SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT Q&A - John Swinney, Scotland’s first minister, is put under the spotlight in a live, documentary‑style session that could reshape policy ahead of the new budget. This political drama offers UK viewers a quick‑at‑a‑glance look at Scottish governance, making it a standout programme highlight in the BBC Parliament programming for British TV and a must‑see for the television guide.

PROGRAMME OVERVIEW ON THURSDAY 18 SEPTEMBER 2025, BBC Parliament will broadcast a live parliamentary session titled QUESTIONS IN THE SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT TO JOHN SWINNEY, THE FIRST MINISTER. THIS ONE‑OFF EPISODE OF THE LONG‑RUNNING POLITICAL SERIES OFFERS UK VIEWERS FULL DETAILS OF the day’s top policy debates, providing an in‑depth review of the issues that matter most across Scotland and the wider United Kingdom. As part of the British TV calendar, the programme slots into the prime‑time slot for current affairs, making it a must‑watch for anyone interested in the inner workings of government. WHAT TO EXPECT THE BROADCAST WILL PRESENT A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE TO THE QUESTIONS TABLED BY MSPs, covering topics such as health service funding, education reforms, climate action, and the ongoing debate over Scottish independence. Viewers can anticipate real‑time answers from First Minister John Swinney, supplemented by expert analysis from seasoned political commentators. The episode blends live parliamentary drama with documentary‑style background pieces, giving context to each question and highlighting the impact on everyday British TV audiences. KEY FEATURES THIS EPISODE STANDS OUT WITH ITS HIGH‑QUALITY PRODUCTION VALUES, including crisp audio from the debating chamber, on‑screen graphics that break down complex data, and split‑screen interviews with policy experts. The cast features not only the First Minister but also a cross‑section of MSPs from across the political spectrum, ensuring a balanced representation of viewpoints. The programme’s entertainment value lies in its dramatic moments – sharp rebuttals, unexpected admissions, and the palpable tension of live politics – all captured with the professionalism expected of a flagship BBC Parliament production. WHY WATCH FOR UK VIEWERS who appreciate substantive, well‑researched programming, this broadcast offers a rare glimpse into the decision‑making process that shapes Scotland’s future. It is an essential watch for anyone following British TV’s political coverage, as it connects Scottish policy debates to wider UK concerns. The episode’s comprehensive guide format makes it both an educational resource and an engaging piece of entertainment, satisfying the discerning tastes of television enthusiasts who demand depth and clarity. BBC Parliament PROGRAMMING CONTEXT THIS LIVE QUESTIONS SESSION fits seamlessly into BBC Parliament’S broader schedule of current‑affairs programming, complementing flagship series such as HARDtalk and the WEEK IN REVIEW. By placing the parliamentary episode in a prime‑time slot, the network underscores its commitment to delivering high‑impact, informative content for UK viewers. As part of the series, it reinforces the channel’s reputation for providing a balanced, in‑depth review of national issues, solidifying its status as a cornerstone of British TV’s documentary and drama‑infused entertainment landscape.