OPINION
— On Scotland’s drug problem and the proposal to decriminalise personal possession of drugs and introduce safe consumption rooms instead of the UK government’s approach of treating drug use as a criminal issue.
OPINION
Diverse perspectives and personal viewpoints on politics, society, and culture. With thought-provoking commentary from seasoned writers, this section invites readers to engage with bold, often challenging viewpoints that spark debate and encourage critical reflection on today's pressing issues.
OPINION
— As a former reporter, B. Jay Cooper respected deadlines, but nowadays people are always late. And don’t get him started on politicians who act unethically. The state of politics and society is just frustrating.
OPINION
— Keir Starmer pledges to end new UK oil and gas exploration – an expert’s take on why this is the right move.
OPINION
— On Boris Johnson lying to Parliament, resigning as an MP, and refusing to accept responsibility for his actions.
OPINION
— Despite the difficulty in reconciling the idea that no one is above the law with the potential political implications of putting a former president behind bars, the truth remains that if someone is convicted of a crime, they must face the punishment.
OPINION
— The Government is trying to block the COVID Inquiry from accessing unredacted WhatsApp messages that could reveal how Rishi Sunak ignored scientific advice and launched the “Eat Out to Help Out” scheme in 2020, which caused a surge in infections.
OPINION
— The rise of fake news and the absence of the Fairness Doctrine in modern broadcasting have resulted in a lack of accountability, threatening the accuracy of the information available to the public.
OPINION
— McCarthy grew as Speaker by raising the debt limit and surviving the right-wing backlash. He showed he can lead rather than follow.
OPINION
— Two polls show conflicting results for SNP and the Scottish Independence, with one indicating significant losses for the party in the next UK General Election. The second poll, however, shows support for independence at 53%. Will the SNP have time to develop strategies to stem potential vote loss?
OPINION
— The NatCon conference in London displayed hard-right Tory views, blaming UK’s issues on migrants, the EU, and the liberal elite. The event showcased extremist politics and culture war tropes, with controversial speakers, representing the “Trumpification” of British politics.
OPINION
— The recent National Conservatism conference in the UK attracted a mostly male audience, with focus on immigration, gun ownership, and anti-clean energy sentiments.
OPINION
— Wee Ginger Dug argues that Labour leader Keir Starmer aims to adopt conservative policies and move the party further right, targeting English nationalist Brexit voters and that Scotland’s interests aren’t his priority as he focuses on winning in England to secure power.
OPINION
— Florida Governor Ron DeSantis passed a right-wing agenda, including a six-week abortion ban, extended death penalty, and restrictions on LGBTQ+ education. While appealing to Republican primary voters, will it be enough to beat Donald Trump?
OPINION
— The lavish crowning of King Charles III has triggered backlash over privilege, police response against peaceful demonstrators, and assault on civil rights by a Tory Government that gained much from the distraction from their defeat at the local polls.
OPINION
— England’s local elections are expected to cause heavy losses for the Conservative Party on Thursday, potentially pushing backbench Tory unrest. Meanwhile, voter ID requirements will affect non-Conservative supporters, with up to two million voters lacking the necessary ID.
OPINION
— Most Scots have plans other than attending the expensive King’s coronation, which costs £100 million and is funded by the public, despite Charles III receiving public benefits and tax breaks.
