Middle East tensions, UK welfare cuts, and the rise of political independents

The Go Radio Politics Show with Bernard Ponsonby 

Guests

Blair McDougall

Labour MP for East Renfrewshire.

Former campaign director of the "Better Together" campaign during the 2014 Scottish independence referendum.

Ivan McKee, MSP

Scottish Government Minister for Public Finance.

Former Minister for Business, Trade, Tourism, and Enterprise.

Robina Qureshi

Chief Executive of the charity Positive Action in Housing.

Longtime campaigner for refugee and migrant rights and prominent human rights advocate.

In this episode of the Go Radio Politics Show, the panel tackled three major issues shaping Scottish, UK and global politics. The show opens with a heated debate on the legality and consequences of recent U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, with guests expressing deep concern over escalating tensions in the Middle East and their economic and humanitarian fallout.

The conversation then shifts to the UK government's proposed welfare reforms, which aim to cut £5 billion from disability benefits—sparking debate over fairness, sustainability, and the impact on vulnerable citizens, particularly in Scotland.

Finally, the panel explore the growing role of independent politicians, prompted by Fergus Ewing’s decision to run as an independent MSP, and reflected on the balance between party loyalty, personal conscience, and constituent representation.

[00:02:18]

Middle East Conflict: Iran, Israel, and U.S. Bombings

Discussion on U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.

Legal and diplomatic implications debated by Blair McDougall, Ivan McKee, and Robina Qureshi.

Concerns over international law, nuclear deterrence, and echoes of the Iraq war.

Economic consequences of escalating conflict, including oil price spikes and inflation.

[00:21:52]

Gaza and the Two-State Solution

Panel reflects on the viability of a two-state solution.

Emotional and political fallout from the Gaza conflict.

Robina Qureshi shares insights from working with families in Gaza.

Calls for international investment in peace-building and moderate leadership.

[00:27:29]

UK Welfare Reform and Disability Benefits

New bill proposes cuts to PIP and Universal Credit to save £5 billion.

Blair McDougall discusses the balance between support and sustainability.

Ivan McKee outlines the Scottish Government’s preventative investment strategy.

Robina Qureshi highlights the impact on vulnerable populations and asylum seekers.

[00:50:29]

Independent Politics and Fergus Ewing’s Announcement

Debate on the role of independent MSPs in holding governments accountable.

Reflections on the legacy of Margo MacDonald and the value of political independence.

Final thoughts from panellists on loyalty to party vs. constituents and conscience.

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