Hrkn to .. The Bigger Picture: Recent Episodes
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The Bigger Picture is Simon Rose at his presenting best. He regularly enjoys digging behind the headlines to find the really interesting stories that are being talked about by economists and think-tanks which are helping to shape the conversations in Whitehall. In his weekly analysis with Mike Indian and Professor Tim Evans, Simon brings the latest political and economic thinking into sharp focus. Hrkn to www.shareradio.co.uk for more ..
Renaissance Florence was not only the cultural capital of the world, but also the banking capital. In an episode of The History of Booms, Busts and Bubbles originally broadcast on 3rd May 2015, Rita Lobo is joined by David Chilosi, Fellow of Economic History at LSE, to discuss Florence's part in the economics of the Renaissance. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
With Nadine Dorries still an MP two months after saying she was quitting, political commentator Mike Indian discusses the difficulties of removing inadequate politicians, pointing out the serious democratic deficiency. As Labour waters down its pledges on workers' rights, he laments the party's cautiousness and asks where is the distinctive offering. He looks at The first Republican Party presidential debate, worrying that it shows that politics is becoming even dirtier and uglier. And with Rishi Sunak tacitly admitting he won't meet his small boats pledge, Mike argues for a fundamental reform of our migration system. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University looks at the resurgence of Ireland's economy, driven by tax cuts rather than tax rises. He discusses the documentary Ex Nihilo: The Truth About Money (https://tinyurl.com/2sntvvxd), explaining how many of the West's problems are due to excess money, interest rates and debt and the resulting distortions and bubbles. Too much in the film, he says, isn't understood properly by politicians or even many economists. And he concludes by looking at some of the sinister overtones behind the campaign against cash. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
With NHS waiting lists reaching a record high of 7.6m, political commentator Mike Indian looks at the PM's pledges on that and on inflation, still stubbornly high. He discusses the migrant issue as the first asylum seekers arrive on the Bibby Stockholm, wondering why asylum seekers couldn't be put to work in the interim and wishing that on this, and many other issues, we could have some bigger thinking. He also looks at Net Zero and why it has become the political football of the summer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
With both probably Presidential candidates facing legal challenges, Professor Tim Evans says that America is at its most divided since the Civil War, a terrifying prospect for those who believe in democracy and the rule of law. He wonders if we might be at an inflexion point where the old order is falling apart. Tony Blair claimed that a future generation will take the UK back into the EU but is the EU what it was and will it continue to be appealing to those who opposed Brexit? And he looks at Japan's falling birth rate and ageing population and points out how similar problems are facing many other countries, with massive implications for the sustainability of the welfare state. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Political commentator Mike Indian discusses the ramifications of Dame Alison Rose resigning as head of Natwest. Did she have to go and should the government have intervened? What are the ramifications of banks debanking customers whose views they don't like? Mike looks at the three by-election results, which show rather more than simply an all-score draw for the three main parties. He also reflects on Labour dropping its pledge on trans self-ID and considers briefly the effect that social media is having on effective politics. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University thinks the PM and other politicians should avoid playing the central planner and let the increasingly dynamic education market decide which degrees are worthwhile. He feels it obvious that Britain must adopt Small Modular Reactors but wonders if politicians have the guts in the face of vocal opposition. And he is gravely concerned about the threat to free speech if banks are allowed to cancel the accounts of those whose views they disagree with. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
With junior doctors going on strike, political commentator Mike Indian ponders the answer to the UK's failing public services. After the rebuff of the Illegal Migration Bill in the House of Lords, he points out that the bill does not address the fundamental problems of migration. And he takes some positives from Joe Biden's visit to the UK and the NATO summit. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University suggests that, with the trend in Europe towards nationalist populism and harsher immigration policies, opinions in the UK towards the EU from each political wing may switch, as they have done before. With Thames Water in dire staits, why are natural monopolies failures whether run by the state or privately and what can be done? And with the problems of the NHS deepening, is it about to hit the point of no return? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Gavin Oldham, director of The Share Alliance (as well as founder of Share Radio, The Share Centre and The Share Foundation) talks to Simon Rose about the need for long-term governance which, at present, is not supplied by our democratic system which produces so many career politicians. There are many issues which can only be addressed if there is more attention to a long-term focus, including inter-generational rebalancing and a more egalitarian form of capitalism. He explains why the Welsh government is leading the way in this, why Inheritance Tax needs repurposing and why AI is a great opportunity for wealth distribution. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Professor Tim Evans is fascinated by new figures showing how, in many sectors, non-EU immigrants are now outnumbering workers from the EU. He laments the way in which the inefficiencies of the UK state are piling up disastrous problems ahead that no UK politicians appear prepared to discuss, let alone tackle. And he looks at the EU, which is trying to battle inflation while it is deflation and a chilling recession that lie ahead instead. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Political commentator Mike Indian looks at the Prime Minister's attempts on his US visit to make the UK the hub of AI regulation, highlight the dangers of the fast-developing technology if it isn't controlled. He also discusses Labour's plans for social care reform, finding them rather lacking in detail. And, discussing the reluctant of ministers to hand over WhatsApp messages, he explains why it should not be up to the Government to decide what is relevant and why it is imperative we get an interim Covid Inquiry report as soon as possible. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University gives a fascinating analysis of Latin America's problems, with political instability and a growing macro-economic crisis. He also looks at the under-reported Vortex of Doom in South Africa, where there's a huge energy crisis and law and order is breaking down. Lastly, he turns to the UK, which now appears to be one of Europe's most nannying states when it comes to food, drink and health; is it a case of NHS demand management, he wonders? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University suggests ways in which the UK can return to growth and compete internationally, but wonders which government – if any – will do what is necessary. He discusses the mindless vandalism of cracking down on overseas students. And he considers whether China's increasing economic woes will benefit India, the world's biggest democracy.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Political commentator Mike Indian looks at the aftermath of the Autumn Statement and what it mean for UK politics. While he can't see Labour not winning the next election, he's not convinced the Conservatives will be wiped out. He looks at Nicola Sturgeon losing the independence referendum case and at the prospect of yet more rail strikes in the weeks to come. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University says the Autumn Statement has no vision, will make a difficult situation worse and will be hated by Conservative voters. He predicts that Labour will outflank the Tories as a moderate, pro-business party and that there will be no more than 100-150 conservative MPs. He feels the NHS, with falling output and productivity despite extra funding, is in uncharted waters with Labour calling for greater partnership with the private sector. And he admires Gordon Brown's insights on nationalism, which is weaponising trade to the detriment of us all. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Political commentator Mike Indian discusses the bullying allegations against Gavin Williamson and asks if Parliament gets these things right. He also explains why Matt Hancock should not have gone into the jungle and, in the wake of his about-turn on COP27, suggests that Rishi Sunak needs to develop a persona of his own. With the US mid-terms still not finalised, he points out that the Republicans failing to do as well as expected may have an effect on Trump's comeback hopes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University asks if the IMF is fit for purpose in a world where power and wealth are moving east and where there are now competitors such as China? With Africa due to be home to 40% of humanity by the end of the century, he discusses the remarkable Megalopolis of coastal west Africa, one of the continent's great success stories. And as California is set to overtake Germany in the list of the world's largest economies, he considers why we can't emulate it in the UK. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Political commentator Mike Indian talks Simon Rose through the downfall of Liz Truss, the shortest-serving Prime Minister in British history. He also discusses Boris Johnson's aborted candidacy and explains why he feels that MPs should be the ones who choose their leader mid-term. He explains what he thinks Rishi Sunak's economic policies might be and wonders if he will be brave enough to tackle the triple lock. How ready for government is Keir Starmer and what wll his vision be that might grab voters? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University talks to Simon Rose about the real human and economic cost of "cheap money" and ignoring the basics of economics, particularly among the groupthinking MPC. As we find ourselves with the butcher's bill for 14 years of zero interest rates, he doubts if there is anybody who can turn things around without enormous upheaval. The soggy, Keynesian, statist, high-tax, no-growth blancmange is not, he maintains, sustainable for our children and grandchildren. He also explains why it is so important when it comes to Russia's war on Ukraine that the Soviet Union's role in starting the Second World War be properly acknowledged. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Political commentator Mike indian looks at what is effectively Liz Truss's 30 days in office, which have seen a rout of Prime Ministerial authority. Failing to carry her party's MPs or markets with her, has she plunged a dagger into the heart of the Tory coalition and is there an existential threat to the Conservative party? Mike also looks at the relationship of government and the Treasury to the Bank of England, where Andrew Bailey is a technocrat, much less politically astute than Mark Carney. And he wonders why, having got the energy market intervention right, Liz Truss was so unwilling to process with an awareness campaign to reduce energy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University assesses Liz Truss's first month in office and wonders if the era of the Magic Money Tree is coming to an end. He believes that the Bank of England, which has not performed well since the Financial Crisis, deserves greater scrutiny or it is in danger of sidelining itself. He considers how Europe is pivoting away from China and worries that China may become yet more authoritarian. And, while Labour is riding high in the polls, he believes Keir Starmer has a lot of work to do to make Middle England comfortable with him. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Political commentator Mike Indian discusses with Simon Rose the Chancellor's mini-budget and the market turmoil it caused, as well as criticism from the International Monetary Fund. Arguing that previous dashes for growth didn't end well, he asks if there really is a correlation between the tax burden and growth and whether the level of regulation in the UK really is too high? He also looks at the Labour Party conference, understanding the confidence but pointing out that Keir Starmer is still missing a narrative of excitement. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University discusses what we might expect from Liz Truss as Prime Minister. He points out how long it has been since the Government (or Opposition) had a clear strategy. He also wonders where the Russian economy is heading now that Europe appears to be weaning itself off the country's energy. And he reflects on the late Queen and her funeral, surprising himself with the realisation that her death appears to have taught many of us something about ourselves. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Political commentator Mike Indian looks at the aftermath of the death of Queen Elizabeth and the reaction of the political world and considers how the new Prime Minister coped. He assesses the new Truss appointments, good and perhaps not so good. Although it was somewhat overshadowed by the breaking news, he looks at the PM's energy plan and, briefly, considers what recent advances by Ukraine's troops might mean for Russia and Ukraine. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University pays tribute to Mikhail Gorbachev, explaining his great historic importance. He discusses how Saudi Arabia is seizing the diplomatic opportunity presented by the energy crisis. And he looks at the economic woes of the free world which could lead to an economic meltdown, arguing that the UK's new Prime Minister will have to be very radical not to play into Putin's hands. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University looks at the importance of qualifications in an increasingly complex economy, so different from that of students' parents' generation and earlier. He discusses why relatively little advantage has so far been taken of the UK leaving the EU and remarks that big changes often come out of a time of crisis. And, six months on, he looks Ukraine and how Russia has lost ground since mid-March, wiping out its military's high reputation with the conflict coming more to resemble WW1's trench warfare. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
As the first proper A-level results arrive since 2019, political commentator Mike Indian explains how education must be the answer to solving the UK's productivity puzzle. In the wake of the latest rise in inflation, he says that targeted support and state intervention will be needed to get things back onto an even keel. And with the Tory leadership contest continuing, he asks where the big, transformative ideas are and wonders if an absent Boris Johnson is simply abrogating responsibility. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University explains why bold market reform is needed to solve the problems of "basketcase Britain", before it is too late. He reflects on the success of the Commonwealth Games, held in Birmingham, particularly the spectacular opening and closing ceremonies and considers where the future of the Games – and the Commonwealth – might lie. And he shows how immigration is thriving in the wake of Brexit though points out that infrastructure planning must be tackled seriously and quickly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Political commentator Mike Indian updates Simon Rose on the contest for the leadership of the Conservative Party, as Liz Truss garners ever more endorsements. He considers Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan, the most senior American politician to visit in many years. He looks at the cost of living crisis in the light of the MPC's biggest interest rate rise in 27 years. And he pays tribute to Lord Trimble and his vital role in the Northern Ireland peace process. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wondering why our government seems so bereft of ideas and unable to say what it believes in, Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University assesses a list of policies for a future Tory leader suggested by ex-MEP Daniel Hannan. Tim also looks at Keir Starmer's early attempts to hone Labour's platform for the next election. And he explains why China is facing a demographic timebomb which will have massive ramifications for its economy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Political commentator Mike Indian analyses the Conservative Party contest to determine the leadership of the party and who will be Prime Minister. What are the positive and negative aspects of Rishi Sunak and Liz Truss? Will the views of the party membership and the MPs coincide and what will each mean for the Labour party? Mike also looks at Boris Johnson's final Prime Minister Questions and the cost-of-living crisis. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Gavin Oldham, managing director of Share Radio, talks to Simon Rose about the important role unconventional people can play, particularly in leadership roles. While recognising why Boris Johnson could no longer be PM, he points to some of his achievements, feeling they will be remembered by posterity. In so many walks of life, particularly in politics and business, it is important that there are people who can go against the herd, who can challenge conventional ways of doing things and attempt to roll back over-regulation and bureaucracy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Political commentator Mike Indian talked to Simon Rose at the very moment Boris Johnson announced his resignation as Prime Minister. Coping adeptly with the breaking news, Mike explained why Pincher was the straw that broke the camel's back but worried how any major government moves could be made by a caretaker PM. He considers the possibility of a major political realignment, wondering about the likelihood of Johnson retiring quietly. With a summer of leadership contests ahead, he reflects that – unlike many other nations - the UK is still a functioning democracy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University discusses the Politics of Nothingness engulfing British politics, asking where the politicians are who are principled and who have clear policies. He feels the political blancmange might be the end of an era and that there could be something revolutionary afoot in due course. He also wonders where all the young climate activists have gone and muses on how secular Britain is reviving its Christian rituals in another form in a search for meaning in our lives. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Political commentator Mike Indian looks at this week's rail strikes, marvelling both at the Government's lack of engagement and Labour's silence on the issue. With inflation hitting a 40-year-high, he considers what policy responses are available as the prospects of stagflation loom every larger. And he looks at the Government's Rwanda policy and the proposed British Bill of Rights. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University asks what the vision – if any – is of the Tory Government and worries that we are witnessing the dialogue of the deaf. He looks at the levelling-up debate and how our politics is so riven with contradictions. He reserves praise, however, for the Queen's Platinum Jubilee, which he considers a masterclass in strategic communications and statecraft, an enriching series of events with something for everyone. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Political commentator Mike Indian looks at the outlook for the Prime Minister in the wake of the vote of no confidence. He wonders when political gravity will take hold, thinking that the conference season could be critical. He considers who might replace Boris Johnson at the head of the Conservative Party and remarks upon the extraordinary connection between the vote and a bus stop in Parliament Square. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University reflects upon the Second Elizabethan Age and the changes in Britain over the Queen's reign, believing we are now one of the most creative and diverse of nations. He is horrified by an article showing how the most needy in society, who will always need support, are being failed by the stringency of the system which is supposed to help them. And he is staggered by statistics showing just how near the NHS GP service is to a tipping point which could spell its collapse. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Political commentator Mike Indian discusses the Sue Gray Report into Pandemic parties in Downing Street and how it reflects upon the culture there. Although he thinks that the PM might yet survive, he feels he's a two-dimensional figure in a world where 3,4 or even 5 dimensions are needed and wishes he was a student of history any later than Pericles. He also gives snap judgement on Rishi Sunak's measures to cope with the rising cost of living, the recording being made while the Chancellor was speaking. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University agrees with Andrew Neil that, around the world, democracy is on the march again. Putin's Ukraine invasion is actually helping to bring the rest of the world together and reconsider the attractions of autocratic rule. Tim wonders if the Bank of England is plagued by groupthink and, as a result, has boxed itself into a corner and could be about to crash the economy. And he ends by asking why modern culture is so dull in the UK and wonders whether the 1990s were the last golden cultural age. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Political commentator Mike Indian looks at the Queen's Speech, with the Queen herself absent. What was in it and what wasn't? He also discusses the Government's response to the growing cost-of-living crisis before turning to the recent local election results and what they might mean for the three main political parties. Lastly, he turns to Northern Ireland, where Sinn Fein emerged as the largest party; dos their success increase the prospect of a united Ireland? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University examines how Europe will cope as it tries to reduce its energy dependence upon Russia. He looks at an article on what those at the top of the Conservative Party profess to believe against their actions and whether Conservatism is ideological or pragmatic. And in the light of America's resurfacing divide on the subject of abortion, he considers why there is so little debate on the subject in the UK. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Political commentator Mike Indian looks at the continuing macho culture of Parliament and the recent behaviour of some MPs and asks whether there's a need for a robust external body to police our elected politicians. He looks ahead to next week's local elections and what they might mean for national politics and considers in detail what might happen in Northern Ireland, where Sinn Fein are expected to do well. And he also considers whether there might be a General Election earlier than expected. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University considers an article by ex-Australian PM Kevin Rudd about how war between China and the United States might be avoided. He looks at an apparently feasible project to transmit energy over 2,000 miles from Morocco to the United Kingdom. And he gives his thoughts on Partygate, wondering where the impressive politicians are we need in such difficult times. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Political commentator Mike Indian reflects on the consequences of the two most senior members of the government breaking laws that they helped to implement and wonders how it might affect the forthcoming local elections. If they go badly, will the PM have to go and who could replace him? With no more than 750 days until a General Election, he assesses the two main parties' electoral prospects. And he looks at the situation in Ukraine, considering the responsibility of the West for doing nothing when Putin annexed Crimea. He feels that, hard though it may be, the West must do more than it is already doing to help Ukraine. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University looks at Russia's failures in Ukraine from a business school angle, regarding it as an mid-20th century state with a mid-20th government. He reflects upon some of the lessons that can be learned about governance and statecraft from the Covid pandemic. And he considers the potential privatisation of Channel 4, hoping that it can somehow once more be a disruptive channel for thinkers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tim Price, director of Price Value Partners, has been warning for years about the inflation danger of central banks conjuring up so much money, including in previous interviews on Share Radio. Talking to Simon Rose, he points out that in 2020, a quarter of all dollars printed since the Fed set up in 1913 were printed in that year. With red lights flashing in the bond market, spelling danger for growth stocks, he explains why value and "real" assets are so important and points out that, just as investors are looking for protection from inflation, commodities are the cheapest they've been in his entire lifetime. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Political commentator Mike Indian celebrates the return of Nazanin Zaghair-Ratcliffe and Anoosheh Ashoori to the UK but, he wonders, how can Western countries cope with the often extreme tactics employed by rogue nations? He discusses the PM's fruitless visit to Saudi Arabia, the latest situation in Ukraine – with news of further atrocities emerging – and concerns about the enobling of Evgeny Lebedev. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University, in conversation with Simon Rose, looks at the extraordinary U-turns being made in the field of energy, with oil, gas and even coal coming back, leading to amazing new alliances being made and with ramifications that can't yet be foreseen. He discusses the unintended consequences of Putin's invasion of Ukraine, one of which he fears may be to damage the historic reputation of Russia. And he gets excited by the idea of "virtual wards" being trialled by the NHS. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Political commentator Mike Indian looks at the political ramifications of the Russian invasion of Ukraine eight days in. With Ukrainian resistance greater than anticipated, he feels that – to paraphrase Churchill – this could be at least the end of the beginning for Vladimir Putin. The attack, argues Mike, is reinvigorating NATO but he feels more can be done to tackle Russian dirty money being sheltered in the UK while not indiscriminately targeting those hostile to Putin's actions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In the wake of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University speculates what Putin's aims might be and discusses how the West should react and, indeed, whether it will be able to manage without Russian oil, gas and even wheat. He explains about the coming refugee crisis for Europe and why China matters so much. He concludes with the ultimate question: How can we reboot the Western system to cope with what may prove a new era? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Political commentator Mike Indian talks to Simon Rose about the divergent attitudes of the UK and other western countries to Russia and the Ukraine. He also discusses several aspects of UK politics: Jacob Rees-Mogg's comments on Brexit and trade; the fallout from Boris Johnson's remarks on Jimmy Savile in Parliament; and John Major's public criticism of the current Prime Minister. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University looks at the shocking growth in NHS waiting lists and wonders if providing tax breaks on private health provision for the elderly might prove a helpful way forward. He also considers the crisis in policing, suggesting a possible solution, even though few politicians might be willing to think long enough ahead. And he ends on an optimistic note, hoping that the recent breakthrough at JET might herald a coming age of nuclear fusion. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Political commentator Mike Indian looks at the energy price cap increase and the general rise in the cost of living, as well as the Government's attempts to ameliorate the effects of inflaiton in an era of rampant political short-termism. He examines the waning popularity of Boris Johnson and asks if the PM can survive, feeling the May local elections could prove crucial. And he turns his attention to the Ukraine, wondering if Russia is merely sabre-rattling or if Putin is seriously considering an invasion. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University asks whether we are seeing the end of the second great age of globalisation and wonders how the future will be different? With the Tories in free fall, he ponders whether there are still divisions within Labour. And he reflects on the way inflation is calculated and how it may not reflect the experience of the less well-off. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
With Simon Rose taking a well-earned break and with an action-packed PMQ on Wednesday, please enjoy 55 minutes of democratic challenge at its best. Christian Wakeford (circled in the image) has just switched sides from Conservative to Labour, Sir Keir Starmer's on the warpath, and Boris is fighting back - at last. Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University asks if Boris ("lucky general") Johnson's luck has finally run out and wonders where the truly big beasts of British politics are these days. He ponders the military dangers of Putin's ineffective and declining economic model. And he cocks a snook at many supposed "experts" whose predications about the effect of Brexit now seem very wide of the mark. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In the first Bigger Picture of the Year, political commentator Mike Indian talks to Simon Rose about the problems faced by the NHS in dealing with its backlog, about the Government's Plan B for Covid, about rising energy bills and the cost of living generally and about the objections to Tony Blair being awarded a knighthood. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
At the end of 2021, we feature some of the topics covered during the year by Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University. In conversation with Simon Rose, Tim discussed the tensions in eastern Europe and why Germany is so beholden to Putin's Russia, the death of the Californian Dream, Ed Balls' examination of the crisis in the UK care system, science's Replication Crisis and why Lord Frank Field was ahead of his time in his ideas on unemployment benefit. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Political commentator Mike Indian channels his inner Marley to look at politicians past, present & future. He assesses the void that will be left by the departing German Chancellor, Angela Merkel, perhaps the most impactful world leader of modern times. He asks if the goodwill shown towards Boris Johnson is running out and ponders what his legacy will be. And he wonders if Joe Biden can use his remaining time to bring about the considerable reforms that are necessary in the United States. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University discusses with Simon Rose the ideas behind Egalitarian Capitalism as espoused by Gavin Oldham OBE, amongst other things the founder of Share Radio. He's keen to see a world with inter-generational rebalancing, where everyone has a disintermediated stake in capitalism (for more, see tinyurl.com/mrhzcb27). Tim also asks if Boris Johnson is still a lucky general or are his days numbered? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Political commentator Mike Indian looks at "Partygate" and the resignation of Allegra Stratton, as well as the fine over the refurbishment of the PM's Downing Street flat. With polls indicating a hung Parliament if there was a snap election, he asks what it would take for the PM to go. He considers the latest Covid rules and discusses how heavy they might get - could Christmas be cancelled again? And he puts the case for mandatory vaccination as an alternative to recurring shutdowns of society. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University discusses a paper from John Penrose MP which could galvanise the debate on poverty, tackling the underlying causes, rather than treating its symptoms. He reflects on Nigel Farage's interview with Donald Trump on GB News, wishing Trump had faced a rather less friendly interviewer. And, confessing his own bias, he looks at the timeless and messy issue of the politics surrounding abortion, explaining why it is so divisive. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In the wake of a shambolic speech to the CBI, political commentator Mike Indian looks at the political future of Boris Johnson and asks if we are seeing the beginning of his end as PM. After the tragedy with a migrant boat in the English Channel, he suggests a possible solution. And he turns again to the Northern Ireland protocol and Article 16 and wonders whether, if there is a majority in favour in Northern Ireland, a United Ireland is a possible outcome. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University looks at the mounting tensions in Central and Eastern Europe and asks what's going on and explains why Germany is so beholden to Putin's Russia. Delving into the roots and reality of sleaze in British politics, he wonders if we should have amateur or professional politicians. And he admires a TV programme in which Ed Balls looks at the care system, in a crisis towards which the country seems to be in denial. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Political commentator Mike Indian looks at the issue of MPs having second jobs and how to prevent paid lobbying. Are the rules fit for purpose? He looks at the issue of Northern Ireland, Lord Frost, whether Article 16 might be triggered and what the consequences could be. And he reflects upon COP26 and expresses optimism that the UK can use technology to show the rest of the world how to achieve a zero-carbon future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Food banks are providing a vital role to help people this winter, and the Trussell Trust supports more than 1,200 throughout the United Kingdom. In this special episode of The Bigger Picture, their Chief Executive Emma Revie briefs supporters about their progress, and their plans for the future. If you would like to support the extraordinary work undertaken by this charity, please visit https://trusselltrust.org Visit www.shareradio.co.uk for more .. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
With Cop26 underway, Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University discusses the way that the culture wars are moving into the realm of science. He also contrasts how the UK public's behaviour has changed in a generation with the polarised politics of the USA. He examines why the NHS has failed to use private hospitals to clear its backlog despite a £10 billion deal. And he pays tribute to Lord Frank Field, looking at his ideas – way ahead of their time – on the provision of unemployment benefit. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In December 2015, the then US President Barack Obama gave his reaction to the climate change deal brokered in Paris. Among the headline-making initiatives was the promise to keep global temperature increases below 2 degrees Celsius, yet for some green activists that deal was hardly a resounding success. Countries were legally bound to have their emission reduction levels checked but there was flexibility on how they went about hitting their targets - and they haven't. In this episode recorded in February 2016, Juliette Foster is joined by the author Andrew Simms of the New Economics Foundation and by Share Radio's then regular economics commentator, Professor John Weeks. They also discussed the 2016 perspective on the economics of climate change, and ask whether Paris made the link between excess human consumption and the impact on economies dependent on fossil fuels. As the Glasgow COP 26 conference gets underway, it's helpful to re-visit these plans made 5 years ago, and consider how far we still have to travel. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In the wake of the killing of Conservative MP Sir David Amess, Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University, who had worked with him, asks how the threat to MPs can be better managed. He looks at the Prime Minister's big gamble on a green future with huge political and technological problems to overcome. And with the EU and Poland at loggerheads where we are witnessing the dialogue of the deaf, he wonders who will prevail. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Political commentator Mike Indian discusses the reported plans to amend the Northern Ireland Protocol and considers whether they could solve the problem. He reviews Boris Johnson's party conference speech ("brief and insubstantial") and wonders where the strategic direction of the government is. He looks forward to the Chancellor's autumn Budget ahead of what might be a winter of discontent. And in the light of the waiting list of people in England waiting for hospital treatment growing to 5.7m, he ponders where the plan is to ameliorate the situtation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University asks whether Britain is to become a high-wage, high-skill globally-competing nation or become unsustainably mired in debt and stagflation. He discussed the plans for a "Galactic Britain" and wonders what it might mean for the economy. And he looks at a study which shows that only 2% of blue plaques in London commemorate black people. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Political commentator Mike Indian discusses the energy crisis and fuel shortages, asking how we got into such a mess. He reviews the Labour Party conference: how did Starmer do and is Labour ready for government? He looks ahead to the Conservative Party conference: will Boris Johnson get a rough ride? And with one million people still on the furlough scheme, he considers the effect of its termination. He also looks at the latest problems with the fishing industry, with both British AND French fishermen in an angry mood. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University looks at 100 years of the Culture War, as expounded in a new book by Frank Ferudi. He wonders if the Aukus pact is a sign of a new global order and discusses why the French are so very angry about it. And with NHS waiting lists approaching 6 million, he considers the ramifications for socialised healthcare of a growing number of people without health insurance deciding to pay for operations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Political commentator Mike Indian discusses the UK Cabinet reshuffle which sees ministers like Gavin Williamson sacked and potential future leaders of the Conservative Party such as Liz Truss promoted, taking over as Foreign Secretary. He looks at what might happen with the uplift in Universal Credit and asks whether we should give credence to the talk that there could be a General Election before the scheduled date of May 2024. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University discusses UK social care, the NHS and taxation: will the money be used effectively or wil Gammon's Law apply? Considering the country's immigration challenges and a utopian seasteading idea, he explains why we need to think more about the world's seas and oceans. And he explains science's Replication Crisis, why it is concerning and why it might present an opportunity for the future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Imagine a world in which everyone has a stake in the great tech firms that serve them each day, and where dividends are gradually replacing wages to provide regular income for everyone, as work becomes scarcer as a result of automation? Imagine a world where every young person not only has a small inheritance with which to start their adult life, but also the opportunity to build its value by learning life skills? Simon Rose is taking a well-earned break this week, so we’re taking the opportunity to bring you a talk given Gavin Oldham in August to the leading City of London think-tank Z/Yen Presentation slides & polling results: https://www.shareradio.co.uk/media/8010/slides-for-zyen-august-2021-v3.pdf Visit www.shareradio.co.uk for more .. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University gives his reflections on the West's withdrawal from Afghanistan, contrasting it to the previous Soviet withdrawal and pointing out how the Taliban has changed over two decades. He looks at the "ground truth" behind food shortages and gaps on the shelves, asking what can be done to ameliorate the situation. And he highlights an article that might set the cat among the pigeons, claiming that the pandemic-induced slump is in fact part of a 20-year financial crisis. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Political commentator Mike Indian asks, in the wake of the chaotic American withdrawal from Afghanistan, whether the USA's role as world policeman is over? He points out how very dangerous American isolationism is likely to be. Although recognising that Parliament's holding the American President in contempt will have little real effect, he believes that the Commons debate on the issue showed the House of Commons at its best, with some very powerful speeches and some very abashed ministers. He also looks at the state of the Labour Party ahead of its forthcoming party conference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University considers why the authoritarianism is on the rise around the world, even in the UK; is it something we should be concerned about? With debt at such levels, he discusses why the Bank of England under Andrew Bailey is caught between a rock and a hard place and so irritated by the House of Lords economic affairs committee. And, with HMS Queen Elizabeth heading a carrier strike group visiting 40 countries, he explains why the UK is heading into a new era of security policy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Political commentator Mike Indian considers the issue of funding and access in politics and asks if there's a better system. With changes to the traffic light system and today's testing requirements, he wonders if foreign travel will once more become a privilege of the wealthy. He examines why the NHS has fallen down the international health rankings. And he welcomes one bit of good news, that musicians can once more tour Europe. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University discusses why the Californian Dream is dying and why that should matter to us all. He looks at Keir Starmer's purging of the far left, attempting to make Labour a more moderate party that could bring some of those who parted under Jeremy Corbyn back into the fold. And he gives his thoughts on Lord Robertson's powerful reflections on our intervention in Afghanistan. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In the light of so-called "Freedom Day" and the pindemic, political commentator Mike Indian discusses with Simon Rose whether the government is breaking its contract with the public, opining that many of the problems appear to be caused by ineffective leadership at the top. It's a view reinforced by the explosive Dominic Cummings' interview on the BBC. It is Mike's contention that the Covid crisis will see the end of Boris Johnson's premiership. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University asks if we are going back to the future, with users of Britain's roads paying as they go as they used to with turnpikes in the Georgian era. If so, why can't our politicians admit that's where we are headed? As United States forces leave Afghanistan, he points out that a new regional "Great Game" is looming. And, as unrest erupts in Cuba, he wonders if the regime there knows that its days are numbered. Visit www.shareradio.co.uk for more .. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mike Indian looks at the challenges being faced by Sajid Javid as the new Secretary of State for Health and what changes it is likely to bring in the Cabinet's response to the Covid pandemic. In the wake of Matt Hancock's resignation, he raises renewed concerns about those people who advise our senior politicians. And he explains why the result of the Batley & Spen by-election is more important to Labour than people think and why it should serve as a wake-up call to Keir Starmer. Visit www.shareradio.co.uk for more .. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Five years on from the EU referendum, Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University asks if General de Gaulle was prophetic in realising that the UK would not be a good fit for the European Community. He considers how Brexit is changing the balance of economic power. 30 years since he arrived in Slovakia as adviser to the Prime Minister, Tim reflects on post-communist Central Europe and why tensions are mounting between the EU and Hungary & Polance. And he looks at the launch and impact of GB News. Visit www.shareradio.co.uk for more .. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mike Indian ponders what the consequences of the Chesham by-election could be for the major political parties. Is it a flash in the pan or a precursor of something bigger? With Covid rules appearing to be different for the G7 leaders and UEFA officials, is there one set of rules for most of us and a different set for the elite? What does the changing leadership of the DUP mean for Northern Irish politics? And he looks at the changes in Labour's backroom team. Visit www.shareradio.co.uk for more .. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The news that Sarah Green has wrested the constituency of Chesham and Amersham off the Conservatives for the first time in its history merits a look back over the Liberal Democrat's long decline. The centre ground is not an easy place to be in politics, and the new MP has needed the frequent sight of HS2 bulldozers and stormtroopers to get her majority - but she's done it. This look-back over Liberal Democrat history with Simon Rose and Mike Indian was first published in October 2019, just before the last General Election. Visit www.shareradio.co.uk for more .. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Political commentator Mike Indian asks what the G7 meeting in Cornwall might mean for the so-called Special Relationship between the UK and the United States. He discusses Portugal being abruptly removed from the Green List and assesses what changes to personal freedom might happen on June 21st, asking if it's right that government should control our lives in such detail. And he looks at the High Court ruling that the Government acted unlawfully over the granting of a £560,000 Covid contract. Hrkn to www.shareradio.co.uk for more .. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University delves into the Government's proposals for boosting housebuilding and reviving ideas of a home-owning democracy, wondering if it will come under attack from the Conservative Party's own MPs. He discusses why Germany is becoming ever more reliant on Russian energy and how it will constrain international relations in the future. And he questions the flexibility of the EU's outlook on trade after an eight-year attempt to do a trade deal with Switzerland collapsed. Hrkn to www.shareradio.co.uk for more .. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mike Indian looks at the explosive claims made by Dominic Cummings, asking what his testimony tells us about the Prime Minister and the Government – and what it tells us about Cummings himself. He looks ahead to the Batley & Spen by-election and predicts what the result might be. He considers the political ramifications of the Martin Bashir scandal for the BBC. And he looks at Northern Ireland politics now that Edwin Poots has taken over the leadership of the DUP. Hrkn to www.shareradio.co.uk for more .. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University looks the volte-face from the International Energy Agency's volte-face and how the move towards net zero could make us richer. He also ponders some possible political implications of the end of the era of oil and gas. He looks at the history of the role of the state in Britain's railways and asks if the government's shake-up of the UK rail system could usher in a new age of the train. And he wonders what the impact of GB News could be on TV's currently homogenised news output. Hrkn to www.shareradio.co.uk for more... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Political commentator Mike Indian looks at the recent election results and what its poor performance might mean for Labour. But he also points out problems for the Conservatives in some of its traditional heartland. He assesses the problems facing Keir Starmer after his botched reshuffle. And he reflects upon a very different Queen's Speech and laments some of the missed opportunities in its content. Hrkn to www.shareradio.co.uk for more .. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University asks what the future is for Labour, wondering whether the party needs a strategic refresh, possibly even linking up with the Libdems, if it's to avoid the fate of many left-wing parties in Europe. He discusses why, despite the common perception of the USA, America has always had a socialist side to it, dating back to its earliest European settlers. And he expresses concern about the way in which Iran and Venezuela appear to have become bedfellows, helping each other to avoid the effects of sanctions. Hrkn to www.shareradio.co.uk for more .. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Political commentator Mike Indian looks at the rumpus over who paid to redecorate Boris Johnson's Downing Street flat and at the allegations made against the Prime Minister by Dominic Cummings. He also looks at the complexity of Northern Irish politics in the wake of Arlene Foster's resignation. And he looks across the Atlantic to assess Joe Biden's first 100 days as President. He begins, though, with a look at Ed Balls Day. Hrkn to www.shareradio.co.uk for more .. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University looks at how much life in the UK has changed over the past 40 years and how much that owes to the philosophies of Classical Liberals. He ponders the future of money in the light of the race for Central Bank Digital Currencies. And he considers why the future of the UK could depend upon a revival of Labour's fortunes in England. Hrkn to www.shareradio.co.uk for more ..
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Political commentator Mike Indian looks at David Cameron and the Greensill scandal. He believes the existing system governing lobbying needs tightening up and suggests ways in which it can and should be made fairer and more transparent. He also examines the problems being faced in Northern Ireland at present and looks ahead to the Scottish elections. Hrkn to www.shareradio.co.uk for more .. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Professor Tim Evans of Middlesex University pays tribute to HRH The Duke of Edinburgh, the longest-serving consort in British history. He discusses whether Covid might end up boosting the UK economy rather than harming it. He wonders why Scotland's ruling politicians are so unsympathetic towards business. And he looks at a new book that says that Western historians of the Second World War have always underestimated the importance of the Russian role in defeating the Nazis. Hrkn to www.shareradio.co.uk for more .. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices