Rock & Roll Politics with Steve Richards: Recent Episodes
Steve Richards
Based on his live one-man show Rock & Roll Politics, the broadcaster and author Steve Richards takes a twice-weekly behind the scenes tour of UK politics and the media that shapes the way we view the epic political dramas. The future is ridiculously unpredictable and the past is so easy to misread. Subscribe to your weekly guide through seismic times.
As the UK is excluded from the latest US/EU initiative, Steve Richards asks what is its role in the world? The same question was asked during the Suez crisis in 1956 and during the rows over Brexit. When the UK reaches crucial turning points does it turn, or do the key questions remain unresolved?
Support Rock N Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits including bonus episodes and much more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics
At the start of a new political year Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place this Wednesday. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-9/
Steve’s latest book Turning Points: Crisis and Change in Modern Britain From 1945 to Truss is now available for pre-order: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Turning-Points-Crisis-Change-Britain/dp/1035015358/ref=sr_1_2?crid=QRFD2ZSG4CJG&keywords=steve+richards+books&qid=1694439462&sprefix=steve+r%2Caps%2C112&sr=8-2
The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
We are close to the start of a new political year and the Conservatives appear to be as disturbed as ever. Nadine Dorries is stirring, so who is Rishi Sunak turning to for support in this troubled time?
Support Rock N Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits including bonus episodes and much more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics
At the start of a new political year Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on September 13th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-9/
The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this latest episode Steve Richards reflects on the lessons so far from a vibrant Edinburgh Festival and introduces an episode previously released for Patreon backers on the significance of Prime Ministers appointing allies who they have known and admired for many years. Their chosen confidants tell us much about the character of a PM. In this case we look at the instincts of David Cameron as he turned to his close friend Steve Hilton.
Support Rock N Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits including bonus episodes and much more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics
Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13th to Saturday August 26th with a different show every day. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics At the start of a new political year Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on September 13th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-9/
The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The 1992 election haunts Keir Starmer and his team. It was an election when Labour was at some points well ahead in the polls and still lost. In this summer special Steve Richards looks at what really happened.
Support Rock N Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits including bonus episodes and much more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics
Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13th with a different show every day. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics At the start of a new political year Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on September 13th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-9/
The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In the first of a series of Summer Specials Steve Richards reflects on the role of troublemakers in British politics. This is the chance for the whole Rock N Roll Politics co-operative to hear an episode from the Patreon series on troublemakers.
Today Steve focuses on Enoch Powell who made one speech that rightly led to him being sacked from the front bench, never to return. He still managed to torment Prime Ministers from the backbenches and influenced the outcome of at least one general election. Other episodes in the series are available on Patreon and look at Tony Benn, Robin Cook and Nigel Farage.
Support Rock N Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits including bonus episodes and much more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics
Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13th with a different show every day. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics At the start of a new political year Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on September 13th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-9/
The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
It's the height of summer and a chance to explore the many mysteries of British politics via brilliant questions from the Rock N Roll Politics Cooperative.
Support Rock N Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits including bonus episodes and much more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13th with a different show every day. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics At the start of a new political year Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on September 13th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-9/
The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
While the UK's bonkers pre-election 'tax and spend' debate continues the Chancellor Jeremy Hunt has discovered he has more money to spend than he had expected. Steve Richards considers all this plus the need to avoid being perceived as punitive at the start of the UK's tentative green revolution.
Support Rock N Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits including bonus episodes and much more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics
Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13th with a different show every day. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics
At the start of a new political year Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on September 13th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-9/
The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Labour's gain in Selby was a triumph as was the Liberal Democrat’s victory in Somerset and Frome. In a by-election special Steve Richards considers the fall out from the results, including the Conservatives' win in Uxbridge that will have immediate consequences.
Support Rock N Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits, including a LIVE gathering on Zoom on Monday 24th July for more on the by-election fall out: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics
Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13th with a different show every day. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics
At the start of a new political year Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on September 13th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-9/
The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In a recent article for the Observer, Keir Starmer deployed many phrases that were part of Tony Blair's armoury twenty years ago – or even further back than that. After several Labour defeats is that the smart strategic move, to follow the language and ideas of an election winner? Or is such an unusual act of imitation a sign of weakness? Support Rock N Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits, including a LIVE gathering on Monday 24th July for immediate by-election fall out: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13th. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
At the same time that we discovered the police were not investigating allegations surrounding Huw Edwards we also learned that the presenter was in hospital. Unsurprisingly given the media frenzy surrounding him. In this episode Steve Richards asks how big can a story get when involving a presenter's private life?
Support Rock N Roll Politics and get episodes early and ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics
Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13th. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics
The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
One of Keir Starmer's key missions is to achieve the highest levels of growth in the G7. Steve Richards asks how? The answer is far from clear, as Starmer and Rachel Reeves highlight their commitment to stick more or less to Tory tax and spend plans, although in the style of New Labour circa 1997. Plus today there’s more brilliant questions and life changing notices.
Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13th. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics
Subscribe to Patreon for exclusive benefits including the July live event: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics
The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Steve Richards is in conversation with the director, Josh Appignanessi, about his new film ‘My Extinction’. The film is both funny and urgently reflective as Josh explores the dilemmas facing each of us in the face of climate change. What does it take for us to act on the climate crisis and is the issue too overwhelming as we contemplate our extinction? Steve asks what is the best way to protest and is there hope amidst the alarm? What has Josh learnt from his own comically erratic climate change journey? https://www.dartmouthfilms.com/myextinction
Support Rock N Roll Politics and get episodes early and ad-free on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics
Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Hitchin Festival on Tuesday July 11. Tickets here: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/whats-on/hitchin/the-market-theatre/rock-n-roll-politics-with-steve-richards/e-kgvveaea Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13th with a different show every day. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
We are now in the pre-election phase, so inevitably tax is a 'burden' that should be cut and 'reforms' will magically improve public services. Steve Richards assesses the consequences for the state that we are in. Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Hitchin Festival on Tuesday July 11. Tickets here: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/whats-on/hitchin/the-market-theatre/rock-n-roll-politics-with-steve-richards/e-kgvveaea Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13th with a different show every day. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Water privatisation was rushed through after the 1987 election. The many problems were as obvious then as they are now. So why was privatisation proclaimed as a Thatcherite triumph for decades? Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Hitchin Festival on Tuesday July 11. Tickets here: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/whats-on/hitchin/the-market-theatre/rock-n-roll-politics-with-steve-richards/e-kgvveaea Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13th with a different show every day. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The anti-Tory mood is deep and deepening but amidst the gloom where are the arguments about why nothing works in the UK? And where are the ideas that offer some hope that things can only get better?
Plus - What have we learned in the fast moving Putin saga? All this and your brilliant questions too.
Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Hitchin Festival on Tuesday July 11. Tickets here: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/whats-on/hitchin/the-market-theatre/rock-n-roll-politics-with-steve-richards/e-kgvveaea
Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13th with a different show every day. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics
Subscribe to Patreon for bonus podcasts and exclusive live events: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Martin Rosenbaum was the BBC's Freedom of Information guru, seeking to uncover hidden material via the Freedom of Information Act, an item of legislation Tony Blair deeply regretted passing. Martin became the world expert on using the act and has now written a book called 'Freedom of Information: A Practical Guidebook'. Martin reflects on the dramas leading up to the act becoming law and what happened subsequently. As a former BBC editor he also discusses the political programmes he was involved in making.
Book link:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Freedom-Information-practical-Martin-Rosenbaum/dp/1739800540/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
It is easy to blame Boris Johnson for everything that has gone wrong but the seeds of the current set of crises go deep, as the Covid Inquiry seems to recognise. Rock n Roll Politics is live at Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13 with a different show each day. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics Support Rock n Roll Politics on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Following the publication of her book - My Family and Other Radicals, Polly Toynbee reflects on being privileged and on the left, her remarkable family, being on the losing side in politics most of the time and her hopes for Keir Starmer. Rock n Roll Politics is live at Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13 with a different show each day. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Boris Johnson seeks to cause trouble for Rishi Sunak. Nicola Sturgeon is arrested. These dramas are more nuanced than they appear to be but for now the obvious beneficiary is Keir Starmer. However, Steve Richards asks if Starmer is conceding too much ground in advance of an election he looks like winning? Or does he look like winning because he concedes so much ground? Rock n Roll Politics is live at Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13 with a different show each day. Tickets here:
https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
It is the most pledged policy in recent decades and yet never delivered … Labour proposed a national care service in 2010, Theresa May had a plan in 2017, Boris Johnson pretended to have one in 2019 … So far nothing. Now the Fabian Society has set out its ideas for a National Care Service with a report broadly welcomed by its shadow Health Secretary, Wes Streeting. But where will the money come from and does Keir Starmer have the political will to deliver finally? That's two of many questions I discuss with Andrew Harrop, General Secretary of the Fabians as we delve deep in thorny areas with the next election moving into view. Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13th ... a different show every day. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
For a few decades the Conservative Party has changed from an expedient political force with MPs and members loyal to the leadership to a more factional and insurrectionary movement. Tim Bale, the author of The Conservative Party After Brexit-Turmoil and Transformation, has followed the changes at every level from the membership to the leadership. To make sense of the current turmoil in the UK's governing party we look back and follow the wild patterns. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The three themes are connected… download this week's Rock & Roll Politics to discover how. Plus brilliant questions and much more! Rock & Roll Politics - The Christmas Special is live at Kings Place on Monday December 5th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-christmas-special-2/ The Christmas Special is also live at the Old Market Theatre, Brighton on Monday December 12th. Tickets here: https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics Don't forget to rate the podcast and send your questions to steveric14@icloud.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
WIth government sources briefing that they want a closer relationship with the Single Market, it looks as if questions are finally being asked about Lord "Frosty" Frost's disastrous hard Brexit. But where will they lead? Rock & Roll Politics - The Christmas Special is live at Kings Place on Monday December 5th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-christmas-special-2/ The Christmas Special is also live at the Old Market Theatre, Brighton on Monday December 12th. Tickets here: https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics Don't forget to rate the podcast and send your questions to steveric14@icloud.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
So many questions were triggered by last week's Electoral Reform Special that they merit a bonus podcast. The epic themes: Fairness, how to bring about change, wider constitutional reform, the broader context, and more... Rock & Roll Politics - The Christmas Special is live at Kings Place on December 5th: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-christmas-special-2/ I'm also live at the Old Market Theatre, Brighton on Dec 12th: https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics The Patreon version with bonus podcasts and much more is available here: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Paying homage to their fiscal conservatism, Rishi Sunak and Jeremy Hunt turn to recent history for inspiration. But the past is a fickle guide… Rock & Roll Politics - The Christmas Special is live at Kings Place on December 5th: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-christmas-special-2/ I'm also live at the Old Market Theatre, Brighton on Dec 12th: https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics The Patreon version with bonus podcasts and much more is available here: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
So here it is ...The Electoral Reform Special! I reflect on why I have been an opponent, and my latest position. And now... over to you! Rock & Roll Politics - The Christmas Special is live at Kings Place on December 5th: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-christmas-special-2/ I'm also live at the Old Market Theatre, Brighton on Dec 12th: https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics The Patreon version with bonus podcasts and much more is available here: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
With the Conservatives miles behind in the polls, the route to election victory is narrow... but not entirely blocked. Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Old Market Theatre Brighton for a Christmas Special on December 12th: https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics Subscribe on Patreon for the new, exclusive series on governmental cock-ups - new episode on Tony Blair and the Iraq War coming soon! https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics And don't forget to send your questions in to steveric14@icloud.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Rishi Sunak, the self-declared fiscal conservative, becomes Prime Minister having lost the summer's leadership contest. But will his Thatcherite instincts allow him to rise to the epic challenges ahead?
Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on Oct 26th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-7/
I’m also live at the Ropetackle, Shoreham on Oct 27th; just a few tickets left: https://ropetacklecentre.co.uk/events/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-the-liz-truss-special/
And live at the Old Market Theatre Brighton for a Christmas Special on December 12th: https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics
Subscribe on Patreon for exclusive podcast series and more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Liz Truss era is over after just a few weeks. Since 2010, four Conservative Prime Ministers have fallen between general elections, suggesting that Truss is part of a deeper pattern... Rock & Roll Politics: The (Post) Liz Truss Era is live at Kings Place on October Weds 26th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-7/ Back the podcast for early, ad-free episodes and more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Liz Truss is in the untenable position of supporting an economic policy she opposed with revolutionary disdain during the leadership contest. But can Tory MPs agree on an alternative? Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on Oct 26th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-7/ I’m also live at the Ropetackle, Shoreham on Oct 27th; just a few tickets left: https://ropetacklecentre.co.uk/events/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-the-liz-truss-special/ And live at the Old Market Theatre Brighton for a Christmas Special on December 12th: https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics Subscribe on Patreon for exclusive podcast series and more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The mighty markets have wrecked the Truss/Kwarteng shallow revolution… but how will they constrain a Labour government if Keir Starmer wins the next election? Plus brilliant questions and much more.
Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place London on October 26: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-7/
And Rock & Roll Politics: The Christmas Special is live for the very first time at the Old Market Theatre Brighton on Dec 12: https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics
Support the show on Patreon to get early editions, bonus podcasts, merchandise and much more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Truss and Kwarteng u-turn on tax shows they failed to read the space available to them. How many consequences will there be? This week, there will be analysis, brilliant questions, and much more. Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on Wed Oct 26th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-7/ Sign up to Patreon here for bonus podcasts and much more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Liz Truss and Kwasi Kwarteng have unleashed another shallow revolution, the third since 2010. The pound sinks and public services are on their knees. For 12 years, the UK has become a laboratory for whacky economic experiments. But will passive England vote for more? Rock n Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on October 26th, as the drama intensifies… https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-7/ Sign up to Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics And don’t forget, join the Rock & Roll Politics co-operative by sending your questions to steveric14@icloud.com ! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Liz Truss and Kwasi Kwarteng have unleashed another shallow revolution, the third since 2010. The pound sinks and public services are on their knees. For 12 years, the UK has become a laboratory for whacky economic experiments. But will passive England vote for more? Rock n Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on October 26th, as the drama intensifies… https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-7/ Sign up to Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics And don’t forget, join the Rock & Roll Politics co-operative by sending your questions to steveric14@icloud.com ! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Liz Truss era resumes at breakneck speed. How should Labour respond? In this week's podcast, I reflect on the lessons of Harold Wilson's much-overlooked leadership with Nick Thomas-Symonds, shadow International Trade Secretary and author of Harold Wilson - The Winner. Plus, brilliant questions on the monarch and much more. Rock & Roll Politics is live - and streaming - this Thursday at Kings Place. Tickets available at kingsplace.co.uk Email me and the Rock & Roll Politics Co-operative: steveric14@icloud.com Subscribe to Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Liz Truss era resumes at breakneck speed. How should Labour respond? In this week's podcast, I reflect on the lessons of Harold Wilson's much-overlooked leadership with Nick Thomas-Symonds, shadow International Trade Secretary and author of Harold Wilson - The Winner. Plus, brilliant questions on the monarch and much more. Rock & Roll Politics is live - and streaming - this Thursday at Kings Place. Tickets available at kingsplace.co.uk Email me and the Rock & Roll Politics Co-operative: steveric14@icloud.com Subscribe to Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Can a monarch genuinely define an era while being unable to express a view or implement policies that can change lives? Plus more brilliant questions from our listeners. Email yours to steveric14@icloud.com Rock & Roll Politics: The Start of the Liz Truss Era is live at Kings Place London on Thursday September 22nd and streaming live. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-6/ Support the podcast, help us grow and get each week’s edition early plus bonus episodes: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Audio production by Robin Leeburn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Can a monarch genuinely define an era while being unable to express a view or implement policies that can change lives? Plus more brilliant questions from our listeners. Email yours to steveric14@icloud.com Rock & Roll Politics: The Start of the Liz Truss Era is live at Kings Place London on Thursday September 22nd and streaming live. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-6/ Support the podcast, help us grow and get each week’s edition early plus bonus episodes: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Audio production by Robin Leeburn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
New Prime Minister Liz Truss is set to overturn Tory orthodoxies in place since this long-serving government was elected in 2010. What will the consequences be and what are the implications for Labour? Rock & Roll Politics is live - and streaming - at Kings Place on Monday September 19th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-6/ Join as a patron for exclusive bonus podcasts, on Prime Ministers and their special advisors: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
New Prime Minister Liz Truss is set to overturn Tory orthodoxies in place since this long-serving government was elected in 2010. What will the consequences be and what are the implications for Labour? Rock & Roll Politics is live - and streaming - at Kings Place on Monday September 19th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-6/ Join as a patron for exclusive bonus podcasts, on Prime Ministers and their special advisors: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
We had no time for listeners' questions earlier this week, so here's a bonus podcast with some of the brilliant ones I received, plus my reflections on the BBC and its board member, former Tory strategist Sir Robbie Gibb. Rock & Roll Politics - The Liz Truss Special is live at Kings Place on Monday Sept 19th: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-6 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Here is the 14th and final show at this year's Edinburgh Festival, in which the audience makes predictions on Liz Truss and Nicola Sturgeon, and I reflect on the ultimate irony of the Tory Leadership contest. Rock & Roll Politics - The Liz Truss Special is live at Kings Place on Monday Sept 19th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-6/ Subscribe on Patreon for early episode releases and special series: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics And don't forget to send your questions to steveric14@icloud.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Meeting some of the members of the Rock & Roll Politics Co-operative has got me thinking, and so have the audiences at my live shows… Plus, I review some of the events and shows I've seen at the Fringe, including those in which Nicola Sturgeon and Keir Starmer were centre stage. Send your questions to steveric14@icloud.com, and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify to grow the Co-operative further! Tickets for Rock & Roll Politics live at the Edinburgh Festival: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics Tickets for Rock & Roll Politics 'The Liz Truss Era Special' on Sept 19th at Kings Place are here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-6/ The Patreon version of the podcast is here: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
As in the 1970s, soaring fuel bills are transforming political assumptions and orthodoxies, with only the candidates to be the next PM struggling to catch up. And as always, your questions. Send them in to steveric14@icloud.com! Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics Rock & Roll Politics - The Liz Truss Era is live at Kings Place on Sept 19: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-6/ Subscribe on Patreon for early episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
While the Tory leadership candidates row over tax cuts, there are bigger questions: what to do about Brexit labour shortages, and how will the war in Ukraine end? Plus brilliant questions from the importance of a leader's chosen confidant and adviser to the essence of 'authenticity'. Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Mon Aug 15th. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics Rock & Roll Politics: 'The Liz Truss Era' is live at Kings Place on Sept 19th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-6/ Patreon backers get exclusive access to episodes early, plus bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Liz Truss presents herself as the change maker in a time of turmoil. Keir Starmer must do the same, even if the focus groups and the influence of mid-’90s New Labour point to an alternative, risky route of extreme caution…
Plus brilliant listener questions.
Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival every day from Mon Aug 15th. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics
Join Patreon for early access to episodes, bonus content and more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Some Conservative members want their next Prime Minister to be... Boris Johnson. A man who shares this view is... Boris Johnson himself, who anticipates a return to Number 10 despite the current race to replace him. Plus the undeserved elevation of Margaret Thatcher to god-like levels, even among non-Conservatives, and brilliant audience questions. Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Aug 15. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics Patreon here for bonus podcasts and much more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics And don't forget to send your questions into steveric14@icloud.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
To my surprise we are learning a lot from the contest even though the candidates are saying very little. The biggest lesson so far: Get ready of political storms this autumn when the winner seeks to implement their economic policies. Also this week, more of your brilliant questions. Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Monday August 15th. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics Back us on Patreon for early, ad-free episodes, exclusive merchandise and more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
For the third time since 2016 the Conservatives alone will elect a new Prime Minister. Yet the rest of us are excluded from the tax cutting, small state fantasy. In this episode: how the party has changed since the contest that followed the fall of Margaret Thatcher. Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Aug 15th. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics Join Patreon here:: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
For understandable reasons, there are more raging questions about Johnson’s lack of a moral compass. His hesitation in responding to the allegations about former deputy whip Chris Pincher relate to his tendency to misjudge the nature of every challenge, from Covid to Brexit…
Plus, your brilliant questions on the ill defined ‘centre ground’.
Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from August 15th. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics
Join Patreon for bonus podcasts and much more. Next up, a special episode on Harold Wilson and Marcia Williams: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In a week when Matthew Parris claimed Rishi Sunak was a ‘centrist’ and Keir Starmer proclaimed that Labour was on the ‘centre ground’ I wonder where the ‘centre’ is and what it means… if anything. Plus your brilliant questions on Mick Lynch, Boris Johnson, the by-elections and much more.
Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Monday Aug 15th. Tickets here:
https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics
Patreon for bonus podcasts and much more is here: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In my reflections I suggest that the fragmentation of the railways – with no clear lines of responsibility – is the biggest cause of the current crisis… plus brilliant questions on a range of urgent issues from the BBC’s choice of panellists to Northern Ireland to what happens if the Conservatives win the next election but Johnson loses his seat. Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Mon Aug 15th. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics
Back us on Patreon to get the podcast early and ad-free plus exclusive bonus editions and much more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The confidence vote that Boris Johnson won narrowly is already having consequences.
Tory MPs deploy their new leverage to demand vaguely-defined tax cuts and a new war with the EU over the Northern Ireland protocol …but what about the spending increases the same Tory MPs also want?
And as the UK economy totters on the cliff’s edge, how would it cope with an economic battle with the EU?
Rock & Roll Politics is live daily at the Edinburgh Festival from Monday August 15th. Tickets here:
https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics
Back the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Patreon to get exclusive early episodes, bonus podcasts and more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Boris Johnson 'won' the vote of confidence in his leadership, but voters will note that many of his MPs don't support him and will wonder why they should, either. If there is a leadership contest most voters will not have a role - and all candidates will pitch to the right in order to win. Rock & Roll Politics is live and streaming live on Wed June 8th - A Tory Leadership Special. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-8-jun/ Back the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Patreon to get exclusive early episodes, bonus podcasts and more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
As millions enjoy street parties and raise a glass to the Queen - what exactly are they celebrating? Plus, brilliant questions on Partygate and Johnson’s survival. Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on Wed June 8th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-8-jun/ My new series on Prime Ministers and their advisers, starting with Boris Johnson and Dominic Cummings, is exclusively on my Patreon page from the 1st of June: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics And don't forget to send your questions in to steveric14@gmail.com ! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Time moves on and other issues erupt. But should that reduce the potency of the lockdown parties at Downing Street, and reduce the pressure on the inept Metropolitan Police? Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place at June 8th, and we have a lot to pack in. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-8-jun/ Sign up to Patreon for bonus podcasts and much more: And don't forget to send your questions in to steveric14@gmail.com ! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Boris Johnson chose to place a border between Northern Ireland and Great Britain. Now, he faces the dark consequences… Plus, the hidden risk of Keir Starmer’s pledge to resign if he’s issued with a penalty charge notice for Beergate, and brilliant questions from the UK and around the world. Send in your questions from your runs, bakes, and rows to steveric14@icloud.com Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on June 8. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-8-jun/ You can back Rock & Roll Politics on Patreon to get episodes early, plus exclusive podcasts, merchandise and more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics You can also become a Premium Subscriber on Apple Podcasts for early access. Search Rock & Roll Politics in the app for more information Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week, I reflect on the many lessons arising from the local elections, from the sudden focus on Starmer's future to the fractured state of the UK. Plus, more of your brilliant questions. Rock & Roll Politics returns to Kings Place on June 8th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-8-jun/ Tickets for my live shows at the Edinburgh Festival are also on sale: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics You can back Rock & Roll Politics on Patreon to get episodes early, plus exclusive podcasts, merchandise and more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics You can also become a Premium Subscriber on Apple Podcasts for early access. Search Rock & Roll Politics in the app for more information Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
I reflect on Ukraine and the origins of World War One… plus the lessons of Labour’s victory 25 years ago this week. Also, brilliant questions on issues from sex pests at Westminster to how to fund the NHS… Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on June 8th: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-8jun/ Support us on Patreon and get bonus podcasts, early editions and more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Enjoy the podcast and want a simple way to access bonus content as well as ad-free episodes? Rock & Roll Politics Patreon content is now also available via Apple Podcasts too. Click here to find out more: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/rock-roll-politics-with-steve-richards/id1384867286 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The mood amongst some Conservative MPs has turned against Boris Johnson, but what are the conditions that bring about the toppling of a Prime Minister by their own party? Plus brilliant questions on the passivity of voters, NHS co-payments, Union Jack socks and much more. Patrons to Rock & Roll Politics get episodes early and an exclusive podcast on the 2017 general election, out this Friday! Subscribe here: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Apple Podcasts listeners can also now receive exclusive content. Find out more here: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/rock-roll-politics-with-steve-richards/id1384867286
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week, I get angry… Plus brilliant questions on all the big themes, and the latest on my Union Jack socks. On Patreon there are bonus podcasts on the Feb ‘74, ‘83 and ‘92 elections. Back us on Patreon, help us grow, and get amazing merchandise and perks too: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In a packed podcast we reflect on the lessons for the BBC in its never-ending attempt to find a Political Editor… Plus, Rishi Sunak, the French Elections, Labour and the need to excite as well as reassure. Plus brilliant questions and why all of us at Rock’n’Roll Politics should form a co-operative.
Back Rock’n’Roll Politics on Patreon, help us grow, and get amazing merchandise and perks too: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
A drop in living standards and the return of inflation should be an open goal for Labour, but there are huge challenges for ahead for Labour as well as opportunities presented by the cost of living crisis. Plus, as always, your brilliant questions… There’s a new bonus podcast on the Patreon version of Rock n Roll Politics, discussing the 1992 General Election. Sign up now to listen! https://www.patreon.com/posts/64700914 Send your questions to Steve at steveric14@icloud.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Both Boris Johnson and Theresa May half-wanted to move their party on from Thatcherism… and yet they both appointed Thatcherite Chancellors. Why did they do so? What were the consequences? Plus brilliant questions ranging from how Labour can oppose Brexit, to why Prime Ministers make terrible mistakes, and on to a new favourite theme of listeners: tuition fees. Good or bad?
Support Rock’n’Roll Politics on Patreon for bonus podcasts, exclusive Rock’n’Roll Politics mugs and much more:
https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Boris Johnson's comments linking Ukraine with Brexit show that he is still writing Daily Telegraph columns as a form of leadership.
Plus the P&O fire-and-rehire crisis, the language of ‘regulations’ and ‘freedom,’ and your brilliant questions... Join Rock N Roll Politics the Patreon version here for lots of bonuses: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics
Send your questions to Steve at steveric14@icloud.com
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week’s podcast out early for Patreon followers. Number 10 is briefing that Boris Johnson is proving to be a world leader in the Ukraine crisis, and implying that perceptions of him will improve as they did in relation to Margaret Thatcher after the Falklands. Will they? And what really happened in 1982, when Thatcher went to war?
Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place this Thursday, March 17th, and streaming live: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-17-mar/ Join Rock N Roll Politics the Patreon version here for lots of bonuses: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Don’t forget to add your personal RSS for the podcast to your favourite app so you can listen wherever you are…
Email: steveric14@icloud.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week on the podcast, Tony Blair’s former chief of staff, Jonathan Powell, reflects on the current international crisis. Jonathan met Putin several times during different phases of his leadership, and has been involved in negotiations - including in Northern Ireland - where resolution in any form seemed close to impossible. Plus brilliant questions, and news of my Union Jack socks, arriving soon. Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on Thursday March 17th, and streaming live: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-17-mar/
Get Rock'n'Roll Politics early when you back the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Jonathan Powell’s books include: Great Hatred, Little Room: Making Peace in Northern Ireland Don’t forget to add your personal RSS for the podcast to your favourite app so you can listen wherever you are…
Email: steveric14@icloud.com
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Join Steve for a special live show covering Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine and the political tumult it has unleashed across the world. This is the biggest crisis in world peace since the 1940s. What does it mean, and who can solve it?
The Rock'n'Roll Politics Live Special takes place at King’s Place, London and streaming worldwide on Thur 17 March at 7pm.
Tickets for both live event and stream are available here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-17-mar/
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Putin’s view of his country’s recent past propels him to invade Ukraine – and yet his sense of the past is in many ways a wilful misreading. On this at least, he is not alone. Many leaders are burdened by a misreading of their country’s past… with consequences. Plus, brilliant questions from listeners and your suggestions for general election bonus podcasts for Patreon supporters. Help Rock’n’Roll Politics by backing us on Patreon here. You’ll get extra podcasts, mugs, free tickets and even (for top tier backers) a live show in your own home… Rock’n’Roll Politics is live at Kings Place, London on Monday March 17th: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-17-mar/ Email: steveric14@icloud.com https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
I reflect on that most potent and misleading word in British politics, ‘freedom’ – and then we go over to some brilliant questions ranging from Sunak’s chances of becoming PM to latest on UK foreign policy, plus great suggestions for General Elections in forthcoming Patreon podcast episodes. Rock’n’Roll Politics is live at Kings Place London, and streaming live, on Monday Feb 21st. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-mon-21-feb Support Rock’n’Roll Politics on Patreon here to help us keep growing and also get bonus podcasts, mugs, complimentary live tickets and much more. Email: steveric14@icloud.com https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week I reflect on British foreign policy in the light of the Ukraine crisis and other sagas in which the UK has played a haphazard role… and Keir Starmer follows a pattern in speaking about foreign policy solely in terms of the never-ending vote losing factionalism in his party. Plus, brilliant questions on the police investigation re Downing Street parties and much more.
Help the podcast to grow by supporting us on Patreon, the crowdfunding platform. You’ll get bonus podcasts, mugs, free tickets for live shows and much more. https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics
Rock’n’Roll Politics is live at Kings Place, London on Monday Feb 21st at 7pm..a brand new show and streaming live too. Tickets here : https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-mon-21-feb/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
As politics gets even wilder, I reflect on how the make-up and effectiveness of the No.10 operation tells us much about the character of a Prime Minister. Based on the recent past, the structure of Number Ten will neither save a Prime Minister nor lead them to their doom. The wider political context always determines their fate… Plus, more brilliant questions from the UK and around the world.
You can now support the podcast on Patreon with options that include special bonus podcasts – the first series is on epic General Elections – plus Rock’n’Roll Politics mugs, free tickets and much more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics
Rock’n’Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on Mon Feb 21 and streaming live too:
https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-mon-21-feb/
Audio production by Alex Rees for Podmasters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Sue Gray ‘update’ was more dramatic than expected, but only Conservative MPs have the power to act. Will they? Plus, brilliant questions from around the UK and the rest of the world. Rock’n’Roll Politics is live – and streaming – at Kings Place on Monday Feb 21st: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-mon-21-feb/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Steve Richards previews tonight's live show and livestream at Kings Place.
Tickets here:
Hall: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-24-01/
Stream: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-online-streaming-event-24-01/
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Boris Johnson totters precariously because of the parties in Number 10… even though he himself has never been a great party lover. Why did he not think through those famous consequences? Did he not consider what would happen if the gatherings were leaked? Plus brilliant questions from all parts of the UK, Germany, Poland, Brussels and beyond. Rock’n’Roll Politics is live at Kings Place London next Monday Jan 24. Join us for an epic political night – and we’re streaming live too. Tickets for either option here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-24-01/ Written and presented by Steve Richards. Recorded at Podmasters Studios, Highbury, London. Audio production by Alex Rees. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
I analyse Keir Starmer's latest pitch as if it were a classic literary text - which it is not - but there clues in it that are interesting. Speeches are always more revealing than they seem. Plus, brilliant questions from Portugal, Holland, France and of course the UK. Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on Mon Jan 24th and also streams live. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-24-01/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In the first podcast of the New Year, I reflect on two big political taboos that I predict will be broken in 2022, and brilliant questions on the politics of Tony Blair, when governments fall and the latest on Covid. Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on Jan 24th. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Why the resignation of Lord Frosty Frost shines light on a vast range of the current political landscape… also Covid latest, the North Shropshire by-election, and how they all connect… plus brilliant questions from across the UK and around the world. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
I reflect on the state of the modern Conservative party when so many of its MPs fervently oppose modest protections against Covid at a point when the virus is raging once more…plus brilliant questions, reports on the recent live shows and much more. Recorded at Podmasters Studios. Audio production by Robin Leeburn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Rishi Sunak briefs the Times about his plans to cut taxes as taxes are about to rise… Keir Starmer gives an interview to the paper that makes no waves… plus brilliant questions.
Rock’n’Roll Politics: The Christmas Special is live at the Ropetackle Arts Centre, Shoreham on Wed Dec 8th: https://ropetacklecentre.co.uk/events/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-christmas-special/
And live at Kings Place London on Thursday Dec 9th (also streaming live): https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-christmas-special/
Audio production by Alex Rees at Podmasters Studios. Podmasters.co.uk
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Keir Starmer has conducted a wide ranging shadow cabinet reshuffle-How significant will the changes be? Plus brilliant questions from around the UK...and the rest of the world. Rock N Roll Politics- The Xmas Special is live at Kings Place on Dec 9th..and also streaming live: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-christmas-special/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
My reflections on the government's plans for trains in the north of England, Paul Dacre's revealing reasons for pulling out of the OFCOM post and Andrew Marr's equally illuminating statement on why he's living the BBC...plus brilliant questions. Rock N Roll Politics-the Xmas Special is live at Kings Place on Dec 9th. https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-christmas-special/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The opinion polls- accurate or not- determine the political mood, how leaders are perceived by their parties and the media. What is the significance when some polls show Labour in a rare lead? Plus brilliant questions from across the UK and the world.. Rock N Roll Politics-The Xmas Special is live on Dec 9th at Kings Place. Tkts here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-christmas-special/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The episode explores why long serving Conservative governments become vulnerable when stories about 'sleaze' become a dominant theme...and why B Johnson has distinct cause to be worried...plus brilliant questions from around the UK and the world.
Rock N Roll Politics-the Xmas Special is live at the Ropetackle Arts Centre on Dec 8th and Kings Place on Dec 9th Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Rishi Sunak's budget has become mythologised as a 'tax and spend' programme..'a Labour budget'...but is it...? The question highlights issues around 'impartiality' and the BBC.
Rock N Roll Politics- The Barnard Castle Special is live at Witham Arts Centre on Sat Nov 6th
https://thewitham.org.uk/event/steve-richards-rock-and-roll-politics/
Rock N Roll Politics-The Xmas Special is live on Dec 9th
https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
An analysis of the political duel between the Chancellor and the Shadow Chancellor ..with more to come...plus brilliant questions from around the UK and the rest of the world. Tkts here for Rock N Roll Politics-The Barnard Castle Special on Sat Nov 6th https://thewitham.org.uk/event/steve-richards-rock-and-roll-politics/
And for Rock N Roll Politics-The Xmas Special at Kings Place on Dec 9
https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-christmas-special/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
After the unbearable murder of David Amess-a. defence of politics and elected representatives...and a review of the BBC series on New Labour...that is getting rave plaudits, partly undeserved... Plus brilliant questions...
Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Witham Arts Centre in Barnard Castle on Saturday Nov 6th. Tickets here:
https://thewitham.org.uk/event/steve-richards-rock-and-roll-politics/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Looking ahead to the live show at Kings Place....
Tickets here for live in the hall:
https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-live-in-hall/
And here for the live stream:
https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-online-streaming-event/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Boris Johnson has become a fan of import controls as a way of increasing wages- a key part of Tony Benn's Alternative Economic Strategy in the the late 70s and early 80s. But in another bizarre twist they are both Bennite and Thatcherite.
Rock N Roll Politics is live on October 11 at Kings Place..and there's a live stream too:
https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-live-in-hall/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
K Starmer aches to engage with the wider electorate...but with the government facing several deep crises is he right to focus on internal issues at the start of the conference?
Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on Mon Oct 11th:
https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-live-in-hall/
And is streaming live:
https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-online-streaming-event/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Boris Johnson's reshuffle shows that he is in total command of his government and party....more so than any other recent Prime Minister...at least for now...Plus Andrew Neil and GB News...and an amazing array of questions.
Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on Oct 11
https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-13-08/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
A look ahead to the Rock N Roll Politics Special streaming live from Kings Place on Sept 13th at 7pm...There's a lot going on!
https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-live-in-hall-13-sep/
Streaming tickets : https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-online-streaming-event-13sep/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Most voters agree that a government must raise taxes to pay for social care.In effect an insurance for care does not come for nothing. Yet the government-like previous administrations- has failed to implement an effective plan even though Boris Johnson pretended he had one when he became PM. Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on Mon Sept 13th ..and streamed live too....
https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-live-in-hall-one-13-sep/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
After a short summer break we all need to get together to prepare for an epic autumn...I reflect on Afghanistan and reveal some of the figures included in 'The Prime Ministers We Never Had'..in bookshops from this Thursday..plus brilliant questions. And Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on Mon Sept 13...and there's also a live stream..the start of a dramatic new political year-
https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-live-in-hall-one-13-sep/
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Who qualifies for the dubious honour of being a Prime Minister We Never Had? In my new book I argue that there are two qualifications. They must have been seen as a possible PM AND had a feasible chance of seizing the crown. I discuss some of those that are often cited as 'PMs We Never Had' but who do not qualify. Plus your brilliant questions..and you can pre order a signed copy of the book here: https://www.waterstones.com/book/the-prime-ministers-we-never-had/steve-richards/9781838955946 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Rishi Sunak is spoken of as Boris Johnson's likely successor...Chancellors are often seen as the next Prime Minister..and yet quite a few of them fail to seize the crown and become instead Prime Ministers We Never Had. Is Sunak the next Prime Minister or one of those who won't get to the very top?
My latest book 'The Prime Ministers We Never Had' can be pre-orderered here:
https://www.waterstones.com/book/the-prime-ministers-we-never-had/steve-richards/9781838955946 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
For the first time since 1979 some Conservatives, including Boris Johnson, seem to be looking towards a more active state...while others, including Rishi Sunak, continue to put the case for 'fiscal conservatism'. How significant is this divide in the modern Conservative party and where does it leave Labour? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Boris Johnson's 'Freedom Day' has become a dangerous farce, with Johnson, Sunak and Javid self isolating..raising big questions about what the complex term 'freedom' means...plus brilliant question on politics and sport, Jeremy Corbyn, what happens to those that defect to other parties... and much more.
Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Greenwich Theatre on Sunday evening, July 18 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
B Johnson 'advises' mask wearing should continue in crowded indoor spaces...so the freedom not to do so is granted to the irresponsible who will ignore the advice...limiting the freedom of others..plus brilliant questions on MPs in the wrong parties to England's defeat against Italy.
Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Greenwich Theatre next Sunday..a few tickets left for sale: https://greenwichtheatre.org.uk/events/rock-n-roll-politics-with-steve-richards/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Labour won the Batley and Spen by-election against expectations..immediately K Starmer was urged to use his new space to 'take on his party'. But what does that mean? And what evidence is there that an opposition leader that triggers a 'row' goes on to win an election? Plus brilliant questions...
Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Greenwich Theatre on Sun July 18-https://greenwichtheatre.org.uk/events/rock-n-roll-politics-with-steve-richards/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Kings Place show on Monday-live in the hall and streamed-will focus on the Hancock saga, delving deep into the many themes, and move on to Cummings and segue into Lord Frosty...We'll reflect on the by-election in Batley and Spen and what it tells us, the Blue Wall, plus live questions and unreliable predictions...Tickets here for the streamed and live event. https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-28-jun/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What will be the consequences of the Conservatives' surprise loss of a by-election? Perhaps there will be none...but I argue that the Lib Dems' victory challenges Boris Johnson's main source of political strength-the perception that he's a winner....plus brilliant questions and bread recipes.
Rock N Roll Politics is live in the main hall of Kings Place on Monday June 28th...and streamed live. Tkts here:
https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/?kw=2021-06-28 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
With breathtaking but unsurprising chutzpah B Johnson and Lord 'Frosty' blame the EU for their own chosen Brexit route. The EU had agreed to T May's Brexit that avoided a border between GB and N.Ireland. Johnson proposed the border to get a deal that was different to May's...hoping to escape later from the consequences, or not realising what they were.
Rock N Roll Politics is live in the main hall at Kings Place on June 28. Tkts: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/?kw=2021-06-28 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Like a dark thriller the lockdown exits have a familiar pattern-the frenzied focus on a date-Xmas Day, June 21st. Meanwhile the same newspapers and Tory MPs demand 'freedom' irrespective of the data, and B Johnson is inclined to agree with them as a new variant appears to be taking hold...Plus your brilliant questions on D Cummings, E Miliband, and much more.
Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on June 28th. Tkts here:
https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/?kw=2021-06-28 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Ed Miliband discusses some of the ideas in his new book 'Go Big' and why he feels freer to express his thoughts now compared with when he was Labour leader...Plus reflections on Dominic Cummings...and your latest questions on Labour's future, G7 and T Blair's foreign policy
Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on Monday June 28th:
https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/?kw=2021-06-28 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Diana/Bashir crisis is more nuanced than the media frenzy suggests but the layers of BBC 'senior managers', where lines of responsibility are blurred and the output is often a distant consideration, are the constant factors in the various avoidable crises-Diana, Cliff, Gilligan/Kelly etc. Plus brilliant questions on Labour, Brexit and much more.
Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on June 28th
https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/?kw=2021-06-28 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
It is a sign that Labour is in crisis when its leader is inundated with advice...much of it contradictory and more vague than the assertive tone of the many contributors to the debate about Labour's future..Listen or read carefully to the likes of Tony Blair, Peter Mandelson, Angela Rayner and John McDonnell ...and their proposed paths towards recovery are more foggy than they appear to be. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Rock N Roll Politics is streaming live from my boudoir for the last time tonight...the theatres are reopening soon!
Get you tickets here and see you at 7pm:
https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The current political situation is like the best political thrillers where nothing is quite what it seems...a contrast to Brexit which was a rollercoaster thriller but all of it on the surface. There were no mysteries. There are now. We will crack them live on Wed night....Rock N Roll Politics is streaming from a room in my house for the last time before the theatres re-open. Tickets here...get the wine ready:
https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The 'centre ground' is the most overused and imprecise term in British politics. Cameron, Osborne and Blair claim to be on 'the centre ground'. So do most political columnists. But what if these economic liberals are nowhere near the centre ground... if it exists at all? Tickets for the final historic show being streamed live from my boudoir on Wed May 12 are here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Even if most voters are paying no attention the allegations around B Johnson's integrity and judgement will destabilise Number 10, the wider government...and, indeed, B Johnson, a figure unused to facing consequences of earlier decisions and conduct.
The historic final live show from a room in my house takes place on Wednesday May 12. Tickets here:
https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Imagine if Ed Balls or John McDonnell had been Chancellor. Cameron would've been in no position to text them. This is partly a saga of one party rule at Westminster..plus your questions and who will win the Hartlepool by-election?
The historic final live streamed show from my boudoir is on May 12th. Tkts:https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics/
steveric14@icloud.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Just a quick reminder about tonight's live show and what we'll be doing...including the lessons from the contrasting careers of David Cameron and Shirley Williams, live questions and unreliable predictions..
Tickets here:
https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-1504/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Such a lot to cram in..BBC's response to Prince Phillip's death, Northern Ireland, Sturgeon v Salmond latest...and I reveal what I'll be covering on this Thursday's Rock N Roll Politics streaming live at 7pm and then available for another week.
https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-1504/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
I'm joined by Alastair Campbell to reflect on Ed Miliband's leadership, Keir Starmer and Tony Blair as he publishes his revelatory diaries that span 2010-2015..plus brilliant questions on A Salmond, K Starmer and the Covid Inquiry...and the latest from listeners in rural Australia and idyllic Portugal. Rock N Roll Politics is streaming live on April 15th.
https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-1504/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
A Salmond sets up a new party and some SNP figures defect. Defections will be destabilising for N Sturgeon.. Tory defections to UKIP freaked out D Cameron and in the early 80s defections to the SDP doomed Labour ...PLUS a recipe from one of our listeners in Italy.. Rock N Roll Politics is streaming live at Kings Place on April 15th. You need to get a ticket in advance. https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-1504/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The greater the doubt about the UK's place in the world the more it seeks to fly the flag....since the Suez Crisis the UK's sense of itself has been a contradictory mix of jingoism and extreme insecurity.....It's more straightforward for believers in 'British exceptionalism' to get worked up about the Union Jack rather than assess the role of a middle ranking power ....plus brilliant questions on all the urgently topical issues. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Rock n Roll Politics is streaming live tonight at 7pm...My themes:
Covid, Voters and The State; Rishi Sunak-Who is He?; Met Police-Who's in Charge? Plus Predictions, live questions and much more.
Tickets here for live show and valid for a week-
https://shop.kingsplace.co.uk/26461/26462 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
A preview of Wednesday evening's livestream plus questions on whether the fashion for localism is misplaced, Keir Starmer, the vaccine 'war' and why we should be alarmed that most people in the UK have little or no interest in politics.
Tickets for Wednesday evening's Rock N Roll Politics are available here. The show is then available for another week. https://shop.kingsplace.co.uk/26461/26462 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tony Benn used to argue it was the policies and not the personalities that mattered. Was he right-with reference to Alex Salmond, Nicola Sturgeon, RIshi Sunak and Boris Johnson?
Rock N Roll Politics is streaming live at 7 on Mar 17th. Tickets here:
https://shop.kingsplace.co.uk/26461/26462 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The defining relationships in British politics is that between Prime Minister and Chancellor and Opposition leader/ Shadow Chancellor....In budget week how do Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak compare with past duos ..and Keir Starmer and Annelise Dodds...? Rock N Roll Politics is streaming live on Mar 17th. Book here:https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-online-streaming-march-17/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Lord 'Frosty' Frost is now in the cabinet responsible for Brexit negotiations t...Having negotiated a deal that is causing chaos. B Johnson is not a good judge of people...he thought Cummings was his saviour and has yet to see that 'Frosty' is a puny courtier in his increasingly frenzied court.
Send questions to steveric14@icloud.com
Tickets for the next live show on Mar 17- https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-online-streaming-march-17/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
My theme for tonight's live stream-Can Keir Starmer win? Plus questions and unreliable predictions...book in advance and get the wine ready for tonight. The show will then be available for seven days if it clashes with anyone's packed evening schedules.
https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-feb-2021-online-streaming/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Brilliant questions and a mini travelogue as we find out more where we listen to the podcast...from Australia to Germany and on to the great Manchester canal. Join me for the live stream next Wednesday at 7pm. I'll be reflecting on the leadership of K Starmer- Can he win the next general election...and how? Plus questions, points, and unreliable predictions. Details here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-feb-2021-online-streaming/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
B Johnson proposes to take back control of the NHS - A reform of reforms introduced in the first term of this long serving government. It is right to do so..and it was always absurd for D Cameron to give away significant powers while retaining responsibility....Plus great questions. Rock N Roll Politics is streaming live at 7pm on Wed Feb 17th. There'll be twists and turns...Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-feb-2021-online-streaming/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Northern Ireland protocol is looking wobbly already...that's because it doesn't answer the Irish Question arising from Brexit...Plus the lessons of UK's vaccine triumph..brilliant questions and the definitive answer to B Johnson's hair style.
Tickets for the next live streaming of Rock N Roll Politics on Feb 17th here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-feb-2021-online-streaming/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Boris Johnson speaks and acts on a daily basis...but why does he show little sign of thinking through the consequences of what he says and does? Plus new questions on the implications of the Biden presidency, referendums, the art of leadership, Jeremy Corbyn and ...the latest on Johnson's hair style. https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-feb-2021-online-streaming/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
n this week's episode we focus on listeners' brilliant questions including ones on referendums and how they might work, Joe Biden...and B Johnson's hair style.
Rock N Roll Politics- the Latest Lockdown Special streams live at Kings Place this Wednesday at 7pm-Reflectons on Joe Biden hours after inauguration , Donald Trump. Keir Starmer, unreliable predictions and live questions. Tkts here:
https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-2001/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Is the 'special relationship' of such value to the UK that it prevents British Prime Ministers from making critical judgements about US Presidents and their administrations? Plus..more U turns from B Johnson ...brilliant questions about referendums, why Johnson is a winner and much more... Rock N Roll Politics-the Latest Lockdown Special is streaming live on Jan 20th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-2001/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
When I heard that the Brexit deal was 'done' I wondered how all the fundamental conflicts had been resolved. The answer is that they have not been..all the thorny questions have been kicked in to the long grass...and B Johnson stumbles belatedly in to lockdown...the dark sequence recurs...plus brilliant questions and points of order. Tickets for the next live streamed show are here:https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-2001/ steveric14@icloud.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
For the Rock N Roll Politics Podcast Brexit/Covid Festive Special I reflect on my favourite political interview ...at the suggestion of a listener. Thanks to all of you for listening in 2020..and the for the brilliant questions..what a year..and we're going to need to stick together via the podcast and shows in 2021 to make sense of the ongoing epic dramas. ..and to hopefully have a few laughs as well. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
We explore the layers of tragic irony as the UK heads for the cliff's edge . Tickets for Rock N Roll Politics live at Kings Place and the live stream are available here. https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/?kw=2020-12-16 The Prime Ministers-Reflections on Leadership from Wilson to Johnson is available here and of course at local bookshops.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Prime-Ministers-Reflections-Leadership-Johnson/dp/1786495880/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
One of the biggest differences between Conservative Prime Ministers and the few Labour leaders that have made it to Number 10 is their level of self confidence. B Johnson has pursued the hardest possible Brexit without agonising about its impact on the UK economy and his own position. D Cameron failed to win a majority in 2010 but pursued an agenda on the radical right as if he had won a landslide. Rock N Roll Politics is live/live streamed at Kings Place on Dec 16: www.kingsplace.co.uk/RNRP Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
M Gove wrote a well argued essay in the Times explaining the new tier system. Within hours a panic stricken B Johnson implicitly undermined the arguments to appease Conservative MPs.....plus your brilliant questions. Tickets for the live show at Kings Place on Dec 16th and the live stream are here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/rocknrollpolitics/ The email for signed messages re my book on Prime Ministers, and for questions /thoughts: steveric14@icloud.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
With Rock N Roll Politics streaming live on Monday at 7 here's a great chance to have more time for your brilliant questions... Keep the questions and points coming..the email: steveric14@icloud.com Tickets for the live streamed show on Monday are here..a chance to ask questions and raise points live...There'll be much to discuss: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-online-streaming-23-nov/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
With the departure of Dominic Cummings there is much talk of a 'reset' in Downing Street... But how much will really change or can change? Plus more brilliant questions..keep them coming : steveric14@icloud.com. Tickets for Rock N Roll Politics the live lockdown special on Monday Nov 23rd are here:
https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-online-streaming-23-nov/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The victory of Joe Biden and the fall of Donald Trump raise many questions: What's the impact on the increasingly isolated B Johnson? Will 'Trumpism' flourish without Trump ( I doubt it)? Are there lessons for the BBC in CNN's grown up coverage (Yes)? Plus your brilliant questions at at time of historic upheaval. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
We're living through epic times...B Johnson calls a second national lockdown inevitably. Yet he acts weeks after he was advised to do so..the same dark sequence as in the spring. When leaders are out of their depth they repeat past misjudgements almost knowingly. Meanwhile K Starmer suspends J Corbyn to the predictable cheers of the fickle Greek Chorus of commentators-but was he right to do so? And the minor matter of the US presidential election..plus your brilliant questions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
A government with a big majority faces a dizzying array of critics less than a year since its election victory -some of its own MPs highlight forensically what's wrong with the 'world beating Test and Trace' system, Marcus Rashford is once again the voice of the poor with support across the country and Andy Burnham becomes a potent voice of protest but-in muddled Britain- without much power. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
A preview of the live stream of Rock N Roll Politics from the Kings Place Website at 7pm on Monday (and available for a few days after the live event). There'a lot to catch up on..Brexit, Covid latest, your questions and much more. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-online-streaming/ See you there! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Boris Johnson claims a balanced approach in response to the second wave of Covid...in doing so he repeats the same mistakes of earlier this year and will be tormented again with the words "too little ...too late"...I explore why Prime Ministers succumb to the dangerous allure of policies that have failed in the past...plus your questions and how to watch the live Rock N Roll Politics on Monday Oct 19th Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In another packed episode-latest on Covid testing, B Johnson's conference speech crammed with objectives without explaining how he'll meet any of them-and your brilliant questions inc Andrew Neil's new channel, Keir Starmer's knighthood..and pro-Europeans without a voice...and what you're up to while listening to this podcast..plus details of next live show at Kings Place on October 19th. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The media is trained to spot tensions between PMs and Chancellors, but often gets the complex relationship wrong...plus Covid, the government's response and Monty Python's Flying Circus...and your brilliant questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
As the virus wreaks havoc again, why some MPs call for the army to intervene ...and why there'll be significant consequences as some Tory newspapers give B Johnson a hard time (though nowhere near as hard as they would have done to a Labour PM)...Plus your brilliant questions.... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The government's 'oven ready' deal that would 'get Brexit done' is now being violated...by the government...and your brilliant questions on Boris Johnson, Brexit, Keir Starmer and much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Number 10 that presided chaotically over Covid and its consequences does not go for introspective humility...Instead of learning lessons from its failures it moves on with naive self-confidence and counterproductive machismo as it threatens to renege on its own 'oven ready' Brexit deal....plus some of your brilliant questions answered. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Boris Johnson is struggling. Does he realise yet that he is not equipped to meet the epic demands of leadership? Writing the paperback version of 'The Prime Ministers- Reflections on Leadership from Wilson to Johnson' I am struck by how miserable Prime Ministers are a lot of the time. They get to the top, feel euphoric...and then all hell breaks loose. Also given the performance of the government....should Labour be doing even better in the polls? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Have the last twelve months been the most historic since the end of World War Two? Covid, Brexit, a big Tory election win....that takes a lot of beating..there's been the Suez Crisis, Sterling Crises, Three Day Weeks, Winter of Discontent, Iraq, Financial Crash...and what about the epic dramas of the early 1980s? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In UK politics B Johnson can escape scrutiny more easily than D Trump, Johnson's model of leadership in some respects. Johnson does not like being challenged and in one huge policy area he is getting his way. The UK economy faces another big hit because of the Johnson/Cummings approach to talks with the EU, but few are questioning what they are doing and what the likely consequences will be. On this Johnson has no need to fear scrutiny...and that is very dangerous. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Rishi Sunak walks on water but he does so by putting the case for borrowing and spending. How should Labour respond? There are big risks and opportunities for Starmer and his new team. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Is Dominic Cummings the most powerful Number 10 special adviser of modern times? I reflect on the relationship between PMs and their favourite special advisers. From Harold Wilson and Marcia Williams to Johnson and Cummings...the most illuminating relationships in politics. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week I reflect on the chasm between B Johnson's bold objectives and his capacity to deliver..plus Dominic Cummings, the shallow revolutionary with angry, contradictory plans...and K Starmer's sacking of RLB and the complex implications. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode I reflect on the contradictory leaks coming from Number 10, the Treasury and the wider government..and reveal the outcome of my exclusive poll on the fate of Boris Johnson. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
A lookahead to the next virtual live Rock N Roll Politics on Wednesday June 17th. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In England voters only turn against Conservative governments when they are seen as incompetent. With one of the highest virus death tolls and a hard Brexit looming is B Johnson in danger of losing the battle of competence..with electoral consequences? Also some thoughts on the BBC's new DG. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
There are signs of tension between Johnson, ministers and some of the scientists over the lockdown exit and the Cummings' affair. At first they appeared to be dancing together as ministers proclaimed absurdly that they were 'following the science', but now the mood on the dance floor darkens...plus Emily Maitlis and the BBC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Why is B Johnson so dependent on D Cummings? Is his determination to keep him a sign of strength or weakness? The saga of Cummings dash to Durham shows at the very least that the Vote Leave campaign runs Number Ten. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
A preview of the live virtual show on the Kings Place website at 7pm on Monday May 18th. The last live virtual show was on the day B.Johnson returned to work..how is he doing? How is K Starmer doing? And will the UK and politics in the UK change permanently and if so in what way? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
A look ahead to Monday's virtual show on the Kings Place website starting at 7 pm...The last live virtual show was on the day B Johnson returned to work...How's he doing? How's K Starmer doing? And will the virus emergency change the UK and politics permanently ..and in what way? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Boris Johnson outlined the Lockdown exit strategy in a grand televised address to the nation. Yet avoidable confusion followed. Why? I reflect on how Tony Blair and others in the New Labour era would 'bombproof' every statement before a public word was uttered and seek to answer why B Johnson and his team are more casual in their approach. Also my verdict on Keir Starmer's early days... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week I reflect on Matt Hancock not meeting his testing target, claiming to do so..and the triumph he could have claimed for getting close to his goal. Targets work..and the scrapping of targets was one of the many calamitous decisions taken by the coalition government... Plus Brexit latest..and thoughts on my virtual live show from a room in my house. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Rock n Roll Politics the Lockdown Special is on the Kings Place website at 7pm on Monday April 27th. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
I am hooked on the Number 10 daily press conferences even though they are dull and reveal little..perhaps my addiction is explained by the gap between the eerie, subdued mood at the conferences with the epic crisis being played out..it's a darkly compelling disjunction..and on other matters the former Cabinet minister Peter Hain reflects on Labour's decline and the need for radical Keynesian economic policies under Keir Starmer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode I look at how perceptions of B Johnson changed in terms of his role as a Prime Minister when he was moved to Intensive Care-he was viewed suddenly as more leadenly than he was; I interviewed T Blair for my Radio 4 programme on Labour's challenges 'Left out of Power'- here is the interview in full. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Not for the first time ministers are hoist by their own petard as they try to exert control over the NHS only to discover they gave away their powers to do so..and Keir Starmer wins by a landslide. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
B Johnson has been famous for so long it is easy to forget how inexperienced he is as a PM facing the big challenge since 1945...and now he gets the virus along with other key players. Keir Starmer faces a different challenge..making his mark at a time of national emergency. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
n this episode: The coronavirus means all fashionable assumptions are turned on their head. We turn to the state to come to our rescue after decades in the UK when big government and public spending were seen as a threat...but even so B Johnson's confused libertarianism allows many fools to be 'free' to get the virus and pass it on...not so many laughs this time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
n the latest episode of Rock N Roll Politics I conclude I was wrong a week ago in suggesting that the virus would not become political...and a Tory Chancellor contradicts his predecessors and media orthodoxy by arguing that higher spending boosts economic growth-quite a moment Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Brexit not done, a virus spreading across the globe, a Labour leader soon to be elected-what is the most politically significant? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
B Johnson began his leadership acting as if was a Prime Minister with a landslide majority. Machismo and assertions of 'strong leadership' become problematic when he has no majority at all. Meanwhile I'm the only person in the UK who can see a case for J Corbyn's Brexit proposition. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Boris Johnson is Prime Ministers and forms his Brexit cabinet ready to plan for a 'no deal' Brexit. The juxtaposition of.a government with a crusading mission and a hung parliament sets the scene for a period of epic political drama...and I'm getting ready for the Edinburgh Festival. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
As a new Prime Minister prepares to acquire the crown Steve Richards reflects on Boris, the fantasy of scrutiny in the Tory Leadership contest or any leadership contest, and the latest on internal Labour traumas. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Steve Richards reflects on the gaping gap between the Tory leadership battle and the parliamentary reality the winner will face- and why an early election may not solve the hell of leading in a hung parliament..plus Labour latest and the lessons of the BBC's leadership debate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The importance of a leader's character is often overplayed but not at the moment. Theresa May presses on with her version of Brexit with a ruthless determination that defies her fragile position. So far she has continued to prevail because she is more wilful than the weakest House of Commons in modern times. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
I explain why T May still holds most of the Brexit cards even if MPs get an extension to Article 50..most likely outcome of this very early Brexit phase is that a version of her deal passes and UK is out by June..then the nightmarish trade talks begin.. BUT I'm more excited by citizens' juries leading to an informed referendum. An informed referendum in the UK is a contradiction in terms but these juries can work as a way of engaging voters before the mendacious political battle gets formally underway. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
At an epic point in the Brexit saga I reflect on the still pivotal role of T May, the less pivotal but vital stance of J Corbyn, J Bercow and all MPs: Parliament might want to take us back from the cliff's edge but will the weak but obstinate May be willing to be an instrument of parliament? Can you hear her utter the words " I will negotiate Norway Plus" or "I'll call a referendum". If not-what will happen? As a bonus I watched Fiona Bruce present Question Time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In the latest podcast I try and struggle to make sense of crazy Brexit events- T May goes on to Today programme for a silly interview, the Attorney General spends explaining why he wont publish predictable legal advice before the government publishes the advice, and the government is first in history to propose a policy that makes the economy poorer. We haven't even had the vote on May's deal. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Why the transformation of the Conservative parliamentary party over recent decades means T May will lose the vote on her deal...plus the reason why she could not have posed a simple question: What Brexit deal could have won a majority in this parliament? After the election the answer would have brought her down. By then she was trapped and on a course towards the vote on Dec 11th...and why a TV debate between her and J Corbyn is the reddest of red herrings. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
As the Brexit drama reaches a nerve shredding and unpredictable climactic I reflect on the roles of T May, J Corbyn and G Brown's recent Brexit speech....and pledge to update regularly while UK at cliff's edge...get ready for bonus podcasts, the only upside to a national emergency. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this latest episode I reflect on wider implications of the Newsnight interview with George Osborne and the subsequent glorious response of Polly Toynbee- when it was suggested that she and the former Chancellor were now relatively 'close' politically...and related to this: Who's winning the battle of ideas? The winner of this battle also wins elections. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this week's podcast I explore the most destructive and potent theme in UK politics -'betrayal'. If T May insists on the false Brexit choice of 'her deal v no deal' those feeling 'betrayed' will be Hardline Brexiteers, Soft Brexiteers and Remainers. Even May wins the Commons' vote on her deal the story of 'betrayal' will trigger a thousand more political explosions...and also the Liberal Democrats struggling to become significant and more on my unscripted TV Talks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this week's episode I explore the Prime Ministers we never had. All the factors that blocked them apply to Boris Johnson making it much less likely that he will be the next PM. In connection with Boris' fate I also reflect on my next BBC series of unscripted TV talks on the theme of 'PMs We Never Had' and why ad libbing to camera in a single take is a good way-in my view- of conveying the drama and epic significance of politics. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this week's episode-Referendums are a nightmare and yet a second Brexit referendum is both desirable and feasible; Corbyn and anti semitism-the furore over the latest imprecise British political scandal becomes even less focussed and more vague; the hidden divide that is more significant than 'open versus closed'...and I apologise for failing to meet a pledge. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
My reflections on Brexit latest and the Labour anti semitism row-another in a long line of imprecise UK political scandals...and then a chance to hear Andrew Adonis in spellbinding form live at the recent Kings Place Politics Festival. One pro- European said to me afterwards 'For one hour I believed everything was possible'. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What are the merits, flaws and chances of a new political party being formed? At the recent Kings Place Politics Festival Ian Birrell, Rachel Sylvester, Jonathan Freedland and I explored the ups and downs of a new party. As part of this podcast the event is broadcast. Relax on a beach-or anywhere- and listen! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Reflections on what will not happen in the Brexit saga. There'll be no National Government. There'll be no election. Theresa May's Brexit Plan will not last, but her Plan is a battered shield while the rest of us search for an alternative plan...And the BBC needs some much deeper thinking on what means is to be a publicly funded organisation reporting in wild times. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Reflections on latest Brexit eruptions... two cabinet resignations, the possibility of parliamentary paralysis in relation to Brexit and why a schism in the Conservative party is more likely than an early election Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
There are many lessons from the shambolic introduction of new railway timetables and most of them apply to all public services in the UK. They are so obvious and yet political and media culture in the UK -or England- does not all allow us to go near the obvious...and only a very little bit this week on Brexit before a very big bit to come. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Shadow Brexit Secretary, Keir Starmer, was one of the many star guests at the recent Kings Place Politics Festival. Speaking to me as around 100 000 people were marching in London calling for a 'people's referendum' on Brexit Keir Starmer explains how and why the Labour leadership takes a different position. He also talks about the leap from being the Director of Public Prosecutions to a Labour politician in a pivotal post... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What this week's NHS announcement tells us about the fragility of Theresa May and how the insights of Bruce Forsyth could save BBC's Question Time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
I reveal exclusively that the meaningful vote on the Brexit deal will be …meaningful… look forward to England being knocked out of the World Cup and reflect on the glorious TV panels of the 1970s that were often better than the games Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Reflections on the real Jeremy Thorpe after the concluding episode of the brilliant BBC drama and the lessons to be learnt from the brief phase when he lit up the political stage. Somehow or other I move on from Thorpe to Brexit... all paths lead to Brexit. This will be a month of heightened drama in the Brexit saga. No wonder Brexit is already being turned into a TV serial. I wonder if it will be as good as A Very English Scandal - although the creators of the Brexit drama could use the same title. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
A recording of a recent one man show at Kings Place, London - the wild world of politics reflected in relation to Brexit, Jeremy Corbyn, Royal Weddings, the chances of a new party, and much more Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Steve Richards questions some of the fashionable assumptions about Labour's Jeremy Corbyn and John McDonnell and talks to the legendary Observer columnist William Keegan about Brexit and the Chancellors he has known Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this first weekly podcast Steve Richards reflects on why Theresa May is no different from all other Prime Ministers in twisting and turning over Europe - while being more trapped than any of her predecessors. He speaks to Andrew Adonis about Brexit, the BBC, lessons from speaking to Brexiteers around the country and his journey to the left in some policy areas. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices