Holyrood Magazine: A History of Ownership and Political Controversy
Holyrood Magazine serves as a notable publication within the landscape of Scottish political discourse. Over the last two decades, the magazine has transitioned through several owners, reflecting the shifting dynamics of political media and the increasing intensity of political activity within Scotland.
Evolution of Ownership
The publication began under the ownership of Parliamentary Communications. In 2002, the magazine was acquired by Holyrood Communications. This entity remained the owner for a decade until 2012, when it was bought by Dods. The acquisition by Dods was strategically timed to capitalize on the anticipated surge in Scottish political activity over the subsequent two years.
By December 2015, the staff of Holyrood Communications relocated to new offices situated at Panmure Court on Calton Road in Edinburgh.
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The most recent major transition occurred in 2022, when the publication was acquired by Political Holdings, a UK-based media group. This acquisition was part of a deal valued at £4.5 million. Political Holdings is funded by Lord Ashcroft, a prominent businessman and pollster, and manages a diverse portfolio of training operations, events, and media outlets.
Political Friction and Editorial Conflict
In recent years, the magazine has been at the center of ideological clashes. Since 2021, the Scottish Green Party has ceased contributing to the publication. This rift began when Patrick Harvie sent a critical message to Editor Mandy Rhodes, alleging that the magazine was involved in a transphobic campaign and accusing Rhodes personally of participating in it.
Rhodes described these accusations of bigotry as "truly astonishing." The tension escalated when Patrick Harvie and Ross Greer stated they could not support Kate Forbes for the role of Deputy First Minister due to her stance against gay marriage. In response, Rhodes used the magazine to characterize their actions as "good old-fashioned misogynistic bullying," suggesting their behavior was masked by a "veneer of so-called progressiveness tied up with a rainbow lanyard."
Key Facts
- Original Owner: Parliamentary Communications.
- 2002 Acquisition: Bought by Holyrood Communications.
- 2012 Acquisition: Acquired by Dods.
- 2022 Acquisition: Purchased by Political Holdings for £4.5 million.
- Financial Backing: Political Holdings is bankrolled by Lord Ashcroft.
- Recent Conflict: The Scottish Green Party stopped contributing in 2021 following disputes over transphobia and misogyny allegations.
| Year | Owner/Entity | Key Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-2002 | Parliamentary Communications | Original owner |
| 2002 | Holyrood Communications | Acquired from Parliamentary Communications |
| 2012 | Dods | Acquired Holyrood Communications |
| 2022 | Political Holdings | Acquired in a £4.5m deal funded by Lord Ashcroft |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who currently owns Holyrood Magazine?
The magazine is currently owned by Political Holdings, a UK-based media group funded by Lord Ashcroft.
How much was the magazine sold for in 2022?
The publication was acquired as part of a deal worth £4.5 million.
Why did the Scottish Green Party stop contributing to the magazine?
The party ceased contributions in 2021 following allegations from Patrick Harvie that the magazine was part of a transphobic campaign.
Who is Mandy Rhodes?
Mandy Rhodes is the Editor of Holyrood Magazine who has been involved in public editorial disputes with members of the Scottish Green Party.
Where were the Holyrood Communications offices located after 2015?
The staff moved to premises at Panmure Court on Calton Road in Edinburgh in December 2015.