Beyond Tribal Politics
Independent journalism and commentary on politics, society, culture, climate and Scotland’s future.
Reform in haste, repent at leisure
Scottish Government rushed ‘reforms’ will weaken local democracy, accountability and delivery, warns George Thorley
New alliances in a shrinking West: the EU muddles through
Canada is a much easier partner for the EU than other current candidates for joining. But, Kirsty Hughes argues, the EU needs…
Can Scottish government learn from English successes?
‘Not everything needs to have a Saltire added to it’ is a refreshing and healthy message.
When everyone in the room agrees – the door closes
“You do not have to become an extremist to become trapped in a silo.” Charlie Ellis takes his seat in the Edinburgh…
Time for real land reform – now
The lack of political will to tackle the leftovers of feudalism has left 408 landowners owning half Scotland’s private rural land. And…
When IndyRef2 is a question of law
A constitutional right that depends upon the changing language of individual prime ministers is not a dependable constitutional right, writes David McWilliam
Will a food price cap lower the cost of living?
Will SNP government plans to introduce a ceiling on ‘20-50 essentials’ make family shopping in large supermarkets more affordable? Or just stuff…
The beaver, the mink and the human kind
This is a tale of two waterside species. And the often contradictory behaviour of the human species. Make that three waterside species.
Is the Scottish Government ready to face fiscal reality?
“The numbers are well rehearsed by now, but the scale of the fiscal challenge facing the Scottish Parliament is unprecedented.”
Elected mayors in Scotland – benefit or distraction?
Andy Burnham’s commitment to devolve powers based on “a new set of principles and rules for running the British state” promises more…
Farage versus Binface: what that tells us about Britain’s mood
“when voters are shouting at you, it’s bad. When they’re laughing at you, it’s over”. Count Binface received 9,455 votes – one…
GERS: your annual starter for an open-minded discussion?
GERS is a reasonable starting point for understanding the fiscal issues an independent Scotland would likely face on day 1 João Sousa