Beyond Tribal Politics
Independent journalism and commentary on politics, society, culture, climate and Scotland’s future.
Is the SNP ready to govern?
After almost two decades in power, says James Mitchell, the SNP has still to complete the ‘painful transition’ from party of protest…
Unleashing Scotland’s creativity: a realistic reform for productive place-based democracy
Keith Yates offers Scottish Government the building blocks of realistic reform, achievable within the life of this Scottish parliament
Scottish council reorganisation? ‘Get it right next time’
Scottish Government ‘reform’ plans won’t work, says Keith Yates, so try again, get it right next time.
When you’re in a fiscal hole – stop digging
Taking the easy way out is the rapid route to oblivion, says John McLaren, except perhaps in Scotland?
How to devolve powers in Scotland? Put principles first
If the Scottish Parliament is serious about local government reform then devolution must mean devolution beyond Holyrood.
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…