Senedd Sources

Shortbread Media

Welcome inside Welsh politics. Senedd Sources hears from those who have lived it in decision-forming and policy-making for Wales to assess politics, today, in Wales and for Wales. Join journalist Ollie Cole, as well as Jo Kiernan, former adviser to Welsh Labour First Ministers Rhodri Morgan and Carwyn Jones, now at Cavendish Consulting, and former Welsh Conservative candidate and adviser Craig Lawton of Grasshopper Communications, as they share their experiences, and shape conversation about Welsh politics today.

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50 episodes
Updated Thursday

Episodes50

Newest first

Thursday · 38 min
The Comms War: Burnham, Rhun & Reform's Battle & the Future for Welsh Labour
Is Wales is heading into a political storm this Autumn? Fresh off a headline interview with new Welsh Labour leader Ken Skates, Senedd Sources unpacks his boldest claim yet: he'd walk away from the top job "without being precious about it." Is that honesty — or a warning sign for Welsh Labour's rebuild? Meanwhile, the budget battle over additional learning needs funding is set to blow up again in September, and Plaid Cymru are learning the hard way that governing on a knife-edge majority means nobody backs down easily. Elsewhere, a public "battle of the airwaves" is playing out between UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham and Wales' First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth - but will Farage's anti-establishment narrative beat them both in the end? Add in NHS waiting lists ticking back up after ten months of good news, and Wales' new government is facing its first real test. This week's episode covers: - Ken Skates' comments on his own future — and what they reveal about Welsh Labour - The £100m budget red line that could define the next Senedd term - Inside the "comms war" between Andy Burnham and Rhun ap Iorwerth - Why NHS waiting lists are climbing again — and what it means for Plaid's first term in power - Whether Welsh Labour has actually faced up to its May election wipeout Politics in Wales just got a lot more interesting. Don't miss it. 📍 Subscribe for weekly breakdowns of Welsh and UK politics from inside the Senedd. #WelshPolitics #Senedd #WelshLabour #PlaidCymru #NHSWales #UKPolitics #WalesNews #PoliticsPodcast ✉️ Got something you want us to dig into next week? WhatsApp Voice Note: 0333 404 6507 (Start your message with the word Senedd) Email: Hello@seneddsources.com Subscribe on your favourite podcast app so you never miss an episode! ***** Welcome inside Welsh politics. Senedd Sources hears from those who have lived it in decision-forming and policy-making for Wales to assess politics, today, in Wales and for Wales. Join journalist Ollie Cole and former Welsh Labour adviser Jo Kiernan as they share their experiences, and shape conversation about Welsh politics today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
July 26 · 1 hr
Live on Downing Street | Andy Burnham Becomes PM
Andy Burnham has officially become the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, marking the country’s 7th PM since 2016. Join host Calum Macdonald live from Downing Street on this special episode of The Sources Podcasts as we break down every moment of this historic handover of power. From Keir Starmer’s departure speech to Andy Burnham’s note-free address to the nation, we cover the immediate reactions, political strategy, and shock Cabinet appointments shaping the new UK government. In this episode: - Keir Starmer’s final speech and exit to Buckingham Palace. - Andy Burnham’s vision: Ending rough sleeping, re-industrialisation, and cost-of-living relief. - Expert analysis with Patrick Maguire (The Times), Cathy Newman (Times Radio/Sky News), Anna Mikhailova (Times Radio), Peter Cardwell (Talk), Alexander Brown (Daily Mirror), Stefan Boscia (The Times), Andrew Quinn (The Scotsman), and Kate Ferguson (Sun on Sunday). - Breaking Cabinet Announcements: John Healey as Chancellor, Ed Miliband as Foreign Secretary, Shabana Mahmood as Home Secretary, and Louise Haigh as Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster. 💬 What do you think of Andy Burnham's new Cabinet? Will his 10-year plan stabilise UK politics? Let us know 🔔 Don't forget to LIKE, SHARE, and SUBSCRIBE for more expert UK political analysis from The Sources Podcast network! #AndyBurnham #KeirStarmer #UKPolitics #DowningStreet #Number10 #BritishPolitics #LabourParty #UKPrimeMinister #TheSourcesPodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
July 23 · 51 min
Can Ken Skates Save Welsh Labour? | Exclusive Interview - Senedd Sources
Can Ken Skates rebuild Welsh Labour? What does the new UK Government mean for Wales? And how will Andy Burnham and Stephen Kinnock reshape the relationship between Westminster and Cardiff Bay? In this exclusive interview, Ken Skates, the newly elected Leader of Welsh Labour, joins the Senedd Sources podcast to discuss his vision for the future of Wales, rebuilding the Labour Party, devolution, education funding, and the biggest political challenges facing the country. We also break down the latest developments in Welsh politics, including: - The appointment of Andy Burnham as the new UK Prime Minister - Stephen Kinnock becoming the new Secretary of State for Wales - The future relationship between the UK Government and the Welsh Government - Plaid Cymru, Reform UK and the changing political landscape in Wales - Education funding, public services and Welsh Labour's priorities - Why Ken Skates believes Wales needs a "devolution revolution" Ken also shares the personal story that shaped his politics, explains why he's determined to rebuild Welsh Labour, and even gives us a look at his impressive LEGO collection! 👇 Let us know what you think: Can Welsh Labour recover under Ken Skates? What do you think the new UK Government should prioritise for Wales? 👍 If you enjoyed this episode, please Like, Subscribe and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode of Senedd Sources. ✉️ Get in touch! Have a comment or question you want us to dive into on the next show? WhatsApp: 0333 404 6507 (Start your message with the word Senedd) Email: Hello@seneddsources.com #WelshPolitics #PlaidCymru #WelshLabour #Senedd #Wales #UKPolitics ***** Welcome inside Welsh politics. Senedd Sources hears from those who have lived it in decision-forming and policy-making for Wales to assess politics, today, in Wales and for Wales. Join journalist Ollie Cole and former Welsh Labour adviser Jo Kiernan as they share their experiences, and shape conversation about Welsh politics today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
July 16 · 40 min
Budget Battle BACKFIRES? Political Pressure Piles on Plaid & Labour's New Face(s)
Plaid's first major test in government... and it didn't go to plan. This week on Senedd Sources, we unpack the budget battle that's piled fresh pressure on Rhun ap Iorwerth and Plaid Cymru after a dramatic showdown in the Senedd. What went wrong for Rhun ap Iorwerth's government, why did Labour refuse to back the budget, and what does this mean for the future of the Welsh Government? We also discuss the beginning of a new era for Welsh Labour, as Ken Skates takes over the party in Wales while Andy Burnham enters Downing Street. Can this new leadership team rebuild Labour's fortunes, - and what could it mean for the relationship between Cardiff Bay and Westminster? 📌 In this episode: - The Senedd budget bust-up explained - Is political pressure mounting on Plaid Cymru? - Rhun ap Iorwerth's biggest challenge yet - Ken Skates becomes Welsh Labour leader - Andy Burnham's impact on Wales - What happens next in Welsh politics? 💬 What do you think? Let us know in the comments. ✉️ Get in touch! Have a comment or question you want us to dive into on the next show? WhatsApp: 0333 404 6507 (Start your message with the word Senedd) Email: Hello@seneddsources.com #WelshPolitics #PlaidCymru #WelshLabour #Senedd #Wales #UKPolitics ***** Welcome inside Welsh politics. Senedd Sources hears from those who have lived it in decision-forming and policy-making for Wales to assess politics, today, in Wales and for Wales. Join journalist Ollie Cole, former Welsh Labour adviser Jo Kiernan and former Welsh Conservative candidate and adviser Craig Lawton as they share their experiences, and shape conversation about Welsh politics today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
July 9 · 41 min
Burnham's First Test: Holyrood x Senedd Sources Crossover
This week we're doing something a little different with a special Holyrood Sources x Senedd Sources crossover. While Jo is away, Ollie brings you the latest from Cardiff Bay before handing over to our colleagues in Scotland for a fascinating discussion on what Andy Burnham's rise could mean for Wales, Scotland and the future of devolution across the UK. In this episode we discuss: - Andy Burnham's Welsh opinion piece controversy. - Plaid Cymru's budget negotiations and governing challenges. - What a new UK Prime Minister could mean for the UK - How Scotland is viewing the political changes from Westminster. - A special Holyrood Sources panel recorded from Westminster. 📩 Got a question about Welsh politics? Send us a WhatsApp voice note or email and we could answer it in a future episode. WhatsApp: 0333 404 6507 (Start your message with the word Senedd) Email: Hello@seneddsources.com If you enjoy in-depth coverage of the Senedd, Welsh Government, Cardiff Bay and UK politics, make sure you subscribe so you never miss an episode. ***** Welcome inside Welsh politics. Senedd Sources hears from those who have lived it in decision-forming and policy-making for Wales to assess politics, today, in Wales and for Wales. Join journalist Ollie Cole and former Welsh Labour adviser Jo Kiernan as they share their experiences, and shape conversation about Welsh politics today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
July 9 · 36 min
CAN THEY BUILD IT? Plaid Take On Wales’ Housing Crisis
The housing crisis in Wales isn't going away—but can the new Welsh Government actually fix it? In this episode of Senedd Sources, Ollie Cole sits down with Stuart Ropke, Chief Executive of Community Housing Cymru, to discuss one of the biggest challenges facing Wales: building enough affordable and social housing. With Plaid Cymru promising 20,000 new social homes over the next Senedd term, is the target realistic? We explore the funding challenges, planning delays, construction skills shortages, temporary accommodation crisis, and what needs to change if Wales is to tackle its housing emergency. We also discuss: 🏠 Can Wales really build 20,000 new homes? 💷 Is there enough funding for social housing? 🏗️ What's stopping homes being built? 👷 The construction skills shortage in Wales 🌱 The challenge of decarbonising existing housing stock 🏛️ What the new Plaid Cymru Government means for housing policy 📈 Why planning reform, infrastructure and long-term investment matter Whether you're interested in Welsh politics, housing policy, or the future of the Senedd, this conversation explains the key issues shaping housing in Wales. Subscribe to Senedd Sources for weekly interviews, analysis and explainers on Welsh politics, the Senedd and the decisions affecting communities across Wales. 💬 What do you think? Can Wales solve its housing crisis? Let us know in the comments. #Wales #WelshPolitics #HousingCrisis #SocialHousing #PlaidCymru #Senedd #AffordableHousing #Housing #Politics #CommunityHousing #WelshGovernment ✉️ Get in touch! Have a comment or question you want us to dive into on the next show? WhatsApp: 0333 404 6507 (Start your message with the word Senedd) Email: Hello@seneddsources.com ***** Welcome inside Welsh politics. Senedd Sources hears from those who have lived it in decision-forming and policy-making for Wales to assess politics, today, in Wales and for Wales. Join journalist Ollie Cole and former Welsh Labour adviser Jo Kiernan as they share their experiences, and shape conversation about Welsh politics today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
June 25 · 42 min
New PM, New Wales? How Burnham's Rise Could Change Everything
Reform UK’s rise is sending shockwaves through Welsh and UK politics — and the impact is already being felt in the Senedd. In this episode of Senedd Sources, the panel discusses how recent political turmoil in Westminster, including leadership uncertainty and shifting alliances, is reshaping the balance of power in Wales. With a new Prime Minister on the horizon, questions are mounting about the future of devolution, how Cardiff Bay will respond, and whether traditional party politics in Wales is being fundamentally rewritten. The conversation also explores: - The growing influence of Reform UK in Welsh political debate - What a new UK Prime Minister means for Wales and devolution - Internal pressure on Labour and the Senedd opposition - Whether political walkouts and confrontational tactics are effective - The future of Welsh governance in a rapidly changing UK landscape - And we say goodbye to Craig Lawton, who is sadly leaving the pod to start a few role elsewhere This is a moment of political change — and Wales is right at the centre of it. 📍 Subscribe for weekly breakdowns of Welsh and UK politics from inside the Senedd. ✉️ Get in touch! Have a comment or question you want us to dive into on the next show? WhatsApp Voice Note: 0333 404 6507 (Start your message with the word Senedd) Email: Hello@seneddsources.com Subscribe on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode! #WelshPolitics #Senedd #ReformUK #UKPolitics #WalesNews #PoliticsPodcast ***** Welcome inside Welsh politics. Senedd Sources hears from those who have lived it in decision-forming and policy-making for Wales to assess politics, today, in Wales and for Wales. Join journalist Ollie Cole, former Welsh Labour adviser Jo Kiernan and former Welsh Conservative candidate and adviser Craig Lawton as they share their experiences, and shape conversation about Welsh politics today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
June 18 · 53 min
Senedd Walkout, Childcare Cash Crises & The New Lobbying Register
Drama has officially arrived in the expanded Senedd. In this week's episode of Senedd Sources, Ollie Cole, Jo Kiernan, and Craig Lawton unpack a tumultuous week in Welsh politics marked by a full-blown chamber walkout, a massive policy clash over international spending, and a surprise legislative win for Reform UK. First, we break down the fallout from Reform UK MS Joe Martin’s controversial speeches on asylum seekers and international development, which prompted Plaid Cymru, Labour, and Green MSs to turn their backs and walk out. Is this insurgent tactic here to stay, or will the Presiding Officer Huw Irranca-Davis clamp down with sanctions? Next, we dive deep into the numbers. Finance Minister Elon Jones is laying down a supplementary budget for the NHS and childcare pledges, but former First Minister Mark Drakeford has some choice words about Plaid’s math. Where is the money going to come from? Finally, we discuss the new statutory lobbying register—a massive early win for Reform UK—and break down the brand-new Senedd committee chairs. ✉️ Get in touch! Have a comment or question you want us to dive into on the next show? WhatsApp Voice Note: 0333 404 6507 (Start your message with the word Senedd) Email: Hello@seneddsources.com Subscribe on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
June 11 · 37 min
Plaid's Costings Question: Unexpected Alliances and Childcare Battles
Baby steps or budget headaches? This week, Plaid Cymru found itself under growing pressure to explain one of its flagship election promises: expanding childcare provision across Wales. Opposition parties are demanding answers on costings, delivery and timescales, while ministers insist details are on the way. In this episode of Senedd Sources, Ollie Cole, Jo Kiernan and Craig Lawton examine the first signs that governing may prove much harder than campaigning, as the new Welsh Government faces scrutiny from all sides. We discuss: Why Plaid Cymru's childcare plans are already under pressure The row over costings and whether the numbers add up The unexpected voting alliances emerging in the new Senedd How Reform UK is adapting to life as the largest opposition group The long-awaited announcement of Senedd committees Which parties could end up controlling key scrutiny roles Whether an expanded Senedd is coping with its growing workload The latest Labour Party turmoil and what Andy Burnham's leadership ambitions could mean for Welsh politics With the honeymoon period fading, committees finally taking shape and ministers facing tougher questions, Welsh politics is entering a fascinating new chapter. 🎧 Subscribe for weekly analysis of Welsh politics, the Senedd and policymaking. 📲 Send us your voice notes on WhatsApp: 0333 404 6507 (start your message with "Senedd") 📧 hello@seneddsources.com #WelshPolitics #Senedd #PlaidCymru #RhunapIorwerth #ReformUK #WelshGovernment #WalesPolitics #PoliticsPodcast #WelshLabour #Devolution #SeneddSources Welcome inside Welsh politics. ***** Welcome inside Welsh politics. Senedd Sources hears from those who have lived it in decision-forming and policy-making for Wales to assess politics, today, in Wales and for Wales. Join journalist Ollie Cole, former Welsh Labour adviser Jo Kiernan and former Welsh Conservative candidate and adviser Craig Lawton as they share their experiences, and shape conversation about Welsh politics today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
June 4 · 45 min
The Honeymoon Is Over: Plaid's First FMQs & Adam Price Tackles the Economy
Plaid Cymru's honeymoon period is over. This week saw the first First Minister's Questions of the new Senedd term, with Reform UK taking on the role of main opposition and putting Rhun ap Iorwerth's government under immediate pressure over NHS waiting times, economic promises and delivery. In this episode of Senedd Sources, Ollie Cole, Jo Kiernan and Craig Lawton break down the first FMQs of the new government, Adam Price's increasingly high-profile economic agenda, and what the early weeks of Plaid Cymru's administration tell us about the challenges ahead. We discuss: Reform UK's first major test as the Senedd's largest opposition group Whether Plaid Cymru can deliver on its NHS waiting time promises Adam Price's plan to tackle Wales' productivity problem Renewable energy, investment and the row over pylons The battle over nuclear power and infrastructure investment Why Senedd committees still haven't been formed And what the changing politics of Wales means for devolution and the future of the Union With expectations high, scrutiny intensifying and Plaid Cymru now having to turn rhetoric into results, the first real tests of government are beginning. 🎧 Subscribe for weekly analysis on Welsh politics, the Senedd and policymaking. 📲 Send us your voice notes on WhatsApp: 0333 404 6507 (start your message with "Senedd") 📧 hello@seneddsources.com #WelshPolitics #PlaidCymru #Senedd #FMQs #RhunapIorwerth #AdamPrice #ReformUK #WelshGovernment #WalesPolitics #PoliticsPodcast #Devolution #NHSWales ***** Welcome inside Welsh politics. Senedd Sources hears from those who have lived it in decision-forming and policy-making for Wales to assess politics, today, in Wales and for Wales. Join journalist Ollie Cole, former Welsh Labour adviser Jo Kiernan and former Welsh Conservative candidate and adviser Craig Lawton as they share their experiences, and shape conversation about Welsh politics today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
May 28 · 44 min
Who Pays? IFS Warnings & Rhun Reopening The M4 Debate
Plaid Cymru has wasted no time setting out its priorities for government — but can Wales actually afford them? In this episode of Senedd Sources, we break down Rhun ap Iorwerth’s surprise intervention on the M4 relief road, the political risks of reopening one of Wales’ most divisive infrastructure debates, and the mounting economic pressure facing the new Welsh Government. Joining Ollie Cole, Jo Kiernan and Craig Lawton is David Phillips from the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS), who warns that “the good times are over” as ministers prepare for some of the toughest budget decisions since devolution began. We discuss: - Whether Rhun ap Iorwerth can realistically deliver an M4 solution - The brutal financial choices facing the Welsh Government - Can Plaid Cymru afford its childcare and NHS pledges? - Why politicians struggle to level with voters about the economy - Potential cuts to public services and the civil service - How Wales compares economically to the rest of the UK - And whether there is actually room for optimism in the Welsh economy With budgets tightening, pressure mounting on public services, and expectations sky-high after the Senedd election, this is essential listening for anyone following Welsh politics, Plaid Cymru, or the future direction of Wales. 🎧 Subscribe for weekly analysis on Welsh politics, the Senedd, and policymaking. 📲 Send us your voice notes on WhatsApp: 0333 404 6507 (start your message with “Senedd”) 📧 hello@seneddsources.com #WelshPolitics #PlaidCymru #RhunapIorwerth #Senedd #M4 #M4ReliefRoad #WalesPolitics #IFS #UKPolitics #WelshGovernment #PoliticsPodcast ***** Welcome inside Welsh politics. Senedd Sources hears from those who have lived it in decision-forming and policy-making for Wales to assess politics, today, in Wales and for Wales. Join journalist Ollie Cole, former Welsh Labour adviser Jo Kiernan and former Welsh Conservative candidate and adviser Craig Lawton as they share their experiences, and shape conversation about Welsh politics today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
May 21 · 35 min
How Reform UK & The Tories Are Re-Shaping Senedd Opposition
In this episode of Senedd Sources, Ollie Cole and Craig Lawton break down the new political landscape in Wales as the dust settles after the 2026 Senedd election. Will Plaid Cymru actually be affective now they are in power, and are they facing pressure to deliver in the first 100 days? How will Reform and the Conservatives function in opposition? And will Mark Drakeford's intervention this week shake up the strategy in Welsh Labour? Is the former First Minister still a relevant voice within the party? We also discuss on the show: Reform UK’s new shadow cabinet and strategy. Childcare policy challenges and government spending. The future leadership battle inside Welsh Labour. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
May 14 · 36 min
Plaid Takes Power & Reform Finds Its Role - Wales Settles Into New Leadership
Plaid Cymru is in power. Labour is out for the first time in the history of devolution. And Reform UK is now the official opposition in a dramatically reshaped Senedd. In this episode of Senedd Sources, Jo Kiernan and Craig Lawton break down the election aftermath, Rhun ap Iorwerth’s first moves as First Minister, and what Plaid’s new cabinet tells us about the direction of the Welsh Government. From major cabinet appointments to committee battles and minority government maths, this is the inside story of how Wales’ new political era is beginning. With Plaid Cymru now governing without a majority, how difficult will it be to hold together a new administration while negotiating vote-by-vote in a larger Senedd? And what role will Reform UK play as a powerful new opposition force? Plus: - Why Labour faces a huge rebuilding challenge - The balancing act over farming, energy and net zero - How committee chairs and Senate numbers could shape Welsh politics for years 📥 Have your say! What’s the first thing the new Welsh Government should do? WhatsApp us: 0333 404 6507 (Start with 'Senedd') Email: hello@seneddsources.com ***** Welcome inside Welsh politics. Senedd Sources hears from those who have lived it in decision-forming and policy-making for Wales to assess politics, today, in Wales and for Wales. Join journalist Ollie Cole, former Welsh Labour adviser Jo Kiernan and former Welsh Conservative candidate and adviser Craig Lawton as they share their experiences, and shape conversation about Welsh politics today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
May 9 · 33 min
The Day Welsh Politics Changed Forever: Election Results Special
The face of Welsh politics has been utterly transformed. In this emergency weekend edition of Senedd Sources, Ollie Cole and Jo Kiernan dissect a brutal election day that saw Labour’s Eluned Morgan become the first head of a British government to lose her seat in modern history. With Plaid Cymru (43 seats) and Reform UK (34 seats) dominating the new 96-seat Senedd, we look at the "two-horse race" narrative that squeezed the traditional parties and what a Plaid Cymru minority government means for the future of Wales. Topics covered: The collapse of the Labour vote and Eluned Morgan’s resignation. Why Reform UK outperformed expectations (but missed their majority). The "Squeeze": How the new voting system backfired on its creators. Is Keir Starmer to blame? The view from Westminster vs. Cardiff Bay. The Liberal Democrat and Green struggle for relevance. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
May 7 · 31 min
Wales Election Day 2026: Can Reform or Plaid Cymru Dethrone Labour?
Is the 100-year reign of Welsh Labour about to end? 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿 As the polls open, Ollie Cole and Jo Kiernan dive into the final "vibes" of the campaign and the chaos of the new voting system. It’s Election Day in Wales, and the stakes couldn't be higher. In this episode of Senedd Sources, we break down the final polling, the exhaustion of the campaign trail, and the very real possibility that First Minister Eluned Morgan could lose her seat. The "Slugfest": Why this election has become a head-to-head between Plaid Cymru and Reform UK. The New System: How the 16 "super-constituencies" and proportional representation are baffling both voters and parties. The Keir Starmer Factor: Is the UK Prime Minister a help or a hindrance on the Welsh doorstep? Governing the Morning After: The "painful" reality of forming a minority government and why most manifestos are currently "unaffordable." 📥 Have your say! What’s the first thing the new Welsh Government should do? WhatsApp us: 0333 404 6507 (Start with 'Senedd') Email: hello@seneddsources.com ***** Welcome inside Welsh politics. Senedd Sources hears from those who have lived it in decision-forming and policy-making for Wales to assess politics, today, in Wales and for Wales. Join journalist Ollie Cole, former Welsh Labour adviser Jo Kiernan and former Welsh Conservative candidate and adviser Craig Lawton as they share their experiences, and shape conversation about Welsh politics today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
May 1 · 1 hr 27 min
LIVE in Bridgend: Energy, Bills & the Battle for Wales’ Future
With just one week to go until polling day, the race for Wales is entering its final stage — and the battle over energy and the cost of living is front and centre. In this special live episode of Senedd Sources, recorded in front of an audience at the Electric Brewery Field in Bridgend, Jo Kiernan and Craig Lawton are joined by representatives from Welsh Labour, Reform UK and Plaid Cymru to debate one of the biggest issues facing voters: energy bills. As households and businesses across Wales continue to feel the pressure, the question is simple — who has the plan to bring costs down? They discuss: - How each party would tackle rising energy bills - The push for energy independence in Wales - Onshore vs offshore wind — and the political divide - Nuclear, tidal and the future energy mix - Planning delays and why projects take so long - Whether communities are being brought along — or left behind - And how all of this could shape the final week of the campaign! With polling tight and momentum shifting, this live debate captures the key arguments defining the 2026 Senedd election. 🎧 Subscribe for weekly analysis on Welsh politics, the Senedd and the decisions shaping Wales. 📲 Send us your thoughts or questions: hello@seneddsources.com ***** Welcome inside Welsh politics. Senedd Sources hears from those who have lived it in decision-forming and policy-making for Wales to assess politics, today, in Wales and for Wales. Join journalist Ollie Cole, former Welsh Labour adviser Jo Kiernan and former Welsh Conservative candidate and adviser Craig Lawton as they share their experiences, and shape conversation about Welsh politics today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
April 27 · 6 min
Election Debate: Join us LIVE - TOMORROW (Tuesday)
Tomorrow, Tuesday 28th April, we’re bringing the Senedd Sources podcast to Bridgend for a live special ahead of next week’s Senedd election - and you are very welcome to come and join us, to hear the discussion and to ask your questions of the politicians who will be with us. Tickets are completely FREE but we do need you to register so we know you’re coming along… head to seneddsources.com/live Join us live to discuss and debate the energy future of Wales, the economy and the election. Ask your questions of politicians and take part in our live podcast, sponsored by Electrify Britain. We’ll be joined by: Huw Irranca-Davies, Labour, Deputy First Minister of Wales Jason O’Connell, Reform UK Luke Fletcher, Plaid Cymru. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
April 23 · 56 min
Neck-and-Neck: Reform and Plaid Surge, Labour Slides And 92,000 New Voters in Wales?!
New Voters, New Polls - And Two Weeks 'Till Polling Day!
April 16 · 55 min
Big Promises, Awkward Answers - Pick'n'Mix Manifestos & Possible Senedd Coalitions
With just weeks to go until election day, Welsh politics is now firmly in high-pressure mode. From tense TV debates to costed (and uncosted) manifesto battles, party leaders are being pushed harder than ever on whether their promises stack up in reality. And in a car crash channel Four interview, Jane Dodds and the Liberal Democrats found themselves directly in the line of fire. In this episode of Senedd Sources Ollie Cole, Jo Kiernan and Craig Lawton, break down a week where political messaging met real-world scrutiny. - Jane Dodds’ interviews focus on the Lib Dems’ funding issue - Why TV debates are becoming decisive campaign moments - Eluned Morgan under pressure as Labour defends its record - Reform’s Dan Thomas - can he transform disruption to credibility? - The Greens’ strategy for post-election influence - And are Plaid Cymru’s signalling on potential coalition negotiations? Plus, Correspondence Corner returns as we examine the latest campaign leaflets landing on doorsteps across Wales - and what they reveal about how parties are really trying to win votes. 📩 Get in touch: seneddsources@example.com 📞 Call us: 029 1234 5678 ***** Welcome inside Welsh politics. Senedd Sources hears from those who have lived it in decision-forming and policy-making for Wales to assess politics, today, in Wales and for Wales. Join journalist Ollie Cole, former Welsh Labour adviser Jo Kiernan and former Welsh Conservative candidate and adviser Craig Lawton as they share their experiences, and shape conversation about Welsh politics today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
April 9 · 54 min
A TV Debate Grilling, the Green Professional Rebrand - And the Independence Elephant in the Room
The Greens are rebranding. TV debates are heating up. And the Independence question looms large over Welsh politics. With four weeks to go until election day, journalist Ollie Cole, Jo Kiernan and Craig Lawton to unpack the Greens’ push for a professional image, political media training, and the looming issue of Welsh independence in the upcoming elections. They explore: - How the Greens are reshaping their public persona - Why independence remains a pivotal issue in Welsh politics - How politicians respond when the public presses them on policy - Anthony Slaughter’s latest policy adjustments - And Plaid Cymru’s upcoming launch Plus, a return to Correspondence Corner to break down some of the latest messaging and leaflets from candidates across Wales. 📩 Get in touch: seneddsources@example.com 📞 Call us: 029 1234 5678 ***** Welcome inside Welsh politics. Senedd Sources hears from those who have lived it in decision-forming and policy-making for Wales to assess politics, today, in Wales and for Wales. Join journalist Ollie Cole, former Welsh Labour adviser Jo Kiernan and former Welsh Conservative candidate and adviser Craig Lawton as they share their experiences, and shape conversation about Welsh politics today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.