Keir Starmer’s conference speech has rescued him from leadership challenges, for now; such appears to be the consensus opinion. Starmer certainly managed a stronger, more personable delivery than his more typical rabbit-in-the-headlights stance. But one minister told Channel 4 News that the mood amongst MPs was still sulphurous. And former shadow chancellor, John McDonnell, … [Read more...] about Does Starmer have a vision?
Elections
Starmer Y1: what now for Scotland and a fractured union?
As the mostly scathing assessments of Keir Starmer’s first year of government roll in, the UK’s Labour government looks wobbly and lacking direction. After his disastrous, deeply inept week on disability benefits reform, perhaps the most common question remains, what does Starmer actually believe in? Starmer, in remarkably Soviet style, seems above all to believe – in some … [Read more...] about Starmer Y1: what now for Scotland and a fractured union?
The fragmenting map of Scottish politics
In October 1967, a political earthquake struck the Scottish town of Hamilton. The Scottish National Party, until then a marginal force, surged to prominence when Winnie Ewing captured a Westminster seat long held by Labour. That by-election was transformative, marking the start of the SNP’s ascent into mainstream politics – a journey that would ultimately result in devolution, … [Read more...] about The fragmenting map of Scottish politics
Fox News wins it for Trump
Donald Trump’s ratings continue to slide on most issues. Recent Economist/YouGov polling across the US, completed on May 9-12, shows 51% think the country is on the wrong track, while only 45% have a favourable impression of his job as president. On inflation and prices in the shops, only 35% approve of his handling of this policy. Trump seems to be scoring particularly badly … [Read more...] about Fox News wins it for Trump
A coalition willing and delivering change
Reward for two decades of failure (SNP)? Last throw of the democratic dice with the authoritarian Far Right (Reform UK)? A year out from the May 2026 Holyrood elections that's the unpalatable choice dangled by those parties' leaders - and some polls - before voters. We Scots can surely do better. The Hamilton by-election result points the way forward...First Minister John … [Read more...] about A coalition willing and delivering change