Go Radio Politics Show: November 23rd, 2025

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

In this episode of The Go Radio Politics Show, Bernard Ponsonby sits down with Ross Greer, co-leader of the Scottish Greens, for an in-depth conversation that goes beyond soundbites.

From his unexpected journey into politics—rooted in faith and a sense of justice—to his vision for Scotland’s future, Ross shares candid insights on what drives him, why he chose the Greens, and how he plans to tackle the country’s biggest challenges.

Faith as a Political Catalyst: Ross reveals how Christian teachings—especially “Blessed are the peacemakers”—inspired his activism.

Why the Greens? Climate crisis as the ultimate priority: “Everything else is moot if we don’t have a liveable planet.”

Politics in an Angry Age: From carrying a panic alarm to dealing with death threats—what it takes to survive public life.

Scotland’s Broken System: Why devolution hasn’t delivered and how vested interests block real change.

Election Strategy: Cooperation over confrontation, but a firm stance against Reform UK’s influence.

Trans Rights & Human Rights: Tackling 200-year NHS waiting lists and fighting dehumanising policies.

Independence Debate: Why the SNP’s “65-seat mandate” strategy is flawed and what Greens propose instead.

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Go Radio Politics Show: November 16th, 2025

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

Guests:

Alyn Smith: SNP MP Aimee Alexander:Reform U.K. Wendy Chamberlain: Scottish Liberal Democrats

Is the BBC facing an existential crisis after a Panorama scandal and mounting political attacks? Can Keir Starmer survive as Labour’s internal chaos spills into public view? And what does a landmark Supreme Court ruling mean for sexual offence trials in Scotland?

BBC Under Fire: Trust in the BBC hits a historic low after a Panorama controversy and high-profile resignations. Is public service broadcasting still viable in a digital age?

Labour in Turmoil: U-turns on income tax, whispers of leadership challenges, and a government that looks paralysed despite a huge majority.

Justice System Shockwave: Supreme Court ruling sparks debate on fair trials versus victim protection—could this reshape sexual offence prosecutions?

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Go Radio Politics Show: November 9th, 2025

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

Guests:

Susan Murray: Scottish Liberal Democrat MP (Mid Dumbartonshire)

Ian Blackford: Former Westminster leader of the Scottish National Party

Irene Graham: Former Labour Councillor, Glasgow

Remembrance Reflections: The panel explores the evolving meaning of Remembrance Sunday, the symbolism of red and white poppies, and generational shifts in how sacrifice is honoured.

Veteran Support & Accountability: A powerful segment on the gaps in support for veterans, including housing, mental health, and the provocative idea of trade union representation for armed forces personnel.

Budget Blues & Manifesto Mayhem: Rachel Reeves’ pre-budget manoeuvres spark concern over a potential breach of Labour’s tax promises, with major implications for Scotland’s block grant and the SNP’s budget planning.

Tactical Voting & Reform UK’s Rise: With Reform UK surging in the polls, the panel discusses the ethics and impact of tactical voting, and whether it’s a necessary evil to block parties seen as divisive.

Electoral Reform Debate: The episode closes with a robust discussion on the need for voting reform, including calls for the Single Transferable Vote (STV) and a more representative democracy in both Westminster and Holyrood.

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Go Radio Politics Show: November 2nd, 2025

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

Guests:

Paul McLennan:SNP

Kainde Manji: Labour

Liz Smith: Conservatives

This week’s episode dives deep into the political and fiscal crossroads facing both Westminster and Holyrood.

With the UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves poised to deliver a potentially manifesto-breaking budget, Bernard and his panel dissect the implications for income tax, public spending, and the Scottish block grant.

The conversation intensifies around the Scottish Government’s billion-pound underspend and the looming £5 billion black hole predicted by the Auditor General.

In the final part of the podcast, the panel confronts the scandal surrounding Prince Andrew and its impact on the monarchy’s future.

Key Highlights:

Manifesto Mayhem? Will Labour break its pledge not to raise income tax, national insurance, or VAT? Panelists weigh in on the fiscal gap and political fallout.

Scottish Budget Blues: The Auditor General warns of poor financial planning and a £5B deficit by 2030. Is Holyrood managing money efficiently?

Growth vs. Austerity: Can the UK and Scottish governments avoid cuts while stimulating growth? The panel explores productivity, public sector reform, and strategic planning.

Monarchy in Crisis: The disgrace of Andrew Windsor sparks debate on royal accountability, public trust, and whether this marks a tipping point for the institution.

Believe Women: A powerful call to centre the voices of survivors in the wake of the Epstein scandal.

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Go Radio Politics Show: October 19th, 2025

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

Guests:

Alex Cole-Hamilton: Scottish Lib Dem Leader

Dave Moxham: STUC Deputy General Secretary

Stuart McDonald: Former SNP MP

Sharp analysis, big questions, and no easy answers—this episode is your guide to the stories shaping Scotland’s political landscape.

GP Drop-In Centres: Promise or Pipe Dream? The SNP’s plan for nationwide GP hubs has sparked controversy. Will these centres ease the NHS crisis—or is this just pre-election spin? Hear candid takes from Alex Cole-Hamilton, Dave Moxham, and Stuart McDonald.

Scotland Demands Better: Fighting Insecurity & the Far Right As civic groups rally against rising extremism, we ask: Is anger about migration really about racism—or broken politics? Discover what’s driving the movement and how parties plan to respond.

China Spy Row: Threat or Overblown? The collapse of a high-profile espionage case raises tough questions. Does China pose a real danger to UK security and infrastructure? Our panel unpacks the risks, the politics, and the guardrails needed.

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Go Radio Politics Show: October 12th, 2025

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

Guests:

Frank McNally: Labour

John Nicolson: Former SNP MP

Shona Haslam: Scottish Borders Council

This week’s episode dives deep into the political battlegrounds shaping the UK and Scotland.

Wealth Tax Debate Is it time to tax the ultra-rich? The panel clashes over the STUC’s proposal for a 2% levy on wealth over £10 million. Expect sharp exchanges on fairness, feasibility, and economic impact.

Council Tax: Reform or Scrap? With council tax still based on 1991 property values, the guests explore radical alternatives—from local income taxes to community-based rebates—and question why reform has stalled for nearly two decades.

Independence Strategy at SNP Conference As the SNP renews its push for independence, the panel debates whether the timing is right—or politically risky. Is the issue energising voters or alienating them?

Tory Conference Fallout Kemi Badenoch’s headline-grabbing speech and bold policy pledges—like withdrawing from the ECHR and scrapping stamp duty—spark discussion on whether the Conservatives are serious contenders or simply chasing Reform UK’s shadow.

Farage Factor Is Nigel Farage setting the agenda for both major parties? The panel weighs in on immigration rhetoric, electoral strategy, and the risk of mainstream parties echoing fringe voices.

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Go Radio Politics Show: October 5th, 2025

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

In this powerful special edition of The Go Radio Politics Show, Bernard Ponsonby commemorates the 25th anniversary of the death of Donald Dewar, Scotland’s first First Minister and the architect of devolution. Through candid conversations with close friends, political allies, journalists, and successors, this episode paints a vivid portrait of a complex, brilliant, and deeply principled man.

Early Life & Personality: Hear intimate reflections from Baroness Meta Ramsey and journalist Fiona Ross on Dewar’s unconventional upbringing, sardonic wit, and unwavering loyalty.

Political Journey: From his first election in Aberdeen South, Dewar’s path through opposition and into government is explored in depth.

Devolution Architect: Wendy Alexander shares behind-the-scenes insights into Dewar’s pivotal role in crafting the Scottish Parliament and his vision for Home Rule.

Leadership & Legacy: Former advisor David Whitton recounts Dewar’s time as First Minister, his struggles with health, and the emotional final days of his life.

Grassroots Impact: Stephen Purcell reflects on Dewar’s connection with constituents, especially in Drumchapel, and the enduring respect he commanded across social divides.

Cross-Party Reflections: Current First Minister John Swinney offers a thoughtful tribute to Dewar’s statesmanship and his role in shaping modern Scottish politics.

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Go Radio Politics Show: September 28th, 2025

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

Guests:

Patricia Ferguson: Labour

Graham Ledbetter: SNP

Eddie Barnes: John Smith Centre

The Farage Effect: Reform UK and the Rise of Anti-Establishment Politics

Nigel Farage’s growing influence looms over Westminster. The panel explores how mainstream parties should respond to populist rhetoric without alienating disillusioned voters.

Universities in Crisis: Is It Time to Rethink Scotland’s Higher Education Model?

With Scottish universities facing financial strain, the conversation turns to funding, foreign student reliance, and whether tuition fees should be reconsidered.

Colleges on the Margins: Has Scotland Neglected Vocational Education?

The panel highlights the imbalance between university and college funding, arguing that vocational training is essential for economic resilience and social mobility.

Regional News at Risk: STV Cuts Spark Alarm Over Media Centralisation

STV’s proposal to axe its northern news programme raises concerns about media representation and the erosion of local journalism in Scotland.

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