The Lesley Riddoch Podcast

There's a distinct European flavour to this week's episode and we kick off with our reaction to the UK/EU deal struck on Monday. Has the Scottish fishing industry, once again, been a bargaining chip worth sacrificing to benefit other parts of the UK economy? Given that fishing and farming are devolved matters why wasn't the Scottish government either involved or at the very least consulted on the agreements reached in these areas? Despite the trumpeting of the deal will it always be a sticking plaster over the economic wounds of Brexit? Saturday saw the latest edition of the Eurovision Song Contest. Lesley has always been a massive fan of the event, Pat not so much,  what are her reactions to the inclusion of Israel, the behaviour of the EBU and host broadcaster in apparently censoring the live audience during the Israeli performance, and the claims of massive state intervention in order for Israel to stage a propaganda coup? The British Museum hosted a secret celebration of Israel "Independence" Day. Much of the focus has been on the appearance at it by comedian Jimmy Carr but should more have been made of the speech given by UK Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, Maria Eagle , on the day that the Labour government was in court defending itself against claims that it had continued to supply Israel with F35 aircraft parts in breach of its own sanctions? ScotLand( sic) Futures led by the Scottish Land Commission has called for individuals, community groups, land managers, businesses and organisations to "help shape a shared vision for how Scotland's land is owned, used and managed". Lesley asks if we need less "consultation" and more genuine action?As we recorded last week's episode the result of the vote at Stage One of The Assisted Dying Bill vote at Holyrood was unknown. The vote was in favour. What happens next? Andrew Tickell article - https://www.thenational.scot/politics/25171496.assisted-dying-debate-deserves-better-bad-faith-politics/ We also look at the election of the new Pope and Pat revels in the prospect of a European tour with his beloved Dundee United. Or does he? Keli play - https://www.nationaltheatrescotland.com/events/keli ★ Support this podcast ★

Transcribed - Published: 20 May 2025

After the launch of Labour's new White Paper on immigration we ask, despite Starmer's protestations, if Farage and Reform are already dictating not just UK politics but UK government policy. We also delve into the detail of the changes outlined in the paper. The Labour leadership is also facing a  backbench rebellion over its cuts to disability benefits and is also being urged by 69 MPs to recognise a Palestinian state. Will they listen to either of these calls? Lesley's latest column in The National examined the rise of Reform and speculated on its potential to break out of its unionist bubble and attract disappointed SNP voters in next year's Holyrood elections. First Minister John Swinney was grilled by Martin Geissler on whether independence would be page 1 line 1 of the SNP manifesto at those elections. We analyse his response. Is the UK/US trade deal worth the paper it's written on? Not according to US economist Joseph Stiglitz. Was getting such a quick sectoral agreement a sign of weakness or strength for the UK's position? Ahead of the Holyrood vote on assisted dying Lesley gives her thoughts on this difficult decision facing MSPs.  There are a few seats remaining for 'A Night for MAP' at the Queen's Hall, Edinburgh. Friday 30th May. https://www.thequeenshall.net/whats-on/night-map ★ Support this podcast ★

Transcribed - Published: 13 May 2025

In this episode we give our initial reactions to  the First Minister’s Statement: Programme for Government 2025-26. We also look back at the series of elections in England last week. What can we take from the Reform UK surge? Will  Scotland be  immune from Farageism at the 2026 Holyrood elections? And if Starmer didn't have enough on his plate with Reform to worry about up popped Ex PM Tony Blair with his thoughts on Net Zero and climate change. Lesley discusses this and asks if Sir Keir shouldn't take a leaf out of Mark Carney's book and stand up to Trump. Today, Tuesday, sees the conclusion of the selection process for SNP candidates for those elections. Some weel kent sitting MSPs are fighting off challengers. Three contests in particular have hit the headlines. Israel's security cabinet has approved a plan to expand its military offensive against Hamas which includes the "capture" of Gaza and the holding of its territory with no timeline for withdrawal. Does this move finally give the lie to Israel's claim that it's all about the return of the hostages? If you fancy popping along to the two events Lesley will be appearing at this weekend, follow these links https://www.republic.org.uk/republic_day_in_edinburgh_2025 https://www.believeinscotland.org/creating_scotland_a_celebration_of_scotlands_connection_to_europe?fbclid=IwY2xjawKHIfBleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETBmNHlMdHBjQWRmOU4yekdyAR7p9909Uu6UuhjdJp9m85xSkmbNcttzovd-Tfn-_Fu8It5oKBoA7iG9YGDAzg_aem_9gAZZkwMFNyI1UVgM48CoQ ★ Support this podcast ★

Transcribed - Published: 6 May 2025

Lesley appeared on Debate Night last week. We look back at this, the issues that were raised by the audience, and the replies of the panel. Here's the link to Lesley's justified rant over the energy rip off. https://www.facebook.com/reel/984639903833195 Kneecap have clarified their position and apologised to the families of David Amess and Jo Cox after the accusations made over statements made during gigs. John Swinney has called for the group to be removed from the TRNSMT line-up, echoing those made by Kemi Badenoch and others over Glastonbury. Is this furore simply, as Kneecap have claimed, a distraction from the real issue of Israel's actions in Gaza? Meanwhile Louis Theroux has made a follow up documentary on the Israeli " settler" movement. We look at Daniella Weiss, the so called "Godmother" of the movement her actions ,the Zionist nationalist tradition she comes from, and the influence she has on the Israeli government. We turn our attentions to three sets of elections. The result of the Canadian General Election,  the English local elections, and the Runcorn and Helsby by election.  There has been a landmark decision at appeal giving Poet's Neuk, a local community group, the right to buy privately owned land under a compulsory purchase order. It's taken nine years  after the passing of the 2016 Land Reform Act for this to happen for the first time. Will this set a precedent? All of this plus gig reviews and TV recommendations. ★ Support this podcast ★

Transcribed - Published: 29 April 2025

Lesley's latest article in the National asking if the SNP’s passion for independence has been so thoroughly and habitually muzzled of late that nothing will now let it off the leash has certainly set some hares coursing throughout both the SNP and the wider independence movement. We discuss. https://www.thenational.scot/politics/25096446.independence-front-centre-snps-campaign/The ripples of the Supreme Court judgement on the question of the definition of a woman continue to spread. Has the decision settled the apparent conflict between women's and trans rights? Could it even have been expected to? The latest More In Common opinion poll of over 16000 people shows devastating results for the Labour Party. We look at the poll and its findings plus the upcoming English local elections and the Runcorn and Helsby by election.We also reflect on the tenure and legacy of Pope Francis. To get tickets for Lesley's Denmark film follow the link below https://lesleyriddoch.com/events ★ Support this podcast ★

Transcribed - Published: 22 April 2025

Westminster was recalled last Saturday for and an emergency bill to save British Steel's Scunthorpe plant became law. It took around six and a half hours in total for Parliament to pass the legislation and the King to approve it.  Sir Keir Starmer said "We are acting to protect the jobs of thousands of workers, and all options are on the table to secure the future of the industry". We ask where was this urgency and commitment over Grangemouth, and Port Talbot steel works. Lesley questions the casual way every commentator accepts that energy prices in Britain are 50% higher than Germany and double the price of the United States. Ofgem has announced a change in the queuing regulations for wind and solar farms to eliminate so called "Zombie projects" and speed up the process of getting real projects up and running. Great news but have we been here before?Find Out Now has released results from an opinion poll carried out for The National  showing a rise in support for Scottish independence. We drill down into the poll and its potential significance.Ash Regan of Alba has issued a call for a cross party pro independence convention before next year's Holyrood elections. We look at the response from the SNP and the Greens. Meanwhile the Greens appear to be caught up in internecine conflict which doesn't seem to have been calmed down by its recent conference. The 15th of April is the 36th anniversary of the Hillsborough disaster which saw 97 Liverpool football supporters losing their lives. Starmer promised that the Hillsborough Law would be enacted by today. What was in that draft law? What has stalled its progress? What does the failure tell us about this Labour government and Starmer? Pat is still recovering from the nerve shredding final round of The Masters golf in Augusta and his beloved Dundee United achieving a top 6 finish in their first season back in the top flight. This doesn't stop him from talking about them both though and wondering why sport can grip even the most rational of us so fiercely. There's still a chance to catch Lesley's Denmark movie. To check out where it's showing click the link below https://lesleyriddoch.com/events ★ Support this podcast ★

Transcribed - Published: 15 April 2025

There's no escaping Donald Trump, unfortunately, in this week's episode as we begin by picking apart the tariffs he introduced last week. Has he condemned the US to recession? How did he come up with tariffs he placed on each country? Has he lost the support of the billionaires whose businesses are dependent on freedom of trade? Amidst this Trumpian economic doom and gloom Lesley highlights the work of We Don't Have Time. To listen to the views of its CEO Ingmar Rentzhog click this link https://app.wedonthavetime.org/posts/6a458e55-a614-4886-b348-242282e514c7Trump also welcomed Netanyahu to the White House where the two leaders openly discussed, once again, the ethnic cleansing of Gaza. We look at this plus the massacre of Palestinian paramedics and the cover up by Israel that unravelled in the light of video footage recorded by one of the workers murdered by the IDF. We also examine the links between the UK Labour Party at the highest level and Labour Friends of Israel and question the influence of the LFI over UK government policy. On the domestic front there's the announcement by Patrick Harvie that he won't be standing for co-leadership of the Scottish Greens. Lesley speculates on who might run in the upcoming election and what the contest could say about the relationship between the party and its MSPs and the party's direction of travel. Lesley also pays tribute to Christina McKelvie and Willie Wilson both sad recent losses. Christina and Willie were stalwart proponents of Scottish independence and this week saw two polls which showed increasing support for Welsh independence. We discuss. Finally while in Donegal Lesley saw at first hand the effects of radical, progressive land reform and asks when will Scotland take note. ★ Support this podcast ★

Transcribed - Published: 8 April 2025

Lesley's back on her old stomping ground in the north of Ireland showing her Denmark movie at the Imagine! Belfast Festival. She talks about the reaction to the film and the festival itself. This leads us into chat on the forgotten history of radical Presbyterianism, border polls, and the disputatious nature of  the debates  over both the Irish language and Ulster/Scots. We examine the ongoing controversy over the impact of Rachel Reeves Spring Statement on PIP claimants and ask if Trump's latest tariffs have already wiped out the fiscal headroom she gained on the back of her cuts. The UK government still appears to be clinging to the misplaced belief that sooking up to Trump will result in a US trade deal but at what cost as the MAGA  government zealots seem to be placing "free speech" conditions within any deals. This support for "free speech" doesn't extend to anyone speaking out against the Trump administration. We ask, in the light of recent UK events and government statements if Labour isn't immune from this authoritarian contagion? All this plus updates on the continuing crisis at Dundee University, the barrage of price rises hitting folk today, and spurious references to a classic Will Hay comedy. ★ Support this podcast ★

Transcribed - Published: 1 April 2025

We speculate on what will be in Rachel Reeves' Spring Statement. Will the extra spending on building social/affordable housing be enough to stave off a revolt over social security cuts? Is she repeating the failures of a previous Labour government in thrall to iron clad ,self imposed fiscal rules? What impact has the Bank of England's monetary policy had on creating the "debt crisis"? Cowal Community Energy has had its bid to take over the lease for a large scale windfarm rejected by Forestry Land Scotland. Are the rules stacked against any community winning a contract? Why won't the Scottish Government step in, create winnable contracts, or even openly favour community bids? We also look at why Ferguson Marine failed to win the contract for seven new electric ferries, losing out to Poland. Oscar winner Hamdan Billal has vanished after being removed from an ambulance following an attack on his home by Israeli settlers. We examine the escalation of illegal Israeli violence on the West Bank since October the 7th 2023. 23 year old Al Jazeera journalist Hossam Shabat became the 208th media worker to be killed in Gaza after his car was specifically targeted by the IDF. Will his plea that we "Do not stop talking about Gaza Do not let the world look away." be heeded by the western media? On a lighter note here's the link to the Mark Carney, Mike Myers video we spoke about. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=972fCFe0Nt8 ★ Support this podcast ★

Transcribed - Published: 25 March 2025

Liz Kendall revealed Labour's much speculated welfare "reforms" in the House of Commons this lunchtime. We give our immediate reaction to the speech and try and pick our way through the dense details. The University of Dundee has announced over 600 job losses, with more to come, to address the £30 million financial blackhole it finds itself in. Where does the blame lie for this disastrous situation? Nicola Sturgeon is the most prominent SNP MSP to announce that they will not stand for Holyrood in 2026. Lesley reflects on her legacy and we discuss the impact of not only so many front benchers leaving but also the potential influx of ex MPs to the Scottish Parliament. Israel launched a devastating attack on Gaza last night killing over 400 folk. Was the ceasefire doomed from the moment Israel refused to move to Phase 2. Is this latest massacre an attempt by Netanyahu to appease his ultra right coalition partners and stave off mounting opposition at home? We also discuss the results of the Greenland elections and indulge in all the usual non political badinage. ★ Support this podcast ★

Transcribed - Published: 18 March 2025

In this bumper edition we begin with Labour's leaked plans to cut welfare spending by £6 billion. £5 billion to come from making it harder to claim Personal Independence Payments. Five Scottish Labour MPs have put their names to a letter supporting these "reforms" as " truly progressive". We look at the cuts, wonder if this could be the final nail in the coffin of Scottish Labour, and Lesley compares and contrasts the UK response to the Ukraine crisis with that of Germany. The USA's change in stance under Trump to the Ukraine war and the Western Alliance in NATO prompted erstwhile Westminster SNP leader Ian Blackford to call for the SNP to switch to a multilateral position on nuclear disarmament. We examine the UK's independent nuclear deterrent and question both its independence and its value as a deterrent. Lesley watched the C4 documentary about Michael Sheen's campaign to not only personally pay off £1 million of debt owed by folk from his local area but also his long term project aimed at highlighting social injustice and the impact of credit finance companies on vulnerable communities. https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2025/mar/10/michael-sheen-interview-secret-million-pound-giveaway-port-talbot Our attention also turns to the USA. Are we deluding ourselves over popular opposition to Trump's policies? Will the Democrats find the spine to use the disruptive tactics employed by the Republicans during the Obama and Biden presidencies? All this plus Elaine C Smith, Brian Cox, and Gone With The Wind. ★ Support this podcast ★

Transcribed - Published: 11 March 2025

As the Trump administration pauses military aid to Ukraine we look back at the events of the past week which led up to this. We begin with Starmer's "charm offensive" at the White House, his attempts to appease Trump, and his attempts to bridge the growing gap between the US and Europe. It all seemed to come crashing down with that appalling pool spray ambush of Zelenskyy by Trump and Vance, aided by a right wing "journalist" . We ask where this leaves Ukraine, the UK/US special relationship, and Scotland. As Trump cuts aid to Ukraine it continues to pour into Israel as it looks as if Netanyahu may be engineering a return to the IDF's assault on Gaza while stopping all humanitarian aid to the Palestinian people. John Swinney has called a summit to counter the rise of  Reform and has invited political parties, trade unions, civic and  faith leaders to attend. Lesley questions whether warm words are enough and that action on progressive economic policies are what is really required to combat the right. Labour's New Deal for Working People has suffered yet another watering down in its progress through Parliament. Is Labour totally in thrall to business interests in its drive for growth? It's the 30th anniversary of the groundbreaking publication of The Scotswoman edition of the Scotsman. Lesley looks back and how it why it happened . If you want to watch the videos she's made about this and other topics nip over to her YouTube channel where you can like and subscribe. https://www.youtube.com/@Lesley_Riddoch ★ Support this podcast ★

Transcribed - Published: 4 March 2025

This week's episode focuses mainly on the rapidly changing shape of international relations under the influence of the Trump administration. Keir Starmer made a major speech at Westminster signalling an increase in defence spending from 2.3 to 2.6% from 2027 onwards. This at the expense of aid and development. We analyse the speech and how he sought to secure not only support in the Commons but across the nation.Starmer flies out to meet Trump on Thursday in the wake of the USA siding with Russia at the United Nations over the war in Ukraine. How will he handle this? What does the UK's abstention in the UN Security Council vote tell us about this? In Germany the CDU/CSU became the largest party after the recent elections. However the far right AfD surged into second place. Will Merz, the leader of the CDU be able to form a coalition with the Social Democrats? Do his outspoken statements on Trump, NATO and Russia mean a complete change in pan European defence and security policy?Anas Sarwar claimed that the £200 million pound "investment" by the National Wealth Fund had secured the future of Grangemouth and showed the benefit of a Labour government. We subject both those statements to scrutiny. Along the way we look at the threat of AI legislation to the creative industries, Michael Shanks on Eigg, and biscuits. ★ Support this podcast ★

Transcribed - Published: 25 February 2025

In this podcast extra we speak with actor and playwright Matthew Zajac about his stage adaptation of James Robertson's novel, "The Testament of Gideon Mack". We also venture into the trials and travails of running Dogstar, a European touring theatre company based around Inverness and how it's grown ​from its early Highland tours. To find out where you can see its production of "The Testament of Gideon Mack" click the link below http://www.dogstartheatre.co.uk/ ★ Support this podcast ★

Transcribed - Published: 24 February 2025

The new Trump administration has continued its assault on the norms of political activity by appeasing Putin and Russia over the war in Ukraine. Representatives of the USA and Russia are meeting in Saudi Arabia but there's no place for Zelensky. Meanwhile the USA has made a bid to "buy" Ukraine's rare earth minerals. What does this tell you about Trump's foreign policy? is there any more to it than an admiration for so called strong men and a desire to extend economic colonialism? Meanwhile Vice President JD Vance in a speech in Munich lambasted the European liberal democracies claiming that they were in retreat from their most fundamental values, and that this ,not China or Russia, was the true threat to Europe. This was echoed by Kemi Badenoch, hard on the heels of the mutually shameful exchange on Palestinian refugees at PMQs with Starmer, in a another speech given at the ARC -Alliance for Responsible Citizenship- conference in London. She clearly played the anti-immigration culture wars card.  Not to be left out UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting was quick to concur with Richard Madeley on Good Morning Britain that immigration  was a key factor in pressures on the NHS.  Are we seeing the ground that the next UK General Election being fought on laid out in front of us as both Labour and the Tories seek to see off Reform? Streeting has mad no secret of his intention to expand private involvement in the English health system this while privatised Thames water staggers from crisis to financial crisis. Brewdog's James Watt has announced his intention to start up a "Shadow UK DOGE" mimicking Musk's cost cutting regime in the USA. How practical are Watt's ideas? Has he completely misread the reality behind the rhetoric in the States? We also discuss David Tennant's BAFTA kilted singing exploits plus the other usual other meanderings. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yUr8QyTCph8 The Brewdog forest and Parkswatch https://parkswatchscotland.co.uk/2024/02/14/brewdogs-lost-forest-at-kinrara-lost-trees-lost-carbon-and-lost-finances/ ★ Support this podcast ★

Transcribed - Published: 18 February 2025

I support Tory MSP Liz Smith is the bombshell from Lesley. Has Lesley lost it or has Liz finally come up with a proposal on outdoor education that all sensible Scots can rally behind? We discuss.Turning from the Tories it's been another helluva week for both UK and Scottish Labour. Is UK Labour running so scared after the latest polls that it's aping Reform in policies and media messaging? Meanwhile a gloves off doorstep interview with Anas Sarwar by STV's Colin Mackay over Sarwar's pre-election pledges on Grangemouth, has made it a difficult week for the Scottish Labour leader. There also appears to have been a rethink by the party hierarchy over its 2026 election strategy with a pledge( yup more of these) to "protect" the achievements of "devolution" such as free prescriptions, the baby box, free tuition. As UK Labour apes Reform is Scottish Labour doing the same with the SNP ? Sarwar, at the end of the Mackay car crash piece, reiterated Labour support for the expansion of nuclear energy in Scotland to tackle climate change, provide jobs and ( wait for this one) reduce bills. Lesley has a few thoughts on this. The latest headlines suggest that the Scottish Government is, finally, set on creating a "fairer","better" system of local taxation. Do its actions match the headline?There's all the usual stuff plus more on Sustainable Aviation Fuel, a movie review and wisdom teeth extractions. ★ Support this podcast ★

Transcribed - Published: 11 February 2025

Rachel Reeves' big speech on growth. We ask where was Scotland in the raft of major projects?  Hard on the heels of this came the shock, not to anyone who'd been paying attention, news that the CEO of GB Energy, Juergen Maier, could not only give no date for the £300 reduction in consumer bills promised by Labour at the General Election but also that the one thousand Scottish jobs would take around 20 years to materialise.  Sticking with Labour is there another U-turn on policy in the pipeline despite the Court of Session ruling by Lord Ericht putting a stop on oil and gas production in the Rosebank and Jackdaw fields? Will Starmer side with Rachel Reeves, the GMB and Scottish Labour, and give the go ahead to drill? Or will Ed Milliband stand up to those voices and refuse to issue new licences? We, in the light of listener Simon Brooke's excellent contribution, re-examine the validity of the claims made by the  industry on so called sustainable aviation fuel? Donald Trump has called time out on his plans to impose tariffs on Canada and Mexico. What's the reality behind the bluster? What's in store for the UK and the EU? Lesley looks at the historical precedence for US expansionism and just why Trump might be so keen on taking over Greenland. Suella Braverman trotted off to the USA to display her MAGA credentials at Trump's inauguration. She hung around to go "full Trump" in her speech to the Heritage Foundation . Is she signalling a potential jump to Reform, or is this an ongoing  part of a campaign to oust Kemi Badenoch as Tory leader by shifting even further to the right? All of this within the context of Reform's rise in the polls. Plus Last in Iceland series that explains why Icelanders pay £60 pcm for heat, hot water & electricityhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rXBEDk_o_hI&t=610sWhy does Trump want Greenland explainer videohttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lYfSlQaIEXkBrave New Music book about Martyn Bennett https://luath.co.uk/products/brave-new-music?variant=54829697007992 ★ Support this podcast ★

Transcribed - Published: 4 February 2025

SNP Westminster leader Stephen Flynn MP will introduce a 10 Minute Rule Bill on WASPI women compensation on which the SNP say they will force a vote. Even if it makes it past this stage it has limited, if no chance, of being implemented as Private Members Bills normally require government support to pass. What then does Stephen Flynn hope to achieve? Just as there seems to be dissent in Labour ranks both at Holyrood and Westminster over this issue Labour MP Brian Leishman has been extremely vocal over the future of Grangemouth. Is there more to his opposition than standing up for his constituents? Where do the Unions stand ? Why has a Labour government decided to continue with the Tory £600 billion loan to Ineos to set up a plant in Antwerp? What's the controversy surrounding that plant? Just like its U-Turn on WASPI women Labour now seems intent on reversing its position on a third runway at Heathrow. What does this, when allied to Rachel Reeves making concessions after listening to the "non dom community" tell us about the direction of travel of this government?Meanwhile the Trump "revolution" is in full swing in the USA. Deportations, threats of trade wars against nations who stand up to him, plans to take over Greenland, and a raft of distinctly dodgy health decisions.  He has also shown his true colours on Gaza with his "  we just clean out that whole thing" , and relocate one and half million Palestinians to neighbouring Arab nations. We discuss. Lesley has updated her YouTube channel with two short films on Iceland and (soon) a Greenland (explainer) - if you can like and subscribe to this channel, I'd be very grateful and you will get notified about new videos as soon as they are posted. https://www.youtube.com/@Lesley_Riddoch  If you want to see/listen to the podcast on YouTube follow this link. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLWnxyoRlJxfMqJInR8kGf5iuVGThuEpL2 Again like and subscribe thanks. ★ Support this podcast ★

Transcribed - Published: 28 January 2025

Donald Trump was sworn in as the 47th US president on Monday. We look at the inauguration, Trump's raft of immediate Executive Orders and the worldwide implications of what his presidency heralds. Those potential effects are having to be factored into the UK government's economic strategies and diplomatic actions. Meanwhile apparent splits are appearing in Scottish Labour which were writ large in the "painting by numbers" interview with Kirsty McNeill Labour Parliamentary Under- Secretary of State for Scotland on the BBC's Sunday Morning Show. The Scottish government is currently arguing that measures such as creating a wealth tax and setting up a National Energy Company are snookered by The Scotland Act. Are there bold, innovative ways  to circumvent it and why is the SNP leadership so committed to playing by the UK's rules? Axel Rudabukana has pleaded guilty to the Southport murders. Yvette Cooper has promised an inquiry into why so many warning signs were missed by so many agencies. However big questions still remain over the Labour governments clampdown on the release of information on Rudakubana which may have squashed the anti immigrant, anti Muslim internet rumours which fuelled the subsequent riots.Lesley reacts to the first episode of An t-Eilean (The Island) – the UK’s first ever high-end Gaelic drama series.Lesley has also launched the first of her YouTube films on Iceland and its green energy/heating revolution Hot Springs Town check it out here https://lesleyriddoch.com/films There's also chat about music. Bob Dylan and Sibelius. Not so strange cultural bedfellows. ★ Support this podcast ★

Transcribed - Published: 21 January 2025

It's a bumper episode this week as we try and navigate our way through the news. First up, BBC Scotland has launched Scotcast a brand new podcast. We give our considered verdict on this latecomer to the Scottish podcast scene, Its maiden episode focused heavily on the opening of Scotland's first Drug Consumption Room/ Overdose Prevention Centre. How was it covered? In the political argy bargy Whose voices are being heard? Whose are not? It also dealt with both the ending of the marriage between Nicola Sturgeon and Peter Murrell and the fall out over Nicola's recent comments on the behaviour of the late Alex Salmond. We follow suit. Lesley recently wrote a column questioning John Swinney's saying, “I don’t think people would understand what I was doing if I refused to meet with the president of the United States.” Lesley reckons the First Minister has misread the mood of the Scottish people when it comes to the Donald. There are strong suggestions that Dominic Cummings is the eminence grise behind Elon Musk's recent fetid tweets on UK politics and the Labour Party in particular. We ask why Musk is so fixated on Britain and what is the odd symbiotic relationship between him and the BBC? Sticking with Labour there's trouble afoot with both the latest YouGov opinion poll and the volatility of the UK economy. We also look at the LA wild fires,Trump's fuelling of the flames with disinformation and the climate change as their root cause. Along the way there's chat about the UK's toxic relationship with processed foods, terrible puns, a tour of "The Testament of Gideon Mack" and a multi-million pound Gaelic noir series "An t- Eilean"-BBC Alba tonight 9pmLesley's best selling book "Blossom" also gets a few mentions. Follow these links for more information on all of the above- except Pat's puns. https://www.channel4.com/programmes/eat-smart-secrets-of-the-glucose-goddess http://www.dogstartheatre.co.uk/ https://lesleyriddoch.com/books-mobile ★ Support this podcast ★

Transcribed - Published: 14 January 2025

It's welcome back to the podcast after our Christmas and New Year break. We kick off by reflecting on how we both spent Hogmanay in our different ways, Lesley's island sojourn sounds affy braw. Much criticism has been levelled at BBC Scotland in particular for its pallid Hogmanay programming and Lesley takes the opportunity to compare the "official" media offerings with the work of the late Martyn Bennett and the Grit Orchestra. Suffice to say the authorised ones don't stand the comparison well.....It seems now is the time for a complete rethink on BBC and STV Hogmanay fare. We also discuss the cancellation of the official Edinburgh celebrations. Is it time for the capital to have a complete rethink ? Martyn Bennett's music and Danny MacAskill's cycling on the Cuillin - 81 million views! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xQ_IQS3VKjA Grit Orchestra gig - just two seats left!!https://tickets.glasgowlife.org.uk/34209/34210Lesley talks about her new, self filmed, series of short videos she's filming on her travels around Scotland. Lesley also reflects on the recent funeral of 'John the Bird' Chester on Eigg. https://x.com/LesleyRiddoch/status/1876598275693859210 Anas Sarwar in his most recent speech talked about reducing the number of quangos but was somewhat less than comprehensive in how he would do this and even less specific on what a Labour administration would cut other than reducing the number of Health Boards. However is there a kernel of truth in Sarwar's statement?  Has the growth of quangos led to the creation, as Robin McAlpine said, of " A feudal system of nested fiefdoms each insulated from the transparency and accountability nominally radiating from the one above"? We also discuss Sarwar's appearance on Good Morning Scotland where Laura Maxwell grilled him on his stances on the 2 Child Benefit Cap, Winter Fuel Allowance, and the WASPI women.  We also discuss Neil Mackay's recent Herald article analysing the growth in support for Scottish independence as UK Labour tanks in the polls. Is the SNP in a fit state to profit from this? Is it radical enough to get independence over the line? Listener Leslie Wilson got in touch after our chat on swimmer Duncan Scott to highlight the  television coverage-lack of- of Bruce Mouat's champion curling rink. We discuss. ★ Support this podcast ★

Transcribed - Published: 7 January 2025

Iceland has a stunning landscape with glaciers galore … but is more properly fire island. Lava, earthquakes eruptions and volcanoes dominate life and world headlines. Before Christmas 2023, an eruption forced people from their homes in the fishing port of Grindavik. One year and six eruptions later – the townspeople are back. But another eruption nearby is spewing lava across the car park of the famous Blue Lagoon. By the time you hear this podcast, that eruption could be over… or much worse.Yet despite all the risk and uncertainty, many Icelanders say they live here because of their volcanoes not despite them. Why? That’s what this podcast is all about. CreditsThanks to Easyjet for flights – direct to Reykjavik every weekday from Edinburgh. Lesley travelled to the Westman Islands in a Europcar vehicle (complete with winter tyres) from Keflavik airport, took the dual fuel Herjolfur ferry (government owned and council run) courtesy of Business Iceland and stayed at the Hotel Vestmannaeyjar thanks to Visit South IcelandAccommodation in Reykjavik was kindly provided by podcast listener Scott Riddell. Big thanks also to interviewees – Laufey Sif Lárusdóttir who runs a pizzeria and Ölverk brewery using geothermal steam in Hveragerði with husband Elvar. She also manages to be mum to three small boys.Páll Zóphóníasson was once Mayor of Heimaey (main town on Westman Islands) and town engineer at the time of the 1973 eruption. Tax office staff, Jóhanna Kristín Gunnlaugsdóttir and Ròsa Sveinsdòttir were just children at the time.Kári Valgeirsson is Science Communicator at the Hellisheiði power plant – one of the largest single-site geothermal power plants on the planet. Daily tours available via https://www.on.is/en/geothermal-exhibition/Thanks also to Limma and Gudrun Hannesdottir, Researched, recorded and produced by Lesley RiddochEdited by Pat Joyce ★ Support this podcast ★

Transcribed - Published: 17 December 2024

The latest Norstat poll for the Sunday Times put support for independence at 54% and the SNP on track to be the largest party after the 2026 election and a pro independence majority  at Holyrood. It also showed a startling drop off for Labour and the continuing rise of Reform. We look at the data and discuss what is happening. Is Labour caught in a pincer movement between Reform on the Right and the SNP on the Left? What hopes are there for a united front between pro independence parties to secure the biggest Yes majority?The SNP has launched another "grassroots" membership independence campaign while John Swinney is looking to secure that Holyrood victory by highlighting its record in government and offering a positive message of "Hope" for the future. We discuss.Pat McFadden has been all over the media promoting the idea of bringing the "tech bros" into government to drive efficiency and reform while defending Israel's bombing campaign in Syria and tip toeing around the thorny question of how to engage with the Syrian rebels primarily led by HTS. The same HTS whose origins are in Al Qaeda and are currently a proscribed terrorist organisation.We also look at what's been a good couple of weeks for the Irish language rap group Kneecap. Seven wins at the British Independent Film Awards, including best film, and a victory in their court case over the withdrawal by Kemi Badenoch of funding for the movie .Sticking with awards the short list for BBC Sports Personality of the Year has been announced. The omission, once again, of Duncan Scott Britain's third most decorated Olympian prompted us to cast a critical eye over the Anglocentric, male dominated , borefest. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Duncan_Scott_(swimmer) ★ Support this podcast ★

Transcribed - Published: 10 December 2024

Lesley reflects on Alex Salmond's memorial service in this week's episode. How was the service itself? Can it prove to be a significant moment in unifying the struggle for Scottish independence? Wednesday saw the first Scottish Budget since the return of a UK Labour government. We give our first impressions on what it, and just as importantly ,what  it didn't contain. We also examine Scottish Labour's response to the challenges the Budget laid down for them. As Reform makes headway in recent Scottish and Welsh opinion polls and Nigel Farage is set to make his 38th appearance on Question Time Lesley says it's time to take off the gloves and oppose not appease the Right. Amnesty International has issued a 296 page report claiming that  Israel intended to commit genocide against the Palestinian people. Thus joining the UN and many other international bodies in this conclusion. It also stated that the international community had not only failed miserably to condemn this but through its delay in calling for a ceasefire and continuing to supply arms to Israel it was complicit in this atrocity. Meanwhile there was a record attendance at the Labour Friends of Israel lunch including Starmer, Reeves, Lammy and many other Cabinet members amongst the 100 Labour MPs. Starmer was a keynote speaker along with the far right Israeli ambassador Tzipi Hotovely. We also cast our eyes over the crises in Germany, France, and South Korea. ★ Support this podcast ★

Transcribed - Published: 5 December 2024

MPs are scheduled to vote on the Private Members’ Bill proposed by Kim Leadbeater, the Labour MP, to legalise assisted dying for terminally ill adults on Friday. However a cross party group has co-sponsored a so-called “fatal motion amendment” that could kill the Bill if enough MPs support it. The amendment comes amid concern in the Commons that such a significant change was proposed as a Private Members’ Bill, meaning there is limited detailed assessment and analysis of the provisions it includes. We examine the detail of both the Leadbeater Bill and Liam McArthur's proposed Scottish Bill and ask what impact Friday's Westminster vote may have in Holyrood.Meanwhile there's much heat being generated in the media over the " Call a General Election Now" petition which has apparently garnered over 2 million signatures in the past four days. How significant is this in reality? Should Labour be concerned? Should the Tories be more concerned?Rachel Reeves has announced the payment to the Scottish Government to compensate for the impact of her raise in employers' National Insurance contributions. How fair was the package?After recent polling and by election results we look at the state of play of the parties in Scotland. How much of an impact have they had on Anas Sarwar's U-turn on Winter Fuel Allowance payments? How concerning is the rise of Reform? Will we face a Holyrood impasse in 2026 with no viable coalitions in prospect?And as Donald Trump makes his final nominations for his Cabinet we cast our eyes over the array of right wing, reality TV, Fox News hosts, dubious characters he's selected. Here's the link to the Neal Ascherson article Lesley mentioned https://www.thenational.scot/politics/24746186.neal-ascherson-scotland-needs-take-as-if-approach/ ★ Support this podcast ★

Transcribed - Published: 26 November 2024

Anas Sarwar has announced a U turn on Scottish Labour's stance on Winter Fuel Payments. If they form a Holyrood government in 2026 he has pledged to reverse the cuts and reintroduce the payments to pensioners on a universal but means tested basis. What lies behind this sudden change of heart. Political expediency in the light of recent polls and upcoming by elections? No matter his reasons it does present a challenge to the Scottish Government. How will it respond? How should it respond?The row over Stephen Flynn, and other SNP MPs , plans to seek a dual mandate in 2026 and become MSPs rolls on. Lesley has always highlighted the accident of the election cycle for the absence of so many talented SNP politicians from Holyrood. Why is she so opposed to Stephen's bid? How damaging are the revelations to the SNP of the use of ministerial cars to attend sporting events? How naive were these politicians to how this would look given the furore over Starmer's freebies?A lot has been made over the proposed appointments Trump has made to his Cabinet with much of the focus falling on Robert Kennedy Jr and Matt Gaetz. However in terms of foreign policy the nomination of Mike Huckabee as US ambassador to Israel has tended to go unreported. Who is Huckabee? What are his beliefs and why should  all who believe in a just peace be concerned?Meanwhile the 30 day deadline imposed by the Biden administration  for Israel to take specific steps to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza has come and gone with none of the promised "consequences" coming to pass. This denial of genocide was not only echoed but amplified by Sir Keir Starmer at Westminster.  What is the UN definition of genocide?  Is Starmer a hypocrite given his stance on Serbian actions in Croatia before the ICJ in 2014?The narrative of farmers under threat after the changes to include them in inheritance tax is picking up pace. What's the reality?Talking of reality Femke Halsema the Mayor of Amsterdam has signalled her regret at claiming there was an anti-Jewish pogrom after the Ajax v Maccabi Tel Aviv football match.  A welcome retraction but is it too late? ★ Support this podcast ★

Transcribed - Published: 19 November 2024

It's the aftermath of the US Presidential Election and there are lots of questions. Did Trump win or did the Democrats lose? What do Trump's first appointments tell us about what to expect from his administration? Will the next four years totally redefine the US? What impact will a Trump Presidency have on Europe and the UK?The reaction to the events before and after the Maccabi Tel Aviv v Ajax football match in Amsterdam laid bare the thrall in which the vast majority of the media and almost all world political leaders are held by the pro Israel lobby. We discuss. Stephen Flynn has announced that he's put his name forward to stand as an MSP in 2026. How significant a decision is this ? We're also joined by special guest Max Wiszniewski, Campaigns Manager for REVIVE to talk about last weekend's The Big Land Question Conference co-hosted by Lesley and actor David Hayman. To take part in REVIVE'S survey and have your say follow this link https://diffleypartnership.co.uk/the-big-land-question/ ★ Support this podcast ★

Transcribed - Published: 12 November 2024

We pick over the detail of last week's UK Budget. Did it signal the "end of austerity" as Anas Sarwar claims? What's the reality of the increase in the Scottish Block Grant? What impact will it have on December's Scottish Budget and what challenges does it lay down for the Scottish Government? It's election day in the USA. What's the state of the polls? Will early voting  decide the outcome again? Are the Republicans already laying the ground for another "stolen election" narrative? Meanwhile the Tories have elected a new UK leader, Kemi Badenoch. The contest came down to a choice between two right wing candidates, Badenoch and Jenrick. Badenoch has now appointed her new front bench and among the ranks of " Who's that?" and "Never heard of them!" some old familiar faces are back signalling that shift even further to the right. Stephen Flynn has been "given" a seat on the Scottish Affairs Committee at Westminster. What is this committee and why is the Labour Party so focused on it in the run up to the Holyrood elections in 2026? Plus a tribute to Janey Godley an icon of Scottish popular culture. ★ Support this podcast ★

Transcribed - Published: 5 November 2024

As the US Presidential election enters its final days Donald Trump held a rally at Madison Square Garden where speaker after speaker spewed racist, misogynist bile. Has this harmed or enhanced his campaign in those seven vital swing states where the presidency will be won or lost?World leaders have condemned the overwhelming decision by the Knesset to ban the UNWRA from operating inside Israel,Gaza and the West Bank. Israel has claimed that UNRWA has colluded with Hamas in Gaza. This is the culmination of decades of  anti UNRWA activity by Israel. The USA government has said it is "deeply concerned". Is it concerned enough to use legislation which allows the stopping of military aid to countries that restrict US humanitarian aid?King Charles acknowledged “painful aspects” of Britain’s past while sidestepping calls to directly address reparations for slavery at the summit of Commonwealth leaders, saying “none of us can change the past, but we can commit … to learning its lessons”. What lessons can we learn by examining the role of the Royal Family in the slave trade? Reparations are justified but who should pay them?We look forward to Rachel Reeves' first Budget. Will there be any surprises? Just what is a "working person"? Kemi Badenoch appeared on the Sunday Show and was skewered by Martin Geissler over the "voluntary" union and her plans-lack of- for reprogramming devolution. It looks likely that she will defeat Robert( Pensioners waking up with illegal migrants in their bedrooms) Jenrick to become Tory leader. No matter which of the two win it signals yet another shift to the Right in UK politics.All this plus a surprise guest appearance of the Masked Postie! ★ Support this podcast ★

Transcribed - Published: 29 October 2024

Lesley's back from her trip to Iceland with lots to talk about and share including disturbing news about The Gulf Stream. https://amp.theguardian.com/environment/2024/feb/09/atlantic-ocean-circulation-nearing-devastating-tipping-point-study-findsThere seem to be more leaks from within this new Labour government than a set of Thames Water's pipes. This time on what might be in next week's Budget. BBC Scotland's Sunday Show focused on this. We look at who was on the show and what questions were asked. What questions weren't asked,especially  of Energy Minister Michael Shanks in terms of GB Energy and Carbon Capture and Storage.Sticking with energy Lesley takes the lid off a looming crisis particularly impacting Scotland over smart meters.Meanwhile Labour held a swanky Investment Summit trumpeting a £63 Billion post-election boost in investment.What's the reality behind the boast, what have Labour promised the likes of Blackrock, and just how many new jobs will all this cash create?All this plus the new movie about the early years of Trump's rise ,"The Apprentice" reviewed. ★ Support this podcast ★

Transcribed - Published: 22 October 2024

In this episode of Riddoch Questions Lesley spoke with Alex Salmond who had just led the SNP to become the largest party in the Scottish Parliament. He was literally in the throes of trying to form that first ever SNP government and spoke from the car park outside a pub in the pouring rain.  ★ Support this podcast ★

Transcribed - Published: 15 October 2024