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PODCAST

Holyrood Sources

Shortbread Media

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

news

All Episodes

27:13

Labour WIN Hamilton by-election

Holyrood Sources ·

2025/06/06

Labour defeats the SNP to win the by-election in Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse - a Scottish Parliament seat - with Reform UK finishing third. We bring you instant analysis. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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49:38

Farage in Scotland and Labour's By-Election Shambles

Holyrood Sources ·

2025/06/04

In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, hosts Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein, and Andy Maciver focus on retail politics, election strategies, and the implications of Nigel Farage's recent visit to Scotland. They discuss the effectiveness of political messaging, the challenges faced by the Labour Party, and the need for a more substantial political offer in the upcoming election. The conversation highlights the importance of addressing voter concerns and the risks of dismissive rhetoric

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49:53

Will Reform UK win an MSP in Scotland?

Holyrood Sources ·

2025/05/28

In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, the hosts discuss the upcoming Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse by-election, focusing on the dynamics between the SNP, Labour, and Reform UK. They explore the impact of controversial campaign tactics, the reception of candidates, and the shifting sentiments among voters. The conversation highlights the unpredictability of Scottish politics and the significance of this by-election in shaping future political narratives. With journalists Catriona

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55:47

Betrayal? The EU reset and Scottish fishing

Holyrood Sources ·

2025/05/21

In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, the hosts focus on the potential for federalism as a solution to constitutional questions. They discuss the challenges faced by the SNP and unionist parties, particularly in relation to devolution and the energy sector. The conversation also highlights the fishing industry's struggles with EU negotiations and the broader implications for local communities in Scotland. The conversation looks at the implications of Brexit on Scotland's fishing industry,

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1:01:29

Michael Shanks, Energy Minister, on the North Sea...

Holyrood Sources ·

2025/05/17

In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, Energy Minister Michael Shanks discusses the establishment and significance of Great British Energy, the investment commitments associated with it, and the potential of floating offshore wind. The conversation also considers into the challenges posed by policies affecting Scotland's renewable energy sector, as well as the transition of jobs from the oil and gas industry to renewable energy roles. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the urgent

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42:12

How close is Scotland to legalised assisted dying?

Holyrood Sources ·

2025/05/14

In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, the hosts delve into key issues in Scottish politics, including the decentralisation of governance, the recent debate on assisted dying legislation, and the implications of current polling trends for political parties. They discuss the emotional and personal nature of parliamentary debates, the challenges faced by MSPs in articulating their positions, and the potential future of Scottish independence amidst rising nationalism. Hosted on Acast. See

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40:06

One Year to Election Day

Holyrood Sources ·

2025/05/08

In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, hosts Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein, and Andy Maciver discuss the recent Programme for Government announced by John Swinney, the implications for the upcoming 2026 election, and the impact of Nicola Sturgeon's comments on the Supreme Court ruling regarding the definition of a woman. The conversation also touches on the rise of Reform UK and the challenges it poses to traditional Scottish parties, as well as speculations about potential cabinet

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33:04

One year until Holyrood elections

Holyrood Sources ·

2025/05/07

In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, hosts Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein, and Andy Maciver discus the recent Program for Government announced by John Swinney, the implications of upcoming elections, and the internal dynamics of the SNP regarding independence. They also reflect on Nicola Sturgeon's recent comments following a Supreme Court ruling and speculate on the political speeches from various leaders as the election approaches. The conversation highlights the challenges and

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57:55

Blair's Net Zero Attack & Local Elections

Holyrood Sources ·

2025/04/30

In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, the hosts delve into the current state of Scottish politics, discussing Tony Blair's recent comments on net zero policies and their implications. They explore the recent Canadian election results and what they mean for political dynamics in Scotland. The discussion also revolves around the upcoming local elections in England, focusing on the significance of Reform UK and its potential impact on the Conservative and Labour parties. Adam Boulton

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54:20

What is a woman? With Susan Smith

Holyrood Sources ·

2025/04/23

We consider the implications of the recent Supreme Court ruling that defines a woman by biological sex under equalities law. The discussion features insights from political figures and grassroots activists, particularly Susan Smith from For Women Scotland, who reflects on the ruling's impact on women's rights and the ongoing political discourse surrounding gender identity. The conversation highlights the need for clarity in leadership, the challenges faced by women and trans individuals, and the

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32:12

Questions, answered

Holyrood Sources ·

2025/04/16

In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, we answer your questions on various pressing issues in Scottish politics, including the potential for a new centre-right party, the challenges of welfare reform and economic growth, the state of the education system, and the quality of political candidates. We discuss the need for a more inclusive political landscape and the importance of addressing the funding crisis in Scottish universities. The conversation highlights the interconnectedness of

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58:32

Tory Defections and Alba’s Vision… with Jamie Greene...

Holyrood Sources ·

2025/04/09

In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein and Andy Maciver discuss the significance of Tartan Week, the recent defection of Jamie Greene from the Scottish Conservatives to the Liberal Democrats, and the challenges faced by political parties in Scotland. The conversation highlights the tribal nature of the Scottish Parliament, the shifting political landscape, and the implications of these changes for the future of the Scottish Conservatives and the broader

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39:01

Can the SNP win the Hamilton by-election?

Holyrood Sources ·

2025/04/02

In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, the hosts reflect on the recent passing of SNP MSP Christina McKelvie, discuss the implications of her death on the upcoming by-election in Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse, and analyse the potential impact of President Trump's new tariffs on Scottish businesses. They also look at the leadership of Kenny MacAskill in the Alba party and the challenges he faces in uniting the party and presenting a credible alternative to the SNP. Become a member at

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40:59

Ivan McKee: Reforming the Civil Service

Holyrood Sources ·

2025/03/28

In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, Ivan McKee, the SNP MSP and Minister for Public Finance, discusses the Scottish Government's engagement with businesses, the role of the civil service, and the challenges of public service reform. He emphasises the importance of innovation and efficiency in the civil service, the need for the Scottish Government to take initiative rather than just mitigate Westminster policies, and the ongoing efforts to address child poverty. In this conversation,

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40:34

Sturgeon "Relieved", Sarwar's Change of Mind, Ross...

Holyrood Sources ·

2025/03/26

In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, the hosts assess the latest developments in Scottish politics, focusing on Nicola Sturgeon's recent legal relief amidst ongoing investigations into SNP finances. They discuss the public's reaction to Sturgeon's situation, her legacy, and the trust issues facing the SNP. The conversation also touches on Anas Sarwar's surprising new stance on energy policy, Douglas Ross's departure from Holyrood, and the dynamics within the Tory party regarding net zero

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44:22

Getting Scotland working

Holyrood Sources ·

2025/03/19

In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast we focus on the recent welfare reforms announced by the UK government and their implications for Scotland. We discuss the challenges faced by the Scottish government in managing its budget amidst these reforms, the economic inactivity among young people, and the political dynamics between the SNP and Labour Party. The conversation highlights the impact of welfare on society and the need for economic growth, while also considering the future landscape

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55:48

Sturgeon Quits, Labour & Welfare, Liz Smith MSP

Holyrood Sources ·

2025/03/12

In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, the discussion revolves around Nicola Sturgeon's decision not to stand for re-election as an MSP in 2026. The speakers reflect on her legacy, discussing both her successes and failures during her time in office, including her electoral achievements, handling of COVID-19, and controversial policies such as gender recognition. They also consider the implications of her departure for the SNP and the future political landscape in Scotland. The

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46:58

Scotland's role in a coalition of the willing

Holyrood Sources ·

2025/03/05

In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, host Calum Macdonald and guest Andy Maciver discuss Scotland's role in global politics, particularly in light of current events involving Ukraine and Donald Trump. They explore Scotland's economic interests, military significance, and the potential for leveraging military assets to enhance Scotland's political influence. The conversation also touches on the reliability of the USA as an ally and the implications for European defence strategies. Become

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41:04

Labour Debrief, MSPs Standing Down

Holyrood Sources ·

2025/02/26

In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, hosts Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein, and Andy Maciver analyse the current landscape of Scottish politics, focusing on the dynamics within the Scottish Labour Party, the implications of energy policies, and the ongoing debates surrounding gender recognition reform. The conversation highlights the importance of effective political communication, the challenges of leadership, and the need for a balanced approach to energy pricing and local community

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1:10:47

Anas Sarwar & Jackie Baillie

Holyrood Sources ·

2025/02/19

We're joined by the Scottish Labour leader and Scottish Labour deputy leader, Anas Sarwar and Jackie Baillie, to discuss their route to victory in 2026, NHS reforms, regionalisation of Scotland, nurse Sandie Peggie, energy policy and more.In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, the hosts delve into the current state of Scottish politics, focusing on the challenges faced by the Scottish Labour Party under the leadership of Anas Sarwar and Jackie Bailey. The conversation explores the

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