Shortbread Media

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Channel • 4 Shows

Politics

Politics

Updated weekly
News Commentary

News Commentary

Updated weekly
News

News

Updated weekly

News

News

Updated weekly
Politics

Politics

Updated weekly
Politics

Politics

Updated weekly
News Commentary

News Commentary

Updated weekly

10/12/2025

New Scottish Poll SHOCKS Labour: Reform UK Surges to 2nd

A major new Ipsos poll drops — and the implications for Holyrood 2026 are huge. The SNP hold a stable lead. Labour has fallen sharply. Reform UK has surged into second place in the constituency vote, fuelled by the rise of immigration as a top concern for Scottish voters. • Why Reform UK is gaining Scottish voters from both Labour and the Conservatives • How immigration became a top-three issue in Scottish politics • Why the SNP vote remains “sticky” • Labour’s worsening poll numbers after Keir Starmer’s difficult months • The Greens’ highly effective regional-vote strategy • Whether Reform has reached its ceiling in Scotland • What demographic groups are driving Reform’s rise We also speak to Mark McGeoghegan of Ipsos, who analyses the polling in depth — approval ratings, demographic breakdowns, voting-intention shifts, and how Scottish voters feel about taxation and public spending. And later: an interview with Michael Matheson, the outgoing SNP MSP, and former Transport Secretary. Will the A9 ever be fully dualled? Has the Scottish Government failed on delivery? Matheson responds. Finally, we react to your messages about Malcolm Offord’s defection to Reform UK, including whether he boosts their credibility, fundraising and appeal — or whether he’s tied to rhetoric that will hurt the party in Scotland. 📲 Send us a message anytime WhatsApp: 0333 404 6507 Email: hello@holyroodsources.com If you enjoy Holyrood Sources, hit subscribe — we drop new episodes weekly, plus bonus interviews. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

10/12/2025

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1h 3m
03/09/2025

North Sea Oil: Jobs vs Net Zero? | The Future of Energy Part 1

The future of oil and gas in the UK is one of the most pressing political questions of our time — and it’s at the heart of this debate. With the North Sea basin still a major source of energy and jobs in Scotland, how should the UK balance the demands of energy security, climate change targets, and community livelihoods? In this special discussion, UK Energy Minister Michael Shanks MP (Labour), UK Shadow Secretary of State for Energy Claire Coutinho MP, and Deputy First Minister of Scotland Kate Forbes MSP (SNP) join host Calum Macdonald to debate: Should the UK continue issuing new North Sea oil and gas licences — or focus on a full energy transition? Does it need to be a binary choice?What does a true “just transition” for workers look like?How can Scotland and the UK lead in renewable energy while safeguarding existing industries?Who should pay for the costs of moving to net zero — taxpayers, energy companies, or both?🔥 Key themes explored in the debate: Labour’s push for a phased transition and “mission-driven” investment in renewables.Conservative arguments that new oil licences are essential for jobs and energy security.SNP concerns about protecting communities while driving forward Scotland’s renewable future.The tension between climate goals and short-term energy needs.The global context: what the UK does (or doesn’t) means little if countries like China and India don’t follow suit.Scottish politics, the future of energy, and the road to net zero. 👉 Subscribe for more in-depth analysis of Scottish and UK political debates. Part 1 of 2. In association with the Aberdeen and Grampian Chamber of Commerce. Sponsored by Shepherd and Wedderburn. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

03/09/2025

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1h 9m
12/11/2025

Civil War Inside Labour & BBC Crisis, Bias & The License Fee

Labour civil war erupts just weeks before a make-or-break Budget. In this explosive Holyrood Sources episode, Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein and Andy Maciver unpack the extraordinary Number 10 briefing against Wes Streeting — and what it reveals about Keir Starmer’s leadership, Labour’s internal divisions, and the growing panic over a potential leadership challenge. From Anas Sarwar’s impossible position defending a tax rise in Scotland, to Labour’s identity crisis and Morgan McSweeney’s role in the chaos, the team dissects the biggest political drama since the election. Later, they turn to the Port of Aberdeen’s job cuts, Geoff’s viral LinkedIn post about the energy transition, and the latest twist in ScotWind, as Shell walks away from a £3 billion renewables project. Plus, we have a heated debate on the BBC Panorama editing scandal, questions of institutional bias, and whether Scots should be forced to fund a broadcaster that some say favours the “soft left.” The panel discusses Tim Davie’s resignation, the role of BBC Scotland, the challenge of local news, and the license-fee debate — before moving on to Scotland’s budget pressure and the possibility of revisiting an income-tax pledge amid Westminster fiscal changes (Shona Robison & Anas Sarwar clips included). Key topics: • BBC Panorama editing controversy and fallout • Institutional bias: can any broadcaster be truly impartial? • BBC Scotland, local news coverage and the “central belt” problem • Licence fee debate: compulsory funding vs subscription choice • Scotland’s fiscal squeeze: Shona Robison on budget risk & Anas Sarwar on lobbying the Chancellor Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

12/11/2025

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56 min
15 JAN

Farage, Starmer & Badenoch in Scotland as Poll Redraws Holyrood

The first Scotland-wide poll of the 2026 Holyrood election year delivers a political shock: Reform UK level with Scottish Labour, the SNP ahead but without a majority, and serious questions for every party leader. On this episode of Holyrood Sources, Calum Macdonald is joined by Geoff Aberdein (former SNP Chief of Staff, True North Advisors) and Andy Maciver (former Scottish Conservative communications director) to break down what the numbers really mean. 🎯 In this episode:📊 New Holyrood poll analysis: SNP seat outlook, Labour vs Reform battle, and fragile margins⚠️ Why Reform UK may be helping the SNP in key constituencies🔴 Robert Jenrick sacked as Kemi Badenoch faces Tory defections to Reform🧭 Nigel Farage in Scotland & Malcolm Offord named Reform leader📉 Why Keir Starmer is deeply unpopular in Scotland – and why Labour wants him quiet💷 Scottish Budget reaction: tax thresholds, mansion tax, private jet levy & 11,000 public sector jobs at risk🗳️ Independence referendum row: Is Reform’s “10-year pause” realistic or nonsense?This is inside-baseball Scottish politics – polling, power, personalities and the election strategies already taking shape months before voters go to the polls. 📩 Get in touch: WhatsApp: 0333 404 6507 Email: hello@hollyroodsources.com 🔔 Subscribe for weekly insider analysis as Scotland heads into a decisive election year. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

15 Jan

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38 min
18/06/2025

Will John Swinney deliver independence?

In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, the hosts discuss the potential for a coalition between the SNP and Labour, the implications of John Swinney's renewed focus on independence, and the challenges surrounding economic policies in Scotland. They also explore the concept of a minimum income guarantee and its feasibility in addressing poverty while maintaining economic sustainability. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

18/06/2025

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40 min
20/04/2023

Inside the Good Friday Agreement

Calum is joined by Tom Kelly, who spent nearly a decade in government, first as director of communications at the Northern Ireland Office, and then from 2001 to 2007, as the Prime Minister’s official spokesperson. Tom was there in the build up to the Good Friday Agreement, was there when it was signed and announced, and was there for the aftermath as well. He remembers the people involved, the dedication required, and assesses where the Good Friday Agreement has fallen short. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

20/04/2023

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41 min
19/11/2025

Scotland’s Win, Exxon’s Exit & Party Support Ceilings... Plus, Pam Duncan-Glancy

Scotland are going to the World Cup — and the Holyrood Sources team are buzzing. But after the celebrations, Geoff, Andy and Calum dig into a huge week in Scottish and UK politics. ➡️ ExxonMobil shuts Mossmorran, putting 400 jobs at risk — Geoff explains why government policy has directly contributed and why this marks a deeper de-industrialisation crisis in Scotland. ➡️ Fresh YouGov polling reveals a dramatic collapse in support for Scottish Labour and a worrying ceiling for the SNP. Andy breaks down why a populist insurgency could now happen in Scotland. ➡️ Pam Duncan-Glancy MSP joins the podcast to explain why she opposes the Assisted Dying Bill — and why key safeguards have been rejected. Scotland’s biggest politics podcast — with insider analysis from across the political divide. Hosted by Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein (former Chief of Staff to Alex Salmond) and Andy Maciver (former Director of Comms, Scottish Conservatives). 📩 Want to partner with us for our proposed World Cup tour in North America? Email: hello@holyroodsources.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

19/11/2025

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51 min
02/07/2025

Sir John Curtice - How did Swinney and Sarwar perform?

In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, the discussion revolves around the upcoming 2026 Scottish parliamentary election, featuring insights from political analysts including Professor Sir John Curtice on the performances of key figures like John Swinney and Anas Sarwar. The conversation highlights the current public sentiment, the challenges faced by both the SNP and Labour, and the implications of the independence debate. The role of the reform party and the fragmentation of the unionist vote are also examined, alongside predictions for the future of Scottish politics. Sponsored by the Scotch Whisky Association's Made to be Measured campaign. Find out more about the campaign at scotch-whisky.org.uk/madetobemeasured. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

02/07/2025

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34 min
26/01/2025

Anthony Scaramucci... on Trump and Scotland

In this engaging conversation, Former White House Communications Director for President Trump, Anthony Scaramucci - who famously held the job for 11 days - discusses the evolution of Donald Trump since his first term. He delves into the implications of tariffs on UK industries, the complexities of Trump's relationship with Scotland, and the contrasting energy policies between the US and Scotland. Scaramucci also reflects on the rise of nationalism and its historical context, emphasizing the need for unity to avoid global conflict. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

26/01/2025

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35 min
17/12/2025

Angela Constance and the Resident Doctors

Reform UK is rising in Scotland — but can the political system cope with what comes next? From tribunal chaos to ministerial pressure and a volatile pre-election landscape, this week exposed deep fault lines at Holyrood. In this episode of Holyrood Sources, Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein and Andy Maciver to unpack a turbulent week in Scottish politics. They assess Reform UK’s momentum, Malcolm Offord’s challenges, and why broadcasters and parties alike are struggling to respond. The panel also examines Angela Constance’s survival of a no-confidence vote, the growing controversy around the Sandy Peggie tribunal ruling — including questions over errors and credibility — and a blistering debate on resident doctors, strikes, and the NHS. With elections looming, the discussion reveals why trust, competence, and clarity are becoming the real political battlegrounds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

17/12/2025

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51 min

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 connections to Scotland's politicians and the world of Scottish politics. Join our mailing list and check out our latest live events: click holyroodsources.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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NEWS
Welcome inside politics in Northern Ireland. Listen to the podcast which brings you analysis, insight and experience from Stormont. Join journalist, David McCann, plus Tim Cairns, a former Special Advisor to Peter Robinson and Head of Policy for the DUP and Micheal McKernan, a former Special Advisor in the SDLP worked in the Executive from 2007-2016. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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POLITICS
Top advisers to our significant political leaders analyse the successes and failures of today's politics, sharing their experiences of working in Whitehall. Jo Tanner is a political adviser and strategist who's worked with politicians from all parties. Journalist and broadcaster Calum Macdonald manages their in-tray of talking points, U-turns and crises. From parties in Westminster to the tactics of SpAds, this is your exclusive insight into how politics is done and how politicians work. We welcome insiders and analysts to join the conversation each week. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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POLITICS

Bringing you behind the door, with those who have lived and breathed jobs about which we need to know more, from politics and elsewhere. By Shortbread Media Ltd.

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Top Shows

New Scottish Poll SHOCKS Labour: Reform UK Surges to 2nd

North Sea Oil: Jobs vs Net Zero? | The Future of Energy Part 1

Civil War Inside Labour & BBC Crisis, Bias & The License Fee

Farage, Starmer & Badenoch in Scotland as Poll Redraws Holyrood

Will John Swinney deliver independence?

Inside the Good Friday Agreement

Scotland’s Win, Exxon’s Exit & Party Support Ceilings... Plus, Pam Duncan-Glancy

Sir John Curtice - How did Swinney and Sarwar perform?

Anthony Scaramucci... on Trump and Scotland

Angela Constance and the Resident Doctors

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SNP Conference: The Pub

Special Announcement

Double Jobbing & Vote Labour to Stop Labour

Labour and SNP Draw Level

Holyrood Sources So Far

The Budget... with Catherine Macleod

Rutherglen & Hamilton West By-Election

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