What’s the Point? | Scottish Local Politics

What's the Point? Political Podcat
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What’s the Point? is a bold, no-nonsense show diving into the issues that matter most to communities across North Lanarkshire and Scotland. With wit, scepticism, and robust opinion, we host honest conversations with politicians, people in the know, and you exploring politics, policy, and the people behind the headlines. We ask the questions others won’t: What’s really going on? Who’s being heard? And what’s the point? Disclaimer: This programme is political discussion and commentary and contains strong opinions. Views expressed are personal to the contributors and given in that capacity

  1. Delegated Authority, Councillor Decisions (who controls the council?) and our National Team. Ep 55

    Jun 18

    Delegated Authority, Councillor Decisions (who controls the council?) and our National Team. Ep 55

    Who really runs your council? The councillors you elect, or the officers behind the scenes?This week on What’s the Point?, we tackle one of the biggest questions in local democracy: delegated authority. How much power is actually held by elected councillors, how much is delegated to officers, and where does accountability sit when major decisions are made? We break down how councils operate, who makes the decisions, and why understanding the difference matters to every taxpayer and voter.We also discuss:What delegated authority really meansThe balance of power between councillors and council officersWho is responsible when controversial decisions are madeTransparency, accountability and local democracyThe latest developments involving our national teamThe stories and issues making headlines this weekAs always, Greg and Gerry bring their mix of political insight, humour, and straight-talking analysis as they ask the questions others won't.📻 Live every Tuesday at 7pm on Listen Lanarkshire 107.7FM🎙️ Podcast available every Thursday📱 Follow us on TikTok, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube💬 Who do you think really controls the council? Let us know in the comments.#WhatsThePoint #LocalGovernment #DelegatedAuthority #CouncilPolitics #NorthLanarkshire #ScottishPolitics #Democracy #Accountability #Councillors #LocalDemocracy #Podcast #PoliticalPodcast #NationalTeam #ListenLanarkshire

    1h 25m
  2. James Marvin, Local Historian / NLs TIKTOK Sensation. Ep 54

    Jun 11

    James Marvin, Local Historian / NLs TIKTOK Sensation. Ep 54

    This week on What's the Point?, we're joined by James Marvin, better known online as Scotland by Prestige, to explore the fascinating history and heritage of North Lanarkshire and beyond. From abandoned mines and ancient priories to forgotten landmarks, museums, and hidden gems, James has built a loyal following through his engaging short videos that bring Scotland's rich history to life. Coming from humble beginnings, his passion for uncovering local stories has captured the attention of thousands across social media, including us. We'll be discussing some of Lanarkshire's most intriguing historical sites, the importance of preserving our heritage, and the opportunities available for residents and visitors to explore Scotland's past.

    1h 3m
  3. Brian Leishman MP, future of Scottish Labour, Grangemouth and Suspension. Ep 53

    Jun 4

    Brian Leishman MP, future of Scottish Labour, Grangemouth and Suspension. Ep 53

    Our guest tonight is Brian Leishman MP, one of Scottish Labour's most outspoken politicians and a man who seems to have spent much of his Westminster career testing the theory that MPs are supposed to do what the party leadership tells them.A former councillor, trade unionist and professional golfer, Brian made the jump from local government to Westminster in 2024 when he was elected as the MP for Alloa and Grangemouth. Since then, he's built a reputation for saying exactly what he thinks, whether his own party likes it or not.That independent streak landed him in hot water in 2025 when he became one of four Labour MPs suspended from the Parliamentary Labour Party after repeatedly rebelling against the Government, particularly over welfare reforms. While Labour HQ was counting votes, Brian was telling anyone who'd listen that he wasn't elected to make vulnerable people poorer.He's campaigned on the future of Grangemouth, challenged his party leadership on welfare, and become one of the most recognisable voices on Labour's left. Depending on who you ask, he's either standing up for his principles or giving party whips regular headaches.Tonight we'll find out whether Westminster is everything he thought it would be, what really happened behind the scenes during his suspension, whether Labour is still the party of working people, and perhaps most importantly whether being suspended by your own party is actually as stressful as it sounds.#WhatsThePoint#localgovernment #BrianLeishman#ScottishPolitics #ScottishLabour #LabourParty#Westminster #Politics #PoliticalPodcast

    1h 40m
  4. Reform’s Graham Simpson MSP, Reform UK’s Scotland Surge & Council Elections in 27. Ep. 52

    May 28

    Reform’s Graham Simpson MSP, Reform UK’s Scotland Surge & Council Elections in 27. Ep. 52

    This week on What's the Point? We’re joined by Reform UK MSP Graham Simpson.As Reform emerges as one of the newest and fastest-growing groupings at Holyrood, now positioning itself as a major opposition force following the 2026 Scottish Parliament election, we ask what Scotland can expect next. We’ll discuss:* What Reform UK actually stands for in Scotland* Whether local government reform is on the horizon ahead of the 2027 council elections* How Reform plans to challenge the political establishment* What Graham Simpson’s move from the Conservatives to Reform says about the changing political landscape * And what voters can realistically expect from Reform over the next five yearsWith growing influence at Holyrood and increasing debate around governance, devolution, public spending and political reform, this promises to be a fascinating conversation. 📻 What’s the Point?Tuesday at 7PM on Listen Lanarkshire 107.7FM🎧 Podcast available Thursday. #UKPolitics #LocalGovernment #BreakingPolitics#PoliticalPodcast #Democracy #ScotlandTikTok

    1h 22m
  5. Former MP Hugh Gaffney, His New Book, Life in Politics and NLC SNP Madness. Ep 51

    May 21

    Former MP Hugh Gaffney, His New Book, Life in Politics and NLC SNP Madness. Ep 51

    Former MP Hugh Gaffney joins Gerry and Greg for Episode 51 of What’s the Point? to discuss his new book "Auchengeich: Gone But Not Forgotten", which tells the story of the devastating Auchengeich Pit Disaster and the lasting impact it had on Lanarkshire communities and mining families. We also dive into Hugh’s time as both a North Lanarkshire councillor and MP, the realities and pitfalls of Westminster politics, and ask whether public procurement in Scotland is actually delivering value for taxpayers and communities. The conversation then turns to the latest North Lanarkshire Council drama, including the SNP Group’s motion to remove the Lord Provost over an incident that took place four years ago, an incident the Standards Commission for Scotland already dealt with through censure and a warning not to repeat the behaviour. After the Linden scandal and the loss of the £10,000 opposition leader payment, we ask: is this genuine accountability, political payback, or simply an attempt to remain relevant? We also discuss the recent Housing Committee meeting that lasted just 15 minutes, with minimal scrutiny despite over £160 million in contracts being awarded. Is this the standard of governance the public should expect from North Lanarkshire Council? All this and much more on Episode 51 of What’s the Point?🎙 Listen Lanarkshire 107.7FM📲 Follow us: TikTok @whats.the.point.p

    1h 25m
  6. Cllr Fiona Higgins, Ethical Standards Framework & Scottish Election Results. Ep 50.

    May 14

    Cllr Fiona Higgins, Ethical Standards Framework & Scottish Election Results. Ep 50.

    What's the Point? North Lanarkshire Podcast2d · This week on What’s the Point? we’re joined by Glasgow’s Cllr Fiona Higgins Canal Ward for what promises to be one of our biggest conversations yet.Fiona is becoming one of the most talked about voices in Scotland around free speech, political expression and the right of elected councillors to robustly challenge decisions, scrutinise power and speak openly on matters of public concern.As debate grows around the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, officer complaints, political scrutiny and democratic accountability, Fiona has found herself at the centre of a national conversation about where the line sits between standards and free political debate in modern Scotland.We’ll be discussing: Free speech & political expression Standards and accountability Councillor scrutiny and officer relationships Social media and modern politics Governance, transparency and public confidence Whether the current framework is fit for modern local democracy We will not be discussing the substance of any live legal matters. LIVE from 7pm Listen Lanarkshire 107.7FM Podcast released later this weekOne not to miss #WhatsThePoint #FionaHiggins #LocalGovernment #FreeSpeech #ScottishPolitics #CodeOfConduct #Transparency #Governance #NorthLanarkshire

    1h 60m
  7. CEO Salaries, Linden Sentencing & SNP SHAME. Ep 49

    May 7

    CEO Salaries, Linden Sentencing & SNP SHAME. Ep 49

    This week on What’s the Point? we discuss the latest Daily Record revelations surrounding Scotland’s highest-paid council executives, as councils continue to warn of financial pressures, service cuts, and rising council tax bills. Would communities rather save local facilities or ensure 10% rises for senior officials? We also discuss the sentencing of former SNP Council Leader Jordan Linden, who yesterday received an 18-month prison sentence and was placed on the sex offenders register for 10 years, after appearing at Falkirk Sheriff Court. All that and more, with a few laughs, a bit of outrage, and the straight talking you expect from What’s the Point? Remember to like, subscribe, and join the conversation.

    1h 23m
  8. Scottish Elections, Communities Committee and Independence. Ep 48

    Apr 30

    Scottish Elections, Communities Committee and Independence. Ep 48

    This week on What’s the Point?, we dive into the Scottish Parliament elections, who’s taking your fancy, or are they all much the same?We ask whether the SNP in North Lanarkshire can overcome the recent scandals it’s faced, and whether the very people who brought us Brexit are really the ones to get us out of the cost of living crisis.Gerry also has a moment to reflect on his… unexpected admiration for the Scottish Greens, we’ll see how that goes.We also take a look at the big question: how does the SNP actually deliver IndyRef2 from here?And with the latest developments around the Time Capsule, we ask, how was a motion from the floor refused when it came to Aquatec, yet allowed when it came to moving forward on the Time Capsule?All that and more, so make sure you like, subscribe, and get involved.

    1h 28m
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About

What’s the Point? is a bold, no-nonsense show diving into the issues that matter most to communities across North Lanarkshire and Scotland. With wit, scepticism, and robust opinion, we host honest conversations with politicians, people in the know, and you exploring politics, policy, and the people behind the headlines. We ask the questions others won’t: What’s really going on? Who’s being heard? And what’s the point? Disclaimer: This programme is political discussion and commentary and contains strong opinions. Views expressed are personal to the contributors and given in that capacity

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