Economic Debate in Focus: Are Policymakers Listening?

Air Date: June 14th, 2026

Hosts: Lord Willie Haughey and Sir Tom Hunter

The Go Radio Business Show with Barclays Hampden Hospitality and Events

In this episode of The Go Radio Business Show, Hunter & Haughey examine the structural challenges and opportunities facing Scotland’s economy in the wake of the World Cup.

Balancing analysis with practical insight, the episode sets out a clear theme: sustainable economic growth will depend on decisive action, stronger links between policy and enterprise, and a renewed commitment to creating employment opportunities across Scotland.

Key Highlights

📊 Public Finance & Market ConfidenceScotland’s potential move into sovereign borrowing highlights key questions around investor confidence, pricing, and long-term fiscal sustainability.

🏛️ Political Engagement with Economic PolicyLimited parliamentary attendance at major economic discussions raises concerns about the prioritisation of economic policy.

👥 Youth Employment ChallengeHigh levels of NEETs continue to present a structural economic risk, reinforcing the importance of job creation and apprenticeship pathways.

🏦 Banking Access & Business ImpactThe ongoing decline of physical bank branches is affecting operational efficiency and accessibility for SMEs.

⚠️ Corporate Insolvency RisksThe fallout from large-scale business failure underscores the financial exposure faced by smaller firms within supply chains.

🚀 Investment & Economic OpportunityNew inward investment in Scotland’s tech sector demonstrates continued confidence in the country’s talent and innovation base.