An Invitation to you: Growing Scotland's Economy

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer says “the culture of politics" needs to change in light of the investigations into allegations of gambling on the general election from both Conservative and Labour figures. Calum, Geoff, Andy and Cat Headley discuss what can be done to address the relationship between politics and gambling, and whether anything should be done at all. 

Plus, if IndyRef2 becomes a fading prospect, what is the point of the Scottish Conservatives? Who's had a good election campaign? And who's had a bad one? All in today's episode. 

This episode is sponsored by Port of Aberdeen. Find out more at https://www.portofaberdeen.co.uk/

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We discuss the recent launch of the SNP manifesto for the upcoming general election. We explore the purpose of a manifesto in a general election and the tactics at play. Plus, we discuss the potential impact of the polls on the outcome of the election and the future of the Scottish Conservative Party. We take your questions on the achievements of the SNP at Westminster and the possibility of a leadership contest within the Scottish Conservatives.

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We're diving deep into the various economic challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for Scotland.

With:

Kate Forbes MSP (SNP), Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Gaelic.

Murdo Fraser MSP (Conservative), Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Business, Economic Growth and Tourism.

Michael Marra MSP (Labour), Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Finance.

Willie Rennie MSP (Liberal Democrat), Spokesperson for Education, Economy and Communities.

We'll be discussing key concerns raised by investors regarding infrastructure projects, planning, and the general business environment. Plus, we'll address the ambiguous terminology often used in policy-making, like the phrases "wellbeing economy" and "startup," which can hinder real progress. Our discussion today will also cover persistent issues of poverty and social mobility, the critical state of Scotland's education sector, the impact of Brexit on skilled workers, and the urgent need for immigration policies that support economic growth. We delve into the energy sector, focusing on offshore wind development, the fiscal constraints facing green prosperity plans, and the importance of a just transition from oil and gas to renewables. Moreover, we'll explore the impact of tax policies on the economy and public services, highlighting the need for a reevaluation of the taxation system to foster growth and retain talent.

Holyrood Sources is sponsored by Port of Aberdeen, find out more at https://www.portofaberdeen.co.uk/

This special episode is brought to you with our delivery partners, Scottish Financial Enterprise and in association with EY.

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Ipsos’ first Scotland poll since the General Election indicates the SNP and Labour in Scotland share 36% of the country's voting intention. Managing Director of Ipsos in Scotland, Emily Gray, joins the podcast to discuss what it means. Plus, after predicting it would happen, Calum, Andy and Geoff assess what next for the Scottish Conservatives after Douglas Ross announced he would stand down as leader.

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Click holyroodsources.com/live to get tickets for our big conversation on Scotland's economy - the only event focusing on Scotland's economy ahead of the General Election.

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Douglas Ross has U-turned on a pledge to quit Westminster to focus on leading the Scottish Conservatives at Holyrood and will once again stand as a candidate at the general election. He will replace David Duguid, who was sacked last night as the candidate for Aberdeenshire North & Moray East because he suffered a serious spinal injury.

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Calum, Geoff and Andy are joined by former Labour candidate Cat Headley to pick apart the key moments from last night's first television debate between Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer. There was a lot of back and forth, and interrupting, but what cut through? Plus, Nigel Farage is back - so what does that mean for the Conservatives, or for the future of the of the Right of politics?

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The podcast episode features post-debate analysis with the deputy leaders of Scottish political parties.

Chapters

5:05 - Jackie Baillie (Labour)

The discussion covers the recent debate, party strategies, and key messages. It also delves into the topic of GB Energy and its potential impact on the energy sector. The conversation concludes with a discussion on Keir Starmer's U-turn on Diane Abbott's candidacy.

23:02 - Kate Forbes (Deputy First Minister, SNP)

The conversation covers party positioning, funding, oil and gas, campaign strategies, the SNP's election prospects, and EU funding. The discussion also delves into the SNP's economic policies, alliances with other parties, and the implications of Michael Matheson MSP maintaining the support of the party.

49:55 - Meghan Gallacher (Conservative)

The discussion delves into the performance of Douglas Ross, the Scottish Conservative Party's approach to campaign issues, and the impact of UK politics on the Scottish election. The conversation also explores the role of Rishi Sunak and the timing of the general election.

1:05:17 - Wendy Chamberlain (Liberal Democrat)

Wendy Chamberlain from the Liberal Democrats discusses the recent TV debate, the party's stance on Brexit, and their strategy for the upcoming election. The conversation also delves into the relevance of the Liberal Democrats in the current political landscape and their approach to environmental issues.

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Our first (maybe last, if you don't like it) Election Bulletin to catch you up on events from the week including: Michael Matheson, Diane Abbott, policy announcements and TikToks. Plus, Tales from the Campaign Trail where some of our journalist friends drop in to let us know how they're getting on. And we tell you what's on the agenda today.

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Ballot Box's Allan Faulds and former Labour Scottish Parliamentary candidate Cat Headley join Calum, Geoff and Andy to pick apart what new polling, the treatment of Dianne Abbott by the Labour party and also reflect on some of their favourite (or not-so-favourite) memories of being on the campaign trail.

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