FM Election and what next?

FM Election and what next?

From The Lesley Riddoch Podcast by Lesley Riddoch and Fraser Thompson

May 19, 2026 · 1h 9m · Episode 929

About this episode

The episode discusses the ongoing First Minister elections in Scotland, the implications of a Section 30 order, and various political developments including cabinet appointments and historical artifacts.

From the incoming First Minister to an impending vote on a Section 30 order and a row brewing over William Wallace's safe conduct letter. We discuss the ongoing First Minister elections, with John Swinney set to be confirmed. We look at the parliamentary process, the inevitable outcome and why other party leaders put their names forward despite the forgone conclusion. Time for Scotland: John Swinney has promised a debate to ask for a Section 30 order on his first day of business. We put out a call as the Time for Scotland posse to all independence supporters to head to Holyrood with saltires next Tuesday evening to ensure the movement remains visible to broadcasters. New Cabinet: We chew over the runners and riders for the new cabinet, which John Swinney has promised will be gender-equal. Could Stephen Flynn and Stephen Gethins be stepping into key ministerial roles within the Scottish Government? Wallace's Letter: We share an exclusive tip-off from a respected Scottish historian regarding a rare safe conduct letter belonging to William Wallace. Currently on loan to Edinburgh from the National Archives at Kew, they now want it returned. Holyrood's New Presiding Officer: A look at…

People in this episode

Hosts: Lesley Riddoch, Fraser Thompson

Topics covered

  • First Minister election
  • Scottish politics
  • independence movement
  • cabinet formation
  • historical artifacts
  • parliamentary process

Keywords

  • First Minister
  • John Swinney
  • Section 30 order
  • Scottish Government
  • William Wallace
  • Kenny Gibson
  • independence
  • Holyrood
  • politics
  • cabinet

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Scottish Government, National Archives

Places: Holyrood, Edinburgh, Kew

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