margaret Thatcher Scotland, Harold Wilson legacy, SNP and Greens coalition, Scottish Labour response, ALBA Party strategy
Sunday Jul 06, 2025
Sunday Jul 06, 2025
Air Date: July 6, 2025
This is a catch-up version of Bernard Ponsonby's live, weekly Sunday show on Go Radio.
Guests:
Zubir Ahmed (Labour MP, Glasgow South West)
Ruairi Kelly (SNP, Glasgow City Councillor)
Rachael Hamilton (Scottish Conservatives MSP)
Kenny MacAskill (Leader, Alba Party)
Headlines
One year of Labour government – success or failure?
Scottish independence movement – Kenny MacAskill interview
Chancellor's emotional moment in Parliament
[00:02:20]
Labour’s First Year in Government
Ruairi Kelly (SNP): Calls Labour’s year “atrocious.”
Zubir Ahmed (Labour): Defends achievements like the Employment Rights Bill, NHS roadmap, and trade deals.
Rachael Hamilton (Conservative): Criticises U-turns on winter fuel payments, welfare reform, and tax hikes.
[00:07:16]
Scottish Budget Consequentials
Ruairi highlights SNP’s use of block grant to reduce child poverty.
Rachael and Bernard debate fiscal responsibility and national debt.
[00:12:36]
Rise of Reform UK
Bernard notes that despite Labour’s struggles, SNP and Conservatives aren’t benefiting—Reform UK is.
Ruairi warns against reactionary politics and stresses need for hope-based campaigns.
[00:14:56]
Leadership & U-Turns
Bernard questions Starmer’s authority after repeated U-turns.
Zubir defends pragmatism and Labour’s £9.1B uplift to Scotland.
[00:17:33]
Future Tax Rises?
Rachael predicts tax increases due to abandoned welfare cuts.
Emphasises need for rebuilding public trust and offering a positive vision.
Scottish Independence
[00:21:58]
Kenny MacAskill (Alba Party)
Criticises Nicola Sturgeon for stalling the independence movement.
Calls for 2026 Holyrood election to be on independence.
Accuses SNP leadership of drift and lack of strategy.
[00:26:39]
SNP’s Reluctance & Alba’s Strategy
Alba aims to pressure SNP and win over disillusioned independence supporters.
[00:30:34]
Alba vs. Greens on the List Vote
MacAskill argues Alba is now a better list vote than Greens.
Blames Greens for unpopular policies like LEZ and ferry issues.
[00:32:44]
SNP Governance Record
MacAskill criticises SNP’s competence and economic management.
Says Labour is worse, and Reform UK is a frightening prospect.
[00:35:25]
Alex Salmond Conspiracy Allegations
MacAskill alleges political conspiracy against Salmond.
Claims the ordeal contributed to Salmond’s early death.
Panel Reaction & Emotional Politics
[00:37:53]
Reaction to MacAskill’s Claims
Ruairi: Explosive but unverified.
Zubir: Highlights SNP’s internal fractures.
Rachael: Calls it a conspiracy theory, but respects Salmond’s legacy.
[00:45:35]
Emotions in Politics
Discussion on Rachel Reeves’ emotional moment in Parliament.
Ruairi: Emotions are human, not weakness.
Zubir: Politicians often hide emotions; Reeves showed strength.
Rachael: Criticises Starmer for lack of support; highlights abuse faced by women in politics.
[00:50:34]
Social Media & Abuse
Ruairi: Local councillors face less abuse, but women bear the brunt.
Zubir: Emotional toll is real; anonymity fuels toxicity.
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For more Go Creative Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/
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Keir Starmer first year in office, Labour government UK 2025, Labour U-turns and controversies, Scottish independence 2026, Alba Party vs SNP, Kenny MacAskill interview, UK politics podcast, Westminster Labour record, Scottish political debate, Rachel Reeves emotional moment, SNP leadership criticism, Reform UK surge, Holyrood 2026 election, UK welfare reform debate, Political conspiracy Alex Salmond
Sunday Jun 29, 2025
Sunday Jun 29, 2025
Air Date: June 29, 2025
This is a catch-up version of Bernard Ponsonby's live, weekly Sunday show on Go Radio.
Host: Bernard Ponsonby
Guests:
Ian Blackford: Former SNP Westminster Leader
Douglas Lumsden: Scottish Conservative MSP
Sir Tom Clarke: Former Labour MP and author
This episode dives into Scotland’s most pressing political and social issues. The show opens with a heated debate on the NHS crisis, where guests Ian Blackford and Douglas Lumsden clash over cancer treatment delays, long waiting times, and the rise of private healthcare.
The conversation then shifts to Sir Tom Clarke’s explosive memoir, which delivers scathing critiques of Donald Dewar and candid reflections on Labour’s internal politics.
Finally, the panel looks ahead to the 2026 Holyrood election, discussing independence, coalition possibilities, and the future of Scottish leadership.
Episode Highlights
[00:02:10]
Ian Blackford on NHS Performance
Defends SNP’s record
Highlights recovery plans and increased appointments
Acknowledges patient frustration
[00:05:09]
Douglas Lumsden Responds
Criticises SNP’s 20-year record
Highlights long waits for basic services
Calls for NHS redesign and GP reform
[00:07:28]
Two-Tier Health System Debate
Discussion on private healthcare rise
BMA’s warning: NHS “dying before our eyes”
Equity and access concerns
[00:20:08]
Interview: Sir Tom Clarke
Reflections on John Smith and Tony Blair
Explosive claims about Donald Dewar
Labour Party internal politics and memoir insights
[00:34:33]
Reactions to Clarke’s Memoir
Guests reflect on political memoirs
Discussion on party infighting and leadership dynamics
[00:45:25]
Holyrood 2026 Election Preview
Will independence dominate the campaign?
Coalition scenarios and party strategies
SNP’s roadmap (or lack thereof) for independence
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For more Go Creative Podcasts, head to: https://thisisgo.co.uk/podcasts/
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NHS Scotland, cancer treatment, private healthcare, Scottish politics, Holyrood election, independence, Labour Party, political memoirs, Donald Dewar, John Smith, Tony Blair, SNP, Scottish Conservatives, Ian Blackford, Douglas Lumsden, Sir Tom Clarke, Donald Dewar, John Smith, Tony Blair, Nicola Sturgeon, Fergus Ewing, Kenny MacAskill
Sunday Jun 22, 2025
Sunday Jun 22, 2025
Air Date: June 22, 2025
Host: Bernard Ponsonby
This is a catch-up version of Bernard Ponsonby's live, weekly Sunday show on Go Radio.
Guests:
Blair McDougall: Labour MP for East Renfrewshire. Former campaign director of the "Better Together" campaign during the 2014 Scottish independence referendum.
Ivan McKee, MSP: Scottish Government Minister for Public Finance. Former Minister for Business, Trade, Tourism, and Enterprise.
Robina Qureshi: Chief Executive of the charity Positive Action in Housing. Longtime campaigner for refugee and migrant rights and prominent human rights advocate.
In this episode of the Go Radio Politics Show, the panel tackled three major issues shaping Scottish, UK and global politics.
The show opens with a heated debate on the legality and consequences of recent U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, with guests expressing deep concern over escalating tensions in the Middle East and their economic and humanitarian fallout.
The conversation then shifts to the UK government's proposed welfare reforms, which aim to cut £5 billion from disability benefits—sparking debate over fairness, sustainability, and the impact on vulnerable citizens, particularly in Scotland.
Finally, the panel explore the growing role of independent politicians, prompted by Fergus Ewing’s decision to run as an independent MSP, and reflected on the balance between party loyalty, personal conscience, and constituent representation.
[00:02:18]
Middle East Conflict: Iran, Israel, and U.S. Bombings
Discussion on U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.
Legal and diplomatic implications debated by Blair McDougall, Ivan McKee, and Robina Qureshi.
Concerns over international law, nuclear deterrence, and echoes of the Iraq war.
Economic consequences of escalating conflict, including oil price spikes and inflation.
[00:21:52]
Gaza and the Two-State Solution
Panel reflects on the viability of a two-state solution.
Emotional and political fallout from the Gaza conflict.
Robina Qureshi shares insights from working with families in Gaza.
Calls for international investment in peace-building and moderate leadership.
[00:27:29]
UK Welfare Reform and Disability Benefits
New bill proposes cuts to PIP and Universal Credit to save £5 billion.
Blair McDougall discusses the balance between support and sustainability.
Ivan McKee outlines the Scottish Government’s preventative investment strategy.
Robina Qureshi highlights the impact on vulnerable populations and asylum seekers.
[00:50:29]
Independent Politics and Fergus Ewing’s Announcement
Debate on the role of independent MSPs in holding governments accountable.
Reflections on the legacy of Margo MacDonald and the value of political independence.
Final thoughts from panellists on loyalty to party vs. constituents and conscience.
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UK politics podcast, Middle East conflict analysis, Welfare reform debate, Scottish politics, Go Radio Politics Show, Iran Israel US tensions, Labour welfare cuts, Independent MSP Fergus Ewing, Disability benefits UK, Gaza two-state solution
#UKPolitics, #MiddleEastCrisis, #WelfareReform, #ScottishPolitics, #GoRadio, #GazaCrisis, #DisabilityRights, #IndependentVoices, #IranIsrael,
Sunday Jun 15, 2025
Sunday Jun 15, 2025
Air Date: June 15, 2025
This is a catch-up version of Bernard Ponsonby's live, weekly Sunday show on Go Radio.
Host: Bernard Ponsonby
Guests:
Paul Sweeney: Labour MSP
Jamie Greene: Scottish Liberal Democrat MSP, formerly Conservative
Anne McLaughlin: Scottish National Party
Coming up:
- UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ spending review
- Fallout from the Hamilton by-election
- Sheku Bayo public inquiry controversy
- King’s Birthday Honours debate
[00:02:44]
Spending Review: Good Deal or Bad Deal?
Paul Sweeney (Labour): Calls it a “very good deal” with significant UK investment in Scotland.
Anne McLaughlin (SNP): Strongly disagrees, citing Fraser of Allander Institute’s critique and lack of Scottish fiscal autonomy.
Jamie Greene (Lib Dem): Mixed view; acknowledges benefits of UK union but criticizes short-term budgeting and fiscal mismanagement.
[00:08:08]
Real Terms Increase?
Debate over whether the spending increase is real or just nominal.
Anne McLaughlin: Says no, citing inflation and independent analysis.
Paul Sweeney: Points to broader UK investments benefiting Scotland.
[00:10:05]
NHS Funding: Ring-Fenced or Flexible?
Jamie Greene: Argues for ring-fencing NHS funds; criticizes SNP’s fiscal management.
Anne McLaughlin: Defends pay settlements as essential NHS spending.
Paul Sweeney: Emphasizes NHS staff retention and broader health system reform.
[00:15:00]
Budget Priorities for 2025
Jamie Greene: Economic growth and social care.
Anne McLaughlin: Health, based on personal carer experience.
Paul Sweeney: NHS reboot to reduce long-term sickness and social security costs.
[00:21:50]
Leadership Crisis in SNP?
Discussion of alleged secret meeting to oust John Swinney.
Anne McLaughlin: Dismisses the story as fiction.
Jamie Green: Criticises Conservative leadership strategy.
Paul Sweeney: Sees Labour momentum and Swinney as symbol of SNP’s long tenure.
[00:29:48]
Public Trust in Politicians
All agree public cynicism is high.
Discussion on broken promises, media influence, and the need for political honesty.
Paul Sweeney: Calls for structural reform and long-term thinking in government.
Anne McLaughlin: Defends politicians’ intentions but criticizes media portrayal.
[00:41:09]
Sheku Bayo Inquiry: Should Lord Bracadale Step Down?
Jamie Greene: Concerned about public confidence and cost of inquiries.
Anne McLaughlin: Strongly defends Bracadale; says meetings with family are standard.
Paul Sweeney: Criticises Solicitor General’s intervention; calls for parliamentary explanation.
[00:51:14]
Honours System: Reform or Scrap?
Anne McLaughlin: Wouldn’t accept an honour; praises Sir Geoff Palmer’s reasons for accepting.
Paul Sweeney: Supports reform and broader accessibility.
Jamie Greene: Supports honours for community service, not for elites or donors.
Join the Conversation
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Go Radio Politics Show, Scottish political podcast, UK politics podcast 2025, Bernard Ponsonby podcast, Scottish Parliament debate, Political panel discussion Scotland, UK spending review, Scotland block grant 2025, NHS Scotland funding debate, Scottish fiscal autonomy, Fraser of Allander Institute analysis, Scottish economic policy 2025, Labour vs SNP spending views, NHS Scotland budget priorities, Scottish healthcare funding crisis, Social care reform Scotland, Pay disputes in Scottish NHS, Public sector pay settlements Scotland, Hamilton by-election fallout, SNP leadership crisis 2025, John Swinney SNP leadership, Anas Sarwar Scottish Labour, Scottish Holyrood election 2026, Sheku Bayo public inquiry, Lord Bracadale controversy, Scottish Police Federation inquiry, Public inquiry process Scotland.
Sunday Jun 08, 2025
Sunday Jun 08, 2025
Air Date: June 8, 2025
This is a catch-up version of Bernard Ponsonby's live, weekly Sunday show on Go Radio.
Host: Bernard Ponsonby
Guests: Mark Diffley from the Diffley Partnership, Reform UK's Thomas Kerr, Scottish Labour MSP Pauline McNeill and Stewart McDonald Former SNP MP for Glasgow South.
In the first episode of the Go Radio Politics Show, Bernard Ponsonby dives into the political shockwaves from the Hamilton, Larkhall, and Stonehouse by-election.
Labour's unexpected win, the SNP's dramatic vote drop, and Reform UK's meteoric rise to 26.1% are dissected with expert guests. The panel explores implications for the 2026 Holyrood elections, the future of public services, and the constitutional debate around Scottish independence. Reform UK's policy positions and funding challenges are scrutinised, and the episode closes with a light-hearted take on the Trump-Musk fallout.
[00:03:00]
Mark Diffley Analyses the Numbers
SNP vote drops 17%, Labour wins despite 2% fall
Reform UK's 26.1% vote share shocks analysts
[00:07:41]
Reform UK’s Rise: What It Means
Reform UK poised to gain 10–17 MSPs in 2026
Proportional representation impact at Holyrood
[00:10:10]
Thomas Kerr (Reform UK)
Reform’s plans to contest all 73 constituencies
Membership surge post-by-election
Policy gaps and manifesto development
[00:12:40]
Funding Formula Debate
Barnett Formula under scrutiny
Reform UK’s stance: review and potential overhaul
[00:18:25]
Public Sector Pensions Controversy
Reform’s proposal to shift from final salary to contribution-based pensions
Potential impact on teachers, police, and NHS workers
[00:25:13]
SNP’s Internal Challenges & Ground Game
Stewart McDonald on SNP’s need for modernisation
Policy delivery and digital campaigning gaps
[00:28:20]
Labour’s Campaign Success
Pauline McNeill on Labour’s grassroots strategy
Candidate familiarity and local engagement
[00:38:44]
NHS & Public Services in 2026
Labour and SNP strategies for healthcare reform
Voter expectations on GP access, A&E, and surgeries
[00:43:52]
Independence Referendum Debate
Is the constitutional question “dead”?
Grounds for a second referendum
SNP’s manifesto strategy for independence
[00:52:21]
Chancellor’s Spending Review Preview
Expectations from Rachel Reeves’ statement
Winter fuel allowance, NHS funding, and defence budget
[00:55:35]
Trump, Musk & the Super-Rich in Politics
Final thoughts on billionaires in politics
Scottish by-election 2025, Reform UK Scotland 2026, SNP vs Labour Scotland, Barnett Formula review, Scottish independence referendum 2026, NHS Scotland crisis, Rachel Reeves spending review, Thomas Kerr Reform UK, Pauline McNeill Labour MSP, Stewart McDonald SNP strategy