Coffee House Shots: Recent Episodes
The Spectator
Instant political analysis from the Spectator's top team of writers, including Fraser Nelson, James Forsyth, Isabel Hardman, Katy Balls and many others.
It’s a ‘great and beautiful day’, as Donald Trump wrote in the guestbook at the Knesset, where he will address the Israeli parliament after the final hostages were handed back to Israel. It is, of course, a historic piece of diplomacy, and the conversation in Westminster has turned to the extent to which the UK was involved. Bridget Phillipson claimed over the weekend that Britain played a ‘key role’ in bringing about peace – much to the chagrin of Mike Huckabee, the US Ambassador to Israel, who called her ‘delusional’. Is she?
The government have more pressing issues, however, with the collapsed China spy case – the sudden abandonment of a case brought against two men (Chris Cash, a parliamentary researcher, and Chris Berry, an academic). National Security Adviser Jonathan Powell appears to be central to this decision, but the current government line is that Powell had no role in the ‘substance or the evidence’ of the case – a formulation which smacks of legalese. Will he be the next to go?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Tim Shipman and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
A ceasefire begins in the Middle East, as world leaders prepare for Monday's peace summit. And questions linger over the collapsed Chinese spy trial.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
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From wartime leadership to economic revolutions, Conservative figures have shaped Britain’s past and present. But who stands out as the greatest of them all? In this conversation, recorded live at Conservative Party Conference: Katie Lam makes the case for William Pitt the Younger, Camilla Tominay nominates Margaret Thatcher, William Atkinson points out the number of young Tories who now idolise Enoch Powell, and Neil O’Brien explains why all conservatives should know about Jerzy Popieluszko. Who wins? You decide.
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Recorded live in Manchester, during the Conservative Party conference, Michael Gove sits down with Tim Shipman, Madeline Grant and Tim Montgomerie to discuss how the Tories can turn their fortunes around. Do the Tories need to show contrition for their record in government? Has the party basically been split ever since the Coalition years? And does Nigel Farage need to set a deadline for Tory to Reform defectors? Plus – from Canada to Italy – which countries do British Conservatives need to look towards for inspiration?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
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Donald Trump says Israel and Hamas have agreed to the first phase of his Gaza peace plan. During an extraordinary round table on the Antifa organisation last night, the US President was interrupted by Marco Rubio and given a hand-written message. He told those assembled at the White House: ‘I was just given a note by the Secretary of State saying that we’re very close to a deal in the Middle East, and they’ll need me pretty quickly.’ Details of the deal, including the finalised list of prisoners Hamas wants freed as part of an exchange, remain unclear. But the first part of the deal could be set in motion as soon as today once the Israeli government approves the plan at around 2 p.m. local time. Is he heading for a Nobel Peace Prize?
Meanwhile, Starmer is in Mumbai, researching India’s digital ID system as a potential model for the UK. The Prime Minister said India’s scheme, which has been rolled out to almost all 1.4 billion citizens over the past 15 years, had been a ‘massive success’.
Lucy Dunn speaks to Tim Shipman and Michael Stephens, senior fellow at RUSI.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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This morning Kemi Badenoch wrapped up Tory conference with a speech that will – for now at least – calm Tory jitters. The Tory leader’s hour-long address in Manchester was intended as a rejoinder to critics of her leadership and she certainly achieved that aim. Having been accused of lacking spirit, imagination and vigour, Badenoch today demonstrated all three and gave an idea of what the direction of the party looks like under her. The main headline grabbing announcement was her plan to abolish stamp duty – a surprise ‘rabbit’ that sparked a standing ovation. Is she safe, for now?
Lucy Dunn speaks to James Heale and William Atkinson.
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Tim Shipman, James Heale and Lucy Dunn record live at Conservative party conference in Manchester. What's the mood at conference – and has Kemi done enough to neutralise her detractors? Tim says he expects there to be no immediate leadership challenge but the Conservatives need to get real about the 'attention economy' they're faced with. What inspiration can they take from Tory grandee Michael Heseltine? And can they 'make conservative sexy again'? Plus, audience questions on the upcoming budget and the challenges for the Conservatives in both Wales and Scotland.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
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Tim Shipman and Michael Simmons join Lucy Dunn live at Manchester for Conservative party conference. It's day two, and we've heard from shadow chancellor Mel Stride, who unveiled various pledges including business rates relief and spending cuts.
The Tories are clearly trying to position themselves again as the party of 'fiscal prudence' – but are people listening to them? As the team points out – whether through a lack of protestors or the speedy serving times at the conference bar – the convention centre is pretty quiet.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
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Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
Kemi Badenoch launches the Conservative Party Conference, the home secretary promises tougher protest laws in the wake of the Manchester terror attack, and Lucy Powell stakes her claim to be deputy leader of the Labour Party.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
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The general election result of 2024 reflected – among other things – a collapse of trust among British voters in the Conservatives. How can the British right evolve so it learns lessons from the past and from across the pond, in order to win back its base?
This is an excerpt from an event hosted by The Spectator and American Compass; a leading US think tank. The panel includes:
Robert Jenrick MP, Shadow Secretary of State for Justice and MP for Newark
Miriam Cates, former MP for Penistone and Stocksbridge and GB News Presenter
Gavin Rice, head of political economy at Onward
Nick Timothy, MP for West Suffolk
Henry Olsen, Senior Fellow, Ethics & Public Policy Centre
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Patrick Gibbons.
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On today’s Coffee House Shots, Tim Shipman is joined by Michael Gove to reflect on the terrorist attack at Heaton Park Synagogue in Manchester, which left two people dead. They discuss how the Jewish community has long warned of rising anti-Semitism, often forced to fund its own security, and how inflammatory rhetoric on recent pro-Palestinian marches has deepened the sense of vulnerability.
Michael warns that Britain remains naive about Islamist ideology and risks only ever reacting to violence, rather than preventing it. While there are capable people in government and the security services, he says, real leadership is needed to confront the ideology that fuels attacks before more tragedies occur. Does the Prevent system need reform? And could tragedies such as this be avoided by a more restrictive border policy?
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Megan McElroy.
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The Prime Minister was set to announce his crackdown on the existing rights of refugees at the European Political Community meeting today; however, he has flown back to chair a Cobra meeting after a terror attack in Manchester. Two people have been killed and at least two others injured after a driver allegedly rammed a car into pedestrians outside a synagogue and attacked them with a knife. The suspect, who was shot by police, is also believed to be dead.
Also on the podcast, Tim Shipman interviews Kemi Badenoch for the magazine this week. As she enters conference season with the Tories running third in the polls behind Reform and Labour, she tells Tim that she is up for a fight. On Friday, her shadow cabinet will agree a policy of leaving the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) but her first conference announcement – revealed exclusively to Tim – will be scrapping the Climate Change Act. Will she resign if the Conservatives go backwards in next year’s elections? ‘Ask me that after the locals,’ she says. Will this be her last Tory conference as leader?
Lucy Dunn speaks to Tim Shipman and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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Tim Shipman and Claire Ainsley from the Progressive Policy Institute join Patrick Gibbons to reflect on Labour's party conference as it draws to a close in Liverpool. This conference has been received positively for Labour but, on the final day, a hustings for the deputy leadership demonstrated that divides remain under the surface. Is Lucy Powell versus Bridget Phillipson a case of left versus right in the party, or is it more about the outsider versus the insider? And, as a leading political commentator declares Labour to now be the 'party of the professional middle class', what does the contest tell us about who Labour needs to appeal to?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
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We have just heard the Prime Minister’s headline speech at Labour Party Conference and – whisper it quietly – that might have been Keir Starmer’s best yet. As briefed out beforehand it was a patriotic address, with lots of flag waving in the room as he presented his version of patriotism in contrast to a Nigel Farage who is guilty of talking Britain down.
It was miles better than the dreariness of last year and instead struck a chord of hope against the broken Britain narrative. Even though there was little of actual substance on the economy and more platitudes about ‘smashing the gangs’, this did seem like a landmark moment for Keir Starmer where he communicated an actual plan for the Britain he wants to build. He also managed to trumpet some of Labour’s successes, mimicking Gordon Brown as he listed off their first year wins. At times this Labour party has felt like an ocean liner, but is he finally turning things around and bringing the fight to Reform? Is this ‘Starmerism’?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Tim Shipman and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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Whilst a certain noisy northern mayor has positioned himself as the problem child of conference 2025, The Spectator finds another Labour politician far more interesting. All around Liverpool the newsstands are decorated by the image of the Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, dubbed the ‘Terminator’ by Tim Shipman in the most recent issue of The Spectator. As one strategist notes: ‘Shabana is not afraid to use power. That’s what we need.’
In this special edition of Coffee House Shots we present a wide-ranging in-conversation between Shabana Mahmood and Spectator editor Michael Gove. Listen for: how to tackle the ‘Boriswave’, whether the Home Office is fit for purpose, Shabana’s compelling case for digital ID cards and her response to Keir Starmer’s claim that Reform are ‘racist’.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Megan McElroy.
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Labour party conference has kicked off in Liverpool, and the Chancellor has just delivered her keynote speech.
‘Security, security, security’ was the message from Rachel Reeves as she addressed the Labour party faithful. The Labour government, she said, will create an economy that puts the British worker above all else. Aside from setting out her economic vision, she made time for a few jabs in Manchester mayor Andy Burnham’s direction and gave a nod to shadow education secretary Bridget Phillipson (should we take that as an endorsement?). Has she been taking notes from Gordon Brown?
Elsewhere, the mood in the bars is much more buoyant than it was last year – although that has a lot to do with the absence of Sue Gray. Starmer’s change of tack and taking the fight to reform on indefinite leave to remain, as well as the announcement of some juicy bits of policy, seems to have placated many. But is conference just a holiday from reality?
Lucy Dunn speaks to James Heale and Michael Simmons.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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On the eve of Labour’s party conference, the Spectator's editor Michael Gove sits down with Steve Reed MP, the new Secretary of State for Housing, Communities, and Local Government. The government has announced an historic £5 billion package of funding for 'national renewal' – designed to revive high streets, parks and public spaces. Reed explains how he thinks Labour can win back 'forgotten' communities through building 1.5 million houses through this Parliament, allocating fair funding for councils and devolving more powers to local government. Is this Labour's own 'levelling up' agenda?
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The Labour machine has whirred into gear to try and contain a certain Northern mayor’s mischievous interventions this week, by announcing a big controversial piece of policy. The news that ID cards – Tony Blair’s pet project – will be introduced has splashed all the front pages, demoting Andy Burnham to yesterday’s news. It’s a policy with broad public support, but with a passionate minority opposition including the leaders of the other major parties. The fact that it is being rebranded as a ‘Brit card’ with the aim of tackling the migration crisis has also ruffled a few feathers. Will it work politically? And, more importantly, will it work in practice?
Lucy Dunn speaks to Tim Shipman and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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Labour conference kicks off this weekend in Liverpool – but the mood going in is far from triumphant.
On today's Coffee House Shots, Lucy Dunn is joined by Tim Shipman and More in Common’s Luke Tryl to take the temperature ahead of Labour’s big set-piece. They discuss why some voters already see Starmer as ‘just as bad as the lot that came before’, and whether Labour can turn things around with new policies aimed at revitalising local communities – from saving libraries and pubs to giving residents more power over development.
There is also a fascinating hypothetical poll in which an Andy Burnham-led Labour party outpaces Reform UK, turning a deficit into a narrow lead. Luke explains how Burnham’s appeal lies less in his own charisma than in Labour’s ability to win back disillusioned supporters from the Lib Dems and the undecided.
But if Labour is struggling to meet expectations, Reform faces its own dilemmas. Farage’s recent flirtation with fringe debates – from vaccine-sceptic speakers to entertaining Trump's edict on paracetamol – risks alienating the mainstream voters. As Tim and Luke point out, Reform’s future depends on whether it can stay focused on bread-and-butter issues like immigration and the cost of living, or whether it strays into conspiratorial territory.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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Andy Burnham, Manchester’s mayor and self-styled champion of the North, is openly flirting with a return to Westminster just days before the Labour Party conference. In a revealing interview, he outlined his 'Manchesterism' – a blend of business-friendly socialism and public control of essential services – though what that actually means remains unclear. Typically, he is full of inconsistencies, criticising Westminster and how it 'makes you look false', while openly seeking a route back. Does he see the irony?
Meanwhile, Keir Starmer faces challenges on multiple fronts: his chief of staff, Morgan McSweeney, is embroiled in a controversy over nearly £740,000 of undisclosed donations to Labour Together, threatening to overshadow conference proceedings.
Labour’s conference promises to be anything but dull, but who will steal the headlines: Burnham or McSweeney?
Lucy Dunn speaks to Isabel Hardman and Tim Shipman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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The Liberal Democrat party conference in Bournemouth has concluded with a speech from leader Sir Ed Davey. While the current crop of Liberal Democrats are the most successful third-party in 100 years, they have faced questions about why they aren't cutting through more while Nigel Farage is. It's something Davey is aware of and – hoping to exploit how divisive the leader of Reform is – he sought to pitch himself as the anti-Farage. Will it work?
Plus, more bad news for the Chancellor. Labour had pledged to aim for the highest growth in the G7. New figures from the OECD did upgrade their global growth forecast, including for Britain, but projected that the UK would see the highest inflation across the G7. How bad is this for Rachel Reeves?
James Heale and Michael Simmons join Patrick Gibbons to discuss.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
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Nigel Farage has unveiled his most radical immigration plan yet – scrapping indefinite leave to remain for migrants – in a move designed to reverse the so-called 'Boriswave.' James Heale explains how this would affect hundreds of thousands already living in the UK, why the party claims it could save £250 billion, and whether any of it is remotely feasible.
Meanwhile, Keir Starmer has formally recognised Palestine as a state, a decision hailed by many Labour MPs but criticised by others as diplomatically reckless. And, to round off a busy political Monday morning, the government has approved a second runway at Gatwick – but will it really boost growth before the next election?
Lucy Dunn speaks to James Heale and Tim Shipman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
The UK has officially recognised the state of Palestine. In the morning of Keir Starmer's announcement, Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy explains Labour's reasoning, while Mel Stride criticises the government's timing.
Elsewhere, Ed Davey builds up to the Lib Dem conference by calling for Elon Musk's arrest.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
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The government is expected to press ahead with recognition of Palestinian statehood, before a formal declaration at the United Nations. Prime Minister Keir Starmer set out plans earlier this year to recognise Palestine – but what does this actually mean? And what does the move actually achieve; is it driven by principle, by politics – or by pressure from within his own party?
Michael Stephens of RUSI and Gabriel Pogrund of the Sunday Times join James Heale to assess the significance of this shift. They discuss the backlash from countries like the US, the unease within Labour ranks and the growing tension between domestic politics and Britain’s standing with allies in the Middle East. France, Australia and Canada, close allies of Britain, announced their own plans to recognise Palestine, yet the US has condemned any move. What does Starmer’s recognition of Palestine mean for the UK’s relationship with the US? And is Starmer at risk of being outflanked – both at home and abroad?
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Patrick Gibbons.
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Who would have thought it? Jeremy Corbyn’s insurgent party co-venture with Zarah Sultana seems to have imploded before it even got going. On Thursday, 'Your Party' supporters received an email from Zarah Sultana detailing how they could sign up for a £55 membership. Soon after, Jeremy Corbyn released a statement – co-signed by the so-called Gaza independent MPs that make up the as-yet-untitled party – which dismissed Sultana’s email as ‘unauthorised’, and that they were seeking legal advice.
James Heale describes how it has the air of a 'South American coup', with both sides briefing against each other, including Zarah Sultana’s camp accusing Jeremy Corbyn of overseeing a ‘sexist boys’ club’. It is all getting very personal, and the disagreement seems to stem from a fundamental clash of egos between the two founders. Is this mortal for the party? And who stands to benefit: Keir Starmer, or the Green party’s dynamic new leader, Zack Polanski?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Sienna Rodgers, deputy editor of The House Magazine and ‘Your Party’ whisperer.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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Donald Trump has been in the UK this week on an unprecedented second state visit – an honour that he said last night at a state dinner he ‘hopes’ is reserved only for him, to much amusement in the room.
Humility doesn’t come naturally to the President, but he does seem genuinely humbled by the pomp and pageantry that comes with a state visit. Meanwhile, Trump-management and grandstanding on the world stage seem (bizarrely) to come naturally to the Prime Minister. Trump's visit – which threatened to be derailed by the sacking of the US ambassador Peter Mandelson over his association with convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein – has been a welcome reprieve from the tumult of domestic politics for Keir Starmer’s Labour party.
A tech deal has been agreed which involves investment from US tech companies in the UK to the tune of several billion pounds; there was some soft diplomacy between the Princess of Wales and the First Lady today, and this afternoon’s press conference wasn’t totally sidetracked by questions about Mandelson... although there are clearly some tensions bubbling under the surface, mainly on energy policy, Palestinian statehood and Ukraine. Was the visit a success?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Freddy Gray and Tim Shipman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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Donald Trump might be in the UK for the state visit, but it’s Labour pains that are dominating the headlines and, predictably, there is a typical northern lad who thinks he could be just what the party needs. Despite having made two previous (failed) attempts at the leadership, Andy Burnham is on manoeuvres. He does seem to have the key thing that Starmer lacks – i.e. the ability to communicate – but he does unfortunately come with his own history of flip-flopping. What does this say about the state of the left wing?
‘They clearly hate it!’ says Tim Shipman on today’s podcast about Labour’s experience of government, but is Burnham’s ‘fantasy politics’ really the answer? And could he be the one to take the fight to Reform?
James Heale speaks to Tim Shipman and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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Keir Starmer has lost another aide, MPs are debating what the Prime Minister knew about Mandelson's links to Epstein and a new poll has Lucy Powell as the favourite to win Labour's deputy leadership race against education secretary Bridget Phillipson. Could things be any worse for Starmer?
With US President Donald Trump touching down at London Stansted tonight, the PM will be hoping the state visit provides an opportunity to draw a line under the past few weeks. But Trump is anything but predictable, and he likes a winner – will 'The Donald' sour on Starmer?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
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The big news in Westminster today is that there has been another defection to Reform. But this time it feels slightly different: a front bench Tory with a CV that spans multiple Tory leaders and a number of books on Conservative thought is now batting for Reform.
Danny Kruger, Nigel Farage’s latest defector, served as David Cameron’s speechwriter, Boris Johnson’s political secretary and Robert Jenrick’s campaign manager just last summer. His defection will therefore come as a serious blow to those who argue that the Conservative party stands a better chance than Reform of winning the next election.
Kruger told the room that he believes Reform now stands the best chance of saving the country at the time of the next election and that his former Tory party was ‘finished as the main opposition to the left’. His argument is that Reform is the ‘new home’ of conservatism. Where does this leave Kemi Badenoch? And will his defection open up the floodgates for more to follow?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Lucy Dunn.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
It feels like an unnervingly normal week for this Labour government, with another sacking set against the backdrop of an anti-government march led by Tommy Robinson.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
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Donald Trump touches down in Britain next week for his state visit and political editor Tim Shipman has the inside scoop on how No. 10 is preparing. Keir Starmer’s aides are braced for turbulence; ‘the one thing about Trump which is entirely predictable is his unpredictability,’ one ventures. Government figures fear he may go off message on broadcast – he is scheduled to be interviewed by GB News.
A second state visit, especially during a second term, is unprecedented. But, as Tim says, ‘Britishness is fashionable in Washington’ and no-one likes ‘royal treatment’ more than Trump. So, can Starmer take advantage of the President’s ‘love of the deal’?
Tim joins Will Moore and Lara Prendergast, the Spectator's features and executive editors respectively, in a conversation recorded originally for the Edition podcast. For more from the Spectator, search 'The Edition' wherever you subscribe to your podcasts.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
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The fallout from Lord Mandelson's sacking continues. All eyes are now on Keir Starmer's chief of staff Morgan McSweeney – could he take the fall for Mandelson's appointment? As Whitehall editor of the Sunday Times Gabriel Pogrund tells James Heale and Lucy Dunn, Mandelson and McSweeney's relationship stretches back to New Labour. But, Pogrund warns, as McSweeney lay the foundations for Labour's victory in 2024, losing him would mark a 'revolution in the Starmer project'.
Plus: after a slew of bad news for the government, there was one Labour victory this week – at the annual Westminster dog of the year competition. Megan McElroy interviews some of the MPs who took part; we hope their dogs are more loyal than their colleagues...
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
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Another week, another departure.
Conservative MP Neil O'Brien – who serves in the shadow cabinet as minister for policy renewal and development – was granted an urgent question in Parliament this morning, to question the government about Peter Mandelson. Then the news broke that Lord Mandelson had been sacked by Keir Starmer following further disclosures about his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein.
Neil joins Tim Shipman and James Heale to discuss the latest developments and also the questions that still remain: what did they know about Mandelson's relationship with Epstein; if they didn't know, why didn't they know; and will the government be forced to release their vetting files on Mandelson's apppointment?
Plus: Tim pushes Neil for his reflections on the last Conservative government – given he supported colleagues who broke the ministerial code, whether the Tories will support Labour's attempts at welfare reform and whether we can expect the same excitement at Tory conference as we saw at Reform.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
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Kemi Badenoch has just skewered Keir Starmer at Prime Minister’s Questions on the topic of Peter Mandelson’s association with the convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein.
Badenoch learned from her mistakes last week and devoted all six of her questions to trying to get Mandelson fired as British Ambassador to Washington. She pointed out that the victims of Epstein had ‘called for Lord Mandelson to be sacked’, and then asked whether Starmer had been aware ‘of this intimate relationship when he appointed Lord Mandelson to be our ambassador in Washington’.
It was potentially her most convincing performance yet and she managed to pull together diffuse threads of world and domestic affairs into a focussed attack on the Prime Minister and his US ambassador’s credibility. Will Starmer be forced to act?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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Michael Gove and Madeline Grant return with another episode of Quite right!, The Spectator’s new podcast promising sanity and common sense in an increasingly unhinged world. This week, they talk about Labour’s deputy drama, discuss whether Britain is sliding into a revolutionary mood a la France and investigate the claim in a new book that Margaret Thatcher was autistic.
To hear the full episode, search Quite right! wherever you get your podcasts, or go to www.spectator.co.uk/quiteright
Quite right! is also on our YouTube channel SpectatorTV.
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With the announcement yesterday that the government would be prepared to suspend visas for countries that don’t cooperate with the UK over deportations, has Shabana Mahmood shown she has what it takes to tackle immigration? Tim Shipman and James Heale join Patrick Gibbons to discuss whether the new home secretary can ‘stop the boats’.
But, as the government ‘reset’ continues, all eyes are on Labour’s deputy leadership race. The most high-profile MPs to throw their hats in the ring are education secretary Bridget Phillipson, former shadow foreign secretary Emily Thornberry – and Lucy Powell, fresh from her sacking as Leader of the House of Commons. Is the race shaping up to be a one-on-one between a government loyalist and an outsider?
Plus: as Kemi Badenoch is trying to talk about the economy we discuss whether she is more William Hague or Iain Duncan-Smith, and the Epstein scandal has pulled in our man–dy in Washington.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
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Reform UK’s annual conference wrapped up this weekend – and it was anything but dull. From Andrea Jenkyns belting out her original song ‘I’m an Insomniac’ on stage to Nigel Farage trying to keep a sometimes chaotic movement united, the mood was more rally than conference. Despite the optimism in the room, there were obvious cracks under the surface: mainly, do Reform have enough experience in their ranks for the business of serious government?
On Coffee House Shots, Oscar Edmondson is joined by Tim Shipman and James Heale fresh from the conference floor. They discuss Farage’s role as ringmaster of a broad – and sometimes unruly – coalition, Reform’s hopes of fielding thousands of councillors, and the dangers of drifting too close to the conspiratorial edges of politics.
Also on the podcast, there has been a steady drip of reshuffle news over the weekend. Starmer’s snap reshuffle saw Shabana Mahmood promoted to the Home Office in what many see as the most significant move of the week. With boats and hotels dominating the immigration debate, can she succeed where so many of her predecessors have failed? And what does Angela Rayner’s departure mean for the deputy leadership – and Labour’s uneasy relationship with the unions?
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
Reform are having fun at their conference, while Labour struggle with crises inside and outside the party. Meanwhile, Kemi Badenoch just wants to do opposition 'the right way'.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
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At the Reform conference in Birmingham, the Spectator's editor Michael Gove sat down with Reform UK's head of their department of government efficiency Zia Yusuf. They discussed Labour's track record in government, Zia's faith and his tech background, why leader Nigel Farage is his political hero and how AI could change Britain.
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Lucy Dunn catches up with Tim Shipman at Reform's party conference, taking place in Birmingham, to get his reaction to Labour's reshuffle. The reshuffle took place following Angela Rayner's resignation from government. Tim argues that it's clear the reshuffle centred around getting Shabana Mahmood into the Home Office, where she can tackle some of the biggest issues for Labour – small boats and asylum hotels.
They also round up the goings on at Reform including leader Nigel Farage's speech, who claimed Labour's reshuffle proved an election could be sooner than we think...
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Megan McElroy.
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Angela Rayner has resigned following the ethics probe into her tax affairs. What impact will this have on Starmer's government? And does this hinder her chances of succeeding Starmer one day?
The Coffee House Shots team react live from day one of the Reform party conference, which is taking place in Birmingham. What's the mood in the conference hall? And, after Nadine Dorries joined Reform last night, could more former Conservatives follow?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Megan McElroy.
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24 hours after Angela Rayner admitted underpaying tax, the pressure remains on the deputy prime minister as Westminster now waits the outcome of the probe by the Prime Minister’s standards adviser. The Spectator’s political editor Tim Shipman and the Sunday Times’s Whitehall editor Gabriel Pogrund join Patrick Gibbons to discuss whether Rayner can retain her briefs. As Gabriel points out, regardless of the outcome of the ethics probe, Rayner was seen as Labour’s ‘sleaze-buster in chief’. So how damaging is this to ‘brand Ang’?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
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Keir Starmer and Kemi Badenoch faced off in the first Prime Minister’s Questions following summer recess. With the date of the Budget announced that morning, the economy was expected to dominate – which it did, to the surprise of most MPs, who expected Badenoch to attack over the Angela Rayner tax row. The deputy prime minister had admitted that morning she underpaid stamp duty on her flat in Hove. The leader of the opposition did question Starmer on it initially, but as political editor Tim Shipman says she more than missed an open goal. Tim joins Isabel Hardman and Lucy Dunn to discuss how damaging the row is for Rayner – and how damaging PMQs was for Badenoch.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
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Michael Gove and Madeline Grant launch ‘Quite right!’, the new podcast from The Spectator that promises sanity and common sense in a world that too often lacks both.
Coffee House Shots listeners can enjoy an exclusive taste of their debut episode in which they take stock of a political summer dominated by Nigel Farage, a Labour government already facing mutiny, and the curious spectacle of Tory MPs moonlighting as gonzo reporters. From J.D. Vance’s Cotswold sojourn and Tom Skinner’s bish bash bosh patriotism, to Sydney Sweeney’s jeans advert causing a culture war, Michael and Madeleine discuss what really drives our politics: policies, or memes and vibes?
To hear the full episode, search Quite right! wherever you get your podcasts, or go to www.spectator.co.uk/quiteright
Quite right! is also on our YouTube channel SpectatorTV.
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Danny Shaw and Tim Shipman join Lucy Dunn for today's Coffee House Shots to talk about the government's reforms to the asylum system. Having worked with Yvette Cooper before, Danny argues that the reforms are a great approach for a long-term solution – but he worries that they are not bold enough for the public mood. Is Labour putting procedure above politics? And, with the migrant hotel issue bubbling under the surface, is the public's patience wearing thin?
Plus: as Zack Polanski is elected leader of the Green Party, is Labour about to be out-flanked by two radical populists to its left? The Greens and Jeremy Corbyn's new party could now pose as much of a threat on the left, as Nigel Farage's Reform is doing on the right.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons. Photo credit: House of Commons.
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The summer transfer window comes to a close today but, as Parliament also returns from summer recess today, the only team Keir Starmer is focused on is his own in Number Ten. The Prime Minister has decided to reshuffle his advisers, including bringing in Darren Jones MP to Number Ten from the Treasury. Political editor Tim Shipman and James Kirkup, a partner at Apella Advisors and senior fellow at the Social Market Foundation, join economics editor Michael Simmons to go through the moves. Will yet another change in advisers boost Labour's fortunes? Or are they doomed to relegation?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Natasha Feroze.
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As Parliament returns from summer recess tomorrow, three rising stars of the 2024 intake join Coffee House Shots to provide their reflections on frontline politics so far. Labour's Rosie Wrighting, the Conservatives' Harriet Cross and the Liberal Democrats' Joshua Reynolds tell deputy political editor James Heale how they have found Parliament so far, and their most – and least – favourite thing about being an MP. Plus: while they are all new, and young, MPs, their parties' fortunes have all varied wildly – how have they dealt with that?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
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The Daily Telegraph have run a story this week that Angela Rayner may have dodged stamp duty on her second home. But beyond the story, its the photos of the Deputy Prime Minister on the beach at Hove – drinking and vaping – that went viral. Christian Calgie, senior political correspondent for the Daily Express, joins James Heale to unpack the story and the wider questions it raises for British politics, but also to discuss Rayner herself. Could 'teflon Ang' turn around the Labour Party's fortunes? And why do so many people – including many Tories – like her so much?
Produced by Megan McElroy and Patrick Gibbons.
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Human rights barrister Dr Anna Loutfi and deputy political editor James Heale join Michael Simmons to unpack the latest court ruling over the migrants housed at the Bell Hotel. The government has won an appeal today – but how much of a victory is it really? Anna explains how the legal questions considered by this case raise a much wider debate about the rights of citizens. Is this another example of 'two tier justice'?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Natasha Feroze.
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James Heale writes in The Spectator this week that Keir Starmer is facing a three-pronged attack from the left: the Greens, the Gaza independents and this new – as yet untitled – Corbyn party. It was not so long ago that we were giving Starmer credit for his ruthless streak, purging the party of the far left and making Labour an electable force once again. But now it looks like he may well be the architect of his own downfall. Each of these groups has a grievance against Starmer and it all seems just a little bit personal: ‘After the treatment meted out to Corbyn and the left, many of these figures are looking forward to returning the favour.’ So, what is left of the left of Labour? Have they been too preoccupied with taking the fight to Reform to realise they are about to be blindsided?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Richard Johnson, senior lecturer at Queen Mary University.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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As James Heale writes online for the Spectator today, 'two issues continue to plague the government': how best to attack Nigel Farage. and how to frame an incrementalist approach to policy 'when the national mood favours radical change'. Nick Thomas-Symonds, the Cabinet Office minister responsible for UK-EU relations, attempted to tackle both today as he came to the Spectator to set out Labour's Europe strategy.
Labour are pursuing 'pragmatic alignment' – what they argue is greater co-operation when beneficial to the British interest. But what does this mean? James joins Michael Simmons on the podcast to unpack the speech. And, on a day when Reform have claimed another defector (this time Graham Simpson, their first Member of the Scottish Parliament), can anything stall Farage's momentum?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
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Today James Heale has been on quite the magical mystery tour. Bundled into a bus at 7.45 a.m. along with a group of other hacks, he was sent off to an aircraft hangar in Oxfordshire where Nigel Farage finally unveiled his party’s long-awaited deportations strategy. The unveiling of ‘Operation Restoring Justice’ was accompanied by some impressive production value, including a Heathrow-style departure board and an enormous union flag.
The headlines of Farage’s mass deportation initiative are as follows: Reform will leave the ECHR and disapply the Refugee Convention for five years if elected in 2029; a new British Bill of Rights will be introduced, with all government departments required to make the migration crisis their number one ministerial priority; and all this at a cost of £2 billion. But how realistic is it? And since we now have headline deportation plans from the parties at the top of the polls (just), which is more impressive?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Karl Williams, research director at the Centre for Policy Studies.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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Jamie Greene, an MSP for the West of Scotland region, defected earlier this year from the Conservatives to the Liberal Democrats. Most defections in Scotland – indeed across the UK – seem to be from the Tories to Reform, so what is behind Jamie's motivations to go in a different direction? What are his reflections on the splintering of politics, particularly in Scotland, as we look ahead to next year's Holyrood elections? And does he agree that this is shaping up to be the most consequential Scottish Parliament election of modern times?
In Jamie's view, Reform have shown to struggle with power in the areas they've been successful in, but admits that the Liberal Democrats could learn from Reform in some ways. Can the Lib Dems emulate Reform's Scottish surge?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
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Immigration returned to the headlines this week after the High Court granted an injunction forcing the removal of migrants from a hotel in Essex – a ruling that could have wider implications for similar cases across the country. At the same time, the sight of Union Jacks and St George’s Crosses appearing in towns and cities has sparked a debate over whether flag-flying is a symbol of patriotism or a sign of growing division.
On today’s Saturday edition of Coffee House Shots, Lucy Dunn is joined by Lord Hannan and trade unionist Paul Embery to ask: what kind of country is Britain becoming? Paul argues that rapid cultural change, combined with economic decline, has left many people feeling disoriented and neglected. Dan Hannan warns that national symbols once seen as unifying risk becoming sectarian markers, echoing Northern Ireland’s politics of identity.
On the podcast, they debate the failures of integration policy to the dangers of what Embery calls ‘soft Lebanonisation’ – a creeping communalism in which people retreat into their own tribes. The political class have been slow to listen, leaving space for rising resentment over immigration and national identity. So, why is Britain so uncertain of its own identity?
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Patrick Gibbons.
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Since the government’s decision to proscribe the group Palestine Action, arrests have mounted across the country, raising questions not only about the group’s tactics but also about the government’s handling of free speech and protest rights.
On today’s special edition of Coffee House Shots, Michael Simmons is joined by The Spectator’s James Heale and journalist Ash Sarkar to debate whether this is evidence of an increasingly authoritarian bent to Starmer’s Labour. Has the ban made prosecutions easier, or has it created a chilling effect on freedom of expression? And is this further evidence of the overreach of the attorney-general, Lord Hermer?
Also on the podcast, with Keir Starmer’s majority secured but his party’s membership dwindling, is there space for a new populist party to Labour’s left? Ash defends Jeremy Corbyn and Zara Sultana’s efforts to establish Your Party. Should they be taking a leaf out of Reform’s playbook?
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Patrick Gibbons.
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GCSE results day has brought a mixed picture; the pass rate has fallen, yet the regional gap has reduced and the gender gap is the narrowest it has ever been. Isabel Hardman and Sir Nick Gibb, former Conservative schools minister, join James Heale to discuss education policy, how changing cultural expectations may be helping the gender gap and why Labour seem determined to attack the Conservatives’ record on education. In Nick’s words, is Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson a ‘more political figure than education figure’?
Plus: how the recent High Court ruling over migrant hotels could spark a crisis for the government as more councils, including Labour-controlled ones, seek an end to the policy.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
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The Green Party leadership election is underway, pitting new MPs Adrian Ramsay and Ellie Chowns against London Assembly Member Zack Polanski. The Greens achieved their best ever result at the 2024 general election, but they’ve remained static in opinion polls ever since. Lucy Dunn and Luke Tryl of More in Common join Patrick Gibbons to try to make sense of this. As Luke says, the dynamics within the leadership election are symptomatic of a wider divide over party strategy – two of the seats they won last year come from more liberal, traditionally left-wing seats, while two others come from traditionally conservative-leaning, rural shires. Plus, does Corbyn’s new party complicate any attempt to make them the anti-system party of the left?
But first, what does the High Court migrant hotel ruling mean for the government? And will it help anti-system parties like the Greens and Reform?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
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What a difference six months makes. The last time Zelensky and Trump met in Washington we were mourning the end of America’s commitment to security in Europe and a new era of isolationism. But yesterday was a totally different story – and Zelensky deserves much of the credit for his change in tactics. Trump complimented Zelensky’s suit as he arrived at the White House, the two exchanged warm words of thanks, and while they didn’t manage to settle on anything substantial when it comes to a peace deal, there was some vague consensus on security guarantees. The stage seems set for a Trump/Putin/Zelensky trilateral. The mood seems positive but is it too soon to celebrate?
Lucy Dunn speaks to James Heale and Svitlana Morenets.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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Tom Gordon, Liberal Democrat MP for Harrogate and Knaresborough, joins James Heale to discuss his campaign to improve working class representation in politics. Tom, newly elected in 2024, explains how getting his mum involved in local politics in West Yorkshire led him to think about the structural issues that exist preventing more people from getting involved in politics.
Plus, with both the Liberal Democrats and Reform UK challenging the traditional Labour and Conservative duopoly, what lessons can both parties learn from each other?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Oscar Edmondson. Photo credit: House of Commons.
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80 years ago this week Japan surrendered to the allies, ushering in the end of the Second World War. To mark the anniversary of VJ day, historians Sir Antony Beevor and Peter Frankopan join James Heale to discuss its significance. As collective memory of the war fades, are we in danger of forgetting its lessons? And, with rising state-on-state violence and geopolitical flashpoints, is the world really safer today than in 1945?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
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The big news today is of course the bilateral between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin in Alaska. We should know by around 8 p.m. whether they have successfully negotiated an end to the war in Ukraine – and at what cost – but in the meantime Westminster is abuzz with the news that Nigel Farage is going for the Lords.
This morning the Times splashes on a letter from Nigel Farage to the Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, in which he demands that Starmer allow him to nominate Reform peers to the House of Lords. It is not a totally unreasonable request either, with the Greens and the DUP represented in the chamber and Farage has gone after Starmer for ‘democratic disparity’.
Former Reform spinner Gawain Towler joins James Heale and Lucy Dunn on the podcast to discuss the likelihood that we will see teal in the Lords soon. And who would they nominate? Would Gawain accept a peerage?
Produced by Oscar Edmondson
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Ukraine's President Zelensky has spent today with Keir Starmer at Number 10. This is in anticipation of tomorrow's Alaska summit between Presidents Trump and Putin – where European leaders will be notably absent. Zelensky's visit to the UK is designed to project an image of solidarity with Starmer, and European leaders in general – but does it really matter? And is Putin really closer to accepting a ceasefire? Tim Shipman and James Heale join Lucy Dunn to discuss
Plus – Tim talks about his article in the magazine this week, for which he spoke to George Finch, the 19 year old Reform councillor who is leader of Warwickshire County Council. There has been a perception that Labour lacked preparation for national government last year – how are Reform's own attempts going at governing at a local level?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
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JD Vance has been in the Cotswolds this week on his Britain fantasy tour. This has been billed as a ‘holiday’ but he did take the time out of his busy schedule to meet with some of Britain’s right-wing politicians. Robert Jenrick, Chris Philp and Nigel Farage were all granted an audience with the vice-president, and even Danny Kruger and pillow salesman/Apprentice star Thomas Skinner got the call-up. The notable exclusion is, of course, Kemi Badenoch, who despite claiming to be firm friends with Vance was NFI’d. CCHQ claim this is due to scheduling, but clearly it’s an embarrassing snub. So who is MAGA’s favourite UK politician? And do the American right even care about what’s going on in Britain?
James Heale speaks to Tim Shipman and Freddy Gray.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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There has been a drip feed of stories over the past few days from Nicola Sturgeon's memoir Frankly which hits the shelves this week. In her book, the former First Minister of Scotland covers a slew of topics including SNP infighting and her relationship with the late Alex Salmond, her sexuality and the police probe into SNP finances, and the gender reform bill that contributed to her leaving frontline politics.
Spectator writer and Scottish Daily Mail columnist Euan McColm and Isabel Hardman – who has reviewed the book for this week's Spectator – join Lucy Dunn to discuss. For Euan there is a humility in the prose that he just doesn't recognise in the Sturgeon of real life – is she trying to discover herself?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
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Another day, another Reform party press conference. Following political editor Tim Shipman’s cover piece on how Reform hopes to win over women, this morning’s event was led by the party’s top female politicians: MP Sarah Pochin, Greater Lincolnshire Mayor Dame Andrea Jenkyns, Westminster councillor Laila Cunningham, and Linden Kemkaran, the leader of Kent County Council. Nigel Farage was missing in action as Reform tried to make the case that they are not a one-man band or a ‘boys’ club’. Has Farage solved his women problem?
Elsewhere, Kemi Badenoch is in Epping as she tries to wrestle the agenda away from Farage when it comes to asylum seekers and migration. But has she got anything different to say?
Donald Trump is also meeting Vladimir Putin today to negotiate an end to the war in Ukraine, and we are all eagerly awaiting a press conference later this afternoon. Will Trump’s search for a deal come at the expense of Ukraine’s freedom? How has Keir Starmer influenced peace talks?
Lucy Dunn speaks to Tim Shipman and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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Does – or did – Nigel Farage have a woman problem? ‘Around me there’s always been a perception of a laddish culture,’ he tells political editor Tim Shipman, for the cover piece of the Spectator this week. In last year’s election, 58 per cent of Reform voters were men. But, Shipman argues, ‘that has begun to change’. According to More in Common, Reform has gained 14% among women, while Labour has lost 12%. ‘Women are ‘more likely than men… to worry that the country is broken.’
Many of Reform’s most recent victories have been by women: Andrea Jenkyns in the mayoral elections, Sarah Pochin to Parliament; plus, their most recent high profile defections include a former Tory Welsh Assembly member and a former Labour London councillor. What makes Reform’s success with women all the more remarkable is that it appears organic; ‘we haven’t forced this’ says Farage. So why are women turning to Reform UK?
Tim Shipman and Sarah Pochin MP join William Moore and Lara Prendergast, the Spectator's features and executive editors respectively, to discuss further, with an introduction from Oscar Edmondson. For more discussions related to articles in the Spectator, search The Edition wherever you listen to your podcasts.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Oscar Edmondson.
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Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has given a wide-ranging interview to the BBC’s Amol Rajan in which she touched upon her Nigerian upbringing, her feeling of identity and she even revealed she called out a peer for cheating at school. But perhaps her most interesting comments came when she revealed how she lost her belief in God.
The Reverend Fergus Butler-Gallie, author of Twelve Churches, and Tim Shipman join Oscar Edmondson to discuss Kemi’s comments. Is it credible to call yourself a ‘cultural Christian’? And, with both an atheist Prime Minister and agnostic Leader of the Opposition, is the decline of religion in politics inevitable?
Plus: with the news that Germany will suspend weapons exports to Israel, following Benjamin Netanyahu’s announcement that Israel will pursue a full takeover of Gaza, will the UK follow suit?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
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Some excitement on Threadneedle Street today after the Bank of England cut interest rates to 4 per cent. The Bank’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) has just voted five to four – after a revote – for what is the third cut this year. This takes interest rates back down to levels not seen since the beginning of 2023. Concerns about an increasingly slack labour market seem to have driven the MPC’s decision.
This sounds like good news – and Starmer will welcome it as such – but the Bank’s apparent comfort with loosening policy in this context is baffling says Michael Simmons. Its own forecasts show inflation climbing back to 4 per cent by September – double the official target. If they’re wrong, and inflation slips the leash again, it won’t be brought back under control easily. This also coincides with yesterday’s news that the National Institute of Economic and Social Research (NIESR) forecast that Rachel Reeves must find £50 billion of revenue or cuts if she is to return to the £9.9 billion of fiscal headroom she left herself in the spring. Are there any rays of light escaping from the black hole as we head towards autumn’s Budget, or is it all gloom?
Also on the podcast today: Trump’s tariffs have come into effect across the world. He declared on Truth Social that ‘Billions of Dollars have started flowing into the US’… but is that true? And what’s been the reaction in the US?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Michael Simmons and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Patrick Gibbons.
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The Spectator and Douglas Murray have comprehensively won a defamation case brought by Mohammed Hegab.
Hegab, a YouTuber who posts under the name Mohammed Hijab, claimed that an article about the Leicester riots, written by Douglas Murray and published by The Spectatorin September 2022, caused serious harm to his reputation and led to a loss of earnings. However, the judge found that the article did not cause serious harm to Hijab, that what was published was substantially true, and that Hijab had ‘lied on significant issues’ in court and had given evidence that ‘overall, is worthless’. What does this case mean for the future of press freedom?
On today’s podcast, Michael Simmons discusses the case with Alex Wilson, The Spectator’s lawyer, and Max Jeffery, who attended court on behalf of the magazine.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Megan McElroy.
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It’s the big day for Starmer’s one-in, one-out migrant deal with France. The scheme, which was agreed during the state visit last month, comes into effect today – but Yvette Cooper and other figures in Whitehall remain suspiciously evasive when it comes to putting a number on returns to France. Immigration is, of course, the problem of highest salience across the country, and made even more pressing by recent riots at migrant hotels, giving far-right opposition parties plenty of ammunition. Polling shows that 40 per cent of Reform supporters would consider voting for Labour next time if the number of small boat arrivals fell. So, will it work? Will it prove a better deterrent than, say, the Rwanda deal?
This is undoubtedly a landmark agreement with France, and puts us in closer alliance with the French. Are there areas where we should be taking lessons from them – perhaps when it comes to our dealings with overseas terrorists, for example?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Tim Shipman and Madeline Grant.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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Nigel Farage hosted a press conference today as part of Reform's summer crime campaign 'Britain is lawless'. He unveiled the latest Tory defector: Leicestershire's Police & Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews. Amidst all the noise of whether crime in the UK is falling or not, plus the impact of migration on crime, is Reform's messaging cutting through?
Would US Vice President agree with Farage's message that Britain is lawless? Vance is in the UK, staying in the Cotswolds, as part of his summer holiday. Tim Shipman and Lucy Dunn are joined by James Orr, associate professor at Cambridge University, and a friend of Vance's to talk us through the dynamics between Trump, Vance, Starmer, Lammy and Farage. Does Farage have Vance's ear? Plus: James explains the rationale behind the new Reform-linked think tank that he is leading, saying that the Centre for a Better Britain is about seeking to build a 'politics of national preference'.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Megan McElroy.
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Is the Online Safety Act protecting children – or threatening free speech? Michael Simmons hosts John Power, who writes the Spectator's cover piece this week on how the Act has inadvertently created online censorship. Implemented and defended by the current Labour government, it is actually the result of legislation passed by the Conservatives in 2023 – which Labour did not support at the time, arguing it didn’t go far enough.
Michael and John joined by former Conservative MP Miriam Cates who defends the core aims and principles at the heart of the Act. They debate the principles of Big Tech, the risks of government overreach and whether freedom of expression is under threat.
Produced by Megan McElroy and Patrick Gibbons.
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John O’Neill and Sam McPhail, the Spectator’s research and data team, join economics editor Michael Simmons to re-introduce listeners to the Spectator’s data hub. They take us through the process between the data hub and how their work feeds into the weekly magazine. From crime to migration, which statistics are the most controversial? Why can’t we agree on data? Plus – whose data is presented better, the Americans or the French?
For more from the Spectator’s data hub – which may, or may not look like the thumbnail photo – go to: data.spectator.co.uk
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Megan McElroy.
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The dispute between the British Medical Association (BMA) – a trade union for doctors – and the government continues, following the five-day strike by junior doctors. Doctors argue that pay is still far below relative levels from almost two decades ago, combined with the cost of study, the cost of living and housing crises, as well as challenging conditions within the NHS. Nevertheless, with an average pay rise of 5.4% for resident doctors this year, support for the strikes appears to be falling – both with the public at large, and within the BMA. Health Secretary Wes Streeting has hit back at the BMA and said they 'will not win a war with this government'.
Tim Shipman and Lucy Dunn join Natasha Feroze to discuss whether the junior doctors are wise to pick a fight with Wes. First though they talk about the fallout from Keir Starmer's announcement of that the UK could recognise Palestinian statehood in September. Given the recognition is conditional, is Starmer's position the worst of both worlds?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Natasha Feroze.
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Scotland's First Minister John Swinney unveiled his strategy for pursuing a second independence referendum this week, arguing that an SNP majority at next year's Holyrood elections is the only way to guarantee it. This is seen as an attempt to put Scottish independence back on the table as well as combat the rising popularity of Reform.
Pollster Mark Diffley of Diffley Partnership joins Lucy Dunn to unpack the SNP's independence strategy. Mark points out that while Reform are consistently outperforming expectations, their support still primarily comes from ex-Conservatives. This, plus the unpopularity of the current UK Labour government, could provide the SNP with an opening to exploit and shore up nationalist support. Could next year's Holyrood election be the most consequential election of the devolution era so far?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Natasha Feroze.
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Keir Starmer says the UK will recognise a Palestinian state at a UN meeting in September unless Israel meets certain conditions. As the UN warns of famine and aid agencies are raising concern about widespread starvation, countries are coming under pressure to change their approach and influence Israel. The UK's announcement follows Emmanuel Macron’s decision that France will do so in September and after more than 200 cross-party MPs signed a letter endorsing recognition.
Political editor Tim Shipman and senior associate fellow at RUSI Michael Stephens join deputy political editor James Heale to discuss the situation. Plus, as Donald Trump’s visit to Scotland comes to an end, they discuss the surprising nuance in Trump’s position on Israel which was evident when he met Starmer yesterday.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Megan McElroy.
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It’s often the rotator blades of Marine One that blare over Donald Trump’s voice as he stands near the helipad on the south lawn of the White House. In Turnberry, Scotland, it was bagpipes. Trump, playing host to the British Prime Minister in Britain, performed his now familiar ingratiation ritual as he welcomed Sir Keir and Lady Victoria Starmer to his golf course. “Our relationship is unparalleled,” he said, above the din. He flattered the PM’s wife and even suggested, in his delightful nonsensical way, that she is a well-known figure all over the United States.
Lucy Dunn is joined by US editor Freddy Gray and political editor Tim Shipman to discuss what the trip means, and what we should make of the Starmer-Trump relationship.
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Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
Kemi Badenoch does the rounds, giving her view on the war in Gaza, immigration, and the new party on the left.
And, after France officially recognises the state of Palestine, will the UK government follow suit?
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
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Katie Lam became an MP in 2024 after a career in finance. She's also an accomplished scriptwriter, having co-written five musicals. She's one of the most exciting new intake MPs, and she's ruffling feathers in Westminster and beyond. She joins political editor Tim Shipman to discuss everything from her vision for the country to the ECHR, and shares her political ambitions.
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Jeremy Corbyn and Zarah Sultana have finally launched their new party, but it's off to a bumpy start. They unveiled 'Your Party', but had to quickly clarify that was not in fact the new party's name, and that will be decided on by a member's vote. He also had to play down claims of a split already.
However, if the so-called Gaza independents join forced with Sultana and Corbyn, the organisation that's not called Your Party could have enough MPs to outnumber Reform UK. What does it mean for the left – and can they get their act together?
Elsewhere, Tim discusses the slightly more organised Reform UK, the subject he wrote about in this week's magazine – and how it's no longer a case of can they win, but can anything stop them.
Megan McElroy discusses with Tim Shipman and James Heale.
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The UK has finally signed a free-trade deal with India after three-and-a-half years of negotiation. The agreement will open up trade for cars, whisky, clothing and food products, with ministers claiming it will boost the British economy by £4.8 billion. For Keir Starmer, it offers much-needed economic and political good news. For Indian prime minister Narendra Modi, it shows that the £3 trillion Indian economy is willing to shake off its protectionist tradition and open up to international investors.
Lucy Dunn discusses with James Heale and Michael Simmons.
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As MPs depart Westminster for parliamentary recess, The Spectator's political sketch writer Madeline Grant joins Natasha Feroze and economics editor Michael Simmons to talk about how to sketch PMQs and why Keir Starmer makes for the best sketches. Also on the podcast, Michael Simmons looks at the promising FTSE at record high following Trump's trade deal with Japan and the gloomy national debt figures announced yesterday.
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The Commons is closing down for the summer, but Kemi Badenoch has treated us to a shadow cabinet reshuffle. At the beginning of the year, Badenoch’s team were keen to stress stability, dismissing talk of an early reshuffle. But, as so often in politics, events have forced her hand. Ed Argar, the shadow health secretary, had a health scare earlier this summer. He has today stepped back from the frontbench to focus on his recovery. Badenoch is therefore using his departure as the chance to make what she calls ‘a few changes to my frontbench.’
The headline is that Sir James Cleverly, former foreign and home secretary, is returning to the front bench as shadow housing secretary. Is his new position designed to take on Angela Rayner? And what's Badenoch planning to do about the Jenrick question? Lucy Dunn speaks to Michael Gove and Tim Shipman.
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Nigel Farage has unveiled the party's policy proposals for tackling crime should they get into government. The Reform leader said that his entire policy platform would cost £17.4 billion, and suggested that a Reform government would introduce a 'three strikes' system for repeat serious offenders. Lucy Dunn speaks to James Heale and Tim Shipman about the policy pledges, how the Tories should respond and what Britain can do about its failing water industry.
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Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows.
Today, it’s all eyes on the water sector, as Labour announce plans to halve sewage pollution by 2030. Nigel Farage advocates for partial nationalisation, although he’s vague on the numbers. Farage also says net zero targets are defrauding tax payers, but Ed Davey says we actually need more renewable energy to protect industry from rising energy bills.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
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The strange death of Tory England has been predicted before. But never has the ‘natural party of government’ faced a greater challenge to survive. The Conservatives are facing attacks on all fronts from Labour, the Liberal Democrats and Reform UK. Kemi Badenoch’s six-month anniversary as leader was marked by the loss of nearly 700 councillors, with a stern test awaiting next year in Scotland and in Wales. She promises change with her long-awaited policy commissions, ahead of a make-or-break party conference in October, but can she turn it around? Is there a road back to power for the 121 surviving Tory MPs? And what exactly is Robert Jenrick and the rest of the shadow cabinet up to?
Join editor Michael Gove, new political editor Tim Shipman, assistant editor Isabel Hardman and the pollster Luke Tryl as they discuss where the Tories go from here.
This event is in partnership with Charles Stanley Wealth Managers.
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Lots to discuss today, between Diane Abbott being suspended (again) and Labour handing the vote to 16-year-olds just before we head into recess.
Abbott’s suspension comes after she was accused of ‘doubling down’ on previous claims that Jewish people experience racism differently from black people. She is the latest Labour troublemaker to be left out in the cold, with seven MPs punished this week for voting against the government – four of them suspended from the party. Is Starmer confusing toughness with strength? And will Abbott’s suspension stick this time?
Elsewhere, 16-year-olds have been given the vote. Those in favour point to the political maturity of young people in the country and welcome this as a move towards fairness and encouraging responsibility, while detractors are crying gerrymandering and a raw attempt to swing the political arithmetic in the governing party’s favour. But will it actually matter? Polling suggests that very few 16–17-year-olds will actually vote – and that many of them prefer the insurgent parties. So who stands to win, and who stands to lose from the very modest youth-vote bump?
Lucy Dunn speaks to Tim Shipman and the pollster Luke Tryl.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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Keir Starmer has struck again. Compounding his reputation as a ruthless operator – like Michael Corleone – he is settling all family business by removing the whip from a number of troublemaking MPs, including Neil Duncan Jordan, Chris Hinchcliff, Brian Leishman and Rachel Maskell. This comes after each led respective revolts on winter fuel, planning reform, Grangemouth and the welfare changes. Rosena Allin-Khan, Bell Ribeiro-Addy and Mohammed Yasin have all lost their trade envoy roles too.
Many of the MPs who have been cast adrift are from the new intake, and so today we are joined on the podcast by Mike Tapp, MP for Dover and Deal, to give his reflections on a year in office. On the podcast: he offers James Heale his advice on stopping the boats; details how Labour can start to deliver tangible change for people in constituencies much like his own; explains why Keir was right to suspend his fellow MPs; and gives us an insight into the future Labour stars from the new intake.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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Last night, Rachel Reeves was the headline act at the Mansion House dinner. In her speech, she made the case that ‘Britain is open for business’ and that we must ‘stay competitive in the global economy’. Critics would say it is hard to claim to be open for business while having also overseen a £25 billion national insurance tax raid that is now known to be costing thousands of jobs.
She began by stressing that, despite what recent reporting might suggest, she is ‘okay’ – the economic indicators, however, suggest that the economy is far from okay. Just this morning, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) reported that inflation hit 3.6 per cent in the year to June – well above the 2 per cent target.
On this special edition of Coffee House Shots, James Heale and Michael Simmons are joined by shadow chancellor Mel Stride, who offers his prescription for Britain’s ailing economy. He outlines how he would have conducted the speech at Mansion House, how he will spend the recess with business leaders of all descriptions in 'listening mode', and why – when it comes to the big institutions such as the OBR, the Treasury and the Bank of England – he ‘isn’t ruling anything out’.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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It can now be revealed that a Ministry of Defence data leak has cost the UK some £7 billion and put thousands of Afghans at risk of death. A dataset containing the details of nearly 19,000 people who applied to move to the UK following the Taliban takeover was released in error by a British defence official in February 2022. Ministers were informed of the debacle in August 2023; since then, an unprecedented super-injunction has been in place to stop the press from reporting details. What does this mean for successive governments?
Also on the podcast, Donald Trump gave a surprise interview to the BBC overnight in which he changed his position on Nato and on Ukraine – this comes after the President threw the full weight of America's military supplies behind Ukraine and warned Putin of 100 per cent tariffs if he doesn’t end the war in 50 days. What he hasn’t changed his tune on is Keir Starmer, whom he gushed is a ‘liberal’ doing his best to navigate a ‘sloppy’ Brexit. Can the Trump–Starmer love-in continue?
Natasha Feroze speaks to James Heale and Freddy Gray.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.
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Tomorrow Rachel Reeves will deliver her big speech in the City. The annual Mansion House address is a chance for the Chancellor to set out her vision for the British economy. But amid a gloomy set of economic indicators (including two consecutive monthly GDP contractions) it is difficult to see what good news she can offer.
Westminster would be alive with speculation about what she might announce – initially, there was talk of reforms to cash ISAs; now, attention has turned to the prospect of Reeves promising a ‘new Big Bang’ by slashing regulation on financial services – however everyone is busy trying to work out who are the ‘working people’ the Labour government has pledged not to raise taxes for?
Are they – as Heida Alexander argued over the weekend – ‘people on modest incomes’? Or, as Darren Jones suggested today, ‘anyone that gets a payslip, basically’? That is quite a difference in definition – so who exactly is a ‘working person’?
James Heale speaks to Tim Shipman and Michael Simmons.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander faces questions over the shrinking economy, possible autumn tax rises, and the migrant deal with France. Plus, the Ofcom CEO says new regulations are a big moment for online safety, and Chris Philp says Reform don't have the answers, after more Conservatives defect to the party.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
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As Labour looks to get a grip on public spending, one rebellion gives way to another with the changes to the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) system threatening to become welfare round two.
On this week’s Saturday edition of Coffee House Shots, Lucy Dunn is joined by The Spectator’s Michael Simmons and former Ofsted chief Amanda Spielman to explore what the government is planning – and why so many Labour MPs are worried. Is the system failing the children it's meant to support, or simply costing too much? And can Labour afford to fix it without tearing itself apart?
Listen for: Amanda on the unintended consequences of the 2014 SEND overhaul; why teaching assistants may not be the silver bullet schools think they are; and Labour’s mess over Ofsted. Michael Simmons also outlines the fiscal timebomb threatening local authorities; the cultural shift post-Covid that’s changed how we approach education; and why one Labour insider is warning, ‘If you thought cutting support for disabled adults was bad, wait till you try it with children.’
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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On today’s podcast: sacré bleu – we have a one-in, one-out migration deal with France. In a press conference yesterday, Keir Starmer and President Macron announced a deal they hope will curb Channel crossings. But, as ever, the devil is in the detail, with some key concerns about the numbers and the time frame. Digital ID cards are also back on the agenda – after an intervention from former MI6 boss Alex Younger on Newsnight. The argument is that they could deter the ‘grey labour force’ and make it harder to work in the UK for those arriving via unauthorised means. It’s the Blairite policy that refuses to go away – but, as Michael Simmons argues, we may already have the infrastructure.
It’s not all rosy for the government, and we could well be heading for economic catastrophe. This follows the publication of the OBR’s Fiscal Risks and Sustainability document. The language is polite, matter-of-fact and bureaucratic. But read between the lines, look at the numbers, and it paints a damning picture of the risks we face as a country. Is a wealth tax the answer?
Lucy Dunn speaks to James Heale and Michael Simmons.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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There is the small matter of the Macron–Starmer press conference today, at which the Prime Minister will hope to announce a new migration deal with France. But we thought we would dedicate today’s podcast to Angela Rayner. With some MPs thinking that the answer to Labour’s woes could be to ‘give it Ange until the end of the season’. As Tim Shipman reports in the magazine, she has undergone quite the political transformation – keeping her head down and away from incoming fire. Downing Street is taking her increasingly seriously. Is she the new John Prescott – or even the next Labour leader?
Also on the podcast today: Jake Berry, former Conservative party chairman, defected to Reform last night. But how much of a coup is that really for Nigel’s gang?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Tim Shipman and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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The public won’t forgive and nor will I, said Health Secretary Wes Streeting of plans by junior doctors to strike over his refusal to cave to demands for 29 per cent pay rises. Speaking to the Times he said: ‘There are no grounds for strike action now. Resident doctors have just received the highest pay award across the entire public sector. The Government can’t afford to offer more and it wouldn’t be fair to other NHS workers either, many of whom are paid less’.
Is Wes Streeting right? And who's going to come out on top – the Health Secretary or the junior doctors?
Meanwhile, Keir Starmer was very clear at PMQs: stating that ‘yes’, he stands by his manifesto commitments not to raise income tax, national insurance or VAT – but he could not answer questions on wealth taxes or a freeze on tax thresholds. Watch this space...
Lucy Dunn discusses with Tim Shipman and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Megan McElroy.
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Zut alors! The French are in town. Emmanuel Macron is on his state visit this week, spending time today with the King and tomorrow with the Prime Minister. His itinerary includes a state dinner and an address to both Houses of Parliament this afternoon.
All the pageantry, of course, is for a reason: to defrost what Tim Shipman calls the ‘entente glaciale’ and the stalemate over migration. Keir will be hoping to get the French to sign a ‘one in, one out’ migration deal – with Labour seemingly surprised that, upon coming into power, the French didn’t roll over and make concessions on small boats when a left-wing government took office. Can we expect a new entente cordiale? Is there anything in it for Macron when it comes to stopping the boats?
We also received the sad news today that Tory grandee Norman Tebbit and regular Spectator contributor Jonathan Miller have passed away. We remember both of them on the podcast.
James Heale speaks to Tim Shipman and Freddy Gray.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Megan McElroy.
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Keir Starmer will have been hoping for a more relaxed week – but he certainly won’t be getting one. He is facing a fresh rebellion over support for children with special educational needs (SEND), which threatens to become welfare 2.0.
The plan involves overhauling the SEND system and it’s another case of Labour MPs exclaiming that they didn’t stand on a Labour ticket just to target the most vulnerable in society. The main concern among backbenchers is whether it should be legally enforceable for parents to ensure their children receive bespoke support.
Elsewhere, all roads lead to the Treasury, as Neil Kinnock has a solution for increasing Rachel Reeves’s headroom: a wealth tax. It’s the idea that never seems to go away – but will it just increase the number of billionaires fleeing the country?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Tim Shipman and Michael Simmons.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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Cast your mind back a year. Labour had just won a storming majority, promising ‘change’ to a stale Tory party that was struggling to govern. But have things got any better?
In the magazine this week, Tim Shipman writes the cover piece to mark the occasion of Labour’s first year in government. He takes readers through three chapters: from Sue Gray (freebies scandal and winter fuel cut) to Morgan McSweeney (a degree of professionalisation and dealing with the Donald) to the point at which ‘things fall apart’ (assisted dying, the welfare vote and Reeves’s tears).
On the podcast, Tim is joined by The Spectator’s James Heale as well as sketchwriter and long-time Westminster mischief-maker Quentin Letts to go through the events and personalities that have contributed to the dysfunction.
Listen for: Tim’s run-in with Lord Hermer at the US Ambassador’s bash; why Jeremy Corbyn’s mooted political party could cause a chasm in the Labour party to rival the one tearing the Conservatives apart; who the targets for the chop might be, should there be a reshuffle; how young members of the Labour party are beginning their charm offensive on Angela Rayner; and why politicians have failed to grasp the banal fundamentals that make a great political performer.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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Some sore heads on Coffee House Shots this morning, after last night’s Spectator summer party. But while we were having fun, a drama was brewing in the Labour party after it was finally confirmed that Jeremy Corbyn is starting a new left-wing party... or is he?
The news was broken last night by another MP: Zarah Sultana, a long-time admirer of Corbyn. Elected as a Labour MP in 2019, she lost the whip last July for voting to lift the two-child-benefit cap. However, after discussions with figures within the Labour party, it has become apparent that Sultana took many of those involved completely by surprise. She has, in the words of one, ‘completely jumped the gun – no ideas had been properly decided’. It has plunged the new party into a crisis even before its creation. What next for Corbyn’s splinter party?
Lucy Dunn speaks to James Heale and Michael Simmons.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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Today Wes Streeting – with the help of Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves – announced his 10 year plan for curing the NHS. It’s all about creating a ‘Neighbourhood Health Service’, but what does actually mean in practice?
Much of the plan was leaked in advance: first, focusing on preventing disease before it becomes too late; second, improving community healthcare services to help reduce pressure on hospitals; and third, embracing the tech revolution to bring the NHS into the ‘digital age’. One of the glaring omissions is a chapter on how this will all be delivered.
Perhaps the most notable part of today’s launch was the decision to include Rachel Reeves – last seen in the Commons looking distraught as the Prime Minister (brutally) failed to back her. He has since thrown his support behind her – but has he made his political bed? Are Starmer and Reeves codependent?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Lucy Dunn and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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There were extraordinary scenes in PMQs today. Rachel Reeves appeared distraught as the Prime Minister failed to guarantee her security when asked by leader of the opposition Kemi Badenoch. It was brutal to watch, as the iron chancellor’s lip quivered and a tear rolled down her cheek. In many ways, you can’t blame her – with her headroom narrowing, she will be forced to find a further £5 billion worth of savings to allow for the government’s botched welfare bill.
No. 10 has since clarified that Rachel Reeves has not resigned and will not be sacked, stressing that it was ‘personal’ matter that had upset her, ‘which - as you would expect - we are not going to get into. The chancellor will be working out of Downing Street this afternoon’. There is still no clarification on whether that refers to issues in her personal life or her job security. The question remains: is she on borrowed time?
James Heale speaks to Michael Simmons and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Megan McElroy.
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It’s D-Day for Labour’s welfare reforms. MPs will vote tonight on the party’s watered-down benefits cuts. Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall formally announced Labour’s climbdown yesterday, telling MPs that the government had ‘listened carefully’ and was bringing in ‘positive changes’. Well, that’s one way of putting it.
Even so, Labour is braced for a rebellion from dozens of MPs. We’ll know the full number at around 7pm, but it is not expected that there will be the 83 required to overturn the government’s majority. On today’s podcast, we take you inside the debate including some of the most notable speeches and what the fallout could be for the government. Can we expect a reshuffle in the near future? Should Keir Starmer watch his back?
Lucy Dunn speaks to Tim Shipman and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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There have been a number of navel-gazing interviews with the Prime Minister over the weekend. Across thousands and thousands of words, he seems to be saying – if you read between the lines – that he doesn't particularly enjoy being PM.
In better news, Labour seems to have quelled the welfare rebellion. Liz Kendall is making a statement in the Commons this afternoon, in which she will outline the concessions that Labour has made on its controversial welfare bill. All in, the cost has spiralled by £3 billion per calendar year – which an already put-upon Chancellor will have to find. Whilst it remains the largest rebellion of this government, the number of rebels has shrunk to around 50.
Also on the podcast, Wes Streeting is due to announce his – much-delayed – ten-year plan for the NHS. We are expecting a number of big shifts in Thursday’s announcement, including: moving from analogue to digital, swapping treatment for prevention, and hospital for community. Does Wes have the perspiration for the ailing NHS?
James Heale speaks to Tim Shipman and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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As Labour rebels appear to have forced concessions from Keir Starmer over welfare this week, former Conservative MP Steve Baker joins James Heale to reflect on his own time as a rebel, and to provide some advice to Labour MPs. Steve, an MP for 14 years and a minister under Theresa May, Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak, tells James about the different rebellions he was a part of (from Brexit to Covid), explains how to organise a successful one and reveals how he has lost close friends when he has made the decision to compromise.
He also blames Labour’s problems on their ‘bombs not benefits’ approach, explains why the current welfare rebellion demonstrates that ‘the facts of life are Conservative’ and argues that it has been a mistake for the Conservatives not the support Labour’s original approach to reducing the winter fuel allowance.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Megan McElroy.
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Keir Starmer has performed a screeching about-turn on his flagship welfare reforms, all in the hope of quelling the rebellion from more than 120 MPs who have been promised ‘massive concessions’ over concerns about disability benefits.
These include moderating the bill to make it easier for people with multiple impairments to claim disability benefits, and offering to protect Personal Independence Payments (PIP) for all existing claimants for ever – to ensure there would be no detriment from the reforms for existing claimants, a key concern of the welfare rebels. But new claimants will be affected, as ministers desperately try to stop ever-spiralling disability and sickness welfare spending climbing to £100 billion by 2030. It means another big U-turn for Starmer – and another hole in the Treasury’s finances. Early estimates suggest that the welfare bill climbdown could cost £2 billion: money which Rachel Reeves will now have to find elsewhere. Can Starmer recover?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Luke Tryl, director of More in Common.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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It’s bad news all round for Labour and the Tories. An MRP poll out today forecasts that if an election were held tomorrow, Labour would not only lose its majority, but fall behind Reform to become the second-largest party. The Conservatives would be reduced to a mere 46 seats, placing them fourth behind the Lib Dems.
But that’s just the beginning of their collective woes. On the Labour side – despite Keir Starmer’s charm offensive and ongoing talks with Labour MPs about potential changes to welfare policy – the number of rebels appears to be growing. The feeling increasingly is that someone might have to go, and calls for ‘regime change’ splash the Times. Is time up for Morgan McSweeney?
On the other side of the House, the Tories are in disarray, as Tim Shipman reports in The Spectator this week. In his scoop-filled piece, he writes: David Cameron thinks Robert Jenrick should be the next Tory leader, strategists fear the best they can hope for is to salvage 80 seats, and the blond bombshell Boris Johnson has a five-point plan for his return. Are the Tories toast?
James Heale speaks to Michael Gove and Tim Shipman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Megan McElroy.
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Keir Starmer is facing war on both fronts. He is in the Netherlands to talk about defence and announce a major change in the UK's nuclear posture in response to rising challenges in the Middle East. But everyone in Westminster wants to talk about a different kind of warfare: the warfare over welfare. MPs will vote on the government’s controversial welfare bill, after more than 120 MPs signed a reasoned amendment that would effectively stop the bill in its tracks.
What has been most concerning for the government is how organised the rebellion appears, with many picking up on the mutinous mood since Kim Leadbeater’s assisted dying bill. The government is increasingly looking like it will lose the vote. Are Labour going to pull the bill? And if so, surely they need to do it sooner rather than later.
Lucy Dunn speaks to James Heale and John McTernan, former political adviser to Tony Blair.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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It is rare to see the President so visibly frustrated (see The Apprentice, circa 2004), but after Iran and Israel seemingly ignored his ceasefire announcement – and his plea on Truth Social, ‘PLEASE DO NOT VIOLATE IT!’ – Donald Trump has come down hard on both sides. In a clip taken this afternoon he exclaimed: ‘These are countries who have been fighting so long and so hard, that they don't know what the f*** they're doing.’ Succinctly put by the President.
The exchange of fire could be the expected tit-for-tat seen after the announcement of ceasefires in other global conflicts, but it has dampened the mood at Nato, which world leaders were approaching with cautious optimism, believing the road to de-escalation was clearing. What happens next?
Also on the podcast, Keir Starmer is facing a huge rebellion less than a year after coming into power. Overnight, scores of Starmer’s MPs have signed a reasoned amendment to the Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payment Bill. This would effectively kill the bill at its second reading in the Commons on Tuesday. Can he de-escalate the precarious domestic situation?
Lucy Dunn speaks to James Heale and Michael Stephens.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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The weekend saw the US launch airstrikes on three Iranian nuclear sites, with Tehran warning of ‘everlasting consequences’. Despite an emergency Cobra meeting and Luke Pollard’s morning media round, we are still waiting for an answer on whether the government supports Trump’s action. Keir Starmer’s assured and confident position on the world stage now looks to be in peril, as he is pulled between Trump, his attorney general and the court of public opinion. Can he de-escalate?
Also on the podcast, Nigel Farage delivered a speech this morning in which he announced changes to non-doms and unveiled a new ‘Britannia card’ – although most of the questions afterwards centred on the situation in the Middle East. This comes after Ipsos polling gave Reform UK a record nine-point lead over the Labour party. How has Reform managed to cultivate this new coalition?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Tim Shipman and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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On this week’s special Saturday edition of Coffee House Shots, James Heale sits down with Jeremy Hunt to discuss his new book, Can We Be Great Again?. The former chancellor and foreign secretary argues that Britain remains one of the world’s most influential nations – but is in danger of losing its nerve. He reflects on working in the Foreign Office during Donald Trump’s first term, makes the case for the BBC as a tool of soft power, and admits he wanted to be the first chancellor since 1997 to deliver a Budget with a whisky in hand.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Patrick Gibbons.
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MPs have voted – by a narrow 23-vote margin – in favour of legalising assisted dying. Bizarrely, the 51.9 to 48.1 per cent breakdown is the exact same as the 2016 referendum result, although hopefully this issue doesn't divide the Labour party in the same way that Brexit did for the Tories.
The whole process is far from ‘Parliament at its best’, as it has often been claimed. Despite hours of passionate and emotional debate, key concerns about the drafting of the bill forced some who would naturally back assisted dying to oppose it. The overwhelming feeling is that a private member’s bill was not the right forum for this kind of legislation.
So what comes next? The bill will now pass to the House of Lords, after which comes the business of putting the measures into practice. This raises a multitude of problems for the Labour government, as it must now decide, for example, whether the responsibility will fall on the NHS or private doctors; who will pay for it; and what legal protections will be given to doctors and nurses. Other key questions remain: did Keir Starmer break a voting pact with David Lammy? And how could the decision to go against the party impact ambitious members of the shadow cabinet?
Lucy Dunn, James Hale and Rajiv Shah, former adviser in No. 10, discuss.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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It’s a historic day in Westminster, where MPs will vote on the assisted dying bill – the outcome of which could have huge repercussions for healthcare, politics and the courts. It’s such a significant day, in fact, that we’ll be recording another podcast just after the result is announced at around 2.30 p.m.
Kim Leadbeater’s camp remains confident that the bill will pass, although many anticipate a much closer vote than at the second reading. This is in no small part due to high-profile members of the party being opposed to the legislation, and Keir Starmer remaining characteristically evasive on the issue. The backdrop, of course, is the resignation of a government whip, Vicky Foxcroft – though over a separate issue: Liz Kendall's plan to cut personal independence payments. Could this be part of a coordinated rebellion? And how will the assisted dying bill – brought by a Labour MP and tacitly backed by a Labour PM– define Labour’s first year?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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This week, our new political editor Tim Shipman takes the helm and, in his cover piece, gives us the inside track on how Labour is dealing with Iran, Donald Trump and the prospect of escalating war in the Middle East.
He writes that this could be the moment when all of Keir Starmer’s chickens come home to roost: his well-curated international image is at risk of crumbling as global crises present greater challenges; his hands are tied by legal advice from the controversial Lord Hermer; the Chagos Islands are being drawn into the US’s retaliation plans; and there remains the looming threat of backbench rebellion over Labour’s national security strategy. Tim is joined by James Heale and Lucy Dunn to discuss what may be Starmer’s biggest test yet.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Natasha Feroze.
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Westminster waits with bated breath to discover whether Donald Trump will ally with Israel in striking Iranian nuclear sites. The President called for ‘UNCONDITIONAL SURRENDER!’ from Tehran overnight. The day to day of domestic politics appears diminished by comparison with the ever-looming threat of an escalated conflict…
But the show must go on: today’s PMQs saw Chris Philp (why not Robert Jenrick?) and Angela Rayner deputising for their absent leaders; Liz Kendall introduced legislation to enact cuts to personal independence payments for disabled people; the Commons voted to decriminalise abortion at any point until birth; and the Office for National Statistics (ONS) is up to its old tricks, announcing that inflation has fallen when the reality is much more complicated. Can we trust the forecasters? And did anyone ask for this amendment on abortion?
James Heale speaks to Michael Simmons and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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Yesterday Yvette Cooper announced a national inquiry into the grooming gangs scandal after the Casey Review found that a disproportionate number of Asian men were responsible and that governments and authorities had failed to step in over fears of racism. Anxious to press Labour on their U-turn – memorably, Starmer accused the Tories of ‘jumping on the far-right bandwagon’ – Kemi Badenoch held a press conference, joined by victims of the gangs. ‘I’m not doing politics now, when I’m in the Houses of Parliament, when I’m in the Commons, I will do politics’, she said. But can you really take the politics out of the grooming gangs scandal?
Elsewhere, Donald Trump has fled the G7. Although this isn’t the first time he has cut a G7 visit short, it does mean he snubbed meetings with Zelensky and the Mexican president. Have Labour got what they wanted out of the conference? And what should we read into Trump’s early exit?
Lucy Dunn speaks to Tim Shipman and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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Following Keir Starmer's decision to call for a national inquiry into grooming gangs, the Home Secretary Yvette Cooper spoke in the Commons today about the 'collective failure' to address questions about groomings gangs' ethnicity in the Casey report. Elsewhere this week, Welfare reform legislation is being tabled, with a vote expected before the end of the month. Sir Keir Starmer has signalled his willingness to confront dissent within his own ranks. Meanwhile, the assisted dying debate is once again gaining momentum in Westminster, with MPs preparing for a free vote on one of the most ethically charged issues in British politics. Natasha Feroze, is joined by James Heale and Isabel Hardman.
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Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's politics shows.
The conflict in the Middle-East has entered a dangerous new phase, with Israel and Iran engaging in open warfare. We hear from Chancellor Reeves about potential UK military involvement, as the Israeli ambassador to the UK says the nuclear threat from Iran was 'imminent'.
Starmer has also announced a statutory national inquiry into grooming gangs, but the Conservatives say the government is simply caving in to public pressure.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
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The Spectator’s economics editor Michael Simmons is joined by the outgoing boss of the Institute for Fiscal Studies Paul Johnson and the CEO of the Resolution Foundation Ruth Curtice to understand why Britain’s economy is in such a bad place. Given it feels like we are often in a doom loop of discussion about tax rises, does this point to a structural problem with the British economy? And why are the public’s expectations so out of line with the state’s capabilities?
Michael, Paul and Ruth talk about whether it’s fair for Labour to claim they’ve been ending austerity, the extent to which the effects of the covid-19 pandemic are still being felt and if tax rises are inevitable. Plus – if Ruth and Paul had the opportunity to be an economic Treasury dictator, what one policy would they enact to make a big change?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
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Israel struck military and nuclear targets in Iran overnight in a major escalation of hostilities in the Middle East has begun further strikes on Friday. Iran has vowed retaliation though President Trump has warned Iran and encouraged the Iranians to continue negotiations over their nuclear programme. Further talks had been due to take place this weekend. What’s Israel’s objective? And does this underline the unpredictability of geopolitics, at a time when the UK has pledged significantly more money for defence?
Patrick Gibbons speaks to James Heale and Michael Stephens, associate fellow at RUSI. Plus: updates on assisted dying and the government’s plans for welfare.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
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There were clear winners and losers in Rachel Reeves’s spending review yesterday but some of her announcements around capital spending and investment saw her dubbed the ‘Klarna Chancellor’ by LBC’s Nick Ferrari for her ‘buy now, pay later’ approach. Clearly trying to shake off the accusations of being ‘austerity-lite’, Labour point to longer term decisions made yesterday, such as over energy policy and infrastructure. But will voters see much benefit in the short-term? And, with the news today that Britain’s GDP shrank by 0.3% in April, will the decisions Rachel Reeves have to make only get harder before the October budget?
Lucy Dunn speaks to Michael Simmons and Claire Ainsley, former director of policy to Keir Starmer and now at the Progressive Policy Institute.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
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There were few surprises in Rachel Reeves’s spending review today. Health was the big winner, with a £29bn increase in day-to-day spending and £39bn was announced to build social and affordable housing. The main eyebrow-raiser was the announcement that the Home Office will end the use of hotels for asylum seekers within this parliament; this could save £1bn or it could become Labour’s ‘stop the boats’ moment. The bigger picture was confusing – with increases measured against levels three years ago, is there really as much cash as Rachel Reeves wants you to think there is? And what’s the strategy behind it all?
The Spectator’s new political editor Tim Shipman joins deputy political editor James Heale and economics editor Michael Simmons to breakdown the Chancellor’s speech.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
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Rachel Reeves has pledged a ‘new era of nuclear power’ as the government confirms a £14.2 billion investment in the Sizewell C nuclear plant in Suffolk. This comes on the eve of Labour’s spending review, with the government expected to highlight spending pledges designed to give a positive impression of Labour’s handling of the economy. However, as Michael Simmons tells James Heale and Lucy Dunn, there are signs that the government’s National Insurance hike is starting to bite.
Plus – Nigel Farage has made two announcements in as many days. This morning, he unveiled Reform’s new chairman, former MEP Dr David Bull, taking over from the recently returned Zia Yusuf. And yesterday he was in Port Talbot, where he pledged to reopen their steel works and even explore reopening coal mines, with one eye on next year’s Welsh elections.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
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James Nation, formerly a special adviser to Rishi Sunak and now an MD at Forefront Advisers, joins the Spectator’s deputy political editor James Heale and economics editor Michael Simmons, to talk through the latest on the government’s spending review, which is due to be announced on Wednesday. The last holdout appears to be Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, pushing for more police funding. But, against a tough fiscal landscape, what can we expect? And how much does it matter with the wider public? Plus – former chairman Zia Yusuf returned to Reform just two days after resigning, what’s going on?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
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The Spectator’s editor Michael Gove and assistant editor Madeline Grant interview Rupert Lowe, MP for Great Yarmouth and notorious Westminster provocateur. Earlier this year, Lowe was suspended from the Reform party amid claims of threats towards the party’s then-chairman Zia Yusuf, and a souring relationship with Nigel Farage. Following his political ‘assassination’, he now sits as an independent MP and continues to be one of the most energetic parliamentarians in challenging the Westminster orthodoxy.
During the discussion – recorded before Zia Yusuf resigned as party chairman on Thursday – Lowe diagnoses the issues that have blighted Reform and its bid to ‘professionalise’; challenges Michael on the then-Tory government’s mismanagement of an 80-seat majority and its record on Covid; addresses his interview with Emily Maitlis and her questioning on the grooming gangs scandal; but admits, in spite of it all, that he would still prefer Nigel Farage to be Prime Minister over Keir Starmer.
Watch the interview in full on Spectator TV.
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Scottish Labour have a new MSP today as Davy Russell won the Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse by-election, taking the seat from the SNP. Labour won with 31.6% of the vote with the SNP second on 29.4%, Reform close behind on 26.1% and the Conservatives a distance fourth with just 6% of the vote; this marks rare good news for both Keir Starmer and Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar.
Both SNP and Reform will be disappointed not to have won, but Reform have been quick to highlight how close they came, considering how new the party is. Plus, there are signs that Reform took votes away from the incumbent SNP, demonstrating again that Reform can appeal to voters across the political spectrum – what does this mean for next year’s Holyrood elections? This comes as Reform reels from the resignation of its chairman Zia Yusuf last night – how much impact will this have on the party?
Lucy Dunn was in Scotland for the by-election and joins James Heale, alongside former Reform strategist Gawain Towler.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Megan McElroy.
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Zia Yusuf resigned this evening from his position as chairman of Reform UK, saying: ‘I no longer believe working to get a Reform government elected is a good use of my time.’ This comes after he tweeted yesterday that it was ‘dumb’ for Sarah Pochin, Reform’s newest MP, to urge the Prime Minister to ban the burka during PMQs.
Did he jump before he was pushed? And can Reform UK really claim to have ‘professionalised’ when this is the second high profile departure this year?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale.
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Shadow Chancellor Mel Stride delivered a speech today where he attempted to banish the ghost of Liz Truss and improve the Conservatives' reputation over fiscal credibility. And he compared leader Kemi Badenoch to Thatcher, saying she too struggled at first and will 'get better' at the dispatch box. LBC broadcaster Iain Dale and the Spectator's economics editor Michael Simmons join deputy political editor James Heale to unpack Stride's speech, talk about Labour's latest policy announcement over free school meals and discuss why both the main parties are struggling with fiscal credibility.
Plus, Iain talks about his new book Margaret Thatcher and the myths he seeks to dispel. Why does he think the former PM still endures 35 years after she left office?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
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Rachel Reeves unveiled billions of pounds of investment today for transport and infrastructure projects, as Labour attempts to demonstrate that next week’s spending review is not just about departmental cuts. However, most of the political noise today has centred on her announcement that the winter fuel cut will be reversed by the end of the year. But what does this all mean for the average voter, for the Chancellor’s fiscal headroom – and why is the government still blaming its own ‘fiscal rules’?
James Heale and Michael Simmons join Lucy Dunn to unpack the Chancellor’s announcements and explain the economic jargon, plus a look at today’s PMQs.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Oscar Edmondson.
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Former Commander of Joint Forces Command – and one of the authors of the Strategic Defence Review – General Sir Richard Barrons joins Lucy Dunn and James Heale to talk through the main conclusions of the review, and the questions it raises. Labour have talked up the fact that this is the first government in a generation to not reduce the size of the armed forces. But, as Sir Richard explains, difficult choices await politicians and the public if the UK wants to be more prepared, and faster, for potential threats.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
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Today the government has published the long-awaited strategic defence review. The brief was to take a new look at some of the challenges to the UK in 2025, and what is needed to ensure our security and reset our defence priorities.
We are still waiting for some of the detail, but so far we know: £15 billion for new warheads to be carried by the new Dreadnought-class submarines; a dozen new SSN-Aukus attack submarines; £1.5 billion to build at least six munitions' factories; £6 billion to procure munitions over the remainder of this parliament; and £1 billion for digital capability and a new CyberEM Command. Where is all that money coming from?
Most of the squabbling today has been over the commitment to 3 per cent of GDP on defence spending. Labour have so far only gone as far as to say that’s an ‘ambition’. But are Labour being ambitious enough? Is the UK still a global player when it comes to defence if we can't commit to 3 per cent?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Emma Salisbury, research fellow at the Council on Geostrategy.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows.
Defence Secretary John Healey says the nature of war is changing, and admits Britain has an army retention crisis. Elsewhere, Robert Jenrick wants to arm prison officers, and Zia Yusuf talks up Reform’s plan to cut £350bn in public spending.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
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London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan has called for possession of small amounts of cannabis to be decriminalised following a report by the London Drugs Commission. The report has made 42 recommendations, which include removing natural cannabis from the Misuse of Drugs Act.
Former cabinet minister, now Labour peer, Charlie Falconer and Tory MP Dr Neil Shastri-Hurst join Lucy Dunn to discuss whether now is the time to decriminalise cannabis. For Lord Falconer, who chaired the Commission, the present law doesn’t work and he explains the principles behind the review; Neil, however, believes that the proposals send the wrong message that cannabis is harmless. He argues that a balance needs to be found between robust enforcement and compassion for families and friends also affected by the behaviour of drug users. They both agree on the diagnosis, but how do you combat the issue?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
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Lots to discuss today: Robert Jenrick takes on TfL, a Nazi jibe from the attorney general and allegations of shoplifting made against our own Michael Simmons.
But we start with Keir Starmer’s big speech yesterday, where the theme was ‘get Nigel’, after polling from More in Common showed that framing the election as a two-horse race could be beneficial to Labour. They are attempting to cut the Tories out altogether but, in response, the Conservatives plan to use fiscal credibility as the battleground to crawl back up the polls. Will the economy save the Tories?
Elsewhere, Robert Jenrick is the star of the week after a video of him reprimanding fare-dodgers on the Tube went viral, racking up more than ten million views on X. He seems to have struck a chord both within his party and with the public more generally, who are growing tired of our low-trust society and the blight of petty crime. Is Jenrick the one to tackle ‘Scuzz Nation’?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Michael Simmons.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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Dissatisfaction with the established political parties is driving a ‘tartan bounce’ in Scotland for Nigel Farage’s Reform UK. Far from being an English phenomenon, Reform is polling favourably with Scottish voters. There will be a by-election next week for the Scottish Parliament seat of Hamilton, in what will be Reform’s first big test inside the politics of devolved government.
For councillor Thomas Kerr, who defected from the Scottish Conservatives to Reform earlier this year, Reform’s appeal in Scotland is no surprise. He joins Lucy Dunn to explain why he thinks the ‘sky is the limit’ for Reform, why Farage is an asset to the party in Scotland and to explain Reform’s current views around devolution powers.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
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Labour’s spending review is expected on the 11th of June, when we will find out which government departments face cuts and which costs have been ringfenced. This can set the tone for politics for months to come as it gives a clue to which priorities matter most – especially in times of fiscal restraint – and which ministers are up, and which are down. But how is a spending review conducted? How does His Majesty’s Treasury balance the negotiations with those competing for its attention? And, following the leaked Angela Rayner memo, do we know which economic arguments are winning out?
James Nation, formerly a SpAd at the Treasury, and then Number 10, for Rishi Sunak – now an MD at Forefront Advisers – joins James Heale to take us through the process, the personalities and the politics behind a spending review. Plus – a year on, was Rishi Sunak proven right?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
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James Heale and Michael Simmons join Patrick Gibbons to discuss the speculation that Labour could scrap the two-child benefit cap. Is this just red meat for the left of the party or is it a sign that public opinion around welfare has shifted? And, with mixed messages on the economy, can the country afford to scrap it?
This comes just a week after Labour’s partial U-turn over the winter fuel allowance so, with pressure also increasing from Reform, is the welfare state about to expand?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
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This spring marks the 25th anniversary of the landmark judgment in the infamous Irving v Lipstadt Holocaust denial case. David Irving sued American academic Deborah Lipstadt after she had described him as a Holocaust denier in her 1994 book, for his claims that Jews had not been systematically exterminated by the Nazis. Given the burden of proof in English libel law being on the defence, it was up to Lipstadt and her publisher Penguin to prove her claims were true that Irving had deliberately misrepresented evidence. In 2000, the Judge found in her favour.
Deborah Lipstadt and the lawyers that represented her, Anthony Julius and James Libson, join Michael Gove for this special edition of Coffee House Shots to provide their reflections: on the trial, on what it’s like to go to court over something that’s widely accepted as settled historical truth, and to discuss why they think antisemitism flourishes in so many forms. They also talk about why the principles of the case are ever more important today as they were 25 years ago.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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This week, Michael Simmons presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
Rayner defends Labour's winter fuel payments U-turn, and fends off suggestions that her leaked memo has anything to do with a future leadership bid. Meanwhile, as Nigel Farage prepares to outflank Labour on the left, Kemi Badenoch says Reform supporters don't know what they're voting for.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Spectator editor Michael Gove joins Natasha Feroze to talk about his cover article this week: 'Starmer vs the workers', the real Brexit betrayal. Michael puts forward his arguments for why Labour should learn to love Brexit, should take back control to protect British jobs and industries, and could use Brexit as an opportunity to harness AI and science & technology. Plus, has the UK-EU deal brought back 'happy memories' for the former prominent Brexiteer?
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Patrick Gibbons.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Former Justice Secretary and Lord Chancellor David Gauke joins James Heale to talk about his review into prison sentencing. The former Tory minister was appointed by the current Labour Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood, but says there is a clear centre-right argument for prison reform.
He talks James through his policy proposals and the political reaction to them, the thinking behind expanding chemical castration for sex offenders and why deportation is complicated when dealing with the very worst foreign criminals. Ultimately his review is designed to reduce what is currently the highest incarceration rate in Europe.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons. Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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The Independent Sentencing Review chaired by former Lord Chancellor David Gauke has today announced its suggested reforms which sees a major shift from imprisonment to community-led sentencing. Measures include the recommendation that convicted criminals leave prisons after serving around one-third of their sentence, that short prison sentences of up to 12 months are drastically reduced and – the attention grabbing – expansion of chemical castration for paedophiles. What are the political ramifications of these policies, and will they work?
Danny Shaw, former advisor to Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, and James Heale discuss with Lucy Dunn. Also on the podcast, they discuss a last minute obstacle to resolving the Chagos deal and the news that net migration dropped dramatically in 2024.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Patrick Gibbons.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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After sustained speculation and a local elections drubbing, Keir Starmer announced today at PMQs that the government will be softening their policy on winter fuel. Whilst it won’t come into effect for some time, they have agreed to ensure that ‘more pensioners are eligible for winter fuel payment.’
This comes hours after a memo was mysteriously leaked to the Telegraph. It contains an extensive list of recommendations from Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner to the Treasury, including a set of eight tax rises such as reinstating the pensions lifetime allowance and altering dividend taxes. This amounts to a direct challenge to Rachel Reeves’s fiscal approach and preference for spending cuts.
The bigger story, of course, is what this says about feelings within Labour – it’s clearly not a happy family. Sources suggest that Angela Rayner is uneasy with the direction of travel in the Treasury and speaks for a silent majority in the Labour party who are fed up with defending controversial measures such as winter fuel. So who leaked this memo? Could Rayner be leading a mutiny? And will the U-turn on winter fuel placate the rebels?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Isabel Hardman.
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Fallout continues from yesterday's summit and the announcement of a deal between the UK and EU – or is it fair to call it 'fallout' as, despite criticism over the deal from Nigel Farage and Kemi Badenoch, has the public got Brexit fatigue?
James Heale and Michael Simmons join Patrick Gibbons to talk about the reaction to the deal. Fisheries has taken up most discussion but Michael points out a lesser talked about commitment to energy policy. And, with the government keen to talk about it in tandem with recent deals with India and the US – and Gulf states soon, according to Rachel Reeves this morning – what's the political narrative around the summit?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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As EU leaders arrive in London for a summit hosted by Keir Starmer, there has been an announcement that the UK and EU have reached a deal. The UK has extended its agreement on EU fishing boats in British waters, while in return fewer checks on British food exports are expected. There have also been discussions about a defence pact, reduced tuition fees for EU students and access to electronic passport gates for British holiday-makers.
While we await further details, deputy political editor James Heale and director of the Centre for European Reform Charles Grant join Lucy Dunn to unpack what we know so far. Will the deal be an easy sell, or does it risk being seen as a ‘brexit betrayal’? And, does it lack ambition or is it an important first step in restoring trust between two allies? Charles points out that there are important implications: on a future US trade deal; for Northern Ireland; and, in setting precedent; while James highlights the tight-rope Labour have to walk in constructing a narrative around the deal – particularly around avoiding being seen as selling out the ‘somewheres’ in favour of the ‘anywheres’.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons. Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning’s politics shows.
As the government wraps up negotiations with the EU, some believe the deal will betray Brexit voters, while others think Labour won’t go far enough.
Meanwhile, Elton John calls the government ‘absolute losers’ over its plans to allow AI to use copyrighted material, and Centrica boss Chris O’Shea warns its Rough facility might have to shut down.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
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Kemi Badenoch has come in for criticism since becoming leader of the opposition – for her energy, her performances at PMQs and her inability to galvanise her shadow cabinet. On this podcast, James Heale hosts the trial of Kemi Badenoch and asks whether someone else might be better placed to take the Tories into the next election and – more importantly – who that prince (or princess) across the water could be. The Spectator’s assistant content editor William Atkinson makes the case for the prosecution, while Michael Gove sets out why the Tories should stick with Kemi. Lara Brown, our new commissioning editor, acts as the jury.
‘If your house is on fire you don’t wait a year to call the fire brigade,’ says William. But Michael argues that political leaders – much like football managers – should be given time and patience in order to implement their direction, philosophy and, ultimately, to become successful. So should she stay or should she go? ... Or should the Tories give it to ‘Big Sam’ until the end of the season?
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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Labour MP Kim Leadbeater’s assisted dying bill is back in the Commons for the report stage today – returning to parliament for the first time since major changes were made to the legislation. While Leadbeater has insisted the bill is coming back ‘even stronger’ than before, support among MPs appears to be fading.
The mood in parliament was different to the second reading – which listeners will remember as a self-congratulatory affair, hailed as a ‘historic’ day by Leadbeater – but today’s debate was notably more ill-tempered. The majority of speeches seemed to oppose the bill rather than support it, and a late intervention by Esther Rantzen did not help. The prevailing opinion appears to be that, while there is support for this kind of legislation, there is little backing for a private member’s bill. If this bill does achieve Royal Assent, that will only mark the beginning of a complex challenge for Labour, who will then face major decisions on doctors, training and substances – all issues likely to dominate debate for the remainder of their term. Is Starmer right to hang his legacy on this issue?
Lucy Dunn speaks to James Hale and Rajiv Shah, a former adviser to the Attorney General and in Number 10.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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The Prime Minister is in Albania today to focus on immigration: the government has announced that the UK is in talks to set up 'return hubs' with other countries to send failed asylum seekers abroad.
Unfortunately for the government though, also going abroad are Britain's millionaires. In the cover article for this week's Spectator, our economics editor Michael Simmons writes that London lost 11,300 dollar millionaires last year alone. These figures run in stark contrast to today's news that GDP increased by 0.7% in the first quarter of 2025. This continues a trend of mixed signals for Britain's economy.
Also on the podcast Spectator editor Michael Gove discusses his interview with justice secretary Shabana Mahmood, who announced today that some reoffenders will be recalled to parliament for a reduced, fixed amount of time to relieve the pressure on prisons.
Both Michaels join Lucy Dunn to discuss further, and for the full interview with Shabana Mahmood click through to Spectator TV.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Prime Minister’s Questions today, and there was lots on the agenda. It is often a fool’s game to guess what the leader of the opposition will lead on, but today she had a wide choice of ammunition – from unemployment to welfare to the government’s new stance on migration to the war in Gaza. Kemi Badenoch looked assured when holding Keir Starmer to account on the Chancellor’s ‘jobs tax’ and on funding for children’s hospices. But can we attribute her performance to growing confidence in the role – or is the news just getting worse for Keir Starmer?
There were a couple of notable moments from the Prime Minister, including an attack on Reform and his response to Liz Saville-Roberts, leader of Plaid Cymru, when she ‘called him out’ on his use of the phrase ‘island of strangers’ earlier this week. Keir Starmer appeared tetchy – is he taking a leaf out of Rishi Sunak’s book?
Lucy Dunn speaks to James Heale and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Keir Starmer has succeeded in keeping immigration at the top of the news agenda for another day – although he may not be happy with the headlines.
After his set-piece announcement yesterday, the Prime Minister is caught between fire from both sides. On the left, he is accused of ‘pandering' to Nigel Farage and even echoing the rhetoric of Enoch Powell’s ‘Rivers of Blood’ speech – with regard to Starmer's statement about Britain becoming an ‘island of strangers’. Meanwhile, Farage has called the Prime Minister ‘insincere’ and ‘playing catch-up’.
Within Labour, some backbench MPs have broken ranks. But it is the quiet, soft-left faction – already uneasy about winter fuel, foreign aid etc. – that will concern the PM most. Might immigration be the issue that forces them to rebel? And is this really a departure for Keir Starmer, or a return to the language of New Labour?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Isabel Hardman and Danny Shaw, former adviser to Yvette Cooper.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Keir Starmer has kicked off what may be one of his most significant weeks in the job with a white paper on immigration. In it, the government details its plan to ‘take back control’ of migration, promising that numbers will fall ‘significantly’ – although no target number has been given. The plan includes the following: English tests for all visa applicants (and their adult dependants); an increase in the residency requirement for settled status from five to ten years; and new measures making it harder for firms to hire workers from overseas, including abolishing the social care visa and raising the threshold for a skilled worker visa.
Many have interpreted the move as an attempt to stem the rise of Reform by beating them at their own game. The Prime Minister gave a press conference this morning to announce the plans. His language marked a sharp contrast with speeches he made upon becoming leader. Gone are the days of ‘making the case for the benefits of migration’ – now replaced with ‘we are becoming an island of strangers’. Are Labour making promises they can’t keep – and are they merely echoing Reform?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Karl Williams, research director at the Centre for Policy Studies.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
The home secretary announces new measures to curb immigration numbers, and Starmer has a US trade deal. But not everyone believes the deal is much of a win.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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The post-mortem has begun on a historic set of local elections – but where does each party go from here? Is Reform unstoppable? Is Kemi the one to lead the Conservative rebuild? Do Labour really ‘get it’? Michael Gove, James Heale and Lucy Dunn are joined by special guests Zia Yusuf and Jacob Rees-Mogg to unpack these questions – as well as the broader ramifications of the local elections on British politics.
Listen for: Zia’s understanding of why Reform did so well; Jacob’s concession that a Tory/Reform pact of some description could be the only way for the Conservatives to avoid extinction; and Michael’s assessment of whether Labour will force us closer to the EU.
This podcast was originally recorded live at the Emmanuel Centre in Westminster on Wednesday 7 May.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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On Thursday afternoon Prime Minister Keir Starmer gave a speech about closing the long-awaited UK-US trade deal. Not that his announcement went without a hitch however; after first directing lobby journalists to the wrong Jaguar Land Rover factory in Coventry, Starmer then had his limelight stolen by the election of a new Pope. Although, Labour’s ‘historic’ trade deal has pipped the Pope on most front pages.
The reception has been positive across government too, with many heralding a political win for Labour – just when they really needed one after the local elections. But is this an economic win as well? Critics say the deal is shallow, clearly just a start, and are at pains to point out that we are still in a worse trading position than earlier this year. Meanwhile, the governor of the Bank of England intervened to urge the government to ‘do everything’ it can to rebuild trade with the EU.
Lucy Dunn speaks to James Heale and Michael Simmons.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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It’s a massive day for the Labour government and for Keir Starmer, as the UK becomes the first country to sign a trade deal with the US following the tariff turmoil of last month. Donald Trump described it as a ‘full and comprehensive deal’ … although we are still waiting for some of the details to be thrashed out. What we do know is this: the 25 per cent tariff on UK steel and aluminium has been removed and the rate on most car exports has been slashed from 27.5 per cent to 10 per cent. In return, the UK is removing the tariff on ethanol for US goods and has agreed ‘reciprocal market access on beef’. So far there is no word on the digital services tax, and Britain is still liable to pay the 10 per cent baseline tariff rate.
On both sides of the pond, the deal is being described as ‘historic’ by leaders who – for their own reasons – could really do with a win. But who does this deal favour? Is it a coup for Starmer – or Trump?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Kate Andrews and Michael Simmons.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Lots to talk about today, including new polling which puts Reform on 29 points compared to the Tories on just 17. We’ve also just had the first PMQs since the local elections. But the trade deal announced yesterday between the UK and India is dominating the headlines, with many concerned about some of the concessions made – namely the decision to exempt some short-term Indian workers from national insurance as part of the new agreement. This comes barely a week after the local elections, where immigration has been widely considered the most salient issue.
The Conservatives have gone on the attack, despite the fact that a trade deal with India was supposed to be one of the major gains from Brexit – an example of how Britain could ‘venture out into the world’ and open up trade with fast-growing economies. Are the Tories now against free trade?
Interestingly, Kemi Badenoch omitted to ask about the trade deal at PMQs today, choosing instead to question Keir Starmer on the ongoing concerns around winter fuel and the pressure from many elements within his party to at least water down the policy. Can Starmer afford to U-turn?
James Heale speaks to Michael Simmons and Paul Goodman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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It’s day five of recriminations after the local elections, with politicians, pollsters and journalists alike still trying to make sense of what just happened. On today’s podcast, Rachel Wolf gives her verdict: we should not be shocked by Reform’s surge. She argues that Nigel Farage’s success should have been predicted – that it’s the same, distinctly anti-political silent majority who ‘surprised’ us during Brexit, ‘surprised’ us in 2019 and are ‘surprising’ us now.
How will Labour respond? Will they U-turn on winter fuel? And is Boris Johnson the only one who can win back these disillusioned voters for the Tories?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Rachel Wolf, CEO of Public First and former adviser to Boris Johnson.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Megan McElroy.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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In this special edition of Coffee House Shots, Lucy Dunn speaks to the Holyrood leader of the pro-independence Alba party, Ash Regan. Regan was formerly a member of the SNP and even ran to be the party’s leader after Nicola Sturgeon resigned in 2023. She defected to the late Alex Salmond’s Alba party 18 months ago and ran for party leader after his death.
On the podcast, she talks to Lucy about the difference between Alba and the SNP, the threat of Reform in Scotland, the ‘performative’ nature of Scottish politics, the Supreme Court ruling over what is a woman, and why she was right to resign over the Gender Recognition Bill.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Patrick Gibbons.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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The two main parties are reeling after local elections in which Reform surged to huge wins. Wes Streeting has admitted that Reform could be Labour’s main opposition by the next election. Tory MP Nigel Huddleston says Kemi Badenoch will remain as Tory leader, Reform chairman Zia Yusuf hints they may use legal action to prevent migrants being housed in hotels, and Ed Davey wants the Liberal Democrats to 'call out' Reform. Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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As the parties regroup following the local elections, both Labour and the Conservatives have to face a miserable result. Lucy Dunn speaks to Isabel Hardman and pollster Luke Tryl about the anger and disillusionment amongst the electorate, and why Keir Starmer message 'we need to go further and faster' can't cut through. Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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The word ‘unprecedented’ is often overused in politics, but these local elections have proved to be just that. The headline is: sweeping success for Reform.
Nigel Farage's 'teal tsunami' comes at the expense of the main parties – turning the two-party consensus on its head. The recriminations for Labour and the Tories have already begun. On the left, a number of MPs have broken cover and urged the government to shift its position on high-salience issues such as winter fuel. On the right, Kemi Badenoch’s leadership is looking increasingly shaky, with Tory MPs and staff warning that a step change is needed. Where do the main parties go from here? And can anyone stop Nigel?
James Heale speaks to Isabel Hardman and The Spectator’s incoming political editor, Tim Shipman.
This episode was recorded as part of The Spectator’s local elections live broadcast. You can watch the full coverage here.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Votes are being counted across England, but there is a clear early winner from these local elections: Nigel Farage. His party triumphed in the Runcorn and Helsby by-election this morning, overturning a 14,000-odd majority and winning by just six votes!
Elsewhere, Andrea Jenkyns triumphed in Lincolnshire; Reform came second in a number of mayoral races; and their 38 per cent vote share in Runcorn matches the best-ever performance that Ukip achieved in a by-election.
So far, the story is one of teal triumph – at the expense of the two main parties. Labour are already pointing to the difficulty incumbents often face at local elections, and will claim victory after narrowly holding out in three mayoral races: North Tyneside, the West of England and Doncaster. The Tories, however, appear to have totally capitulated – but with widespread results for councils across England expected later, that could all change.
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Lucy Dunn.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Voters have gone to the polls today for a historic set of local elections. The polling indicates a rough night for the two main parties and a good showing for Reform, the Lib Dems and the Greens. So be prepared for a lot of election-night spin from both Labour and the Tories.
To talk through the various ways in which politicians can claim victory in the face of defeat, James Heale is joined by our editor, Michael Gove – no stranger to the media round himself. They discuss the best candidates to face up to the media from both the Tories and Labour, as well as some of the greatest examples of post-election spin from history. Michael also gives an insight into his own tactics when trying to divert the narrative away from electoral disaster and when encouraging the media to ‘calm down’.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Tony Blair is making waves in Westminster today after his institute published a report on net zero that appears to undermine Ed Miliband and Labour’s green agenda. In his foreword – while not directly critical of the UK government – he encouraged governments around the world to reconsider the cost of net zero. Many have compared Blair’s comments to those made by Kemi Badenoch several weeks ago and questioned the timing – just 48 hours before the local elections. What is Blair up to? Should Labour listen to Tony?
Also on the podcast, with the local elections tomorrow, we take one final look at the polling. With Labour expecting big losses, how can the party spin the results?
James Heale speaks to the pollster James Johnson and John McTernan, former political secretary to Tony Blair.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
For tickets to our local elections shake-up event with Jacob Rees Mogg and Zia Yusuf, click here. Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Mark Carney has won the Canadian election, leading the Liberal Party to a fourth term. Having only been Prime Minister for 6 weeks, succeeding Justin Trudeau, this is an impressive achievement when you consider that Pierre Poilievre’s Conservatives were over 20 percentage points ahead in the polls earlier this year.
Trump’s rhetoric against Canada – engaging in a trade war and calling for the country to become the 51st state – is credited as turning around the fortunes of the Liberals. Are there lessons for conservatives across the anglosphere, including Kemi Badenoch?
Patrick Gibbons speaks to James Heale and Michael Martins.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Are we looking at a spring of discontent? It’s the final push ahead of this week’s local elections, and what Keir Starmer wants to talk about is expanding the NHS app – which he says will cut waiting lists and end the days of the health service living in the ‘dark ages’. However, what people are actually talking about is public sector pay. The independent pay review body has recommended pay rises of around 4 per cent for teachers and nurses. Will there be industrial action? Are Labour going to be pushed into another round of public sector pay increases?
Meanwhile, after Ben Houchen’s comments this weekend, the murmurs of a Tory/Reform pact refuse to go away. Was his a helpful intervention?
Lucy Dunn speaks to James Heale and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Legendary pollster Prof Sir John Curtice joins the Spectator’s deputy political editor James Heale to look ahead to next week’s local elections. The actual number of seats may be small, as John points out, but the political significance could be much greater. If polling is correct, Reform could win a ‘fresh’ by-election for the first time, the mayoralties could be shared between three or more parties, and we could see a fairly even split in terms of vote share across five parties (Labour, the Liberal Democrats, the Conservatives, the Green party, and Reform UK).
The 2024 general election saw five GB-wide parties contest most seats for the first time. These set of local elections could solidify this ‘five-party political system'. In fact, says John, ‘Reform have already won these local elections’ by virtue of being able to contest all the seats available. Are we headed for a different kind of politics in Britain?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Despite this being the week that Kemi Badenoch finally showed some steel in PMQs, it’s Robert Jenrick who has been stealing the headlines. That’s for lots of reasons – mainly his comments about a potential Tory Reform pact, which he clarified on Good Morning Britain this morning, saying: ‘Kemi Badenoch and I are on exactly the same page. Kemi has been very clear there won’t be a pact with Reform, and I’ve said time and again that I want to put Reform out of business. I want to send Nigel Farage back to retirement.’ This follows leaked footage which surfaced this week from a student event in late March, where he appeared to suggest that he would back a pact to join forces with Farage.
Elsewhere, he had a big win when Yvette Cooper announced that the government will publish migrant crime league tables – a policy he has pushed for. Is he the prince across the water? Or do we need to give Kemi a break?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Henry Hill, deputy editor at Conservative Home.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Chancellor Rachel Reeves has been in Washington D.C. this week at the IMF’s spring meetings, and will meet US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent tomorrow. Cue the ususal talk of compromising on chlorinated chicken. Not so, reports the Spectator’s economics editor Michael Simmons, who explains that Reeves may offer a reduction in long-standing tariffs already imposed on American cars. But, it’s been a bad week of economic news for the Chancellor as the IMF downgraded the UK’s growth forecast.
We’re also one week away from the local elections – Starmer’s first big test since last year’s general election. The economy isn’t usually the number one issue at local elections but, as More in Common’s Luke Tryl explains, the cost of living crisis is still very much alive in voters’ minds. And, while Reform look set to have a good night, the economy is not their strongest policy area. What should we look out for on the night?
Michael and Luke join Lucy Dunn to discuss.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons. Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Happy St George’s Day! To celebrate, we thought we would discuss who is the most patriotic political leader — and why some struggle to communicate their love of country.
Keir Starmer declared in an interview with the Mirror this morning that Labour is ‘the patriotic party’. This follows a more concerted effort from those within the party to become more comfortable with the flag. But is Keir Starmer actually a patriot? How will the ‘battle of the Union Jack’ play out at the local elections? And does Reform have a point to prove when it comes to patriotism?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Claire Ainsley, former executive director of policy for the Labour party, now at the Progressive Policy Institute.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Parliament is back after the Easter holiday and the Supreme Court ruling over 'what is a woman' continues to dominate talk in Westminster. The Prime Minister has changed his tune on trans, declaring he does not think that trans women are women. This has caused some disquiet in the party, with a number of senior MPs breaking rank over the weekend. Was Starmer right to row in behind the ruling?
Also on the podcast, as we edge closer to the local elections, they look increasingly important for the two main parties. Pollsters are forecasting a good result for smaller insurgent parties such as Reform and the Greens, with big losses for Labour and the Conservatives. It is not an overstatement to suggest that these could be the most important local elections in recent history. What will these elections mean for the two-party system?
Natasha Feroze speaks to James Heale and Paul Goodman.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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The Liberal Democrats’ foreign affairs spokesperson Calum Miller, elected as the new MP for Bicester and Woodstock last year, joins James Heale to talk about the ambitions of the party that became the largest third party in Parliament in 100 years at the 2024 general election. They want to overtake the Conservatives to be the second party in local government – could they one day overtake the Tories to become the official opposition?
A former civil servant, Oxford University policy manager and councillor, Calum joins Coffee House Shots to talk about why he got into politics, how Brexit radicalised his desire for good governance and why, for all the fun, there is a serious point behind Ed Davey’s stunts.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Katy Balls joins Coffee House Shots for the last time as the Spectator’s political editor. Having joined the magazine ten years ago – or six prime ministers in Downing St years – what are her reflections on British politics? Katy’s lobby lunch partner from the Financial Times Stephen Bush joins Katy and Patrick Gibbons to try and make sense of a turbulent political decade, work out where the greatest risk is to the current Labour government, and attempt to make some predictions for the next ten years.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons. Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Former Labour MP Jonathan Ashworth and Patrick Maguire from The Times join Katy Balls for her penultimate Coffee House Shots podcast as The Spectator's political editor. Since losing his seat at last year's general election, Ashworth has been CEO of Labour Together – but not for much longer as he exclusively reveals on the podcast.
Less than two weeks to go from the local elections, and only a few months away from marking one year in power, what is morale like in the Labour Party? While Patrick reflects on who might, or might not, be feeling happy, Ashworth provides more reasons for Labour supporters to feel bullish – particularly when thinking about the threat from Reform.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Michael Gove and Katy Balls join James Heale to discuss their interview with the Health Secretary Wes Streeting included in this week’s special Easter edition of The Spectator. Michael identifies three key reasons why Streeting’s fate is key to the success of the government: immigration, the cost-of-living crisis and faith in the NHS. Seen as the ‘golden child’ of Number 10, Streeting has as many supporters in the Labour party as he has detractors – but his Blairite-coded image could help him take the fight to Reform.
Also on the podcast, Michael, Katy and James discuss Nigel Farage’s progress in the local election campaign. Plus, as this is Katy’s last podcast with Michael and James keep listening to the end for an ‘easter egg’ from Michael – as well as why black cabs make the best podcast studios.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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With just over two weeks to go until the May elections, the latest national polling suggests an almost three-way split between Reform, Labour and the Conservatives. But will this translate to the locals? And, given these particular seats were last contested in 2021 amidst the 'Boris wave', how will the parties judge success?
The Spectator's deputy political editor James Heale and More in Common's Luke Tryl join Lucy Dunn to discuss. Will the story of the night be Tory losses and Reform gains? Or will it be about the government's performance against opposition parties?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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As Donald Trump’s policies on tariffs keep shifting, leaving countries scrambling to react, there has been some good news for Keir Starmer and the Labour government. Speaking to UnHerd, the US vice-president J.D. Vance spoke up the UK’s chances of securing a trade deal. While this would be a win for Starmer, questions remain over the substance – from agriculture to food, what would be included? And can we really believe it will happen?
The Spectator’s political editor Katy Balls and deputy US editor Kate Andrews join Patrick Gibbons to discuss.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Panic has subsided over the British Steel crisis as Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, while visiting the site in Scunthorpe, confirmed that the raw materials needed to keep the furnaces running have been secured. While questions remain over the long-term future of the site, the Government are quite confident in their handling of the crisis so far – something not unhelpful with just over two weeks to go from the local elections. Less helpful is the news that over in Birmingham workers have rejected a pay deal with the Labour-run city council; the bin strike will continue. Is there more the government could be doing to end the dispute?
Political editor Katy Balls and former Political Secretary to Tony Blair John McTernan join Patrick Gibbons to discuss.
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Parliament was recalled from Easter recess for a rare Saturday sitting of Parliament yesterday, to debate the future of British Steel. Legislation was passed to allow the government to take control of the Chinese-owned company – Conservative MP David Davis called this 'nationalisation in all but name'. Though, with broad support across the House including from Reform leader Nigel Farage, the debate centred less around the cure and more around the cause.
Katy Balls and James Heale join Patrick Gibbons to discuss the debate, the political reaction and how much of a precedent this sets for Starmer.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Globalisation's obituary has been written many times before but, with the turmoil caused over the past few weeks with Donald Trump's various announcements on tariffs, could this mark the beginning of the end for the economic order as we know it?
Tej Parikh from the Financial Times and Kate Andrews, The Spectator's deputy US editor, join economics editor Michael Simmons to make the case for why globalisation will outlive Trump. Though, as the US becomes one of the most protectionist countries in the developed world, how much damage has been done to the reputation of the US? And to what extent do governments need to adapt?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Finally, some good news for your Friday: the economy is growing! Just when everyone seems to be revising down expectations of growth, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) estimates that GDP grew by 0.5 per cent in February. It also revised January’s figures upwards to give growth for the last quarter of 0.6 per cent, and annual growth of 1.4 per cent. It looks – for now – that the Reeves recession has been put on hold and that Labour's growth agenda could be working.
That said, Labour cannot afford to celebrate just yet. There is reason to believe the figures could be overstated, and there are some trust issues with the ONS – the government last week announced a review of its ‘performance and culture’. These figures also do not take into account the tumult caused by Trump's tariffs. So what can we read into them? Will Trump undo Labour's progress?
Lucy Dunn speaks to Michael Simmons and Katy Balls.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Two days ago, talk of a 90-day pause on Donald Trump’s ‘reciprocal tariffs’ was branded ‘fake news’ by the White House. But yesterday, the President confirmed a 90-day pause on the higher tariff rates on all countries apart from China. There is some confusion about whether this was The Donald's plan from the start – although the safe assumption is that it wasn't, and that someone senior in the White House sat him down and explained the market chaos he has caused. Is this 'the art of the deal’?
Regarding China, the President wrote: ‘Based on the lack of respect that China has shown to the World’s Markets, I am hereby raising the Tariff charged to China by the United States of America to 125 per cent, effective immediately.’ This is an increase on Trump’s part from the 104 per cent levy, which China countered with an 84 per cent tariff on American imports. What should we expect from the US–China trade war?
Katy Balls speaks to Cindy Yu and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Trump’s levies have kicked in today: including an astonishing 102 per cent tariff on China – after it missed the deadline to withdraw its retaliatory tariffs – and 20 per cent on the European Union. The combination of these explosive tariffs has sent markets sliding once again. This follows a slight recovery in the markets yesterday after suggestions by some in the Trump administration that they may be willing to negotiate the tariffs down.
In the UK, the economic uncertainty has ‘turbocharged’ plans which have been whispered around Westminster for some time, including nationalising the British steel industry. Attention has also turned towards a trade deal with the US, and the complexion that might take in a post-tariff landscape and in the context of the EU reset. There is hope in government that a deal could be done in the next month. Are the tariffs forcing the government into action? How does Starmer keep both the EU and the US on side?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Shanker Singham, CEO of Competere and a former trade adviser to the UK government.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Parliament is about to go into recess for the Easter holiday and so – as is customary – Keir Starmer sat in front of the Liaison Committee this afternoon, where he was grilled on topics including tariffs, defence and welfare.
This comes on the day when there has been a momentary reprieve in the markets, which experienced a modest bounce – most likely as a result of suggestions from Trump that he is willing to negotiate with China. Markets seem to have priced in that these tariffs could be negotiated down, but that is of course a big 'if'. The question remains for Keir Starmer: what more can he do to protect the UK against economic meltdown? And will he have to break his fiscal rules to do so?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Isabel Hardman and Michael Simmons.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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The fallout from Trump’s tariffs continues. Last week, Donald Trump ended the free-trade era that has underpinned growth for decades (and potentially also heralded the end of globalisation). Markets around the world have taken a nosedive, prompting fears of a global recession. The only (brief) reprieve was when stock markets rallied because of a misunderstanding regarding comments made by Trump’s economic adviser. Once these had been clarified, the Nasdaq dipped once again. Republicans are starting to turn on Trump – including Elon Musk, who has been sending out some coded tweets.
The strength of the reaction from the markets has drawn comparisons between Trump and Liz Truss, whose mini-Budget spooked the markets so comprehensively that she had to backtrack after just ten days. Might Trump do the same?
Meanwhile, Keir Starmer has intervened in an effort to protect the UK car industry against Trump’s 25 per cent tariffs. What other levers can he pull to reduce the impact on Brits?
Lucy Dunn speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Marine Le Pen, president of Rassemblement National (National Rally) was found guilty this week of embezzling EU funds to boost her party’s finances. The guilty verdict was widely expected, however her sentence was far harsher than even her strongest critics expected – part of which saw her banned from standing for office for five years, with immediate effect. Le Pen had been the favourite to win the next French presidential election in 2027.
Pursuing Donald Trump through the courts was widely seen as backfiring as he went on to win the presidential election, and many have argued that there is a double standard with many more figures and parties facing investigation from the right than from the left. Is this a case of justice served, or another example of creeping lawfare across the West? Deputy political editor James Heale discusses with our deputy editor Freddy Gray and French journalist and writer Anne-Elisabeth Moutet.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Today marks five years since Keir Starmer became leader of the Labour party. In that time, he has gradually purged Labour of its leftist wing and wrestled the party back to the centre, winning a historic majority in 2024. But, five years on, the question remains: what does Keir Starmer stand for?
He came in as the acceptable face of Corbynism but looks more and more like a Conservative with each passing domestic policy announcement (take your pick: winter fuel, waging war with the size of the state, welfare cuts etc.). Internationally, it is a different story. Despite saying little on foreign policy in the build-up to the general election, he has been widely praised for his foreign policy and his steady hand when dealing with Trump.
Lucy Dunn, James Heale and John McTernan discuss the many faces of Keir Starmer.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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It's the day after America 'reclaimed it's destiny', or so Donald Trump says. The President announced a raft of 'reciprocal' new tariffs from the White House rose garden, including a 10% levy on the UK which – before it comes into effect on 5th April – the government hope to negotiate down.
Other countries have come off much worse. China, for example, will experience a 34 per cent ‘discounted reciprocal tariffs’, compared to the 67 per cent Trump claims China puts on US goods. The European Union will experience 20 per cent levies, compared to the 39 per cent Trump also says is put on US goods. ‘We’re a very kind people, we’re very kind,’ the President said of Americans. But ‘not so kind when you get ripped off’. The EU says they have a 'strong plan' to retaliate, how might this jeopardise Starmer's European reset? And is the UK's lower rate a rare example of a Brexit benefit?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Freddy Gray.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson. Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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It’s World Tariff Day – or Liberation Day, depending on what you prefer to call it – but we won’t know for certain what levies Donald Trump will impose on the world until around 9 p.m. this evening. Sources are speculating that Trump still isn’t 100 per cent sure himself. But as the UK awaits its fate, what is the polling saying: should Starmer stand up to Trump?
Also on the podcast, it’s just under a month until the local elections, and we have seen big launch events from Reform UK and the Liberal Democrats. These are the parties expecting to do well – potentially winning upwards of 400 council seats each. Labour and the Tories, meanwhile, are managing expectations. After some internal turbulence over the last month or so, could the local elections put Reform back on track? Who will be the biggest loser?
Katy Balls speaks to James Heale and Luke Tryl, executive director of the polling company More in Common.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Britain’s real economic pain starts today. Overnight, the cost of living has jumped once again: energy, water, broadband, public transport, TV licences – all up. So too are council tax bills, capital gains, and vehicle taxes. And that’s before we even get to the slow stealth march of fiscal drag and the impact of World Tariff Day which could wipe out Rachel Reeve's newly restored headroom. Jonathan Reynolds was the unlucky minister on the broadcast round this morning trying to defend this increasingly bleak picture, is there any good news?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Michael Simmons.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson. Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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This week will see ‘World Tariff Day’ – as those in Westminster are not-so-excitedly calling Wednesday – when Donald Trump will announce a wave of new tariffs. Trump is expected to reveal plans for reciprocal tariffs aimed at addressing what he sees as an ongoing trade imbalance between the US and other countries. He argues that it is ‘finally time for the Good Ol’ USA to get some of that MONEY, and RESPECT, BACK. GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!’.
It had looked as though the Prime Minister’s softly-softly approach to US relations was working and that we might avoid Trump’s levies... that was until the UK was included in the 25 per cent tariff on cars and auto parts imported into the US, along with steel.
There is some hope, however. Donald Trump and Keir Starmer had a call last night in which they spoke about a limited free trade deal. The pair ‘discussed the productive negotiations between their respective teams on a UK–US economic prosperity deal, agreeing that these will continue at pace this week’. It is a knotty situation for the Prime Minister because if he cannot charm his way back into the US’s good books, he will face more calls to get tough on Donald and threaten retaliatory tariffs. What’s the mood in Westminster? And – more importantly – what’s the mood in Washington?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson. Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows.
Former Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby gives his first interview since stepping down last year, and says he forgives John Smyth. Sentebale chair Sophie Chandauka accuses Prince Harry of ‘bullying at scale’. And Labour are questioned over immigration and the chancellor’s Spring Statement.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
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An MP for 35 years, Michael Heseltine served as Environment Secretary and then Defence Secretary in Margaret Thatcher’s government. Following his well-publicised resignation in 1986, he returned to government under John Major and was Deputy Prime Minister for the last two years of Major’s premiership. Once seen as a potential successor to Thatcher and Major, he has sat in the Lords since stepping down as an MP in 2001, and in recent years has been an outspoken critic of Brexit.
Lord Heseltine sits down with James Heale to discuss his thoughts on the current Labour government, how to fix Britain’s broken economy and why devolution should go further. ‘Deeply depressed’ by attacks on the civil service – Britain’s ‘rolls royce’ – he provides his thoughts on various political leaders: Starmer is handling Trump well, Reeves is handling the economy badly, Badenoch is being overshadowed by foreign affairs, and Boris Johnson demonstrated he has ‘no integrity’. And on Thatcher, he says new information has vindicated him over the Westland affair and demonstrated her ‘complicity’. His new book, From Acorns to Oaks: An Urgent Agenda to Rebuild Britain, is out now.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Join Katy Balls, Michael Gove, Lord Glasman, Lord Frost and pollster James Kanagasooriam as they unpack the highly anticipated Spring Statement and its implications for national policy and global security.
Listen for: Michael’s plan for how to deal with the Donald, and why the Treasury is not fit for purpose; Maurice on his influence in the White House, and what's wrong with the current political class; David’s reflections on why Brexit was ahead of its time; and James’s explanation for Britain’s lost sense of community.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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It’s the morning after the afternoon before, and Rachel Reeves has just finished her broadcast round, where she has faced tough questions and negative splashes in the papers. The Daily Mail brands Reeves ‘deluded’, while the Daily Telegraph warns of ‘five years of record taxes’. The Guardian splashes with ‘Reeves accused of balancing books at expense of the poor’, while the Financial Times says, ‘Tax rise fears cloud Reeves’s fiscal fix’.
She is navigating two main issues: first, the additional welfare reforms have caused disquiet in the Labour Party, with a potential rebellion on the horizon; second, the conversation has already turned to whether she will have to return for further tax rises in the autumn. Meanwhile, her headroom is under threat once again following this morning’s news that Donald Trump will impose a 25 per cent tariff on all imported cars. Can she keep the party – and the finances – in check?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Michael Simmons.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
For tickets to The Spectator’s Spring Statement special live Coffee House Shots, click here. Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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This afternoon, Rachel Reeves made good on her promise to deliver only one fiscal set piece per calendar year by announcing what is widely being considered a Budget... this precedes a spending review in the summer and an actual Budget in the autumn. The headline is that the Chancellor had to find £15 billion in spending cuts to restore her headroom and keep within her own ‘ironclad’ fiscal rules. This comes after the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) confirmed that the £9.9 billion margin she left herself in the autumn has disappeared. The OBR has also halved its growth projections – bleak news for the government.
Among the announcements: further welfare cuts after the OBR was not satisfied with the original package; some ‘final adjustments’ to Universal Credit, with the standard allowance rising from £92 per week in 2025–26 to £106 per week by 2029–30; around 10,000 civil service jobs are for the chop; defence spending will rise, at the expense of international aid; and a new target to reduce the cost of running government by 15 per cent. But what is most striking is the extent to which the government is now beholden to the OBR. Who is running this government? Can Labour deliver on growth?
Katy Balls speaks to Michael Gove and David Miles, member of the OBR's Budget Responsibility Committee.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Hard hats on for the Spring Statement tomorrow, where at around midday Rachel Reeves will deliver her fiscal update (read: significant fiscal set piece). Aside from not spooking the markets, the Chancellor will be hoping that she doesn’t spook those within her own party.
There are rumours of discontent circling around Westminster about a potential Labour split. We have already seen secretaries of state briefing out their discontent over potential departmental cuts. Ministers have also been breaking rank this week to criticise Rachel Reeves for accepting free Sabrina Carpenter tickets. Can she keep the party united?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and John McTernan, former political secretary to Tony Blair.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
For tickets to The Spectator's Spring Statement special live Coffee House Shots, click here. Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Reports in the papers today say that the British government is considering scrapping its digital services tax – largely levied at American tech companies – in return for an exemption to Trump's tariffs that come into effect on April 2. Would this be an effective – or desirable – move on the British part? James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Cindy Yu.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
Rachel Reeves defends her record as chancellor ahead of the Spring Statement, with pressure mounting over gloomy forecasts. Lib Dem deputy leader Daisy Cooper accuses Labour of losing their moral compass, Darren Jones is told Labour are 'anti-business', and Mel Stride attempts to justify Kemi Badenoch's assertion that the country's net-zero target is 'impossible'. Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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On 23 March 2020, then-Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced the unprecedented decision to put the UK into lockdown. To mark the 5th anniversary of that announcement this weekend, we have brought together our editor Michael Gove – then a cabinet minister under Boris – and our associate editor Toby Young – an ardent critic of the decision – to answer the question, was the government right to lock down?
Was the decision a necessary and reasonable health measure based on the available evidence at the time, or a significant and avoidable violation of civil liberties by a government that was meant to champion liberal freedoms? You decide.
Produced and presented by Patrick Gibbons.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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It's been Kemi-takes-action week for the Conservatives, with the leader of the opposition trying to prove that she can – in fact – do policy. She launched a series of policy reviews, which will be delivered in a steady stream between now and conference, with a headline statement on Net Zero, declaring that Britain’s 2050 emissions target was ‘impossible’. That went down well with the party, and many thought her announcement felt genuinely proactive rather than reactive.
After months of being criticised for not doing enough, is she finally shifting the dial? Will it be enough to avoid a local elections wipeout?
Katy Balls speaks to James Heale and Paul Goodman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Cindy Yu.
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It’s a big day in defence. Keir Starmer began the day in Barrow talking about nuclear subs and will end the day in a meeting of the ‘coalition of the willing’ on the outskirts of London. But that coalition seems like it could be undermined by the European Commission’s decision to exclude non-EU arms makers from the bloc’s new €150 billion defence fund. Officials are keen to stress that this is not a done deal yet, but this would be a massive blow for the UK (and the US) and a big win for France. With Europe rearming, who stands to benefit? And what should we expect from the meeting of military officials later today?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Eliot Wilson, former clerk to the House of Commons, including on the Defence Committee.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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The question that everyone in Westminster wants answered is what will actually be included in next week’s Spring Statement. Previously, the Spring Statement wasn’t looking like much to write home about – little more than an update. But with the economy taking a turn for the worse and her fiscal headroom narrowing, it has taken on renewed importance for Rachel Reeves, with the opposition trying their best to brand it as an ‘Emergency Budget’. What does Reeves need to do to calm the markets?
Also on the podcast, Pensions Minister Torsten Bell gave an interesting interview to Newsnight last night, defending the government’s welfare reforms. Where are we with the fallout from Liz Kendall’s benefit crackdown?
James Heale speaks to Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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This afternoon we had Liz Kendall’s long-awaited address in the Commons on Labour’s plans for welfare reform. The prospect of £5 billion worth of cuts to welfare has split the party in two, with fears of a rebellion growing over the weekend and into this week.
Her announcement was a mixed bag, including: restricting eligibility for the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) so that only those who have the highest level of disability can claim the benefit and – to sweeten the deal for backbenchers – announcing that the government will not bring in vouchers for disability benefit or freeze PIP. One of the new lines that had not been trailed in advance was that under 22s would not be eligible for the health top-up of Universal Credit (UC). What’s the politics of all this? Will Labour MPs stomach Liz Kendall’s benefits crackdown?
Katy Balls speaks to The Spectator's new economics editor Michael Simmons and Stephen Bush, associate editor at the Financial Times.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Cindy Yu.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Bridget Phillipson's schools bill is back in the Commons today. The scope of the legislation is twofold: firstly, looking at the welfare of children in schools and secondly at fundamentally changing the landscape of secondary education by doing away with academies (and with it the legacy of the previous Conservative government on education). The plan has been read by many – including former head of Ofsted Amanda Spielman, who joins today's podcast – as Labour pandering to the unions and perhaps even prioritising the adults (union members) over the children.
Amendments to the bill will be debated this afternoon, including a Tory amendment that would ban phones in schools, although it doesn't seem that Labour is in the mood to make any concessions. What is motivating Labour? What's the vision of change here?
James Heale speaks to Michael Gove and Amanda Spielman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Megan McElroy.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
NHS England will be demolished as Labour make sweeping changes to the NHS, and cuts are coming to welfare too, with Health Secretary Streeting saying mental health disorders are 'over-diagnosed'. Plus, Shadow Education Secretary Laura Trott wants phones banned from all schools, and Finland President Alexander Stubb says Putin does not want a ceasefire.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Slashing the winter fuel allowance, maintaining the two child benefit cap, cutting international aid, cutting the civil service, axing NHS bureaucracy, possibly slashing welfare expenditure... you'd be forgiven for thinking the Conservatives were in power. But no, these are all policies pursued by the current Labour government. So on today's Saturday Shots Cindy Yu asks Michael Gove and James Heale, is Keir Starmer a Tory?
While Michael admits to giving Starmer a 'painful' two cheers, he does say there is historic precedent for Labour governments enacting right-leaning measures: from Jim Callaghan's migration policies to the economic ones of Ramsay MacDonald. How has Starmer got away with it? And what does his premiership of pragmatism tell us about the future direction of Labour?
Michael sets out a number of tests to judge Starmer's success by: the tests of Fraser Nelson, Robert Jenrick, Ernie Bevin, Denis Healey and Bob Mellish...
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Cindy Yu.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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New figures from the Office for National Statistics show the UK economy unexpectedly shrunk by 0.1% in January. This comes only a few weeks after the Chancellor's pro-growth speech, and a fortnight ahead of her Spring Statement. Just how much pressure is Rachel Reeves under? And how likely is it that Labour will change their approach?
Economics editor Michael Simmons and deputy political editor James Heale join Patrick Gibbons to discuss, as well as a look ahead to next week's expected announcement on reducing the welfare bill.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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It was widely briefed that the main focus of Sir Keir Starmer’s speech in Yorkshire today was his plan to do away with Whitehall red tape. What was kept under wraps was the Prime Minister’s plans for the NHS – specifically to scrap NHS England. In a bid to tackle bureaucracy in the health service, the PM this morning told reporters that the ‘arms-length NHS’ needed to go – adding that the move will ‘shift money to the front line’ and free the health service to ‘focus on patients’. What's the point of abolishing NHS England? And are Labour 'doing the things that the Tories only dreamed of'?
Lucy Dunn speaks James Heale and Michael Gove.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Megan McElroy. Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Nicola Sturgeon has announced her intention to step down at the next Scottish Parliament election in May 2026. One of the original MSPs elected to Holyrood in 1999, Sturgeon has dominated Scottish and UK politics over the past two decades. The Salmond-Sturgeon era began in 2004 and she went on to serve as First Minister for the best part of a decade.
Stewart McDonald, former SNP MP for Glasgow South 2015-24, and Lucy Dunn join James Heale on this special Coffee House Scots to discuss Sturgeon's legacy. She brought Scotland the closest to independence for 300 years, yet resigned in 2023 under a cloud over party management. Attention turns to next year's election, could the SNP's winning streak continue without her?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Natasha Feroze. Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Last night there was a huge breakthrough in Ukraine peace talks, with Zelensky accepting a US proposal for a ceasefire and placing ‘the ball in Putin’s court’, according to Marco Rubio. While getting Zelensky to accept is a huge diplomatic win, the proposal hinges on Putin agree to the terms of the ceasefire – which will last for 30 days but can be extended by mutual agreement. ‘I’ll talk to Vladimir Putin. It takes two to tango,’ said Donald Trump. Can Putin afford to reject the deal? And could this be the basis for a lasting peace?
Meanwhile, Keir Starmer has been getting a lot of credit for his role in the Ukraine peace process and the perception that he has stepped up to meet the crisis. How instrumental was the UK in bringing about the ceasefire, or is this Trump’s deal? And how does the news that the UK won’t get an exemption from the president’s 25 per cent tariffs on steel undermine the US–UK relationship?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Mark Galeotti, head of the Mayak Intelligence consultancy.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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There is a row on the horizon over welfare cuts. Yesterday’s meeting of the Parliamentary Labour Party (PLP) was packed, with many lobby journalists expecting fireworks. The Prime Minister got a positive reaction for his message on Ukraine, with MPs impressed by his strong response since Trump took office, but there was some scepticism in the room about his plan to make £6 billion in welfare cuts.
This is a difficult topic that cuts to the heart of the Labour Party and its position as the party of welfare – about 80 Labour MPs are said to oppose the government’s proposals. Can Keir Starmer weather the storm?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and John McTernan, former political adviser to Tony Blair.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Loyal listeners will remember that just three months ago we released a podcast asking: Is 2025 Farage’s year? The answer was ‘yes’, provided Reform UK can keep their five MPs in line...
As predicted – and despite all the talk of professionalisation – Nigel Farage’s latest political outfit is following the pattern of the parties that came before: infighting. On Friday night, the Reform party stripped Rupert Lowe of the whip after referring him to the police. Lowe stands accused of workplace bullying and threatening behaviour towards party chair Zia Yusuf. These are allegations that he strongly denies, calling the whole affair a ‘witch hunt’. How long has there been tension between Lowe and the party leadership? Can Reform recover from losing 20 per cent of their presence in the Commons?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Gawain Towler, former head of communications for Reform.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Megan McElroy.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
Pat McFadden addresses Starmer's 'coalition of the willing', and incoming reforms at Whitehall, somewhat elusively. Richard Tice defends the timing of Reform MP Rupert Lowe's suspension, and Chris Philp speaks about the Tories' suggestion to ignore the Human Rights Act when judges make decisions on immigration. Meanwhile, the Latvian President argues that other European nations should be considering conscription.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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It’s a special (and emotional) edition of Coffee House Shots this Saturday because it is the last with Kate Andrews on this side of the Atlantic. She joins our editor Michael Gove and political correspondent James Heale for a debate on ideology. Kate – a liberal, in the classical British sense – explains exactly why she is not a Conservative and the various tenets that distinguish liberalism from conservatism, whilst Michael makes the case for being a 'pessimistic' conservative.
So, what makes a liberal? What makes a conservative? And was Hayek right in saying that while there isn’t much to choose between these two political creeds, ultimately, they need each other.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
Kate Andrews' suggested reading on liberalism:
F. A. Hayek: The Road to Serfdom
Adam Smith: The Wealth of Nations
Deirdre McCloskey: Why Liberalism WorksBecome a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Trump has been stealing the headlines when it comes to Ukraine this week, but Europe – and whether it can stay united in the face of the US pulling its support – remains an important subplot. At a summit yesterday, 27 countries backed the plan to increase spending on defence, but when will the cracks start to show?
Thankfully, it seems that the Prime Minister is good in a crisis. Back at home, he has seen a modest bounce in popularity and he is making a good impression in Brussels, coming across as assured without grandstanding. He has also been leading on defence spending – could defence be the way in for Starmer to renegotiate a new position within the EU? Is Starmer having a good crisis?
Katy Balls speaks to James Heale and Charles Grant, director of the Centre for European Reform.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Labour have found themselves facing accusations of enabling ‘two tier policing’ following new guidelines from the Sentencing Council. Shadow Justice Secretary Robert Jenrick has been quick to criticise the government, but Labour’s Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood has also urged the council reconsider their recommendations.
Yvette Cooper’s former adviser Danny Shaw joins Katy Balls and James Heale to discuss the row. While Danny points out that the issue is more nuanced than the row makes out, to the public the very perception of ‘two tier policing’ will damage the government - and at a time when confidence in the justice system is at an all-time low. How will they fix the problem?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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With reports of ‘billions’ of spending cuts earmarked for the Chancellor’s Spring Statement, taking place later this month, Michael Gove and Kate Andrews join Katy Balls to discuss what exactly Rachel Reeves could cut. With little fiscal headroom and sluggish forecasts of growth, Reeves doesn’t appear to have many options. It’s likely that welfare will be targeted, and there are reports that Labour’s opposition to new North Sea oil & gas licences may be relaxed to stimulate growth. One area that appears off the table is defence – following the Prime Minister’s pledge to cut international aid in order to fund new defence spending.
But if all these reports are true, where does that leave Labour ideologically? Could Labour’s left be heading for what Michael calls their own ‘winter of discontent’? And what appetite does a weary British public have for further spending cuts?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Overnight President Trump made another extraordinary move in his ongoing attempt to broker a deal between Ukraine and Russia, suspending all U.S. military aid to Ukraine. Katy Balls talks to James Heale and geopolitical analyst Mark Galeotti about how serious this development is and where it leaves Ukraine's European supporters.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Cindy Yu.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Along with the French President Emmanuel Macron, Keir Starmer seems to be spearheading Europe's diplomatic efforts to secure a lasting peace deal for Ukraine in light of the new American administration's animosity towards Zelensky. Among the proposals being discussed are a peace-keeping force in the country, as a part of efforts to show the Trump administration that Europe is taking responsibility, as it were, for its own security. But will Starmer really get the Americans on board? And if not, does he risk over-promising to Ukraine? James Heale talks to Kate Andrews and Katy Balls.
Produced by Cindy Yu.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Zelensky's much anticipated meeting at the White House finished in an angry clash between the Ukrainian President, JD Vance and Donald Trump. The Vice President accused Zelensky of leading 'propaganda tours' and culminated in the Ukrainian President leaving the White House without a signed minerals deal. Was Zelensky ambushed? European leaders quickly scrambled to show their solidarity for Ukraine, whilst attempting to maintain good relations with America. How high are the stakes for Starmer ahead of the peace summit held by No.10 on Sunday?Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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The Spectator’s Katy Balls, Michael Gove and Kate Andrews were joined by special guests Robert Jenrick and Jonathan Ashworth for a live podcast, recorded at the Emmanuel Centre in Westminster.
The main topic of discussion is, of course, Donald Trump, whose inauguration has ushered in a new world disorder. His ‘shock and awe’ foreign policy has sent Europe scrambling as it tries to work out who will be responsible for ensuring its security in the future. We have seen a move away from the idealism that has defined foreign policy in the last decade and towards ‘realism’, with countries committing to boots on the ground and greater defence spending. Are Labour right to increase their defence pledge? Is Kemi Badenoch being energetic enough in holding the government to account – not just on its foreign policy, but on its record in government so far? And – closer to home – how worried are the Tories about the rise of Reform?
This discussion was originally recorded on Wednesday 26 February.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Unbelievably, Keir Starmer arrives back from Washington today after a successful meeting with Donald Trump. In fact, it’s hard to see how it could have gone much better. Top of the list of victories: it looks like some headway was made in avoiding tariffs on the UK and, on Ukraine, the pair discussed the prime minister’s call for a security backstop for any deal. Starmer described that part of the talks as ‘productive’ and said that a ‘deal has to come first’. There will also be a second state visit for the President.
The greatest victory however is winning personal and effusive praise from the President. The Spectator’s sister magazine in the US was the first to get Trump’s reaction. The president told editor-at-large Ben Domenech: ‘I thought he was very good. I met him twice before – you know, he came to see me twice before – but this time was the best. And I think we got along very well.’ How did he do it? Is this the start of a new bromance?
Katy Balls discusses with Freddy Gray and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Keir Starmer is in D.C. for what will probably be one of the most important bilateral meetings of his premiership. The goal is to charm Trump and secure some guarantees for Ukraine's security after a negotiated peace in the war. Can he succeed? Cindy Yu talks to James Heale and Peter Quentin, Rusi Associate Fellow and former policy adviser to Ben Wallace.
Produced by Cindy Yu.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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For the second week in a row, the leader of the opposition seemed to struggle at Prime Minister's Questions, ending up accusing Keir Starmer of being 'patronising' after having a couple of her questions rebuffed. Cindy Yu talks to James Heale and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Cindy Yu.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Kemi Badenoch has today given a major speech outlining the Conservatives’ commitment to ‘realism’ in their foreign policy. She said, ‘You cannot help others if you cannot help yourself’, and that the sovereignty and strength of Britain matters 'above all'. She also pressed Keir Starmer to push defence spending north of the 2.5 per cent target and – as if it was all choreographed – the prime minister dutifully has, announcing in the Commons that defence spending will reach 3 per cent of GDP by the end of the next parliament. This will come at the expense of the foreign aid budget, another suggestion that the leader of the opposition made in her speech today. What is realism? Is it right to forgo our commitment to overseas aid?
Also on the podcast, we got the news yesterday that MP Mike Amesbury has been jailed for 10 weeks after punching a man in his constituency last year. His constituency, Runcorn and Helsby, could be an interesting by-election – could it be a Reform gain?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Michael Gove.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Today marks three years since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. From early fears of a swift Russian victory to the Kharkiv offensive and the slow war of attrition that has played out since, each stage of this war has been hard to predict. None more so than this stage, with the USA drastically changing tack and tearing up the transatlantic alliance by pursuing back-channel peace talks with Putin. Europe has been left scrambling. Where do we go from here? And with an isolationist USA, the breakdown of the European consensus on Ukraine and the UK's armed forces being hollowed out, who is left to defend Europe?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Keir Giles, a senior consulting fellow at Chatham House.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Cindy Yu presents highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows.
After an extraordinary week of anti-Zelenskyy attacks by Trump, the UK government is standing firmly behind Ukraine, with Starmer announcing new sanctions against Russia. Education Secretary stops short of criticising Trump though, saying she welcomes the US bringing Russia to the table. Meanwhile, Shadow Defence Secretary James Cartlidge and Estonia Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna urge Labour to ramp up defence spending past the new aim of 2.5% GDP.
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Simon Hart joins James Heale to talk about his new book Ungovernable: The Political Diaries of a Chief Whip. Having stepped down at the 2024 election, Simon has become the first former Chief Whip to publish his diaries. What are his reflections on the Conservatives' time in office? Simon explains why his decision to resign under Boris Johnson was so difficult, why the Rwanda vote under Rishi Sunak was their finest hour, and why the Whips' office is really the government's HR department. Just how Ungovernable was the Tory Party?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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'What does a party get after nearly two decades in office, collapsing public services, an internal civil war and a £2 million police investigation? Re-election again - perhaps with an even bigger majority', writes James Heale in The Spectator this week. He's talking about the SNP, whose change in fortunes has less to do with their leader John Swinney and more to do with the collapse of support for Scottish Labour and their leader Anas Sarwar.
Who could benefit from the increased fragmentation of voters in Scotland? Will demands for more time, money and attention cause even more issues for Rachel Reeves? As Scottish Labour meets for its conference in Glasgow this weekend, James and editor Michael Gove join Katy Balls to discuss the dynamics between Holyrood and Westminster. Michael also spots a positive avenue for Labour, should they wish to take it...
Produced by Patrick Gibbons. Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Donald Trump's latest comments on Ukraine and its leader have united the British political spectrum in condemnation – almost. Nigel Farage has tread a careful path given his friendship with the U.S. President, but also the fact that the majority of the British public disagree with Trump's critical attitude towards Ukraine. Can he keep this up? Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
Produced by Cindy Yu.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Foreign affairs are inescapable this week, with the readout from the meeting yesterday between Russian and American diplomats in Saudi Arabia. We understand that Trump told Putin that Ukraine will be part of the next round of peace talks. However, Trump’s shock-and-awe foreign policy continues to deliver significantly more shock than awe, especially after he seemingly blamed Ukraine for starting the war. What is he thinking? Could there be more to Trump's foreign policy than he is letting on?
Back in the UK, pressure is mounting on Rachel Reeves as more inaccuracies in her CV come to light, and inflation rises to 3 per cent. There have been murmurs that she could be replaced, but is there a viable candidate to replace her? And would anything actually change if she was reshuffled?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Kate Andrews and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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The future of Ukraine is being decided in a meeting between US and Russian diplomats in Saudi Arabia today. So far, we understand that America will insist that Ukraine is recognised as a sovereign nation, but NATO membership remains off the table. Meanwhile, European leaders have been cut out of the conversations. In response, they held their own summit yesterday, but it didn’t seem like they were all singing from the same hymn sheet. While the UK is pushing for higher defence spending and is willing to commit troops, other European nations seem more dovish, especially Germany and Italy. This is reflected in opinion polls as well. What's going on?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and James Johnson, director at JL Partners.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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There is lots to make sense of today in a huge week for European and world politics, with the fallout of the Munich Conference and today’s emergency summit in Paris. European powers are trying to navigate peace in Ukraine in the face of a belligerently isolationist Trump administration. The UK is caught between preserving its privileged position with the US and the desire for a European reset, as well as the need for an end to the war in Ukraine without giving in to Russia. Can Starmer bridge the transatlantic chasm that has opened up? Do the Europeans want us, and do the Americans need us?
Events in Europe will be incredibly consequential here in the UK. In an op-ed for The Telegraph, the Prime Minister has confirmed that he is ready and willing to put British troops in Ukraine and has set out plans to maintain the manifesto promise to pledge 2.5 per cent of GDP on defence spending, going against the Treasury. How difficult will it be for Starmer to make the case for increased defence spending?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Charles Grant, director of the Centre for European Reform.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
Next week, European leaders will hold an emergency summit in response to Trump attempting to seize control of the Ukraine peace process. This morning, Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds attempted to downplay any rift between the US and its European allies, but accepted that Europe had to contribute more to its own defence. Priti Patel claimed that it was too early to say what the US's position on Ukraine will be. And we also hear about how technology could allow us to design plants which revolutionise agriculture.
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It is 50 years since Margaret Thatcher was elected Conservative leader, and at this week’s shadow cabinet meeting, Lord Forsyth was invited as a guest speaker to mark the occasion. He noted the similarities between 1975 and 2025. Back then, the party was broke, reeling from defeat and facing the fallout from a reorganisation of local government. But, despite threadbare resources, Thatcher managed to rebuild to win power four years later. ‘You have the potential to do the same,’ Forsyth told Kemi Badenoch.
However, when asked if a young Thatcher would have been drawn to the right’s insurgent Reform Party, Nigel Farage replied, ‘I don’t think there’s any doubt about it.’ He even claimed that Thatcher had voted UKIP in 1999. ‘She believed in meritocracy, she put Jewish people in her cabinet, working-class people like Norman Tebbit. She would have hated wokery and diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI),’ said Farage.
What would Mrs Thatcher have thought of the current state of the Conservative Party? Might Reform have appealed to her?
James Heale speaks to Lord Forsyth.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Leaders from around the world are gathering at the Munich Security Conference, with the UK represented by Foreign Secretary David Lammy. All attention has turned to Ukraine, given statements this week by President Trump that he had spoken to Putin (and later Zelensky) about ending the Russia-Ukraine war.
Trump's statements, for example that NATO membership should be off the table, put him at odds with European allies. The UK signed a joint statement with leaders from France, Germany and others, that Ukraine's independence and territorial integrity are unconditional. Is the UK walking a tight-rope between the US and Europe? Where does this leave the NATO alliance? And, with a strategic defence review underway, what should the UK's approach to defence spending be?
Patrick Gibbons speaks to James Heale and The Spectator's Russia correspondent Owen Matthews.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons. Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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On this special episode of Coffee House Shots, economics editor Kate Andrews is joined by shadow home secretary Chris Philp to discuss the Tories’ newly announced plan to tackle immigration.
On legal migration, their proposal includes plans to end worklessness in order to stop the reliance on low-paid migrant workers. And on illegal migration, the line is ‘zero tolerance’ on small boats, including a removals deterrent much like the Rwanda plan, as well as other changes to the legal framework. One of the more controversial elements of their strategy is on citizenship. The Tories want to increase the period before migrants can apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) from five to ten years, and after that, it will take a further five years – rather than 12 months – to achieve British citizenship.
Which safe and legal pathways would people be able to use? How would the Conservatives ensure that the ‘best and the brightest’ are allowed in?
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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It’s a double celebration for Rachel Reeves today. Not only is it her birthday, but the UK economy grew by 0.1 per cent in the last three months of 2024, according to the Office for National Statistics’ latest report. December, when the economy expanded by 0.4 per cent (the market consensus had been 0.1 per cent), was the saving grace. This helped tip the final quarter of 2024 onto the right side of positive growth.
But it’s not all rosy for the Chancellor. This morning’s update won’t take anyone in the Treasury off high alert, and there has been a development in the story about her CV. The BBC has been looking into her expenses during her time at Halifax bank. The Chancellor’s response is that she had no knowledge that there was an investigation into wrongdoing. Will it be a happy birthday after all?
Elsewhere, it’s a big day at The Spectator. In this week’s issue, we have launched The Spectator Project Against Frivolous Funding (SPAFF). This online tool lets readers explore the wastelands of government procurement contracts, reckless credit card splurges and absurd research grants. Spoiler alert: there’s no shortage of material. Can you find more wasteful funding? Go to: spectator.co.uk/spaff
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Kate Andrews and Michael Simmons.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Today was the final PMQs before recess, and Kemi Badenoch had been hoping to leave on a high before the break. She started promisingly, opening with the case of a family from Gaza being granted asylum in the UK under the scheme designed for Ukrainians. Starmer replied to say he disagreed with the decision of the courts and that the Home Secretary was already looking at how to close the ‘legal loophole’ enabling that decision. But Badenoch seemingly hadn't prepared for his rebuttal, exposing once again the weakness of her own technique. Does she risk being outshone by her own backbenchers?
Also on the podcast, Kim Leadbeater is having to duck suggestions that she has watered down the safeguards in the Assisted Dying Bill by removing the need for a High Court judge. Can the Bill survive?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Kemi Badenoch has been Conservative Party leader for 100 days. Her party is fighting for survival, and she faces an uphill task greater than many of her predecessors: Reform UK surging in the polls, a depleted talent pool of just 121 MPs, and the hangover of 14 years of Conservative rule leaving her hamstrung on issues such as immigration and the economy. Has she managed to transform the party? What will the next 100 days look like?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Paul Goodman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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From Churchill to Thatcher to Blair to Farage, Parliament has seen some truly fantastic rhetoricians over the years. But last week came the news that – in a bid to improve his own oratorical skill – Keir Starmer employed a voice coach: former actress Leonie Mellinger. Mellinger has been at the centre of a fresh COVID-19 row, as the Prime Minister considered her to be so important that she qualified as a ‘key worker’ in 2020, visiting Labour headquarters in a mask on Christmas Eve 2020 to advise Starmer.
It is not an unusual practice to employ a voice coach to improve a politician’s public speaking, and on the podcast Michael Gove is joined by his own former coach Graham Davies, to recover the lost art of political rhetoric. They discuss what makes a great political speech, share some of their favourite examples and ask: has Mellinger actually improved Starmer’s delivery?
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Megan McElroy.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Katy Balls presents highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows.
Health Minister Andrew Gwynne is sacked by Starmer after sending offensive WhatsApp messages. Angela Rayner denies being aggressive in a meeting with Grenfell survivors, and admits doubt around Labour’s 1.5m new homes pledge. Alex Burghart won’t completely rule out a future Conservative-Reform pact. And Israeli President Isaac Herzog comments on Trump’s plan to expel Palestinians from Gaza.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
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While both Nigel Farage and Kemi Badenoch are quick to talk down speculation of a pact between the Tories and Reform, listeners may be surprised to hear that around Westminster such conversations are already taking place. With every new poll, Conservative MPs grow a little more anxious that by the time they go to the polls, they will have little claim to being the main opposition – and so some sort of agreement starts to make sense. That agreement could be anything from a non-aggression pact to bringing the two warring parties of the right under one leader. How likely is it?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Gawain Towler.
Plus: if you stay tuned until the end, we are joined by special guest Daniel, who gives us his reflections on his time as restaurant manager at one of Westminster's most important establishments: Chez Antoinette. He spills the beans on how to organise government's most powerful personalities into a seating plan – and who holds the record for the longest lunch in Chez history.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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This week saw the publication of Patrick Maguire and Gabriel Pogrund’s new book Get In: The Inside Story of Labour Under Starmer. It’s the second in their tell-all series of books on the Labour Party’s ups and downs and has caused quite a stir in Westminster. From the revelations about Keir Starmer’s voice coach causing a fresh lockdown row to Michael Gove’s secret dinner with Morgan McSweeney, there is a high-density of scoops and disclosures. Can Labour blame the failures of their first 100 days on Sue Gray? And is there such a thing as ‘Starmerism’? Patrick and Gabriel sat down with Katy Balls and Michael Gove to discuss.
Produced by Megan McElroy and Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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The Bank of England has cut interest rates for the third time since the inflation crisis, taking the base rate to 4.5 per cent. The Monetary Policy Committee voted by seven to two to further reduce rates by 0.25 percentage points – a move that was widely expected by markets, but had been put into doubt after government borrowing costs surged in January and President Donald Trump announced his plans for substantial tariffs last week. Why have the Bank of England decided to cut rates?
Also today, Kemi Badenoch has announced some policy! Ahead of the Labour government’s Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill being debated in Parliament next week, the Tory leader has unveiled her party’s latest offering on immigration. But have they actually thought it through?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson. Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Trump has blown the Overton window wide open. In a press conference yesterday alongside Benjamin Netanyahu, the US president outlined his intention to ‘take over the Gaza Strip’, displacing 1.8 million Palestinians in the process. His plan – if you can call it that – is to build ‘the Riviera of the Middle East’. Many of the countries Trump has earmarked to resettle displaced Gazans have already condemned the takeover. How will the international community respond?
Elsewhere, Keir Starmer seems more motivated by a desire to observe the rule of international law than his buddy across the pond. The Chagos deal seems set to be completed in the ‘coming weeks’. However, the new Mauritian prime minister, Navin Ramgoolam, claimed yesterday that Starmer cut a deal – in the presence, rather curiously, of his Attorney General, Lord Hermer – that would effectively double the £9 billion first offered to the country to take back the archipelago. Why are they pressing ahead with this deal? And, seven months into this government, are we any closer to discovering what ‘progressive realism’ actually is?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Michael Stephens, associate fellow at the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI).
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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It's happened. Reform are now ahead of Labour, according to a voting intention poll by YouGov. Reform leads the landmark poll with 25 points, with Labour languishing all the way down in second place on 24 points. Meanwhile, the Conservatives place third on 21 per cent, the Liberal Democrats are on 14 per cent and the Greens on 9 per cent. While there have been a handful of polls to date putting Reform in the lead, they have so far been regarded as outliers. It's a slim lead, but does it point to a long term shift in UK politics – or can it be dismissed as a blip? Does this make a Tory-Reform pact more likely?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson. Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Trump's tariff spree continues... After making good on his election promise to opt for another round of tariffs – a 25 per cent tax on imports from Canada and Mexico and a 10 per cent levy on Chinese goods – Trump has now turned his attention to Europe.
In an interview with the BBC, the president said that while the UK would likely avoid tariffs, the EU might not be so lucky and described the trade relationship with Europe as an ‘atrocity’. This comes on the day that Keir Starmer is in Brussels and will likely be trying to smooth the road ahead of a post-Brexit ‘reset’. Can Labour continue to play both sides?
Katy Balls speaks to Kate Andrews and Charles Grant, director of the Centre for European Reform.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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This week, Cindy Yu presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
The day before Keir Starmer is set to meet with European leaders, we hear contrasting views on Brexit and the UK's relationship with Europe from Yvette Cooper, Ed Davey and Andrew Griffith. Plus, Cooper talks about AI's dangerous involvement in the production of child abuse material.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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‘An absolute moron’ – those were the words used by Chris LaCivita, a senior campaign advisor to Trump, to describe Peter Mandelson. Lord Mandelson is Keir Starmer’s choice for the next ambassador to the US, but Trump may yet refuse his letters of credentials. How wise is this appointment at the dawn of an uncertain era of US-UK relations? Cindy Yu talks to James Heale and Sophia Gaston, UK foreign policy lead at the security think tank ASPI.
Produced by Cindy Yu.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Labour heavyweight John Prescott's funeral took place yesterday with former Prime Ministers Tony Blair and Gordon Brown leading the tributes. What is Prescott's legacy? And does the current Labour Party have politicians that emulate his appeal? Lucy Dunn speaks to James Heale and former Blair adviser John McTernan about how Prescott was the glue that held Labour together during the Blair-Brown years.
Also on the podcast, they discuss the borders and migration bill which Labour published this week. The bill sees the government adopt many measures that they voted against when in opposition. Does this show that Labour have what it takes to tackle immigration? Meanwhile the Conservatives still haven't come to terms with their own legacy on migration, as shown by shadow Foreign Secretary Priti Patel's comments to Talk TV...
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Tuesday night's Reform fundraiser was designed to spook the Conservative party, says Conservative peer and journalist Paul Goodman on today's episode. He talks to Cindy Yu and James Heale about whether Kemi Badenoch can keep her cool under Reform's domination of the airwaves.
Produced by Cindy Yu.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Today was the day for Rachel Reeves, as she delivered her big growth speech in Oxfordshire. This was not this government’s first attempt to pivot towards a more business-friendly, growth-generating narrative, but it was its best effort. The headline announcement is, of course, a third runway at Heathrow, throwing her support behind the ‘badly needed’ expansion.
However, a lot of what was announced will sound familiar to recently departed Tories, who laid the groundwork for Labour’s plans to properly connect the South East (or the ‘Oxford–Cambridge Arc’, as it has been repackaged). Will Rachel Reeves get her growth?
Katy Balls speaks to Michael Gove and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
For tickets to our first Coffee House Shots live event of 2025, go to: spectator.co.uk/coffeehouseliveBecome a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Richard Hermer was one of the surprise announcements from Keir Starmer’s first Cabinet, and one of the most controversial since. Starmer’s old pal came with some notable baggage: his former clients include Sri Lankan refugees to the Chagos Islands and ex-Sinn Féin leader Gerry Adams, as well as British-Bangladeshi Isis bride Shamima Begum.
In government, Hermer has played a key role in several contentious decisions, such as the government’s withdrawal of the UK’s objections to the International Criminal Court’s arrest warrant for Benjamin Netanyahu, and his involvement in the Chagos Islands deal. And today he admitted that he has had to recuse himself ‘from certain matters’ due to potential conflicts of interest. Is the government hamstrung by Hermer?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Rajiv Shah, former special adviser to the Attorney General and to Number 10.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Starmer and Trump have finally spoken, with a 45 minute phone call taking place between the two leaders. The pair reportedly discussed the ceasefire in Gaza, and trade and the economy, with Starmer attempting to find common ground by talking up his plans for deregulation. Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews about their relationship. Do these early signs suggest it will be wholly positive, or are there thornier issues to come?
Also on the podcast, Rachel Reeves is set to deliver a speech this week outlining her plans for growth - just how important is this week for her?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Cindy Yu.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows.
Rachel Reeves hints at new Heathrow runway, and defends the softening of her new non-dom tax rules. Kemi Badenoch blames lack of social integration for the Southport murders. And Baroness Beeban Kidron and Paul McCartney have doubts about the government’s approach to AI.
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For the past fortnight, Canada’s Parliament has been empty. After Justin Trudeau resigned as Liberal leader, all the polls are pointing to the likelihood that Canada will become another example of the West’s shift to the right.
This is partly due to the incumbency problem (and the ongoing internal struggles in the Liberal Party), but also the Canadian Conservatives’ firebrand leader: Pierre Poilievre. A skilled communicator who seamlessly mixes the online and offline world, Poilievre is in many ways one of the first Conservative influencers. And he has been picking up a number of admirers in the UK: Kemi Badenoch and Robert Jenrick have visited Canada to try to learn from his playbook, and Starmer seems to have been taking tips as well. Why are the left and the right excited by a Canadian conservative?
Katy Balls speaks to James Heale and Patrick Maguire.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Reform MP Rupert Lowe has called for the death penalty to be re-established in the wake of the sentencing of the Southport killer Axel Rudakubana. With the Assisted Dying Bill still making its way through Parliament, it has been decades since the topic of death has been so hotly debated by MPs.
Katy Balls speaks to James Heale and Isabel Hardman about the political reaction to Rudakubana's sentencing. How popular is the death penalty with both MPs and the public? Should we even be debating the issue? And could Reform officially back its return soon?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Natasha Feroze.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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After last week’s bond market jitters, the Chancellor pledged to go ‘further and faster’ to improve the UK’s anaemic economic growth. It looks as though Rachel Reeves’ hunt for growth could come at the expense of Labour’s green agenda.
Reeves is poised to make a series of announcements over the next month, starting with a softened stance on non-doms and approval for Heathrow’s third runway – as well as expansions at Gatwick and Luton airports. The move indicates a shift in priorities, with economic growth taking precedence over climate targets. Ed Miliband, the Energy Secretary, is believed to be privately opposed to the airport expansion scheme. What happened to the ‘green Chancellor’? And is a power struggle emerging between two of the most influential Cabinet members?
Also on the podcast: after criticism of Labour’s education plans, is it really all Bridget Phillipson’s fault? Or is there blame to share around?
Katy Balls speaks to James Heale and Michael Gove.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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It’s Davos day two, and Rachel Reeves has touched down in Switzerland to continue her hunt for growth. On the agenda today was a fireside chat with the Business Secretary on ‘The Year Ahead for the UK’, and she will also be attending a series of meetings with business leaders. The party line is that ‘the time to invest in Britain is now’; however, she will be doing this from the sidelines, having not been given one of the headline speaking slots. Can she bring home the bacon? And why is Davos so important?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Rupert Harrison, former chief of staff to George Osborne.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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At a press conference this morning, Keir Starmer moved quickly to announce a public inquiry into the Southport murders. This comes after Axel Rudakubana pleaded guilty to murdering three girls in a knife attack at a Taylor Swift–themed dance class last year. The Prime Minister promised that ‘no stone’ will be ‘left unturned’ when it comes to asking the ‘difficult questions… unburdened by cultural or institutional sensitivities’.
Chief among these difficult questions is why – when Rudakubana had been referred to the counter-extremism Prevent programme three times – he wasn’t stopped? And is there any substance to claims by Nigel Farage of a ‘cover-up’?
Katy Balls speaks to James Heale and Danny Shaw, former adviser to Yvette Cooper.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
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The parties - and protests - have already kicked off, as Trump's inauguration gets underway in Washington D.C. today. Katy Balls speaks to Michael Gove and Republicans Overseas UK's Sarah Elliott about what we can expect from the first week of Trump's second presidency, and how Keir Starmer will attempt to navigate the 'special relationship'. Sarah updates us on the mood in the US capital; which UK politicians have been spotted joining in on the fun?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows.
It’s a momentous few days, as a ceasefire begins in Gaza, and the US prepares for Trump’s inauguration. We hear about the plight of the hostages and their families, and then Darren Jones and Priti Patel give their opinion on the UK’s relationship with the incoming president.
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It's been a tricky week for Rachel Reeves: an onslaught of criticism for the levels of borrowing costs, GDP at 0.1 per cent, and stagflation still gripping the UK economy. Remarkably she has come out of it looking stronger – politically at least. But can she afford to celebrate? The Spectator's Kate Andrews and data editor Michael Simmons join the podcast to discuss the economy, and go through some of the most striking graphs from The Spectator's data hub this week.
Produced by Natasha Feroze.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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There will be more inquiries into grooming gangs. After sustained pressure, the Home Secretary announced yesterday a series of local, government-backed inquiries, rather than a full public inquiry. Critics argue that this either doesn’t go far enough, or that Labour have been forced to go back on their word by certain figures on the right and are now making policy on the hoof. Will these new inquiries deliver an adequate resolution?
Also on the podcast, Kemi Badenoch wasn't the only one giving a big speech yesterday, Ed Davey had an event of his own. He is pushing for a new customs union deal with the EU. Have they not learnt from their 2019 election pitch?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Keir Starmer is in Ukraine today, on his first visit to Kyiv since becoming Prime Minister. And he came bearing gifts: a 100-year partnership agreement between the UK and Ukraine, covering nine ‘pillars’ from culture to science. It is hoped that the new pact will define the relationship between the two countries well beyond the current conflict with Russia. This is all in the context of Donald Trump’s return to the White House, with his administration agitating for a peace deal. Is peace on the horizon?
Also on the podcast, Kemi Badenoch's big speech – in which she criticised the decisions made by successive Tory prime ministers – was overshadowed by the announcement that there will be government-backed inquiries into grooming gangs. Is this the right call?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Mark Galeotti, head of Mayak Intelligence and honorary professor at UCL School of Slavonic and East European Studies.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson. Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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With rumours swirling around Westminster and after Keir Starmer’s less than convincing defence of his Chancellor earlier in the week, Rachel Reeves has found some brief respite. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) confirmed that inflation dipped to 2.5 per cent in the 12 months to December, down from 2.6 per cent the month before. It’s welcome news for a Chancellor who is under pressure, so is she safe?
Elsewhere, there is a fresh row emerging concerning Gerry Adams. The government is proposing to repeal legislation, enacted in 2023, that prevents Gerry Adams and 400 others from claiming ‘compensation’ for having been detained in the 1970s for suspected involvement in terrorism. Keir Starmer has said that he and his ministers will look at ‘every conceivable way’ to block Gerry Adams from receiving government money, but will they end up paying out? And who is Lord Hermer KC, and why is he at the centre of all of this?
Katy Balls speaks to Michael Gove and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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New voting intention polling today puts Reform neck and neck with Labour. The YouGov/Times poll reveals that support for Starmer’s army has plummeted nine points, with just over a quarter of Brits backing the government – while Nigel Farage’s Reform party has seen its support soar by 10 points. Kemi Badenoch’s Tories have lost two points, while the canvassing of 2,279 adults – carried out between 12–13 January – shows the Lib Dems and the Greens both gained one. Perhaps the most damning news, however, is that only half of those who backed Labour in the 2024 election would vote for them next time. Where is Reform drawing these votes from? Is this polling worse for Labour, or the Tories?
Also, earlier today Tulip Siddiq resigned from her in the Treasury after allegations she lived in homes tied to her aunt’s ousted regime in Bangladesh. Was this inevitable?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Scarlett Maguire, director at JL Partners.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Former Scotland First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has announced she is separating from her husband Peter Murrell, former chief executive of the SNP. The announcement comes as the police probe into the SNP’s funds and finances remains ongoing, with Sturgeon and ex-SNP treasurer Colin Beattie under investigation while Murrell was charged with embezzlement in April 2024.
Katy Balls is joined by The Spectator’s editor Michael Gove, and data editor Michael Simmons, to discuss the separation, why the investigation is still ongoing four years later, and what chances Scottish Labour or Reform have against the SNP in 2025. Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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It’s rare that a world leader knows the name of a junior minister in the British government – let alone calls for them to be sacked. Yet that is the feat achieved by Tulip Siddiq, No. 4 in Rachel Reeves’s Treasury team. The anti-corruption minister is now facing calls to resign from the leader of Bangladesh, who condemned the use of properties gifted to her and her family by its former regime.
Elsewhere, Tory leader Kemi Badenoch joined the chorus of people calling for Siddiq to resign over the weekend, warning of a diplomatic crisis. On the Sunday media round, even Science Minister Peter Kyle refused to say that the government has full confidence in Siddiq, stating only that he has full confidence in the ongoing investigation by the Prime Minister’s ethics watchdog.
It seems less a matter of a simple ‘sorry’ and more a question of whether Siddiq will still be a Labour MP in a week’s time. What’s keeping her in the job? Is it just her proximity to Keir Starmer?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Stephen Bush.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
Fires continue to burn in LA, as Donald Trump prepares to begin his second term. Here in the UK, Labour is fighting its own fires, with anti-corruption minister Tulip Siddiq becoming part of a corruption investigation herself, and the Chancellor heading to China for investment as her budget comes under increasing pressure.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill. Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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This week, MPs voted against a new national inquiry into grooming gangs. The vote followed weeks of pressure on Labour after Elon Musk brought grooming gangs back into the spotlight, after safeguarding minister Jess Phillips rejected a new national inquiry.
If we did have a national inquiry, what would it achieve? We’ve had many in recent years; Iraq, Grenfell Covid, the Post Office. Do they achieve meaningful justice for victims, or are they a drawn-out way to avoid knotty legislative change? Does parliament have the mechanisms to enact the recommendations – have politicians ever done this in the past, and is there an appetite to do so in the future?
Deputy broadcast editor Natasha Feroze discusses with Spectator assistant editor Isabel Hardman, and Raja Miah, anti-grooming gang campaigner and Oldham commentator.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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The war between Labour and Elon Musk continues to rage. Today the Financial Times reports that the tech tycoon has had discussions about ousting Keir Starmer before the next election, while the Mirror holds a report that the Home Office has been assessing Elon Musk's tweets as a part of their efforts to tackle online extremism. Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and James Heale about whether Musk can really threaten Starmer's position.
Produced by Cindy Yu.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Long term borrowing costs for the government have reached levels not seen since 1998, and 10 year UK gilts are now at their highest point since the 2008 financial crash. Both surpass the levels seen during the Liz Truss premiership - and this hasn't gone unnoticed by the former PM. A set of similar circumstances, but could the consequences be the same? What are the economic - and political - challenges facing Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves?
James Heales speaks to Kate Andrews and Katy Balls to unpack the latest tranche of economic data.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons. Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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At PMQs today, the battle lines were drawn ahead of today’s vote on Labour’s Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill, which aims to protect children within the education system.
Its contents have galvanised opposition parties, who are using the legislation to force a fresh inquiry into grooming gangs. Shadow Education Secretary Laura Trott has also been on the airwaves today, attacking some of the reforms detailed in the plan, specifically on academies and free schools. The government is set to take away many of their freedoms to set curriculum and pay, freedoms given to them by our now editor – then education secretary – Michael Gove. So, do academies have a future in the education system? What’s Labour’s motivation here?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Michael Gove and Katy Balls.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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How do you solve a problem like Elon? We have spent much of the past week talking on the podcast about Labour vs Musk, and the tech billionaire’s vocal criticism of how the government is dealing with the grooming gang scandal. But Reform UK are having their own issues with the volatile owner of X. There have been questions over whether Musk could still bankroll the party after he called for Farage to step down following a disagreement over Musk’s support for the far-right activist Tommy Robinson – but in the last 24 hours, it seems the tech billionaire has rowed back a little on his stance and has returned to reposting Farage’s tweets.
Musk seems to be playing those on the right of British politics against each other, dishing out endorsements – retweets – to a different politician each day. Can anyone trust Musk? And what has the response to the grooming gang scandal revealed about parties on both sides of British politics?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Tim Stanley, columnist for the Telegraph.
Produced by Megan McElroy, Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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In a speech this morning, the Prime Minister unveiled his plans to tackle the NHS backlog, and hit back at comments Elon Musk has made regarding grooming gangs, the government's response to them, and about the Prime Minister’s own role in their prosecution.
Whilst the Prime Minister's speech was plagued by the familiar platitudes about the NHS it was shortly followed by the government's NHS elective recovery plan, which does include some interesting proposals to shift healthcare away from hospitals – for example, giving cash incentives to GPs each time they consult with a specialist to see if there is an alternative to hospital visits. Is this plan the miracle cure the NHS needs? And will Starmer's robust response to Elon Musk finally put their spat to bed?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
The fallout from Elon Musk's attacks continues. Wes Streeting calls Musk's comments 'a disgraceful smear', while Nigel Farage has a rather more sympathetic view. Chris Philp blames Labour local authorities for the grooming gangs cover-up, but a former Conservative advisor says Robert Jenrick could become the most divisive figure in British political history.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill. Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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The grooming gangs scandal is back in the news this week after Safeguarding Minister Jess Phillips rejected calls for a government inquiry into historic child abuse in Oldham, prompting a conservative backlash. Robert Jenrick, the Shadow Justice Secretary, called it ‘shameful’; Liz Truss, the former Prime Minister, labelled Phillips’s title ‘a perversion of the English language.’ Even Elon Musk, the owner of Twitter/X, has piled in, arguing that the Home Office minister ‘deserves to be in prison.’
As the grooming gangs story continues to gather traction, will we see an inquiry? And how should we assess the Home Secretary’s success six months into the job?
Cindy Yu speaks to James Heale and Danny Shaw, a former adviser to Yvette Cooper.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Happy New Year and – of course – happy new long-term social care plan. Not only has Labour announced a ‘longer-term’ solution to a problem the party itself has acknowledged is urgent by setting up a commission that won’t report until 2028, but it has also taken steps to make that reform even harder to realise by saying it is looking for a ‘cross-party solution’. Should we interpret this as Labour kicking the can down the road? And is Labour developing a reputation for shirking its responsibility when it comes to the most vulnerable in society?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Happy New Year! And it could prove to be a very happy new year for Nigel Farage and the Reform Party. They provided some of the stand-out political drama of 2024, with Lee Anderson’s defection and Farage’s return, before winning five seats at the general election (as well as a hefty chunk of the popular vote). They finished the year strong with a meeting with Elon Musk, where we understand that a possible donation was discussed. Farage also gave a memorable speech at The Spectator awards, warning that a 'political revolution' is coming. With the local elections coming up in 2025, could this be the year that Reform and Farage crystallise into a real political threat?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Gawain Towler, former Reform UK strategist.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Santa will have had a tricky time this year fulfilling all the Christmas wish lists in Westminster. Keir Starmer is desperately hoping for a change in the political weather, and Kemi Badenoch would like an in with Donald Trump. Ed Davey dreams that Labour’s electoral troubles will get so bad that proportional representation starts to look appealing. Nigel Farage, meanwhile, wants to avoid what usually happens with him and keep his party from falling out – or perhaps Elon Musk will give him a Christmas bonus in the form of a generous donation.
What’s certain is that 2025 will prove to be one of the most defining in recent political memory: with Starmer choosing mission-led government; Reform circling the local elections in May; hushed talk of Jeremy Corbyn forming a new party on the hard left; and Donald Trump in the White House. It’s extraordinary that so much could be up for grabs so early after Starmer’s supermajority. What might 2025 bring?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Patrick Maguire, political columnist for the Times.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Kemi Badenoch is just over a month into her tenure as leader of the opposition, and already she has been criticised for her performances at PMQs and for failing to offer much in the way of policy proposals. It has been a consistent gripe of many of Badenoch’s detractors that she is a culture warrior or a one-trick pony. However, we might get a better idea of what the Conservatives will look like in the new year once her series of policy commissions get under way. So, how will she position her party? And, as countries around the world turn rightward, can she wrestle herself into conversations with Trump and the like?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Paul Goodman, former editor of Conservative Home.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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It’s been a historic year in British politics. At the start of 2024, the UK had a different Prime Minister, the Tories had a different leader, and The Spectator had a different editor! Michael Gove, Katy Balls, and Quentin Letts join Cindy Yu to review the biggest political stories of 2024.
On the podcast, the panel discuss the rise of Reform UK and Nigel Farage as a political force, Labour’s adjustment to government, and Michael reveals his reaction to Rishi telling Cabinet that he was going for a summer election.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Megan McElroy.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Last night we got the news that Peter Mandelson is expected to be named the next UK ambassador to Washington. Despite months of speculation, Labour held firm on making a decision until the results of the US election, and with Trump entering the White House in the new year they have gone with an experienced diplomat and a political appointment.
A government source is quoted as telling the BBC: ‘The fact the Prime Minister has chosen to make a political appointment and sent Lord Mandelson to Washington shows just how importantly we see our relationship with the Trump administration.’ They cited the former Business Secretary’s ‘unrivalled political and policy experience’ and claimed he was ‘the ideal candidate to represent the UK’s economic and security interests.’
Were they right to go for an overtly political appointment? And, as a committed Sinophile, should we expect a backlash from Labour’s China hawks?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Michael Gove.
Produced by Megan McElroy and Oscar Edmondson.
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The Bank of England have voted to hold UK interest rates at 4.75%. The Spectator's economics editor Kate Andrews joins Katy Balls and Freddy Gray to discuss the decision and what this means for the UK economy.
Also on the podcast they discuss how a potential donation from Elon Musk to Reform UK has rattled politicians across the political spectrum. Could Labour seek to reform political donation rules to limit donations from foreign owned companies? And is this a sensible move, or could those in favour of changing the rules face a charge of hypocrisy?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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New figures have shown that, for the year to November, inflation rose by 2.6%. While unsurprising, how much will this impact the Chancellor's plans going into the new year? Katy Balls speaks to Kate Andrews and Isabel Hardman about the impact on Labour, especially given their October budget.
Also on the podcast: do the WASPI women deserve compensation? The team discuss Liz Kendall's announcement that Labour will not recompense women who faced pension changes; they also discuss the last PMQs of 2024.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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After days of speculation online, the alleged Chinese spy has been named as Yang Tegbo. This latest example of Chinese espionage has opened up a number of debates in Westminster, firstly around Labour's push to ‘reset’ its relationship with China, as well as the conversation around the Foreign Influence Registration Scheme – a number of China hawks such as IDS and Tom Tugendhat are pushing for it to be implemented sooner than summer 2025. Can Labour's China policy survive this latest wave of Sino-scepticism?
Also on the podcast, it’s happened: Nigel Farage has met with Elon Musk to discuss his party’s electoral prospects. What’s the readout from their meeting?
Katy Balls speaks to Cindy Yu and James Heale.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
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Labour will reveal plans today to re-design local government, with district councils set to be abolished, and more elected mayors introduced across England. The plans could be the biggest reforms of their type since the 1970s, but with the May 2025 local elections set to be Labour’s first big electoral test since the general election, how will they be impacted? Local government minister Jim McMahon didn’t deny that the elections could be affected, or some even cancelled. Reform UK have called foul – what’s going on?
James Heale speaks to Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls. Also on the podcast: rumours abound that a Chinese spy could be named in Parliament today – what does this story tell us about the UK’s complicated relationship with China? And a new poll from Ipsos holds more bad news for Keir Starmer.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows.
In the final Sunday roundup of the year, we hear about immigration and Chinese espionage through the views of Yvette Cooper, Angela Eagle, Kemi Badenoch and Andy Burnham.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
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New research this week suggested that a majority of Brexit voters would accept the return of freedom of movement in exchange for access to the EU single market. The poll, conducted by the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR), found that 54% of Brexit voters – and 68% of all respondents – would accept this. Facing their own changing domestic concerns, how close can the UK and EU governments really get? Could Defence hold the key for collaboration? And how much is this driven by a more volatile geopolitical landscape ahead of Trump’s return as US president?
James Heale speaks to Anand Menon, director of the think-tank UK in a Changing Europe, and Mark Leonard, director at the ECFR.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Labour is supposed to be going for growth, so Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves will be disappointed with the news today that the economy unexpectedly shrank in October, and for the second month in a row. Rachel Reeves's mood seems to have visibly changed in the last month or so, is she having her George Osborne moment? And can she turn things around, or have the dynamics of the Labour–UK plc relationship changed irreversibly?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Today Downing Street has continued its reset – that is definitely not a reset – by providing more details on Labour’s plan to cut the planning red tape and deliver a housing revolution. Their target is to build one and a half million new homes over the next five years by building on green belt land and giving councils mandatory targets. This has predictably been met with robust opposition from several groups who are concerned about the plan, which involves building on a green belt area the size of Surrey. Can Labour win its battle against the so-called NIMBYs (not in my backyard)?
In other news, it is publication day here at The Spectator! Our special Christmas triple issue is now available online and on newsstands. It includes interviews with Argentinian President Javier Milei and Tory leader Kemi Badenoch. Westminster is abuzz with the news that Badenoch is not a sandwich person – a revelation so significant that it has prompted a response from the Prime Minister. Are sandwiches ‘for wimps’?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Labour are planning to publish a 10-year plan to get on the front foot when it comes to the prisons crisis. Shifting from the previous government’s preference to run the system hot to a policy of early release and carving out more places, the headline figure is that there will be 14,000 more prison places by 2031. But the fear today is that these won’t be enough to tackle the critical lack of space in UK jails. So, will Labour’s ongoing sentencing review advocate for greater leniency for certain offenders? And will the public see that as justice being served?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Danny Shaw, former adviser to Yvette Cooper.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Preparations are stepping up for the government’s spending review, due in June. The Chancellor has taken a more personable approach to communicating with ministers, writing to them to outline how they plan to implement the Budget – with a crackdown on government waste and prioritising key public services. So, expect money for clean energy, the NHS, and more ‘difficult decisions’. Will Rachel Reeves’s war on waste work? How will this all go down within the Labour Party and the Cabinet?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Following news that President Bashar Al-Assad's regime in Syria has fallen, Natasha Feroze discusses what comes next with James Heale and Michael Stephens, senior associate fellow at RUSI. What does the Syrian conflict mean for Britain? Do we need to reconsider our counter-terrorism policy? And how will Britain's historic relationship with Syria shape our path going forward?Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows. Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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The SNP presented their budget this week in Holyrood with the news that all pensioners would receive a winter fuel allowance and a pledge to scrap the two-child benefit cap. Questions remain about how they will make this budget work financially, but it is clear that they have one eye on the 2026 Scottish Parliament elections. How could this impact Labour north, and south, of the border? And, after a torrid year for the SNP, can First Minister John Swinney turn things around?
Iain MacWhirter and Lucy Dunn join James Heale to discuss.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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In this special edition of Coffee House Shots Katy Balls speaks to Lord Liam Booth-Smith, Rishi Sunak’s former chief of staff.
In his first interview since leaving government: Liam takes us inside Rishi’s No. 10 and the characters that made it tick; sets the record straight on the infamous Sunak–Johnson arm wrestle to decide who would run for leader after Truss; gives his take on when would have been the optimal time to have a general election; offers a different version of events on Rishi’s ‘doomed’ campaign; and provides advice to a Labour government struggling in government.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Patrick Gibbons.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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There is a feeling of deja-vu in Westminster today as Keir Starmer unveiled his plan for change and six 'milestones' (not pledges) to turn the country around. They are: raising living standards in every part of the UK; rebuilding Britain with 1.5 million homes and fast-tracking planning decisions on major infrastructure projects; ending hospital backlogs and meeting the standard of 92 per cent of patients being treated within 18 weeks; putting police back on the beat; giving children the best start in life; and securing homegrown energy and putting the UK on track to 95 per cent clean power by 2030.
The problem with setting out any list of priorities is that others are conspicuous by their absence, namely immigration. This looks especially naive on the day when one national poll put Reform second place and ahead of Labour. Has Keir got his priorities straight?
James Heale speaks to Michael Gove and Katy Balls.
Produced Oscar Edmondson. Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Last night was The Spectator’s Parliamentarian of the Year Awards. Politicians of every stripe were in attendance, with Wes Streeting, Robert Jenrick and Stephen Flynn among those present. There were a number of notable speeches – including a fiery opening monologue from the Health Secretary – but none caused as much of a stir as Nigel Farage’s acceptance speech for Newcomer of the Year. He warned of a ‘political revolution the likes of which we’ve not seen since Labour after the First World War’. How did that go down in the room?
Also on the podcast, at PMQs today Kemi Badenoch and Keir Starmer seemed to have settled into a rhythm. Has the Wednesday ding dong become stale and predictable?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Cindy Yu.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Keir Starmer is preparing to give his big reset speech on Thursday. But the more interesting address is perhaps the one he gave last night at the annual Lord Mayor’s Banquet, where the Prime Minister gave his first major speech on foreign policy. The most interesting passage saw Starmer reject the notion that Britain will need to pick sides between the US and the EU under the looming Trump presidency – particularly in the event of a trade war. How long can No. 10 afford to keep their foreign policy preferences ambiguous?
Also on the podcast, Sir Chris Wormald has been announced as the successor to Simon Case as Cabinet Secretary, in another example of Labour prizing experience when it comes to senior civil service roles. Is he a smart pick, given the questions about his performance at the Department of Health and Social Care and his frequent appearances at the Covid inquiry?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Jill Rutter, senior research fellow at UK in a Changing Europe and a former civil servant.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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The government is trailing a major policy speech ahead of Thursday, in which the Prime Minister will set out key 'milestones' that he wants to hit, in terms of healthcare, living standards, the climate and so on. It's all sounding a little like a previous prime minister... Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and James Heale about the opportunities and perils in setting public targets.
Produced by Cindy Yu.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows.
Louise Haigh has resigned as transport secretary, and Pat McFadden says he doesn’t know ‘who knew what and when’ about her previous offence. Kemi Badenoch has announced plans for a hard migration cap, but Victoria Atkins can’t say whether that would affect seasonal farm workers. Plus, Labour MP Diane Abbott criticises Starmer’s political judgement, Syrian rebels capture Aleppo, and MasterChef host Greg Wallace claims on a ‘certain’ type of woman has made complaints against him.
Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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The Football Governance Bill is currently being considered in the House of Lords. It’s designed to establish an independent football regulator. No team in the football pyramid will be allowed to play professionally without the regulator’s permission. Does the Premier League really require these sorts of regulations? Will such a rigid system, and unprecedented powers, change the game for the better? Paul Goodman, Senior Fellow at Policy Exchange, wrote about the bill in The Spectator. He discusses alongside Rod Liddle, Spectator columnist, and Freddy Gray.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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The controversial assisted dying bill has passed its second reading in the House of Commons with a majority of 55 after just hours of debate. It now heads to committee stage for further scrutiny. What does the bill's passing at this stage mean for its likelihood of eventually becoming law? And will Labour's front bench unify behind the bill given the deep-seated opposition from figures such as Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood? James Heale discusses with Katy Balls and Michael Gove.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Cindy Yu.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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In the small hours of this morning Louise Haigh resigned as Transport Secretary following the revelation that she had pleaded guilty to a criminal offence in 2014. Haigh admitted fraud by false representation at a magistrates’ court after she incorrectly told the police that a work mobile had been stolen in 2013. She was then convicted and received a conditional discharge. The incident occurred six months before she became an MP.
Haigh had been in hot water just a month ago after her comments nearly cost the government a one billion-pound investment deal with P&O. Is her resignation a little too convenient for the Prime Minister?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson. Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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It's been a day of press conferences in Westminster. First to Reform UK, where Nigel Farage unveiled their newest defection: Dame Andrea Jenkyns, who had served as a Conservative MP from 2015-24. Could there be more defections on the horizon?
Next to Keir Starmer who reacted to the newly published migration figures from the ONS. Net migration for the 12 months to June 2024 stands at 728,000. But the real story was the revised 2023 figures, which showed net migration exceeding 900,000. The politics from the press conference were solid - but what about policy announcements?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Michael Simmons, and they also look ahead to tomorrow's unpredictable assisted dying vote.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Former prime minister Boris Johnson joins The Spectator’s political editor Katy Balls to divulge the contents of his new book, Unleashed. He reflects on his premiership as PM during the pandemic, describing the time as a ‘nightmare’ for him. He also details how he managed to suppress the force of Nigel Farage, and gives advice to Keir Starmer on how to build a relationship with Donald Trump.
Watch the full interview on The Spectator's YouTube channel. Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Kemi Badenoch has signalled that she could change her position on the ECHR. At a conference today, she said "we will review every policy, treaty and part of our legal framework - including the ECHR and the Human Rights Act." What could this mean for the Conservatives going forward?
Katy Balls discusses with Michael Gove and James Heale. Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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The government have announced their latest effort to get Britons back into work. A series of benefit changes intend to tackle the fact that Britain is the only major economy where the employment rate has fallen over the past five years, largely because more people are out of work due to long-term ill health. Why are the UK's post-pandemic figures so much worse than other countries? And can Labour's plans work? The Spectator's data editor Michael Simmons joins Katy Balls and James Heale. Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Today is the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) conference, at which Rachel Reeves has laid out her plan to 'Get Britain Working' and prove Labour as the party of business ... despite what the recent Budget and the employers national insurance increase might suggest. What's the mood of big business today?
Also on the podcast, a petition has gone viral over the weekend calling for a general election. Various people have signed it, from Nigel Farage to Michael Caine. But should Labour actually be worried?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson. Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows.
The vote on the Assisted Dying Bill is approaching. Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall gives her view, and Belgian health minister Frank Vandenbroucke argues that assisted dying doesn’t lead to a ‘slippery slope’. We also hear about the government’s upcoming changes to the welfare system, whether the UK should arrest Netanyahu if he comes to the country, and if there are any limits to France’s support for Ukraine.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
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Tim Shipman, chief political commentator at The Sunday Times, joins Katy Balls to discuss his new book, Out: How Brexit Got Done and the Tories Were Undone. The final instalment in Shipman's Brexit quartet, the book goes behind the scenes in Westminster to reveal the warring factions at the heart of Boris Johnson's government. Considering all of this, has the Tory party left this era of controversy and backstabbing behind? Or, with a new leader, is there a whole new chapter to come? Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued arrest warrants against Benjamin Netanyahu, his former defence minister Yoav Gallant as well as – separately – forHamas military leader, Mohammed Deif.
They are all wanted for alleged war crimes, but specifically regarding Netanyahu and Gallant the ICC say that, 'each bear criminal responsibility for ... the war crime of starvation as a method of warfare; and the crimes against humanity of murder, persecution, and other inhumane acts.' So why have these warrants been issued now? And what are the implications for Labour's relationship with Israel?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Tom Gross, commentator on the Middle East. Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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A vote on assisted dying was supposed to be one of the easiest reforms for Keir Starmer’s government. To many, including the Prime Minister himself, a law allowing terminally ill patients to choose to die would be a self-evidently progressive and historically significant change. But he has faced unexpected pushback from his Health Secretary, the very cabinet member who would have to enforce the legislation. Streeting has not only said that he will be voting against but that he is doing so because he fears the bill could harm existing health services. Where does Starmer go from here? Could we be looking at a reshuffle?
Also today we had the news of the sad passing of John Prescott, a titan of the Labour movement. How will he be remembered?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Paul Goodman, senior fellow at Policy Exchange.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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An unexpected rise in inflation today takes the rate to higher than the Bank of England's target, and adds to Rachel Reeves's worries. James Heale talks to Katy Balls and The Spectator's data editor Michael Simmons about the latest figures, and they also discuss the shadow minister Alex Burghart's performance at Prime Minister's Questions.
Produced by Cindy Yu. Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Thousands of farmers descended on Westminster today to protest the inheritance tax changes proposed in Labour’s Budget. Amidst a sea of tweed and wellington boots, speeches and support came from the likes of Kemi Badenoch, Ed Davey, Nigel Farage and Jeremy Clarkson. To what extent is this just a fringe issue that the government will be able to brush off? Or has the issue exposed a rural blind spot for Labour? And how lasting could the damage be? Katy Balls and Spectator editor Michael Gove discuss with James Heale.
But first, William Moore has been out and about getting the views of farmers directly from the protest...
Produced by Patrick Gibbons, Cindy Yu and Megan McElroy. Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Keir Starmer today will become the first British leader to meet China's Xi Jinping since 2018. The two leaders will meet on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Brazil, and under the shadow of a looming second Trump presidency. Can Starmer strike the right balance? James Heale talks to Cindy Yu and Katy Balls.
Produced by Cindy Yu.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows.
Transport Secretary Louise Haigh’s defends the government’s new increased bus fare cap, and Labour’s (lack of) plans for social care. Ed Davey explains his opposition to the upcoming assisted dying bill. Meanwhile, farmers are in revolt over the changes to inheritance tax, the Bishop of Newcastle says there is a ‘culture of silence and fear’ in the Church of England, and Ukraine’s environment minister speaks about the strategic importance of COP29.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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The Spectator's Michael Gove, Katy Balls, and Kate Andrews are joined by Paul Abberley, Chief Executive of Charles Stanley, to discuss and unpack Labour's first budget in 14 years. Now the dust has settled from the policies, key questions continue to arise. Can Labour create the growth it desperately needs? Why are farmers so upset with the budget? And can they define a working person yet?Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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The government has announced a review into how to properly police non-crime hate incidents (NCHIs). This follows the experience of Allison Pearson who, on Remembrance Day morning, was doorstepped by Essex Police demanding an interview about a long-forgotten tweet. Reports of NCHIs have dramatically increased in the last year, with 13,200 recorded in the 12 months to June (around 36 a day). What qualifies as an NCHI and how can the police be expected to enforce them? Is this police overreach or a necessary measure to tackle the rise in instances of anti-Semitism and Islamophobia?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Danny Shaw, former adviser to Yvette Cooper.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson. Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.
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The Chancellor is giving her first Mansion House address tonight, and she will be majoring on pensions, suggesting that public sector pension funds need to be expanded. But is this the road to growth? James Heale talks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
As Trump announces the appointment of Elon Musk to tackle US government efficiency, James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and editor Michael Gove about the dynamics of Labour's relationship with the tech billionaire. Labour figures and Musk had a public spat in August over the UK riots, the Center for Countering Digital Hate - co-founded by Starmer's Chief of Staff Morgan McSweeney - is facing a congressional investigation, and some Labour figures are even calling on the party to quit X/Twitter. Should Musk's closeness to president-elect Trump worry the Labour government?
But first, the team discuss Health Secretary Wes Streeting's proposed NHS changes, and attacks on Labour's National Insurance changes by the Liberal Democrats.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
Justin Welby has announced he is resigning as Archbishop of Canterbury over his handling of serial child abuser John Smyth. In a statement, he said ‘it is very clear that I must take personal and institutional responsibility for the long and retraumatising period between 2013 and 2024’. He says he believes stepping aside ‘is in the best interests of the Church of England’. Did he have to go? And who might replace him?
Also on the podcast, the assisted dying bill was published last night, 38 pages long, and will be debated in just under three weeks’ time. Keir Starmer admitted that he hasn't decided yet which way way he will vote, so is Kim leadbeater's bill enough to sway the floating voters?
Katy Balls speaks to James Heale and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Cindy Yu.
Keir Starmer is in France today to hold talks with Emmanuel Macron where they will discuss the impact of a Trump second term, and what it will mean for Ukraine. The Prime Minister marked Armistice Day at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier under the Arc de Triomphe – the first time since 1944 that a British Prime Minister has been in France for the ceremony. What will come from this bilateral meeting? How does a Trump victory bring the UK and the EU closer?
Elsewhere, a minor row broke out over the weekend around the UK’s Remembrance Day commemorations, with Reform UK leader Nigel Farage not being allowed to lay a wreath despite his party having five sitting MPs. Does he have a point?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
It’s happened. The scenario Labour politicians hoped would not come to pass is now a reality: Donald Trump is heading back to the White House. The official line from Labour is that everything is fine – they will work with whoever holds the office of president. However, privately there have long been nerves and concerns as to what a Trump comeback would mean for the Starmer government. Where are the fault lines likely to appear? And what does a second Trump term mean for foreign secretary David Lammy, considering his previous comments about the Donald?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and John McTernan.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Nigel Farage could well be the big winner in the UK from Donald Trump’s victory across the pond, with the MP for Clacton having a direct line to the most powerful office in the West. But, as Katy Balls argues on Coffee House this morning, he poses a greater threat to Labour than simply his proximity to Donald Trump.
Reform UK are beginning the process of building power bases across the UK – starting this weekend in Wales – and the party believes it can take voters from Labour. Meanwhile, the US election has proven the salience of the economy and immigration as election-deciding issues: areas where Reform UK cut through. How can Labour combat an insurgent Reform party? What lessons should Starmer take from the result in the US?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Scarlett Maguire, director at JL Partners.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
The post–mortem has begun on the US election with the Democrats desperately trying to figure out what just happened. To make sense of the result, Katy Balls is joined by Kate Andrews and James Kanagasooriam, chief research officer at Focaldata. On the podcast they discuss: how an election that seemed to be on a knife–edge ended in a landslide; how the Democrats misjudged the issues that matter to their core voter coalition; how global election trends and the ‘incumbency problem’ played a part; and how the term ‘asymmetric realignment’ can describe the voting patterns we saw yesterday.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
It’s happened. The scenario Labour politicians hoped would not come to pass is now a reality: Donald Trump is heading back to the White House. The official line from Labour is that everything is fine – they will work with whoever hold the office of president. That was the message from Keir Starmer at Prime Minister’s Questions as he congratulated president-elect Trump, and made a point of mentioning they had recently had dinner together.
However – Kemi Badenoch focused on David Lammy’s past criticisms of Trump at PMQs. Is this a unique tension for the Labour government? James Heale discusses with Michael Gove and Katy Balls.
Kemi Badenoch's shadow cabinet continues to take shape: Chris Philp has been appointed shadow Home Secretary, with the biggest news being Robert Jenrick's decision to accept the position of shadow Justice Secretary. Jenrick's proposal to leave the ECHR was one policy disagreement with Badenoch, could this cause the Conservatives problems in the future? And what do her appointments say more broadly about her programme: has she put party unity above policy?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and the FT's Stephen Bush.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Oscar Edmondson.
Kemi Badenoch is the new leader of the opposition, and we have an early indication of who will make up her shadow cabinet. She has already chosen her chief whip in loyalist Rebecca Harris; Nigel Huddleston and Dominic Johnson will be party chairman; Laura Trott will be shadow education secretary; Neil O’Brien will be shadow minister for education – crucially, a Jenrick backer. Is she going for party unity? Who will take the top jobs in team Badenoch?
Also on the podcast, it’s anything-but-the-budget-week for Labour, who are trying to move the agenda along from last week’s fiscal event with a raft of announcements. Today, the prime minister unveiled his plan to ‘smash the gangs’ and announced that university tuition fees would rise. But can they justify the increase to students?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
New eras begin for both major parties, as Rachel Reeves' budget becomes reality, and Kemi Badenoch sets our her vision as Tory leader.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
Kemi Badenoch has won the Tory leadership election. She beat Robert Jenrick in a tight race, winning 53,806 votes against his 41,318. What will a Badenoch opposition look like? What are her strengths? Her weaknesses?
Cindy Yu speaks to Michael Gove and Katy Balls.
The fallout from Labour's Budget continues. On the media round this morning, Darren Jones, Chief Secretary to the Treasury, admitted that it will hit working people, and the cost of government borrowing has only risen since Rachel Reeves delivered her speech to Parliament. Katy Balls, Kate Andrews and James Heale take us through the reaction from various groups, including small business owners, farmers and the markets. Is the Budget unravelling?
Also on the podcast, they look ahead to tomorrow's Tory leadership result; could low turnout make a difference?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
Kate Andrews is joined by Katy Balls and the OBR's Prof David Miles to discuss the day two reactions to Rachel Reeves's Budget. Who were the losers, and is it too early to say who the winners are?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Cindy Yu.
Rachel Reeves has announced that taxes will rise by £40 billion in Labour’s first Budget for 14 years. The headlines include: an increase in employers’ National Insurance contributions from April to 15 per cent, raising £25 billion; that the freeze on income tax and National Insurance thresholds will not be extended past 2028; that the lower rate of capital gains tax will be raised from 10 per cent to 18 per cent, and the higher rate from 20 per cent to 24 per cent; that fuel duty will remain frozen for the next two years; and the introduction of VAT on private school fees from January.
The Chancellor didn’t want to surprise anyone with this Budget. She didn’t want to shock the markets, nor did she want any accusation that she had played fast and loose with the public finances. Still, that won’t make today’s fiscal event any less memorable – or painful. Will these measures lead to any meaningful growth?
Katy Balls speaks to Kate Andrews and Michael Gove.
Produced by Megan McElroy and Oscar Edmondson.
Wes Streeting has been out on the airwaves this morning, giving us a better idea of what will be in the Budget when it comes to the NHS. In an attempt to resuscitate a ‘broken but not beaten’ NHS, he has announced a cash injection reported to be up to £7 billion – including £1.57 billion for new surgical hubs, scanners, and radiotherapy machines. The Health Secretary did stress, however, that this will not be enough to save the NHS from a winter crisis. How far will this money go?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
It's Budget week (finally)! How this week goes will set the tone for Labour’s first year in office. It’s fair to say that expectations are relatively low – with the Prime Minister himself warning of ‘painful decisions’ ahead. We know a lot of what will likely be included and Treasury sources are keen to play down talk of any Budget rabbits – suggesting a mix of the measures currently being discussed in the media. So what should we expect? And can Labour ride out the week unscathed?
Also on the podcast, Labour have suspended the whip for Mike Amesbury, MP for Runcorn and Helsby, after he appeared to threaten a man who has been knocked onto the road in Frodsham, Cheshire. Labour look like they will be facing their first by-election. Could Reform make an unlikely gain in this Labour safe seat?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
This week, Keir Starmer has been in Samoa for a summit with delegations of the 56 nations which make up the Commonwealth. Between having to answer questions on Donald Trump and the budget, he has also been pressed on the issue of slavery reparations, with the leaders of some Caribbean countries insisting it is ‘only a matter of time’ until Britain bows to demands of handing over billions of pounds in compensation.
Speaking today, Starmer addressed the issue. He said, ‘I understand the strength of feeling’ but insisted that he would be ‘looking forward, not back’. So what are the arguments for and against reparations? And why is this debate relevant now, in 2024?
James Heale speaks to historian Robert Tombs.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Who exactly are 'working people'? The Labour party's use of this phrase during the election raised questions over who they will really be levying taxes upon. With less than a week to go until the Budget, Labour in government is still struggling to give a clear answer as to who they mean. James Heale talks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
After Nigel Farage's overture to Tory councillors to 'defect', one already has. Farage has also been on manoeuvres, piling on the criticism against Labour for its volunteers campaigning for the Democrats in the US. James Heale talks to Katy Balls and Freddy Gray about the latest.
Tickets are still available to join Freddy Gray and Nigel Farage on Thursday 24 October for their analysis on the US election. Get your tickets here.Produced by Cindy Yu.
Donald Trump has made the extraordinary move to file an official complaint against the British Labour party for their volunteers campaigning for the Democrats. On this episode, James Heale talks to Katy Balls and the Financial Times's Stephen Bush about what's behind the Labour tradition of sending volunteers to other democracies, and why a second Trump presidency might be the defining theme of this Labour government.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Cindy Yu.
Another 1100 prisoners have been released today through the early-release scheme. How has this measure landed? With the news that former Conservative minister David Gauke will lead a review of prison sentencing, new Spectator editor Michael Gove joins Natasha Feroze and Katy Balls to discuss Labour's long term strategy. Can Labour learn lessons from America?
Produced by Megan McElroy and Patrick Gibbons.
Join The Spectator's Deputy Editor Freddy Gray for a special live recording of Americano on Thursday 24 October. You can buy tickets at www.spectator.co.uk/electionspecial.
This morning, Health Secretary Wes Streeting launched the ‘biggest consultation in NHS history’ in a bid to get public input into how to save the UK’s flailing health service. The British public and clinicians are being asked to share their experiences and ideas to help 'fix our NHS'. After years of discussion and reviews, how likely is it that Labour delivers the urgent reform that the NHS needs?
Elsewhere, there have been more signs of what might be in the budget at the end of the month. Who might the big winners and losers be? James Heale discusses with Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Join Freddy Gray a special live recording of Americano on Thursday 24 October. You can buy tickets at www.spectator.co.uk/electionspecial.
Labour’s first Budget in 14 years will be delivered at the end of the month. The Prime Minister and Chancellor have already been warning that the public isn’t going to like what’s in it. But how will the Budget affect people? Will Labour break its manifesto commitment not to tax working people? And is it really true that things have to get worse before they get better?
Kate Andrews is joined by Paul Mason, journalist at The New European.
Produced by Megan McElroy.
The House of Lords contains 26 Church of England archbishops and bishops who possess an automatic right to sit and vote in the House, as established by ancient usage and by statute. But for how much longer?
Labour have big plans for the Lords and have been pushing ahead with their crackdown on hereditary peers. But this week we learnt that Tory MP Gavin Williamson will table an amendment calling for them to reconsider the role of bishops as well. Gavin says that a clergy-free Lords would be more representative of modern Britain and is expecting to gain cross-party support, including from the likes of Jeremy Corbyn. The Spectator’s features editor William Moore thinks this is ‘institutional vandalism’ and opens the door to the removal of faith from parliament.
Gavin and William join The Spectator’s political editor Katy Balls to debate.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
Robert Jenrick and Kemi Badenoch, the final two candidates for the Tory leadership, went up against each other on a special GB News show last night. Kemi came out swinging in defence of her ‘culture warrior’ tag, but many wanted some more meat on the bones when it comes to her stance on policy. Meanwhile, Jenrick clearly had a message to land – but will the membership see through his plea to ‘end the drama’? And did either of them manage to change any minds?
Katy Balls speaks to Lucy Dunn and Giles Dilnot, editor of Conservative Home.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
A scoop from Bloomberg has revealed that a number of Cabinet ministers have written formally to the Prime Minister to complain about the budgetary decisions they are being asked to make in their respective departments. Rachel Reeves seems to have an impossible task ahead of the Budget – but was this a trap of Labour's own making? Oscar Edmondson talks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Cindy Yu.
Starmer and Sunak debated Labour's position on China at today's PMQs, with Starmer denying going soft on the Asian superpower. Did Sunak draw inspiration from Katy Balls's cover article in last week's Spectator? Katy and Isabel Hardman speak to Oscar Edmondson about the party dynamics behind the debate; how much pressure is each party under from their own China hawks?
Isabel also gives an overview of the debate around the Assisted Dying Bill, which was introduced to Parliament today.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Oscar Edmondson.
The Budget is not due for a fortnight, yet with every day that passes its contents seem to become clearer. This morning Keir Starmer gave an interview to the BBC where he twice refused to rule out a rise in employer’s national insurance contributions in the Budget. Instead, he repeatedly stressed that Labour’s manifesto promise was specifically that it would 'not raise taxes on working people'. Can Rachel Reeves afford a national insurance hike?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Michael Gove.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
This morning is the government's big investment summit. They pledged to have the summit within their first 100 days in an attempt to hit the ground running and show the UK as a sensible place to do business. The timing – two weeks before the budget – is interesting, and so is the U-turn from P&O, who will attend the summit despite comments last week by Transport Secretary Louise Haigh (she described the ferry company as a ‘rogue operator’). P&O's reported £1 billion worth of investment is back up for grabs. Is it time to invest in Britain? What is Labour's big pitch to business?
Also on the podcast, over the weekend we had the sad news that former First Minister of Scotland Alex Salmond passed away. What will be his legacy?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning’s politics shows.
Jonathan Reynolds says Transport Secretary Louise Haigh’s comments are ‘not the government’s position’, and hints at possible employer national insurance tax rises. Robert Jenrick is asked about his previous anti-Brexit views. John Swinney pays tribute to Alex Salmond, after the death of the former Scottish first minister. And Lloyds bank CEO speaks about the issue of online fraud.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
Today marks Labour’s 100th day in office. But they are unlikely to be popping champagne corks in Downing Street – even if Lord Alli offered to pay for the Dom Pérignon. This has been a disheartening time for the government and those who wished it well. The promise of dramatic change has been overshadowed by a series of errors, misjudgments and scandals that one would associate more with an administration in its dying days than a government enjoying a fresh mandate, a massive majority and an absent opposition.
Former shadow culture secretary Thangam Debbonaire and former deputy prime minister Thérèse Coffey join The Spectator's Katy Balls to discuss what went wrong and – if we think hard enough – what went right?
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.
It's another busy few days for the Prime Minister as he chairs the inaugural meeting of the Council of Nations and Regions today, marks 100 days in office, and hosts an investment summit on Monday. With the absence of Sue Gray looming large, James Heale unpicks the politics behind these milestones with Katy Balls and the Financial Times's Stephen Bush. They share some lessons from history and the welcome, or perhaps unwelcome, comparison with former Labour Prime Minister Harold Wilson.
Also on the podcast, they discuss the merits and pitfalls of potential Conservative Party rule changes. Could their era of rapid defenestration soon come to an end?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
The Institute for Fiscal Studies has published its yearly Green Budget, weeks ahead of Chancellor Rachel Reeves’s first fiscal event. It’s grim reading, for both the government and the public. For Labour to make good on its promise to avoid ‘austerity’, taxes are going to need to go up significantly: by £25 billion, the IFS’s reports, and that’s just to ‘keep spending rising with national income.’ Can Reeves square the circle?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Westminster is reeling from the shock result that James Cleverly has been knocked out of the Conservative Party leadership race, only a day after coming first in the previous round. Kemi Badenoch topped the poll, with Robert Jenrick second and only one vote behind her; Cleverly lost two votes. What on earth happened?
To try and make sense of it all, Cindy Yu is joined by Katy Balls and new Spectator editor Michael Gove. Having worked with them all, what's his assessment of the candidates?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Megan McElroy.
The Conservative party has narrowed down the leadership candidates to the final three, with James Cleverly taking a surprise lead over both of his more right wing rivals. With Cleverly all but confirmed to get into the members' round, which of Kemi Badenoch and Robert Jenrick will join him? Cindy Yu talks to James Heale and Paul Goodman.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Who’s in charge in Downing Street? Until recently, the answer to that question would tend to reveal whether you were a Sue Gray or Morgan McSweeney supporter. Keir Starmer’s two most senior aides were viewed to be in a power struggle over the direction of the government. But with Gray's resignation this weekend, it is McSweeney who is running the show. What direction will he take No.10?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and John McTernan, former political secretary to Tony Blair.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows.
Conflict in the Middle East reaches a new crisis point as Israel bombs Lebanon and prepares to retaliate against Iran. We hear contrasting viewpoints from Israel, Iran, and the UK. Plus, Science Secretary Peter Kyle praises the government’s Chagos Islands deal, and Boris Johnson praises himself.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
Keir Starmer has not yet reached the 100 day mark but already he has lost his Chief of Staff. This afternoon, Downing Street has confirmed that Sue Gray is leaving her No. 10 role. Instead, she will be taking on an ‘advisory’ role as the Prime Minister’s envoy for nations and regions. In a statement announcing her departure, Gray referenced the media attention she had received as one of the reasons behind her decision to quit.
Morgan McSweeney will take over from Gray in a move will be popular with parts of the Labour party and brings to a close the Gray vs McSweeney psychodrama. Will this steady the Labour ship?
Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman discuss.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
In this special Saturday shots we hear from a panel discussion on Brexit, originally recorded at Conservative Party conference.
Four years on there are successes to point to, namely eliminating the cost of membership, new trade deals and the speed of the vaccine rollout. Yet the prevailing sense is that the full potential of Brexit has not been realised. Where do we go from here?
The Spectator's James Heale speaks to former MEP Lord Hannan, Telegraph columnist Sherelle Jacobs, Ian Duncan Smith MP and Tom Lubbock, co-founder of JL Partners.
What Keir Starmer wants to be talking about today is his landmark £22 billion investment into carbon capture. Flanked by Ed Miliband and Rachel Reeves, his speech was an unusually personal one where he spoke about the impacts of deindustrialisation. But how new is this policy? And what does this huge investment mean for the £20 billion black hole?
What Westminster seems more interested in talking about is the news that assisted dying is back on the agenda and the fallout of the deal to give the Chagos Islands to Mauritius. Is there a degree of inevitability about these two stories resurfacing?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Loyal listeners will know that as well as our concise daily political analysis, Coffee House Shots often delves deeper into the issues of the day. We don’t shy away from fierce debates on controversial issues. The most legendary of these debates have been between our former editor Fraser Nelson and economics editor Kate Andrews.
As a parting gift to listeners before Fraser passes on the editors pen, Cindy Yu hosts a final contest between these two worthy debaters on whether we should be optimistic about the next ten years.
Has there ever been a better time to be alive, as Fraser argues? Or should we be concerned about the growing threat to civil liberties, volatile markets and foreign policies, the failure to grapple with migration and the looming birth rate crisis?
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
The final day of the party conference saw all four candidates take to the stage in a bid to have a David Cameron moment. Back in 2005, Cameron managed to gain momentum at the party conference with an assured speech (no notes) and get one over on his main rival – the then frontrunner – David Davis. So, did anyone managed a similar feat in Birmingham?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
The mood at Conservative conference has been surprisingly jubilant considering the turmoil that the party finds itself in. Labour's misfortunes may have contributed to this, but there seems to be a genuine optimism around the four candidates vying for the leadership of the party. What's the latest? Have Kemi Badenoch's comments on maternity pay impacted her position with the members?
Also on the podcast, this evening will see the Vance vs Walz vice presidential debate. They go head to head in an increasingly tight election. What does Trump vs Harris say about the state of American politics? And can any of these candidates – on either side of the pond – expect to be fighting future elections for their parties?
The Spectator's Fraser Nelson speaks to Katy Balls, Kate Andrews and Sarah Elliott from Republicans Overseas UK.
Jeremy Hunt is one of the few Tories at Conservative Party Conference willing to take the fight to Labour. In the second day, he sat down for an on-stage interview where the former Chancellor spoke about the winter fuel allowance, freebies, but also made some polite suggestions about where the Conservative party should go, and dropped a few hints about the former Prime Minister, Liz Truss. Natasha Feroze speaks to Kate Andrews and Isabel Hardman about Hunt's speech and some of the best bits from Liz Truss's own interview at conference.
Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows.
Tory leadership candidates set out their visions for the party at the Conservative Party Conference. Badenoch says ‘not call cultures are equally valid’, and congratulates Netanyahu. Jenrick suggests immigration doesn’t make the country richer, and defends a £75,000 donation from a mysterious company. Rosie Duffield resigns from Labour, attacking Starmer on the way out. And Pat McFadden defends the prime minister, saying there is no equivalence between Labour controversy and the behaviour of the Tory government.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
The final four leadership candidates have arrived at Conservative Party Conference to make their final pitches. However, day one and Kemi Badenoch has found herself in an online row over comments made about maternity pay. Katy Balls, Kate Andrews and Fraser Nelson take a look at what was really said, and whether there is a clear frontrunner to lead the Tory party at conference.
Decarbonising power by 2030 is one of the flagship policies for Keir Starmer’s government. Whether this is achievable and how we go about the green transition will impact ten of thousands of jobs and everybody's energy bills.
So just how do they plan on reaching this ambitious target? Gary Smith, general secretary of the GMB, argues that there is a fundamental dishonesty about the route to net zero, with communities being hollowed out and the working class left behind. All of this has resulted in fertile ground for the far right.
The Spectator's editor Fraser Nelson sat down with Gary Smith at Labour conference last week, to give an alternative take on the net zero debate.
The political equivalent of the Rumble in the Jungle happened last night when Starmer sat down for a two-hour dinner with Donald Trump, following the Prime Minister’s speech at the UN General Assembly. Details of what Trump and Starmer talked about are scant: the official read-out merely says they discussed the ‘longstanding friendship’ between Britain and America. Is this good politics from the prime minsiter?
Elsewhere, the Tory party conference kicks off in Birmingham this weekend and with it the beauty contest for the next Conservative leader. What should listeners expect?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Events have moved on fast since Labour conference with the mounting prospect of ‘all out war’ in the Middle East. This comes after reports that Israel are preparing a ground invasion of Lebanon to push back Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah. What levers are at the disposal of the international community to de-escalate this very volatile situation?
Also today, Keir Starmer’s impressive performance on the international stage risks being undermined by the freebies story which continues to rumble on. What’s the latest?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Michael Stephens, senior fellow at RUSI.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
We've had quite the day at 22 Old Queen Street. All Westminster politics seem small in comparison to the news that Fraser Nelson will step down as editor of this publication, with Michael Gove taking charge on October 8th. Hear Fraser's thoughts on what this new chapter will mean for The Spectator, on the podcast.
Elsewhere, Labour conference has wrapped up in Liverpool and this has coincided with an update on growth from the OECD. Having predicted in May that the economy would grow by 0.4 per cent this year, the policy organisation now expects the economy to grow by 1.1 per cent. This lifts the UK from the bottom of the pack of advanced economies and ties it in second place – alongside France and Canada – for the fastest growth in the G7. Britain is growing. Can Rachel Reeves start spending?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
And if you would like to submit a topic for Kate and Fraser to debate, please email: podcast@spectator.co.uk
Sir Keir Starmer has declared 'change has begun' in Liverpool. He defended the cuts to the winter fuel payments, announced a Hillsborough Law, and saw off a heckler. But did we learn anything from the speech in terms of policy? Is he leaving conference in a better or worse position than he entered? Isabel Hardman is joined by James Heale and Katy Balls.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves has just finished her speech at Labour conference. After a brief interruption by hecklers, she addressed austerity, the pandemic, and winter fuel payments. How was the speech received, and who does it really speak to?
Elsewhere, Sue Gray's lack of appearance in Liverpool hasn't done anything to slow down discussion of recent controversy. James Heale is joined by Katy Balls and John McTernan, formerly Tony Blair's Political Secretary.
Labour's first party conference since entering government has opened under the shadow of the 'Frockgate' scandal. James Heale and Katy Balls report from Liverpool on what the mood is like – and the big topics for the party this week.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Cindy Yu.
Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows.
The Labour conference begins with the party’s honeymoon period seemingly over. Angela Rayner says Labour are being transparent and aren’t breaking rules over donations. Shadow House of Commons Leader Chris Philp disagrees. Meanwhile Keir Starmer is facing conflict with the unions as Sharon Graham calls the winter fuel allowance decision ‘cruel’. And Israeli President Herzog claims Israel do not want war with Lebanon.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
It's easy enough to keep both business and the unions on side when you are vague about your policies – and when your opponent is messing up so badly. That was Labour's position going into the election. But now that it's in government, can it keep that balancing act up? Next week's Labour party conference will be the government's first real test. James Heale talks to Kate Andrews and Paul Nowak, general secretary of the Trades Union Congress.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Party conference season continues as Reform UK’s kicks off today in Birmingham. Katy Balls has been at the NEC hearing from Richard Tice, Lee Anderson and leader Nigel Farage, amongst others. What’s been the mood? And, after a remarkable few months, what could be next for the party? With Labour conference starting at the weekend, how worried will Starmer be about Farage? Also, what's been the latest on the PM's 'donations for clothes' row?
Patrick Gibbons speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
It's been a sticky week for Labour. Whilst they will have hoped to spend the run up to this weekend's conference talking about the policy wins of their first 100 days in power, Labour MPs are instead having to defend the Prime Minister for accepting freebies and talk down speculation of a rift at the heart of government. Is there a power struggle in Number 10?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and John McTernan, former political secretary to tony Blair.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
We have some new inflation figures today. Inflation rose 2.2 per cent in the 12 months to August. This is pretty much in line with the Bank of England's target and should be good news for Labour, so why do they persist with this doom and gloom narrative?
Elsewhere, Labour's awkward week has got more awkward with the news that Sue Gray, Keir Starmer's chief of staff, is paid more than him. Surely they could have seen this news story coming?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Kate Andrews and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Liberal Democrat Conference wraps up today in Brighton. It could well be the happiest conference we visit this season with the party riding high after winning 72 seats at the election.
The challenge that they face now is improving on that number, providing some opposition to the Labour party and protecting their new Surrey MPs once the new Tory leader is decided. We have heard Ed Davey speak passionately on social care, but can they carve a distinct position on other big policy issues, such as Europe? Or the NHS?
Katy Balls speaks to James Heale and Stephen Bush, associate editor of the Financial Times.
This weekend we had another twist in the story involving Labour donor Lord Alli, who was caught up in a 'cash for access' scandal a couple of weeks back. It now seems he has forked out the thick end of 20k on clothes and glasses for Keir Starmer and his wife. Foreign sec David Lammy was on the Sunday media round and gave a less than convincing defence of the prime minister and Lady Victoria. Has the PM broken the rules already?
Also today, Keir Starmer is in Rome meeting Italian prime minister Giorgia Meloni today where they will be discussing boat crossings and Italy's deal with Albania. It’s a timely first engagement for Starmer’s new border security commander Martin Hewitt. Will he succeed in 'smashing the gangs'?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows.
The foreign secretary talks up support for Ukraine, but won’t comment on whether they will be granted long-range missiles. David Lammy and James Cleverly disagree over the severity of Keir Starmer’s potential rule breaking. Cleverly calls Labour ‘arrogant and inexperienced’. And Ed Davey defends his party’s ability to effectively criticise the government.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
Last week, there was a surprise visitor to the Treasury: Gordon Brown. The former prime minister and chancellor secretly returned to his old digs for the first time since he left office 14 years ago. According to onlookers, Brown visited his old office as he caught up with the new chancellor – and his friend – Rachel Reeves. What was discussed? Many have speculated that among the topics on the agenda was the winter fuel allowance, a policy ushered in by Brown and now amended by Reeves.
Elsewhere, Tony Blair has been doing the media rounds promoting his new book and giving his thoughts on leadership. Should Keir be listening? Are interjections from former prime ministers ever helpful?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Patrick Maguire.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Keir Starmer and David Lammy are in the Washington for a planned foreign policy summit with Joe Biden. They will principally be talking about a new deal regarding the use of UK long range missiles in Russia, a move which Putin has warned would constitute an escalation of the war and the formalisation of NATO's involvement.
Also up for discussion is support for Israel after the foreign secretary announced a partial embargo on arms. Is the UK diverging from the US on foreign policy?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Keir Giles, fellow at Chatham House and author of Who Will Defend Europe?Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
The Prime Minister has described the NHS as in 'critical condition' in a speech this morning after the release of Lord Darzi's damning independent report.
Lord Darzi had only nine weeks to conduct his investigation into –and assessment of – the National Health Service. But this truncated timeline does not appear to have led to any watering down of his verdict. The independent peer has delivered a damning diagnosis of the state of the NHS, which is described as failing both its staff and its patients. The NHS clearly needs serious intervention, but are Labour the ones to do it?
James Heale speaks to Kate Andrews and Isabel Hardman, author of Fighting for Life: The Twelve Battles that Made Our NHS, and the Struggle for Its Future.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Last night saw the first Trump vs Harris debate and the consensus seems to be that Harris came out on top. She managed to avoid sticky issues about her political past and goaded Trump into some rambling and – at times – outrageous remarks. What did we learn?
Also today, we have had new figures on the economy with GDP flatlining for the second month in a row. Does this vindicate Rachel Reeves' tough decision on the winter fuel allowance?
Katy Balls speaks to Kate Andrews and John McTernan.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
It's been a busy day in Westminster today. Labour avoided a large scale rebellion on the winter fuel allowance and Mel Stride was eliminated from the Tory leadership race – not to mention the sale of a certain weekly politics magazine. Oscar Edmondson discusses with Katy Balls and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Tomorrow MPs will vote on Rachel Reeves’ decision to cut winter fuel payments for pensioners who aren’t eligible for pension benefits. We spoke on this podcast on Friday about the pressure that Labour is under from all sides on this, but the temperature has increased over the weekend with the trade unions getting involved. What's the latest?
Also on the podcast, there have been some allegations of 'dark arts' during the first round of voting in the tory leadership contest, and possible vote sharing. Is there any truth to these rumours?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows.
Keir Starmer says his government will ‘have to be unpopular’ and take tough decisions. He also denies there is any anger from the US at the UK’s decision to suspend some arms exports to Israel. Health Secretary Streeting sets out Labour’s ambitions for improving the NHS. And the Tory leadership race heats up.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
Join Fraser Nelson, Katy Balls and Kate Andrews, along with special guest Jonathan Ashworth, for a live edition of Coffee House Shots recorded earlier this week. They dissect the first few weeks of the new Labour government and look ahead to the policies autumn, and the budget, might bring. Having surprisingly lost his seat at the election, how blunt will Ashworth be?
The team also answer a range of audience questions, including: how big of a welfare crisis is the government facing? Would – and should – they reform the NHS? And could the challenge Reform UK poses to traditional parties continue to grow?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Megan McElroy.
Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls join James Heale to look ahead to a crucial week for Labour. On Tuesday, Parliament will hold a binding vote on the changes to winter fuel allowance - how are Labour expected to deal with this? Former shadow chancellor Ed Balls, and husband of the current home secretary Yvette Cooper, has argued that Labour need an 'escape route' from the policy. What can we read from this intervention? And how influenced are the government by the spectres of George Osborne and Liz Truss?
Also on the podcast, Fraser talks about both the problems facing Germany, and the surprisingly successful measure that Sweden has introduced, to deal with net migration.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons
The first round of the Conservative leadership race has seen Dame Priti Patel eliminated with the fewest votes. Robert Jenrick came out on top but, with a second vote taking place on Tuesday, where could Patel's supporters go? Who could get eliminated next? Will 'Melmentum' build?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Oscar Edmondson.
Seven years after the tragedy, the inquiry into the Grenfell fire has published its report. What did we learn from it and who bears responsibility? And, with thousands of buildings still believed to contain flammable cladding, what should happen next? With such important lessons to be learnt, why do British inquiries take so long? Also on the podcast, a look at the first PMQs following summer recess and the Tory leadership election.
James Heale speaks to Isabel Hardman and Liam Halligan, Telegraph columnist and author of Home Truths.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
The fallout continues from the UK's decision to suspend some arms sale licenses to Israel. Defence Secretary John Healey insists the UK remains a 'staunch ally' of Israel, yet the decision has been criticised by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as 'shameful'. What has the domestic reaction been to the government's decision, and who is it designed to please?
Patrick Gibbons speaks to Katy Balls and Michael Stephens, associate fellow at RUSI.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
It’s back to school day for kids up and down the country, and also back to school for our politicians who have returned from summer recess. To celebrate, Keir Starmer has announced that one-word Ofsted classifications will be scrapped with immediate effect. Is this the right move?
Also on the podcasts, we have had the official launches of several Tory leadership campaigns in the last few days. What's the latest?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
The Tory leadership contest is still rumbling on, and we're lucky enough to still have weeks to go! In this Saturday episode, we assess which of the candidates would create the biggest problem for Keir Starmer. Who would be most frustrating at the dispatch box, and whose politics would be the most difficult for him? Who might be a slightly easier opponent? Megan McElroy speaks to Katy Balls and John McTernan, political strategist and former political secretary to Tony Blair.
Keir Starmer's biographer Tom Baldwin has revealed that the PM has removed a portrait of Margaret Thatcher from No 10. The portrait was originally commissioned by Gordon Brown. Why has he bothered to get rid of it?
Elsewhere, the government has more plans for health, and select committees have some surprising new candidates. Megan McElroy speaks to Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls.
Keir Starmer has confirmed that the government is looking at plans to revive Sunak's smoking ban legislation. They may go even further - reports suggest they will seek to extend the current indoor ban for hospitality venues, to outdoor places such as pub gardens. What's the rationale behind this, and where could it lead? How popular is the measure with the public? And, following Starmer's speech on Tuesday about the economic problems the nation faces, is this another thing for business to worry about?
Patrick Gibbons speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Keir Starmer has been in Germany today visiting Chancellor Olaf Scholz, before heading to Paris to meet President Macron. This is part of his plan to 'reset' relations with Europe - but how close does he want to get to the EU? And, given Brexit wounds are still raw, what's achievable?
James Heale is joined by Katy Balls and Sophia Gaston, head of the foreign policy unit at Policy Exchange to discuss.
Produced by Megan McElroy and Patrick Gibbons.
Winter is coming. That’s the message from Keir Starmer’s set-piece speech this morning from the No. 10 rose garden. After a tricky few weeks for the new Prime Minister on cronyism claims and anxiety about cuts to the winter fuel allowance, Starmer and his team attempted seize the agenda with a speech looking ahead to the months to come. However, anyone hoping for optimism will be disappointed, with Starmer warning things can only get worse. How bad can they be?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
As the Democratic National Convention draws to a close in Chicago this week, Patrick Gibbons is joined by James Heale and Gerry Baker, editor at large of the Wall Street Journal to try to make sense of what a Harris presidency could mean for the UK. Is she continuity Biden? Do we really know what she stands for?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Cindy Yu.
Ofgem, the energy regulator, has announced that the price cap will rise by 10% in October. Is this bad news for Labour, or will they be successful in framing it as part of their economic inheritance from the Conservatives? And could this strengthen opposition to the proposed change to winter fuel allowance? Patrick Gibbons speaks to James Heale and John McTernan, former political secretary to Tony Blair.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Cindy Yu.
Today's GCSE results show an exams system that has largely returned to pre-Covid norms. It has also given the government a chance to talk about skills and apprenticeships – something that Bridget Phillipson's predecessor as education secretary was also keen on. Cindy Yu talks to James Heale and Amanda Spielman, former chair of Ofqual and Ofsted, about the state of the British education system.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
The government seems to have appointed another party-political advisor to the civil service – this time Labour Together's Jess Sargeant to the role of deputy director at the Cabinet Office’s Propriety and Constitution Group. Is the Labour party just as prone to a bit of cronyism as they accuse the Tories of having been? Cindy Yu talks to James Heale and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Keir Starmer has been meeting the new First Minister Eluned Morgan as part of a two day trip to Wales. While the trip included a visit to a wind farm, Starmer quickly faced questions about the fate of steel workers in Port Talbot. What does this challenge tell us about Starmer's Industrial Strategy and his relationship with the devolved nations? Could Welsh Labour soon face the same anti-incumbency threat that the Conservatives and the SNP faced?
James Heale is joined by Tom Baldwin, Starmer's biographer, and Ruth Mosalski, political editor at WalesOnline.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
The fallout from the riots continues as the numbers being processed by the justice system have led to emergency measures being triggered by the government. What does this mean and, given the prison system was at breaking point even before the riots, what happens next?
Also on the podcast, the six Tory leadership contenders have found something they all agree on: opposition to Labour's proposed change to winter fuel allowance. What does this tell us about future political battles?
James Heale and Isabel Hardman join Cindy Yu to discuss. As Cindy mentions in the episode, the journalist Chris Atkins - who was jailed for five years for tax offences - appeared on The Spectator's food and drink podcast Table Talk to talk about his experience.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Cindy Yu.
Labour is planning to reform the civil service into five 'missions' that will lead the agenda, moving away from the purely departmental way of arranging priorities at the moment. Cindy Yu talks to James Heale and Jill Rutter from the Institute for Government and UK In a Changing Europe (and a former civil servant) about what these plans really mean.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Less than 48 hours after Transport Secretary Louise Haigh hailed a new deal with train drivers... the rail union Aslef announced further strike action. So what happened to Labour's 'relationship reset' with the unions? And with recent pay deals, what incentive is there for workers to compromise with the government?
Fraser Nelson and Isabel Hardman join James Heale to discuss.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
The broader story this morning paints a positive picture for the UK economy. While growth in June took a pause, growth in Q2 for this year is estimated to be 0.6 per cent, roughly in line with what markets were predicting, as forecasts for UK growth have been repeatedly revised upwards since the start of the year. Growth was 0.8 per cent in the three months to May, indicating the positive upward trend only paused at the start of the summer. This sounds like great news, but has it come at the right time for Labour?
Today we have also had A Level results and top marks have risen despite a return to pre-pandemic levels. What do the numbers say?
James Heale speaks to Farser Nelson and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
We've got some news today on the inflation rate, which rose to 2.2 per cent in July, slightly up from the Bank of England’s target of 2 per cent, where the rate sat in May and June. It’s the first rate uptick this year – and though widely expected, it will be used to explain why the Bank’s continued hawkish stance, despite starting its rate-cutting process earlier this month. Is this a sign of economic conditions improving? Could it lead the way to interest rate cuts later this year?
Also today, the Treasury its under scrutiny after a Labour donor received a top civil service job. Do we need more transparency when it comes to political appointments?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Kate Andrews and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
After successful showings at NATO and Blenheim Palace Keir Starmer is facing his first foreign policy tests, with big developments in Ukraine and in the Middle East. On the one hand, Ukrainian troops are continuing push into the Kursk region of Russia and on the other it looked last night that Iran had ramped up preparations for a possible invasion of Israel. Keir Starmer made a phone call last night to Tehran urging them to 'refrain from attacking Israel', warning against a 'serious miscalculation'.
Also today, Tory leadership hopeful Tom Tugendhat gave a press conference and took the opportunity to criticise the government response to the riots. Is he the law and order leadership candidate?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Sophia Gaston, head of foreign policy at Policy Exchange.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
Photo Credit: Simon Dawson/ No.10 Downing Street
Over the weekend we have had some news on Labour’s housing policy. The Times have splashed on the news that in order to meet their pledge to build 1.5 million houses by 2030, councils will be given the power to buy up green belt land. Will this actually get Britain building?
Elsewhere, the Tory leadership race continues to trundle along with Kemi Badenoch giving her first interview. Is she the candidate that Labour fear most?
James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and Liam Halligan.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Should Keir Starmer go on holiday whilst the country is still grappling with violent disorder? In a YouGov poll on Thursday 71% of those surveyed said he shouldn’t. The PM is meant to be heading off on a summer break on Monday but that is looking increasingly unlikely. We still haven’t got the final word from No.10 but we we thought it was a good opportunity to take a look at the politics of prime ministerial holidays.
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Jon Rentoul, chief political commentator at the Independent.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Elon Musk has it in for the Labour government, his latest tweet screenshotting a racist comment Labour MP Lauren Edwards made over a decade ago. On this episode, Lucy Dunn talks to Katy Balls and John McTernan about whether Big Tech can be regulated, and how DSIT Secretary Peter Kyle thinks the government should treat tech tycoons.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Cindy Yu.
The last week has been dominated by rioting, and last night was expected to be a particularly explosive night. How did it measure up against expectations?
Meanwhile, the Tory leadership race continues to chug along, with each of the six candidates providing their own take on Keir Starmer's response to the violent disorder. Rishi Sunak has been surprisingly absent. How do you provide effective opposition during a time of civil disobedience?
Lucy Dunn speaks to Katy Balls and Paul Goodman, former editor of Conservative Home.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
Courts have started giving out severe sentences to those involved in the riots today, but there is a continued clamouring for Keir Starmer to do more. The next step seems to be cracking down on discussions online, where social media platforms such as X and Telegram could be inflaming the riots. Could the government give in to this pressure, and what do we, as a society, lose if so? Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and non-affiliated peer Claire Fox.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
The Prime Minister has clashed with billionaire owner of ‘X’ Elon Musk over comments that Musk claiming that – in light of the violent disorder across the country – the UK is heading for civil war. How long will this spat go on? And is this the start of Starmer being tough on the tech giants?
Elsewhere, Rachel Reeves has been in North America this week attempting to bang the drum for Britain as 'a stable place to do business' … stable all expect for some significant market turmoil. What's the update?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Keir Starmer will be chairing his first Cobra meeting, as the government continues to grapple with the rioting that has broken out across the country. The weekend saw numerous examples of violence, including at hotels thought to be hosting asylum seekers.
We had a statement from the prime minister condemning the ‘right wing thuggery’, but do we need a more complete approach to extremism? And will our prisons and our courts be able to accommodate the huge influx of offenders?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Ian Acheson, senior advisor to the Counter Extremism Project.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Police are bracing themselves for more violent disorder this weekend. This is in the aftermath of the tragic stabbings in Southport and unrest in London, Hartlepool and Southport. Keir Starmer made a statement yesterday condemning the protests and the involvement of far right actors for stoking up the violence and spreading disinformation online. Is there a double standard in government’s response to these latest protests?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Brendan O’Neil and John Woodcock, who advised government on political violence & disruption.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
Kemi Badenoch is the favourite in the Tory leadership race at the moment, which is partly why she's been subject to a fair amount of scrutiny and some mud-slinging this week. But could Robert Jenrick actually overtake her as the frontrunner on the right of the Conservative party? Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Today the Bank of England has cut rates for the first time in four years, bringing more good economic news to the Labour government. On the episode, Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews about how this raises the question – again – of why Rishi Sunak called an election before he could reap a summer's worth of economic good news.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Rioters in Southport have clashed with police after three young girls were fatally stabbed outside a Taylor Swift themed dance class on Monday. The crowd was heard chanting ‘English til I die’ in the violence, which took place outside a mosque. The police have confirmed a 17 year old was arrested over the attack, and he was born in Wales.
Is this quickly becoming a major test for the new Prime Minister? What sort of political tensions are becoming apparent following the incident? What role has social media played in spreading disinformation?
Megan McElroy speaks to Katy Balls and Paul Brand, UK Editor of ITV News, who has been reporting from Southport.
Rachel Reeves wakes to mixed headlines today after she announced a range of spending cuts to part fill a £22 billion ‘shortfall’ in public spending for this year alone.
The most controversial move by Reeves on Monday was her decision to axe the winter fuel benefit for pensioners not eligible for benefits. That saves £1.5 billion but has already been blasted by Martin Lewis and Age UK as a blunt measure that will hurt those on modest pensions who struggle to make ends meet.
Is there more hard medicine to come? Katy Balls speaks to Kate Andrews and John McTernan, former political secretary to Tony Blair.
The Chancellor Rachel Reeves has today been providing covering fire for a raft of unpopular policies, including changes to the winter fuel allowance and cancellations to various building projects. She gave a damning statement in the Commons earlier this afternoon about the economic situation that Labour have inherited from the Tories.
We now know that the first budget will come at the end of October. Is she laying the foundations for more unpopular decisions? Is the Starmer honeymoon over?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
It's a busy day in Westminster as we await the new Chancellor's ‘spending audit’ of the financial challenges Labour has ‘discovered’ on entering government. But in the meantime there has been some movement in the Tory leadership race, with the deadline for applicants later this afternoon.
Kemi Badenoch is the latest to declare, whilst Suella Braverman – the onetime standard-bearer of the Brexiteer right – has penned a piece for Monday’s Telegraph, declaring that she will not throw her hat in the ring. What's next for her?
Patrick Gibbons speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Patrick Gibbons.
Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning’s politics shows.
Tax rises might be on the horizon, as Labour prepare to reveal a £20bn hole in the finances they blame on a Tory cover up. John Glen says Labour are disingenuous and are already breaking promises. Meanwhile, the environment secretary says water company bosses could face criminal charges in the future, Andy Burnham urges calm over violent Manchester police incident, and Husam Zomlot blames Netanyahu for the delay in achieving a hostage deal.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
The rumour swirling around Westminster is that there will soon be a new Cabinet Secretary, the most senior civil servant position. Politico reported that current Cab-Sec Simon Case is being advised to step down for health reasons at the end of the year, providing an opportunity for Keir Starmer to fill the position with his person. But who might that be? Who are the runners and riders to become one of the most powerful people in government?
Katy Balls speaks to Henry Newman, former advisor to Boris Johnson and editor of the Whitehall Project substack.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
The Chancellor Rachel Reeves is expected to give a statement to Parliament on Monday outlining the state of public finances, including a '£20 billion black hole'. James Heale talks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews about the strategy behind this: will this speech lay the ground work for the Autumn budget? How new are these economic issues? And, with the Conservatives embarking on a long leadership election, will Labour have a free rein for their plans?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
As more Conservative MPs declare their intentions to run for the Tory leadership, James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Conservative peer Paul Goodman about the runners and riders. What can they learn from previous leadership elections? Who will play well with the members and the public at large? And what will the dividing lines be between the candidates?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
Three weeks in for the new government and we have had our first Labour rebellion. In a vote last night on an SNP amendments to axe the two child benefit cap, seven Labour MPs revolted and have subsequently lost the Labour whip.
Parliament’s new awkward squad includes some familiar faces of the Labour left, such as John McDonnell and Zarah Sultana. The cast list is such that it’s unlikely Keir Starmer’s inner circle will lose much sleep about these MPs being without the whip for six months. The bigger question is, will they actually get it back?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
At last there is white smoke in the negotiations over the rules for the Tory leadership contest. On Monday, the 1922 committee met and agreed a timetable for the contest to succeed Rishi Sunak as Conservative party leader. The plan is for a new leader to be unveiled 2 November with eligible candidates to throw their name into the ring before the summer recess. It's going to be a long process, but will they be able to keep it civil? Will this be a beauty contest or a Tory Wacky Races?
Fraser Nelson speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Last night we had the news that President Biden will not contest the election, announcing in a separate statement that he will support his vice president Kamala Harris for the nomination. As endorsements pour in from other notable democrats and donors it looks like it might be nailed-on for her. But what would a Kamala Harris candidacy mean for Labour unity?
Meanwhile, the row over the two child benefit cap continues to swirl. What should we expect this week?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning’s politics shows.
Chancellor Reeves is in the spotlight. She maintains Labour will be strict with their fiscal rules, and blames the Conservatives for the ‘mess’ she inherited. Jeremy Hunt accuses her of laying the ground for tax rises. Elsewhere, Tory mayor Ben Houchen is positive about working with Starmer, and violinist Nicola Benedetti advocates for the arts in education.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
This week, Joe Biden has faced further calls to step down from some of the most senior characters in the Democratic party. The President is currently isolating having tested positive for Covid, but remains resolute that he has no intention of giving up yet. Natasha Feroze speaks to Kate Andrews and Freddy Gray about whether the party can get rid of Biden, and discuss what the JD Vance-Trump economic policies could look like.
The Conservatives need to choose a new leader, but first they need to agree on the process... Easier said than done. Lucy Dunn talks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls about the latest on the upcoming leadership race: what will the race look like, who are the the runners and riders, and how do they rate Rishi Sunak's performance as leader of the opposition?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
Keir Starmer is at Blenheim Palace today for the gathering of the European Political Community, the forum created by Emmanuel Macron in the wake of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. While the new Prime Minister met with many world leaders last week in Washington for the Nato summit, this is his first time he has played host since entering 10 Downing Street. And he used his opening address to call for a 'reset' of relations with the EU, but what will that look like?
Oscar Edmondson speaks with Katy Balls and Charles Grant, director at the Centre for European Reform.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Labour has set out its ambitious missions in the King's Speech to open a new parliament today. On the podcast, Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and former Labour advisor John McTernan about what was expected – and what was missing – from the legislative agenda.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Cindy Yu.
Keir Starmer is coming under pressure to commit to scrapping the two-child benefit cap, introduced in 2017 by the Conservatives. Plaid Cymru, the Greens, Nigel Farage, the SNP, and now some Labour backbenchers are all calling for its removal. Can Starmer hold the line?
Elsewhere: in Wales, First Minister Vaughan Gething has resigned after four months in the job, and in the US, Donald Trump has chosen the junior senator from Ohio J.D. Vance as his nominee for Vice-President. What could these developments mean for Labour?
Lucy Dunn speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Oscar Edmondson.
It’s two days after the failed assassination attempt on Donald Trump and we thought we would use this podcast to discuss some of the reaction from Westminster and look at how this latest example of political violence will impact our own politics here in the UK.
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Kate Andrews and James Heale, who joins us from Milwaukee where he is reporting on the Republican National Convention.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
Donald Trump has narrowly escaped with his life after an attempted assassination attempt. The UK government condemn the violent act, Nigel Farage say liberal media narratives are to blame, pollster Frank Luntz says the moment may be decisive in the US election, and former Tory adviser Samuel Kasumu says the US needs to think about gun control.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
Join Fraser Nelson, Katy Balls and Kate Andrews, along with special guest Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg, for a live edition of Coffee House Shots recorded earlier this week. A week on from Sir Jacob losing his seat, he declares 'I can speak freely now'. So, why does he think the Conservatives lost the election?
The team also answer a range of audience questions, including: how will the Conservatives win voters back? Is Nigel Farage here to stay? And what's their verdict on Labour's first week?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Megan McElroy.
What happens to staff in Whitehall when a government changes? In this Saturday edition of the podcast, Katy Balls is joined by Henry Newman, former adviser to Michael Gove. He now runs Whitehall Watch, a project exploring who’s up, who’s out, who’s in and what’s going down across Whitehall, the corridors of power and the Civil Service.
Justice secretary Shabana Mahmood has acknowledged that ‘our prisons are on the point of collapse’. She has announced that, from September, most prisoners serving sentences of less than four years will be released 40 per cent of the way through their sentences instead of the halfway point, which is currently the case.
The policy will ease pressure on prisons, but the question remains; could this backfire? Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and Professor Ian Acheson, former prison governor and former Director of Community Safety at the Home Office.
You can listen to Shabana Mahmood on Women With Balls here.
Keir Starmer is on his first big diplomatic trip to Washington, attending the Nato summit. He has called on member countries to increase defence spending, had a meeting with Volodymyr Zelensky, and enjoyed a dinner with Joe Biden - all in his first week of the job. How is the trip going, are there any tensions arising, and has it been a success for the new PM?
Oscar Edmondson discusses with James Heale and Sophia Gaston, head of foreign policy at Policy Exchange.
It's been a big 24 hours in Tory-world as the party tries to pick itself up after last week's defeat. We have had the first shadow cabinet meeting and the 1922 committee chairman election. Where do they go from here? And who could lead them?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting declared the NHS 'broken' over the weekend. With a creaking in-tray of issues, he opened up negotiations with the BMA today to try and solve one: the pay dispute with junior doctors. With ambitious reforms planned, and a workforce with low morale, how successful will Labour be?
Isabel Hardman and James Heale join Cindy Yu to discuss.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Cindy Yu.
This morning, Rachel Reeves made her first speech as chancellor. She announced mandatory housing targets, promising 1.5 million homes over the next five years, as well as an end to the onshore wind ban. What else does she have in store, and can Labour deliver the growth the country needs?
James Heale discusses with Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's politics shows.
Labour win with a landslide, but their relatively small share of the vote makes this a significantly distorted election. Newly appointed Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds defends his party's performance, and says smaller parties don't receive enough scrutiny. The Tory inquest begins, while Lib Dems say they will be constructive opposition, and Reform claim they are the 'real' opposition.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
In his first 24 hours as Prime Minister, Keir Starmer has appointed his cabinet and held a cabinet meeting. Most of his frontbench have carried over their shadow briefs, but there were a few surprise appointments too. Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and Times columnist Patrick Maguire.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Where to start with an historic election night. Keir Starmer has got his 1997 moment, winning an enormous majority.
Elsewhere, eleven cabinet ministers have lost their seats, including: Grant Shapps, Gillian Keegan and Penny Mordaunt. Former prime minister Liz Truss has lost her seat, as have senior Tories Jacob Rees-Mogg and Miriam Cates. The Lib Dems have made massive gains, the SNP were decimated in Scotland and Nigel Farage is the MP for Clacton.
But it's not a clean sweep for Labour. Two Labour frontbenchers have lost their seats and Starmer will enter government on a vote share of 35 per cent, the lowest of any postwar governing party. Will this hinder him in government? And is this landslide down to the Farage effect?
James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.
The polls have closed and the exit poll is in. The BBC exit poll projects that Labour will win a landslide of 410 MPs and the Conservatives will be left with 131 seats. Meanwhile the Liberal Democrats will win 61 seats, the SNP ten seats and Reform 13 seats. This would mean a Labour majority of 170 – and would be the Tories’ worst ever result.
Megan McElroy speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Tomorrow, voters will head to the polling booth to cast their vote in the 2024 general election. Will there be any surprises in store? So far, there has been little movement when it comes to the gap in vote share between Labour and the Tories. However, there's still plenty of uncertainty across the parties as to what the exit poll will say at 10 p.m. on Thursday night.
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and James Kanagasooriam, chief research officer at Focaldata.
The election campaign was going well for Nigel Farage's Reform... until it wasn't. A series of scandals have been difficult for the party to shake off. Will the distractions cost them votes and MPs? How will it affect their momentum - and who's to blame? Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Heale.
As Europe comes to terms with the fallout from Marine Le Pen's victory in the first round of their parliamentary elections, Cindy Yu talks to Freddy Gray and Katy Balls about what it all means for Keir Starmer. If he does win the UK's own election on Thursday, he faces a European landscape that could be harder to navigate. What do the results mean for the UK and what reaction has there been?
Produced by Cindy Yu and Patrick Gibbons.
Join Fraser Nelson, Katy Balls and Kate Andrews for this special edition of Coffee House Shots, recorded live ahead of the general election. As election day draws closer, Fraser talks through some myth-busting statistics and the team answer questions from the audience. Could this election increase support for proportional representation? What policy does the panel think has been the most interesting? And was there ever a probable path to victory for Rishi Sunak?
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Patrick Gibbons.
Check out The Spectator's data hub for more graphs and statistics, updated daily.
The gender debate has become increasingly difficult for the Labour Party as the election campaign has rumbled on. JK Rowling has now agreed to meet with Labour to discuss gender transition policy, after writing in The Times that she'd struggle to vote for the party after feeling dismissed by them. After the election, will gender become an increasingly difficult issue for Keir Starmer? Megan McElroy speaks to Katy Balls and Sonia Sodha, chief leader writer and columnist at the Observer
The Democrats wanted and needed a compelling performance from Joe Biden last night: a rebuttal to the concerns about his age and ability. Instead, his performance was disastrous. Is there any way he can survive this performance? Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and Sarah Elliott, director of the UK-US special relationship unit at the Legatum Institute.
Some countries, like Canada and France, have bans on polling close to the election. Many figures on both sides of the campaign have been frustrated at how the media is consuming polling. What is a polling blackout, and why do some people want one? Megan McElroy speaks to Katy Balls and Chris Hopkins, polling expert and political research director at Savanta.
Elsewhere, David Tennant has taken aim at Kemi Badenoch. She has, to little surprise, responded. With one week to go, does the electorate have any appetite for a culture war?
Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls speak to Patrick Gibbons following the second, and final, debate between Keir Starmer and Rishi Sunak. With a week to go until the general election, who came out on top and did we learn anything?
We are now two weeks into the political betting saga. Since our last episode, Keir Starmer has suspended a Labour candidate who bet on himself losing. How damaging is 'gamblegate' - and has it gone too far?
Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and Stephen Bush, columnist and associate editor at the Financial Times.
It's another bad day for the Conservatives. Rishi Sunak has withdrawn support for the Tory candidates involved in the general election betting scandal. What has led to the timing of this decision?
Also on the podcast, James Kanagasooriam, Chief Research Officer of Focaldata, explains their latest poll that suggests a 250-seat Labour majority. He joins Katy Balls and James Heale.
In a speech this afternoon, Nigel Farage doubled down on controversial comments he made about the West provoking the war in Ukraine. Is the Reform leader taking inspiration from Trump? And could this be a small win for the Tories who are seeking to claw back Reform votes? Also on the podcast, James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson about the latest in the election date betting scandal.
Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows.
The election date betting scandal engulfs the Conservatives, while James Cleverly also has to contend with a Tory aide calling the Rwanda policy ‘crap’. There's controversy also in the Scottish National Party, with allegations that staff may have used public money on the election campaign. Bridget Phillipson is asked to clarify Labour’s position on gender identity in schools, and Unite’s Sharon Graham suggests Labour voters might move to Reform if workers aren’t supported.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
Writer, trade unionist and Labour Brexiteer Paul Embery joins James Heale on Spectator TV to discuss Labour's plans for the EU should they get into government. Paul highlights the need for Labour to deliver on its promises and avoid alienating working-class voters. Will Rachel Reeves appease the Red Wall? And how tough will Labour be on immigration?
Last nights election Question Time programme was probably the best of the campaign in that it gave space for proper discussion while making all the leaders uncomfortable.
None of the four men questioned over the two hour programme – Rishi Sunak, Keir Starmer, Ed Davey and John Swinney – did badly. There were some good revelatory comments, but Fiona Bruce's questioning exposed the leaders' key weaknesses. Did anyone managed to shift the dial?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Another allegation over betting with insider knowledge has transpired today, this time involving the Conservative candidate Laura Sanders, who is married to the party's director of campaigns, Tony Lee. Lee has now taken a leave of absence as the Gambling Commission carries out an investigation. On the episode, Cindy Yu talks to Kate Andrews and James Heale about how this derails an already wobbly campaign.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Yet another three MRP polls landed today – and none of them look pretty for the Conservative party. This comes as Boris Johnson rules out helping on the campaign trail as reports say that the party has given up on the Red Wall. On the episode, James Heale talks to Katy Balls and conservative commentator Paul Goodman about why the Tories will continue to struggle to close the poll gap given the roles played by the Liberal Democrats and Reform.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
If you're a Twitter user, you might have seen more of Boris Johnson than usual. He's been making videos to endorse selected candidates from his holiday in Sardinia. Might he make a bigger return to the election campaign? Is he the only man that could save the Tories from Farage - and does he want to?
James Heale speaks to Isabel Hardman and Fraser Nelson.
Nigel Farage has unveiled Reform UK's manifesto. Except, it's not a manifesto, because he says the word is synonymous in voters’ minds with ‘lies’. It promises a freeze on non-essential immigration, a patriotic curriculum, leaving the European Court on Human Rights, and cutting taxes by £88 billion.
Is this contract more of a wish list? How much damage can Nigel Farage do to the Conservatives? Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Heale.
Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning’s politics shows.
Election campaigns are ramping up, and we hear from the Conservatives, the Liberal Democrats, Labour, and Plaid Cymru. Mark Harper is asked why some Tory candidates are avoiding official Conservative branding, and Wes Streeting is asked whether Labour’s manifesto amounts to real change.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
Picture the scene: it's July 5th and a triumphant Keir Starmer arrives at Downing Street after achieving a supermajority and the Tories have only narrowly prevented the Lib Dems becoming official party of opposition. Whilst this may sound far fetched, it is the likely result when you take an average of the last week's polls. What would those first 100 days of Labour look like?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and John McTernan, former political secretary to Tony Blair.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
The Spectator will be hosting a special Live edition of Coffee House Shots in the aftermath of the election. Taking place on Thursday the 11th July - a week after the election - at 7pm here in Westminster, you can join Fraser Nelson, Katy Balls and Kate Andrews as they try to dissect the election results, a new government, and what comes next.
Tickets are £35, or £25 for subscribers. If you’re interested, you can book online at spectator.co.uk/shotslive
Nigel Farage tried to claim at the start of Thursday’s TV debate that Reform was the real threat to Keir Starmer, given it has just passed the Conservatives in the polls (more on that here). Are they the new party of opposition? And what sort of tactics will the Tories use to try and claw back voters they are haemorrhaging to Reform?
Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and Chris Hopkins, director of Savanta.
Keir Starmer launched Labour's manifesto today, but how much did we actually learn about their plans for government? And with no rabbits pulled out of the proverbial hat, how do they plan to achieve growth? Kate Andrews and Starmer's biographer Tom Baldwin joined Katy Balls to discuss. Tom also provided some insight into Angela Rayner's election bus, including a surprising admission about a lettuce...
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
Katy Balls and Kate Andrews speak to Natasha Feroze after the Battle for No.10 leadership interviews. The two leaders gave their pitch to a live audience and viewers at home. But who came out on top?
Grant Shapps has been speaking to media this morning and warning that a Labour landslide would be 'very bad news' for the country. Is the acknowledgement that Labour could seriously damage the Tories a slip of the tongue, or a new strategy for the Tories?
Elsewhere, the interview that Rishi Sunak left D Day commemorations for is airing tonight. In a controversial moment, when asked what he had to go without as a child, he says Sky TV...
Megan McElroy speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Join the Coffee House Shots team for a live recording on Thursday 11 July. Get tickets at spectator.co.uk/live.
Conservatives hoping to turn their fortunes around with the publication of the party's manifesto have been disappointed. The document contained little by way of surprises or rabbits, and despite Sunak's pledge that the Conservatives are the party of tax cutting, the new costings show that the tax burden will continue to rise. Katy Balls talks to James Heale and Kate Andrews.
Join the Coffee House Shots team for a live recording on Thursday 11 July. Get tickets at spectator.co.uk/live.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Just when you thought this election campaign couldn’t get any more tumultuous, Douglas Ross has announced he will resign as Scottish Conservative leader. He had lost the support of his colleagues – particularly those in Holyrood – following his decision to effectively take over a Westminster colleague’s constituency when that MP was seriously ill in hospital. Why now?
Michael Simmons speaks to Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls.
The Spectator will be hosting a special Live edition of Coffee House Shots in the aftermath of the election. Taking place on Thursday the 11th July - a week after the election - at 7pm here in Westminster, you can join Fraser Nelson, Katy Balls and Kate Andrews as they try to dissect the election results, a new government, and what comes next.
Tickets are £35, or £25 for subscribers. If you’re interested, you can book online at spectator.co.uk/shotslive
Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
Mel Stride defends the prime minister after his D-Day gaffe. Farage criticises Sunak, and Amber Rudd criticises Farage. Meanwhile, Labour's Shabana Mahmood and the SNP's Stephen Flynn speak about their own parties' priorities.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
Last night, leaders and senior representatives from seven political parties went head to head in the latest TV debate. But who came out on top? Katy Balls speaks to James Heale and Fraser Nelson.
Overnight, details of Labour's manifesto were leaked. There are several new policies, but how surprising will they be, and how will they land with voters?
Elsewhere, Rishi Sunak has denied he planned to skip D Day events altogether since our episode this morning. Can the row get any worse?
James Heale speaks to Isabel Hardman and John McTernan, former political secretary to Tony Blair.
It's yet another gaffe for Rishi Sunak. At yesterday’s D Day anniversary celebrations when it came time for official photographs with Joe Biden, Olaf Scholz and Emmanuel Macron, it was Lord Cameron, not Rishi Sunak, who did the honours for Britain. With the prime minister reportedly leaving early to do a pre-recorded political interview with ITV. He has since apologised, but can he bounce back from this one?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Conservative grassroots are up in arms over the installment of Tory party chairman, Richard Holden, as the candidate for Basildon and Billericay, a safe seat. The local association was given a shortlist of one by CCHQ. Katy Balls talks to James Heale and commentator and Conservative peer, Paul Goodman.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Last night, Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer went head-to-head in the first TV debate of the campaign. They clashed on a variety of topics, including housing, the NHS, and immigration. But who came out on top? Katy Balls speaks to Kate Andrews and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Megan McElroy.
Some Conservatives have put their hopes on tonight's TV debate as a breakthrough moment for the lacklustre and disorganised Tory campaign, but will it really be a gamechanger? James Heale talks to Isabel Hardman about why she's sceptical, and to the pollster Chris Hopkins at Savanta about why the Tories just aren't closing that poll gap.
Produced by Megan McElroy and Cindy Yu.
This afternoon a wildcard was thrown into the election – the return of Nigel Farage. He will be standing for the Reform party at Clacton, the one parliamentary seat that Ukip had held. What will this mean for the Conservatives? James Heale talks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Cindy Yu.
Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
Division in the Labour Party as Keir Starmer belatedly approves Diane Abbott as a candidate, while others in Labour claim they were offered seats in the House of Lords to stand aside for different candidates. Meanwhile, Victoria Atkins talks up her Pharmacy First initiative, Yvette Cooper wants migration to come down (we're not sure by how much), Green co-leader Adrian Ramsay is asked about meat rationing, and Trump's lawyer thinks his trial is the work of a corrupt, fascist state.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
The news that Donald Trump has been convicted of 34 felonies meant that the Labour leader faced questions about the former president on Friday morning, rather than the Diane Abbott selection storm. On his visit to Scotland, Starmer told the BBC that a Labour government would be willing to work with ‘whoever’ was elected in November’s presidential contest. But how would Starmer deal with Trump?
James Heale speaks to Kate Andrews and Freddy Gray.
Keir Starmer has began a purge of pre-existing candidates and MPs who risk frustrating their election campaign. There is an ongoing row about whether Diane Abbott, the former shadow home secretary, will be barred from standing. Angela Rayner has now weighed in saying she 'sees no reason why Diane Abbott can't stand for Labour'. Could this become a problem for Keir Starmer?
James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and Paul Goodman.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.
Keir Starmer is now putting the final touches to this with a last minute purge of pre-existing candidates and MPs who risk frustrating their election campaign. There is an ongoing row about whether Diane Abbott, the former shadow home secretary, will be barred from standing, but who else might join her?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
The drama in Westminster never seems to end. Last night the Times reported that the Labour party would not allow veteran MP Diane Abbott to represent the party at the upcoming general election. Abbott has reportedly been given the Labour whip back as a middle way, causing something of a backlash. Seeking to clarify the situation, Keir Starmer has today insisted that, 'no decision has been taken to bar Diane Abbot' and that 'she is a member of the parliamentary Labour party.' What's going on? Will she be standing?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and John McTernan, former political secretary to Tony Blair.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Days into the election campaign and parties are scrambling to get their message out on social media. With both Labour and the Conservatives joining TikTok, who has a stronger message? Katy Balls speaks to Sean Topham, co-founder of Topham Guerin who ran the Conservative's 2019 social media campaign.
Days into the election campaign and parties are scrambling to get their message out on social media. With both Labour and the Conservatives joining TikTok, who has a stronger message? Katy Balls speaks to Sean Topham, co-founder of Topham Guerin who ran the Conservative's 2019 social media campaign.
The Conservatives have unveiled a new pensions policy: the 'Triple Lock Plus'. What does it mean and what's the thinking behind it? Will it help shore up the Tories' core vote?
Katy Balls and Focaldata's James Kanagasooriam join Natasha Feroze to discuss.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Patrick Gibbons.
The Conservatives have unveiled a new pensions policy: the 'Triple Lock Plus'. What does it mean and what's the thinking behind it? Will it help shore up the Tories' core vote?
Katy Balls and Focaldata's James Kanagasooriam join Natasha Feroze to discuss.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Patrick Gibbons.
Keir Starmer set out his first major speech to kick of Labour's general election campaign. The Labour leader prioritised national security, a strong economy and the borders. But with a 'policy light' campaign – has he done enough? Kate Andrews speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Keir Starmer set out his first major speech to kick of Labour's general election campaign. The Labour leader prioritised national security, a strong economy and the borders. But with a 'policy light' campaign – has he done enough? Kate Andrews speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
The first big new policy announcement of the election campaign is in from the Tories, and it’s likely to be a talker. Where Keir Starmer appears to be opting for a ‘ming vase’ strategy – trying not to rock the boat ahead of polling day – the Tories are leaning towards the opposite. At 20 points behind in the polls, aides believe they need headline-grabbing, bold policies in order to get the public’s attention. The first of which is the return of mandatory national service. What's the thinking behind this one?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
We have spoken a lot on the podcast this week about how a July election could be disastrous for the Conservatives, but what about the SNP? With arrests, investigations, resignations and a recent leadership change, it looks as though a snap election couldn't come at a worse time for the Scottish nationalists.
Katy Balls speaks to Lucy Dunn and Fergus Mutch, former head of communications for the SNP.
It's day four of the election campaign, and Michael Gove has joined the growing Tory exodus and announced he's standing down at the election. What's behind his decision, and how will it affect Rishi Sunak?
Megan McElroy speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Produced by Megan McElroy.
Both major party leaders are hitting the road today and campaigning in Scotland, which will be a major battleground in the coming election. Labour looks comfortably in the lead, but is that number accurate to what's happening on the ground? Cindy Yu and Katy Balls talk to Focaldata's James Kanagasooriam about their latest analysis.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Less than 24 hours after Rishi Sunak's surprise election announcement, we look ahead to the parties' campaigns. What has been the fall out? How have Labour responded to the shock news? And why didn't Rishi have an umbrella?
James Heale is joined by Isabel Hardman and former Labour adviser John McTernan to discuss.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
Rishi Sunak has called a general election on July 4. A new parliament will be summoned on 9 July and the state opening will be on 17 July. Is a summer election a wise decision? Katy Balls and James Heale discuss from parliament.
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Rishi Sunak has called a general election on July 4. A new parliament will be summoned on 9 July and the state opening will be on 17 July. Is a summer election a wise decision? Katy Balls and James Heale discuss from parliament.
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Westminster is awash with rumours today that the Prime Minister is about to call an election. On this episode, Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson about where this speculation is coming from and how seriously to take them.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
The IMF has upgraded the 2024 economic forecast for the UK. What does this mean for the Government and could more good news follow this week? And, with speeches on tax, benefit crackdowns and tackling anti-semitism, what should we make of all this political activity? Will we see the return of 'the hot lectern guy'?
Kate Andrews and James Heale join Katy Balls to discuss.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons
The Infected Blood Inquiry has finally concluded after a five-year investigation. This lunchtime, the inquiry’s chair Sir Brian Langstaff said thousands of deaths could have been prevented and the ‘worst ever’ NHS scandal, which saw thousands of Britons between 1970 and 1998 become infected by contaminated blood, could ‘largely, though not entirely, have been avoided’. Will the NHS change after change after this latest scandal?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
Grant Shapps talks about defence spending and the infected blood scandal. Wes Streeting is asked about Starmer's new pledges. And Piers Morgan denies knowing anything about phone hacking.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
There have been two recent defections from the Conservatives to Labour. There's lots of chatter in parliament about a potential third defector. In this Saturday edition of Coffee House Shots, Katy Balls and James Heale hear from Gyles Brandreth, former MP and broadcaster. He takes us back to what it was like working in the whips' office in the 1990s, and ask if he thinks there are more defections to come.
You can read Gyles' diary in The Spectator here: https://www.spectator.co.uk/article/the-day-keir-starmer-cried-on-me-about-his-childhood/
Produced by Megan McElroy.
Ronald Reagan famously asked voters: 'are you better off than you were four years ago?' At the next election, the Tories face a public thinking over the last fourteen years. Chancellor Jeremy Hunt gave a speech today defending the UK's record tax levels and attacking Labour's economic plans. But who should we trust more on tax?
Fraser Nelson and James Heale join Katy Balls to discuss.
Produced by Megan McElroy and Patrick Gibbons.
Keir Starmer has unveiled his six election pledges. In a nod to Tony Blair's 1997 election card, the Labour leader has announced key promises to the public should they win the election. How are the commitments being received, and what will the impact of his speech be?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Stephen Bush, Associate Editor at the Financial Times.
There were no defections today at Prime Minister’s Questions, which probably put Keir Starmer in a slightly stronger position, ironically, given the fuss about Natalie Elphicke crossing the floor last week. The focus was on justice and both the PM and Starmer came up with some new attack lines, but the delivery was – in parts – decidedly lacking. Who came out on top?
Cindy Yu speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Heale.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
Lucy Dunn speaks to Katy Balls and former Blair advisor John McTernan about the one vote that won plans to exclude MPs from parliament arrested on suspicion of serious sexual offence. After Keir Starmer faced criticism for allowing her into the party, could some of her greatest critics now see the perks? Also is Labour about the water down the plans for workers' rights?
Rishi Sunak delivered a pre-election speech this morning setting out the dividing lines at the next election: security with the Tories or risk with Labour. Will it be enough to shift the dial? And is the Natalie Elphicke defection still haunting Keir Starmer? Natasha Feroze speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
Natalie Elphicke's defection to Labour is another blow to the Tories, but could she prove more trouble than she's worth for Starmer? David Cameron says the UK will continue to provide arms to Israel, but Labour disagrees. And as Russian attacks gather pace in Ukraine, Cameron says Ukraine's allies will prevail if they work together.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
John Swinney, newly inaugurated First Minister of Scotland and Leader of the SNP, has been in the job for a week. What have we learnt since he took up the job, and can he turn things around for the party in time for a general election?
James Heale speaks to Lucy Dunn and Fergus Mutch, former SNP adviser.
Produced by Megan McElroy.
John Swinney, newly inaugurated First Minister of Scotland and Leader of the SNP, has been in the job for a week. What have we learnt since he took up the job, and can he turn things around for the party in time for a general election?
James Heale speaks to Lucy Dunn and Fergus Mutch, former SNP adviser.
Produced by Megan McElroy.
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) confirmed this morning that the UK confined its technical recession to 2023. The economy grew by 0.6 per cent in the first three months of the year, thanks in large part to stronger-than-expected growth in March, which reached 0.4 per cent. But is the plan really working?
Also on the podcast, Keir Starmer gave a speech in Dover this morning on Labour's plans to stop the boats. He also took the opportunity to unveil new Labour MP Natalie Elphicke. Is there any clear blue water between Labour and the Tories when it comes to migration?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Kate Andrews and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
This week, shadow foreign secretary David Lammy is stateside, meeting with senior advisors to Donald Trump and hoping to charm them. Meanwhile, David Cameron gives his first set-piece policy speech. Who is the more credible statesman? Cindy Yu talks to James Heale and Charles Grant, director of the Centre for European Reform.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
The MP for Dover, Natalie Elphicke, has shocked MPs and pundits across the political spectrum by defecting to the Labour party today. In her resignation letter, she accused the Conservative party for having 'abandoned' the 'centre ground'. But for someone who has vocally criticised Labour in the past, how helpful is Elphicke's defection? Oscar Edmondson talks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Cindy Yu.
It's the first day back after the local elections. Following Thursday's results, some polling suggests that if the votes were replicated in a general election, there might be a hung parliament. Could this be a reality?
The Spectator's James Heale and Katy Balls are joined by Chris Hopkins, Political Research Director at Savanta.
Produced by Megan McElroy.
The local elections results are in, and the Conservatives have lost more than 450 council seats. After a full recount, Labour’s Richard Parker beat Andy Street to become West Midlands mayor, with only around 1500 votes in it. What does his loss mean for Rishi Sunak, and where do the overall results leave him? Katy Balls and James Heale speak to Megan McElroy.
Produced by Megan McElroy.
Rishi Sunak can breathe a (small) sigh of relief. Ben Houchen, the so-called ‘patron saint of the red wall’, has won a third term as Tees Valley mayor. Houchen secured 53.6 per cent of the vote with Labour in second place with 41.3 per cent, despite some polls in advance suggesting it was neck-and-neck between the Tories and Labour. The Conservatives have undeniably had one of their worst nights for a generation, but are there some silver linings?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.
It's looking like the worst night for the Conservatives in 40 years. The prediction – that the Tories will lose about half of the council seats they are defending – looks on track so far. Labour comfortably won the Blackpool South by-election with a 26 per cent swing and it has also taken several key councils, including Rushmoor which has been Tory-run for the last 24 years. A Gaza backlash has seen Labour lose Oldham while the Conservatives have suffered a string of council losses, coming within 120 votes being beaten by Reform in Blackpool.
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Tomorrow, voters go to the polls for the last set of local elections in this parliament, alongside 11 mayoral elections in England, 37 police and crime commissioner elections in England and Wales plus the London Assembly elections. Could Ben Houchen, Tees Valley Mayor, help turn Rishi Sunak's fortunes around?
You can read James Heale's assessment of the key battlegrounds here.
Also on the podcast, a look at rumours that Labour are in talks to water down their employment policies.
Lucy Dunn speaks to James Heale and John McTernan, former adviser to Tony Blair.
As figures now show there are 2.8 million people claiming out-of-work benefits, Rishi Sunak gave a speech looking at welfare reform. But with more and more people off work for mental health related issues, could the Tories’ focus backfire if the public think they’re trivialising mental health? Also on the podcast, a look ahead to the mayoral elections.
James Heale discusses with Isabel Hardman and Luke Tryl, UK Director at More in Common.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
Scotland's First Minister Humza Yousaf has just announced his intention to resign. Lucy Dunn speaks to Katy Balls and Spectator contributor Iain Macwhirter about how the past few weeks have led to this point and what to expect from an SNP leadership contest.
Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
The prime minister is in a frustrated mood as he bats away questions about the general election. Dan Poulter has defected to Labour, and Wes Streeting says more disaffected Tories are welcome. Humza Yousaf is walking a tightrope as he faces two votes of no-confidence. And Streeting defends Labour's decision to keep the pensions triple lock.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
It was St George's Day this week, and Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said he has 'no time' for those who 'flinch' at the St George's flag. But how authentic is his patriotism?
Katy Balls speaks to Tom Baldwin, former Labour Party adviser and author of new book England: Seven Myths That Changed a Country – and How to Set Them Straight.Produced by Megan McElroy.
Humza Yousaf faces the biggest crisis of his leadership to date – with his fate in the hands of former SNP leadership rival Ash Regan. Will Humza step down before he is pushed? Or is there a narrow gap through which the First Minister can fight on?
Lucy Dunn speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
After two and a half years in government together, Humza Yousaf has terminated the SNP’s governing pact with the Scottish Greens. The decision was rubber stamped at a hastily arranged meeting of the Scottish cabinet on Thursday morning. It preempts a vote by rank-and-file Green members on whether to walk away from Yousaf’s government after he ditched a key climate target.
In response, The Scottish Conservatives have tabled a vote of no confidence vote. And the Yousaf might very well lose it, now the Greens are out of the government. What will this mean for the first minister?
Katy Balls speaks to Lucy Dunn, Iain Macwhirter and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
With Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer away, Oliver Dowden and Angela Rayner stepped in for PMQs today. Questions quickly turned to the long running row about Rayner's tax affairs. Did she redeem herself?
Also, the prime minister has announced further UK military spending, confirming it will rise to 2.5% of national income by 2030. Does the move cause problems for Keir Starmer?
Katy Balls speaks to James Heale and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Megan McElroy.
After eight hours of debate on the Rwanda Bill, peers finally threw in the towel shortly after midnight. And with that, the Rwanda Bill became law, pending Royal Assent from the King. The two chambers have been engaged in a mammoth game of ping-pong for the past week, culminating in yesterday’s showdown on two final amendments. What comes next?
Kate Andrews speaks to James Heale and Katy Balls.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
This morning Rishi Sunak delivered a press conference making the case that the Rwanda Bill should become law today – and the government is ready for when it does. James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson about what could be an all-night parliamentary showdown on the Rwanda vote, and whether an early summer election is on the cards.
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
It's been quite the week for the SNP. Questions remain over the future of the Sandyford gender clinic, 'the tartan Tavistock'; the Scottish government ditched its flagship climate change target; and former party chief executive, and husband of Nicola Sturgeon, Peter Murrell was rearrested on embezzlement charges.
What does this all mean for the SNP? Lucy Dunn speaks to Iain Macwhirter, columnist at The Times, and Shona Craven, columnist at The National.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Patrick Gibbons
Rishi Sunak has returned to one of his pet bugbears: getting the unemployed back into work. His speech to the Centre for Social Justice this morning was peppered with his favourite facts about the post-pandemic welfare crisis embroiling Britain. Lucy Dunn speaks to James Heale and Michael Simmons.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Sunak's top team is considering another ban: smartphones for teens. A consultation is due to begin this month that will question whether children need a smartphone, and if social media should require age verification. Could the debate bring the party together?
Also, there's another suspension in Westminster. Mark Menzies has been suspended after claims he made a late night call to ask for money to pay off 'bad people'. He strongly disputes the claims.
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
Produced by Megan McElroy.
The day after her book was published, Rishi Sunak faced down questions from Keir Starmer and Labour members at PMQs about Liz Truss. While he had his replies at the ready, the questions underscored the main issue for Sunak: how should he deal with his predecessor?
Also on the podcast, there is more inflation news for the Government, and how will Starmer deal with internal party discipline?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
It’s not just Britain that has a growth problem. Today’s release of the IMF’s April 2024 World Economic Outlook report argues that the global economy is following the lacklustre trend. Within this bleak picture, how does the UK look compared to its counterparts?
Also on the podcast, MPs are set to vote this evening on the government's generational smoking ban. Is Rishi Sunak a 'finger wagging control freak' as Liz Truss claims? How many could rebel?
James Heale speaks Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Oscar Edmondson.
It's 18 months since Liz Truss left Downing Street and her new memoir, Ten Years to Save the West, is out. She gave her first interview to Fraser Nelson on Spectator TV, covering why she wants to abolish the Supreme Court, Donald Trump, her husband's warning that her leadership bid would end in tears, and so much more.
You can listen to the full interview on Spectator TV – don't forget to subscribe:
https://youtu.be/fPwqsrI0L8Y?si=pguuktDZ5UB7zFCD
We also cover Iran's missile attack on Israel, and what might come next.
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Megan McElroy.
Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows.
After Iran’s first direct attack on Israel, conflict in the Middle East has reached a dangerous new phase. Health Secretary Victoria Atkins confirms British military planes are in action in the region. Yvette Cooper says the focus must be on de-escalation. Green co-leader Carla Denyer says the Israeli strike against an Iranian consulate in Damascus broke international law, but Israeli government spokesperson Avi Hyman claims that the consulate was actually being used by Iranian military. And Atkins defends her party’s Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which will ban smoking for anyone born after 2009 if it goes through this week.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
On this special Saturday edition of Coffee House Shots we discuss Patrick Maguire's scoop this week about former Labour leader Harold Wilson's secret affair with his deputy press secretary. Where does this rank in the history of parliamentary affairs? And – on a more serious note – are there any lessons that Keir Starmer can learn from Harold Wilson?
Katy Balls speaks to Patrick Maguire and James Heale.
The row over Angela Rayner's tax affairs has deepened today. This morning, Greater Manchester police have announced that – following a reassessment of the case – they will open a formal investigation into Angela Rayner. What does this mean for Keir Starmer? And why would it be so difficult for him to sack her?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
One of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's five promises is to cut NHS waiting lists. However, even he's admitted progress is slow, with new data showing key targets on waiting lists have been missed. Can Sunak ever solve the NHS problem?
Elsewhere, Lee Anderson has been telling us about the price of friendship, revealing he won't be campaigning in certain constituencies where his old Conservative pals are running...
Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Megan McElroy.
Today we have had the Cass Review, a landmark report into gender services for children in England, authored by paediatrician Hilary Cass. She concludes that medical interventions were being made on the basis of 'remarkably weak' evidence and that there is a lack of a holistic approach to those questioning their gender. How big of an issue will gender politics be at the next election?
Also on the podcast, after William Wragg gave up the whip last night will his decision to voluntarily resign call into question Rishi Sunak's authority?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
David Cameron is stateside meeting Republicans and Democrats as the Foreign Secretary tries to muster up support for the US to send aid to Ukraine. Before that he stopped by Mar-a-Lago to meet Donald Trump – the two haven't seen eye-to-eye in the past. Will the Republicans warm to Cameron? Katy Balls speaks to Freddy Gray and Lucy Fisher, Whitehall editor at the Financial Times.
Angela Rayner has faced fresh allegations related to her taxes. Keir Starmer and other MPs in the shadow cabinet have come to her defence. Could these accusations jeopardise her position as shadow deputy Prime Minister? Also on the podcast, what are Richard Tice's plans for Reform? Natasha Feroze speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows.
Israel is under increasing pressure to stop its military action, after an IDF strike hit an aid convoy, killing seven aid workers. Oliver Dowden and David Lammy are asked whether the UK should suspend arms sales to Israel. Meanwhile, multiple MPs are attacked by ‘honeytrap’ stings on dating apps, David Lammy says Angela Rayner has done nothing wrong over her tax affairs, and NATO chief Stoltenberg says we are in an era of global conflict and instability.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
J.K. Rowling has been at the centre of a Twitter backlash against Scotland's new hate crime laws which came into effect on April 1st. How has the first week of this controversial legislation gone for First Minister Humza Yousaf? And is political support for the policy dwindling? Natasha Feroze speaks to Lucy Dunn and Isabel Hardman.
On Thursday night, Conservative MP William Wragg admitted that he handed over the phone numbers of MPs, aides and a journalist to a man he met on a dating app. William Wragg will retain the whip after apologising for his actions. Meanwhile, Rishi Sunak is eager to talk about the National Insurance cut that comes into place tomorrow – has this given him political credibility? Cindy Yu speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Heale.
The row over arms sales to Israel continues today, as over 600 high profile figures in the legal profession, including former Supreme Court Justice Jonathan Sumption, sign a petition arguing they believe Israel has breached international law, and more Conservative politicians say, on the record, that they believe the UK must respond with an arms sale ban. Cindy Yu talks to James Heale and Isabel Hardman about where this row could go next.
Produced by Megan McElroy and Cindy Yu.
The killings of three British aid workers in Gaza has caused fury across the board in Westminster, with Rishi Sunak conducting a candid phone call with Benyamin Netanyahu last night. Today, the question is over whether the UK should ban arms sales to Israel in a bid to influence Jerusalem's hardline approach to Gaza. Has Israel lost the support of the UK, and western countries more widely? James Heale talks to Isabel Hardman and Sophia Gaston, head of foreign policy at the think tank, Policy Exchange.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
The SNP's new Hate Crime Act came into effect yesterday, but already it has been met with backlash. On the episode, James Heale talks to Isabel Hardman and Lucy Dunn on why Humza Yousaf insisted on this law and whether it could overwhelm the police.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
There is anxiety in parts of Starmer’s circle about Sue Gray appointing jobs in a Starmer-led Downing Street. When she’s in No.10 she’ll ‘be in her natural territory and running rings around everyone’, a former colleague told Katy Balls in her profile of 'the Gray lady' for The Spectator this week. How is Sue Gray shaking things up as Keir Starmer’s chief of staff?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Jill Rutter, former senior civil servant.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Labour kicked off their local elections campaign today with a joint op-ed from Keir Starmer and Angela Rayner in the Times promising to empower localities and put an end to the regional divide. This is all encompassed in their Take Back Control Act … where have we heard that before?
Rather than a seamless launch, the Labour leader has been met with difficult questions over Angela Rayner's tax affairs and the suggestion that the shadow education secretary could scrap the £4 billion expansion of free childcare.
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
After the resignations of two ministers last night, No. 10 carried out a mini reshuffle, which included some controversial decisions. In particular, the appointment of the outspoken Red Wall MP Jonathan Gullis had some questioning whether Rishi Sunak was making another Lee Anderson-style mistake. James Heale talks to Katy Balls and former editor of Conservative Home, Paul Goodman.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Patrick Gibbons.
Rishi Sunak appeared in front of the House of Commons Liaison Committee today. What happened?
Katy Balls speaks to James Heale and Isabel Hardman.
Former Conservative MP Scott Benton has resigned, triggering a by-election in Blackpool South. The outgoing MP had the Tory whip removed after suggesting to undercover reporters that he would be willing to break lobbying rules for money. Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Katy Balls about the likelihood of another Tory election defeat in Blackpool South, plus whether the Conservatives are pivoting on their China stance following an alleged cybersecurity threat.
Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
Chancellor Jeremy Hunt does the rounds this week, saying the Russian government is creating a smokescreen of propaganda out of the Moscow terrorist attack. Hunt also guarantees the continuation of the pension 'triple lock', but not compensation for the WASPI women. Labour Party Chair Anneliese Dodds is asked about Labour's approach to zero hour contracts, and the former communications secretary to Prince William says last week's social media storm was the worst he's seen.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
In her Mais lecture in the City of London this week, Rachel Reeves set out her plan for Britain’s economy: securonomics. What does securonomics mean? Can it deliver wealth? Will it work in a high-immigration economy?
Freddy Gray speaks to Kate Andrews and the author and journalist Paul Mason.
The Parliamentary Ombudsman's report on raising women's state pension age in line with men's has been published. It details that women born in the 1950s hit by the state pension age change are owed compensation and has advised that the government should 'do the right thing'. Will the 'Waspi women' end up disappointed?
Michael Simmons speaks to Isabel Hardman and Louise Perry, host of the Maiden Mother Matriarch podcast.
Leo Varadkar resigned as Ireland’s Taoiseach this week, and as Fine Gael leader. ‘Personal and political reasons’ informed his decision, he said. Will his party now call an election?
Katy Balls speaks to Ben Scallen, from Dublin’s Gript Media.
A new YouGov poll has Reform just four points behind the Conservatives. Richard Tice’s party is on 15 per cent, and Rishi Sunak’s party is on 19 per cent. What is driving the Tory decline?
Max Jeffery speaks to Katy Balls and to James Johnson of JL Partners.
Inflation has fallen to 3.4 per cent, it was announced this morning. Jeremy Hunt said it was a sign that the government’s economic plan is working. Is he right?
Max Jeffery speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
All ten of the amendments to the Rwanda bill, put in by the House of Lords, were rejected by the House of Commons last night. The bill will head back to the Lords tomorrow, where they will decide whether to continue the process of 'ping pong' (putting more amendments in and sending the bill back to the Commons). Should Labour peers worry about being portrayed as foiling the Rwanda asylum plan? Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and Spectator contributor Patrick O'Flynn.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Over the weekend, speculation about a plot to oust Rishi Sunak and replace him with Penny Mordaunt circulated the papers. It came after one of the worst weeks of the Prime Minister’s premiership and the looming May elections. This morning, key Cabinet ministers including Kemi Badenoch and Ben Wallace have come out in support of ’sticking to the plan’. Can Rishi Sunak keep the party calm ahead of a gruelling month? And what's the strategy behind opting for an autumn election? Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
On this special edition of Coffee House Shots, Kate Andrews interviews broadcaster, and honorary president of the Reform Party, Nigel Farage. They discuss Lee Anderson's defection to the Reform party, how Nigel won the Red Wall for Boris Johnson, and whether he will return to front line politics.
This was taken from The Week in 60 minutes on SpectatorTV. For the full episode, and more, click here.
Rishi Sunak has finally confirmed what most MPs already knew: there won’t be a May general election. Speaking to ITV News West Country on Thursday night, the Prime Minister was asked if there would be a general election at the same time as the local elections on 2 May. He replied: ‘There won’t be a general election on that day but when there is a general election, what matters is the choice.’ So, when will it be?
Also on the podcast, after James Heappey became the latest MP to announce he will step down at the next election, can the Tories stop the exodus?
Natasha Feroze speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.
Michael Gove has unveiled the government’s new legal definition of extremism, which will decide whether organisations can receive government money. Conservative MPs, and three former Conservative home secretaries, have said doing would be a mistake. Is Gove doing more harm than good?
Max Jeffery speaks to Katy Balls and Paul Goodman, former editor of Conservative Home.
At Prime Minister’s Questions today Rishi Sunak refused to commit to returning the £10 million donor Frank Hester gave to the Conservative party. Hester allegedly said that Diane Abbott made him ‘hate all black women.’ Sunak now says that Hester’s alleged comments were ‘racist’ and ‘wrong’, after a spokesperson initially only described them as ‘unacceptable’. Will the Tory position change again?
Max Jeffery speaks to Katy Balls and the Financial Times’s Stephen Bush.
Newspapers today reported that Boris Johnson is going to campaign for the Conservatives in Red Wall seats. Responding, Nadine Dorries wrote on Twitter: ‘There’s no thawing of relations, no plans to campaign. Sunak not spoken to Johnson for over a year.’ So are the stories true? What does Boris want?
Max Jeffery speaks to Kate Andrews and Isabel Hardman.
Lee Anderson has defected from the Tory party to Reform. In a press conference this morning, Anderson said ‘I want my country back’ and said that his parents had urged him to change party allegiance. How much of a headache is Anderson’s defection for Rishi Sunak, and will more Tory MPs quit the party?
Max Jeffery speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
Rachel Reeves says everything in Labour's manifesto will be properly funded, but it isn't clear where that money will come from. The health secretary defends the government's new definition of extremism, and says the NHS needs to be more efficient. But chef Fearnley-Whittingstall says the government is doing nothing to tackle the NHS's biggest problem: obesity. And the director of the IFS says big cuts to public services are coming, no matter who is elected.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
Michael Gove is expected to announce a tougher definition of extremism in response to a rise in radical ideology, since the Israel-Gaza war. Are new laws really needed? Or could the current laws, if enforced properly, be the best way to tackle a decline in social cohesion? Natasha Feroze speaks to David Shipley, a film producer and writer and Professor Jonathan Githens-Mazer from the University of Exeter who specialises in counter-terrorism and extremism.
Theresa May has announced that she will not seek re-election this year. The former prime minister said that launching her global commission on modern slavery and human trafficking meant she would not be able to spend as much time as she would like on constituency matters.
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman about the news.
Lucy Dunn speaks to James Heale and Katy Balls about the slightly muted reaction to the budget. Labour has compared the announcements to Liz Truss's unfunded tax cuts and Scottish Tories have criticised the chancellor’s decision to extend the windfall tax on the profits of North Sea oil. But is this really the pre-election budget?
Jeremy Hunt said the government would cut National Insurance by 2 per cent, would abolish the non-dom tax status and would raise the threshold for child benefits in his Budget today. To discuss the new measures, Katy Balls speaks to Kate Andrews and David Miles, from the Office for Budget Responsibility.
Kate Andrews speaks to James Heale and Isabel Hardman as the speculation grows over what taxes Jeremy Hunt will cut in tomorrow's budget. National Insurance is looking most likely – it's a giveaway but does it go far enough?
Budget day is approaching and the government has hinted that their plans for tax cutting 'giveaways' are now less likely. James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews about what to and what not to expect for Wednesday's Spring Budget.
Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
The Budget announcement is imminent, and Jeremy Hunt says there will be no 'gimmicks'. He might be stealing Labour's non-dom tax policy though. The government's free childcare programme might be in trouble, do Labour have any better ideas? George Galloway wins the Rochdale by-election, and Rishi Sunak warns against the threat of extremism.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
In this special Saturday edition of Coffee House Shots, Cindy Yu is joined by The Spectator's political correspondent, James Heale, and Director of Kraken Strategy Ltd, and former Special Adviser, Salma Shah, to discuss the state of the Home Office.
At the end of a tricky week of headlines for the department we ask: is the Home Office broken?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Cindy Yu.
George Galloway has won a resounding victory in Rochdale, after a chaotic and messy by-election in which Labour was forced to disown its own candidate after he claimed Israel had allowed Hamas to attack on October 7th. Former Labour MP Galloway – standing for the Workers Party of Britain – won on a single issue campaign, criticising the Israel-Gaza war and in particular the response of Keir Starmer and Rishi Sunak to the conflict. How bad is the result for Labour?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Today, the long-awaited Home Office-commissioned Angiolini Inquiry into Wayne Couzens has been published. Couzens had kidnapped, raped and murdered 33-year-old Sarah Everard three years ago. The findings were chilling, revealing that numerous opportunities to stop Couzens throughout his policing career were missed. Katy Balls talks to James Heale and Isabel Hardman about where politicians failed Sarah Everard.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Liz Truss continues to haunt Rishi Sunak. Labour leader Keir Starmer took aim at her recent exploits at CPAC in the US during prime minister's questions today. Starmer called on the prime minister to remove the whip after Truss claimed that her premiership was sabotaged by the 'deep state'. What's Truss up to this time?
Also on the podcast, chancellor Jeremy Hunt will deliver his budget next week. We expect that he will have made his final decision on the March 6th budget by the end of the week. What do we know so far?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Until recently the government's independent chief inspector of borders and immigration, David Neal has been in front of the Home Affairs select committee today to hit out at his erstwhile employers. Cindy Yu talks to Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls on the episode about Neal's abrupt sacking and just how 'independent' an independent inspector can be.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Conservatives are divided over Lee Anderson's suspension, with some believing that if he apologises for comments made about Sadiq Khan, he should be allowed to return. This has sparked new concerns about the Tory party having a problem with islamophobia, worsened by Liz Truss appearing at an event with Steve Bannon who has also been accused of making Islamophobic comments. How can Rishi Sunak squash these accusations? Should Truss also lose the whip? Cindy Yu speaks to James Heale and Katy Balls.
Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
Oliver Dowden is asked to comment on provocative remarks made by multiple Tory MPs about 'Islamists'. Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham says the Tory Party is ambivalent about Islamophobia. Lisa Nandy claims no-one from Labour threatened Speaker Lindsay Hoyle over Gaza ceasefire vote. Ed Davey says he has high hopes for Lib Dem chances in the next election. And Estonia's PM is 'honoured' to be on Putin's most wanted list.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
Lee Anderson has been suspended from the Conservative party this afternoon after saying on GB News that Islamists controlled Sadiq Khan. Will Rishi Sunak miss having the Ashfield MP in his party? Will Anderson join reform?
Max Jeffery speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
In this special Saturday edition of Coffee House Shots, Katy Balls is joined by Tom Baldwin, author of a new authorised biography of Labour leader Keir Starmer. Tom tells Katy why Starmer is such a complex character, his struggle to get the leader of the opposition to open up – particularly about his relationship with his father – and why he is not a politician, in the usual sense.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.
As MPs return to their constituencies, the drama from Wednesday's parliamentary debate is still fresh in Westminster. James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and Isabel Hardman about whether MPs' safety concerns are influencing democracy, and why the outcome of the debate could mean lessons are learned for the future.
The Commons descended into farce and chaos last night. The SNP were not able to vote on their own motion on their own Opposition Day debate; the Conservatives walked out of the chamber in protest; and Lindsay Hoyle seemed tearful as he seemed to apologise for how the Gaza debate went down. On the episode, Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and Chris Ward, director at Hanbury Strategy and former deputy chief of staff to Keir Starmer.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Sir Keir Starmer can breathe a sigh of relief this afternoon, thanks to Lindsay Hoyle. The Speaker has selected Labour’s amendment on a Gaza ceasefire, which means that a likely mass rebellion from Labour MPs will be averted. SNP and Tory MPs are furious at Hoyle, and say that he has tried to rewrite the rules. What's going on? Katy Balls speaks to James Heale and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Today Keir Starmer has moved his party’s position on a ceasefire in Gaza as he seeks to quell what could the biggest rebellion of his leadership. MPs will vote on an immediate ceasefire in Gaza with Labour set to add its own amendment to the SNP motion tomorrow. For the first time, Labour is calling for an ‘immediate humanitarian ceasefire’, but is this really such a big change in Labour's position?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
In the Times today is the latest instalment of Tom Baldwin's authorised biography of Keir Starmer. It includes reports that Labour chief of staff Sue Gray has been drawing up plans for so-called citizens' assemblies. Are citizens' juries the future of democracy? Or is this simply a way for Starmer to avoid making policy decisions?
Elsewhere there is some interesting polling out from the think tank Labour Together, warning that Labour should not get complacent despite their huge poll lead and recent by-election success. This is due to the large 'don't know' vote share and the possibility that the Reform vote could be squeezed at a general election. What would happen if the Reform vote collapses?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
Alexei Navalny is dead, and our government says Putin is responsible. The Tories lose again in by-elections, and Michael Tomlinson says a vote for Reform is a vote for Labour. Meanwhile, Labour themselves are split again, with Scottish Labour backing a motion calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
The new MP for Kingswood has been under fire for apparently changing his accent over the course of his political career. Does this matter? And if so, what does this tell us about British politics today? Cindy Yu talks to James Heale and author and former cabinet minister, Nadine Dorries.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Patrick Gibbons.
Labour has the won two by-elections in Wellingborough and Kingswood, overturning big Conservative majorities in the process. Party chairman Richard Holden has brushed the results off as typical midterm by-elections where voters what to give the government a kicking. Does this argument stack up? And what can Reform take from the results? Isabel Hardman speaks to James Heale and pollster John Curtice.
This morning's figures show that the UK went into a technical recession last year. Forecasts suggest it will be a short and shallow recession, but how badly does this reflect on the government's priorities to increase growth and lower inflation? Also, will this make Rishi Sunak think again about his plan to meet as many rattled voters as possible on the campaign trail? Natasha Feroze speaks to Kate Andrews and James Heale.
Inflation figures released this morning have remained at 4 per cent – a worry for Rishi Sunak's five pledges. There are several hurdles are still to come for the Prime Minister this week, including growth figures tomorrow and two by-elections on Friday. Why are the Tories keeping things low-key on the campaign trail? James Heale is joined by Kate Andrews and Lucy Fisher, Whitehall editor of the Financial Times.
Keir Starmer has rolled back on his support for the Rochdale by-election candidate, Azhar Ali over further comments made about on Israel-Palestine. John McTernan and James Heale speak to Natasha Feroze about the lessons Labour can learn, and whether antisemitism could topple Starmer. Also on the podcast, Rishi Sunak has been taking advantage of Labour's U-turns, and Michael Gove has laid out his new house building plan.
Labour faces another antisemitism battle as their candidate for the Rochdale by-election said that Israel allowed the October 7th attacks as a pretext to invade Gaza. Azhar Ali has since apologised for his comments and Labour has allowed him remain the candidate for Rochdale. Natasha Feroze speaks to James Heale and Isabel Hardman about Keir Starmer's challenge to stamp out antisemitism and take a look ahead at another challenging week for Rishi Sunak.
Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
Michael Gove thinks problems with the housing market could drive young people away from democracy. Who caused these problems? Gove is also questioned over the PM's transphobic joke, and Israel's imminent Rafah offensive. Meanwhile Labour have officially U-turned on their green pledge. And Joe Biden is defending his memory, with little success.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
Having ditched the green investment pledge, Keir Starmer faces questions over what the Labour party actually stands for. And without a clear vision, how can the Labour leader hold together a divided party? Cindy Yu speaks to Fraser Nelson and former Labour advisor Ayesha Hazarika.
Tucker Carlson released his highly anticipated interview with Russia's leader Vladimir Putin last night. The two-hour long discussion was dominated by Putin who gave history lessons, blamed the Nord Stream 2 explosion on the CIA, and accused Boris Johnson of sabotaging the peace talks 18 months ago. Natasha Feroze speaks to James Heale and Freddy Gray about the highlights of the interview, and whether Boris Johnson's role in the talks was as influential as Putin suggests.
Later today Keir Starmer is expected to officially kill off Labour's £28 billion green investment pledge. With the centrepiece of their public policy now scrapped, what will Labour's promise be at the next election?
James Heale speaks to Kate Andrews and John McTernan, former No. 10 political secretary.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
It has been a gaffe-filled week for Rishi Sunak. At PMQs today the prime minister was chastised by his opposite number for an ill-judged comment about transgender people with the mother of murdered teenager Brianna Ghey in parliament. This comes after being pictured embracing Sinn Fein leader Michelle O'Neill and then making a wager with Piers Morgan over his pledge to stop the boats. Is this a prime minister ready to fight a general election?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Stephen Bush, associate editor of the Financial Times.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.
Liz Truss is back! This time with a conference called 'Popular Conservatism', bringing together voices in the Conservative party and aiming to 'deliver popular conservative policies'. But what does the event really tells us about the state of right wing political thought in the UK today, and why were some of Truss's key allies not there? Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Rishi Sunak is in Belfast to mark the return of Stormont after a two-year deadlock. With Sinn Fein now the leading party, can the government pitch this as a win? Also on the podcast, the Prime Minister admitted he's failed to meet the NHS waitlist targets from his five pledges last year. James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
Michelle O'Neill becomes the first nationalist first minister of Northern Ireland. Education Secretary Gillian Keegan is questioned over her childcare pledges and the government's record on protecting children from online harms. Chris Bryant defends Labour against more accusations of changing their minds. And when does UK military action end if the Houthis remain undeterred?
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
This week in Westminster has been dominated by the news that we can expect to see power sharing restored at Stormont in the near future. James Heale gets the reaction of former DUP first minister Baroness Arlene Foster.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.
In his Telegraph column, Fraser Nelson makes the case that it's time to ban former politicians accepting jobs from foreign rulers. The likes of Tony Blair, George Osborne and David Cameron have all made money from government's abroad. But is this becoming more of a problem? And are their critics simply a product of their success? Natasha Feroze speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Heale.
At the 'Labour Business Conference 2024', shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves wooed business with a pledge that Labour would not raise corporation tax in their first term. Instead, she told the audience of FTSE 100 chief execs that a Labour government would keep the current cap at 25 per cent. How convincing is Reeves' big pitch to business?
Also on the podcast, the big news this week has been the Northern Ireland negotiations. What's happened in parliament today?
Natasha Feroze speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.
Nicola Sturgeon was emotional whilst giving evidence at the Covid inquiry today – a highly anticipated part of the inquiry given the issue of deleted Whatsapp messages. How did the former first minister come across today? And what else can the evidence tell us about how the Scottish government operated? Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and Michael Simmons.
After hours of late night negotiations, power sharing looks like it's back on in Stormont – or is it? James Heale talks to Katy Balls and TalkTV's Peter Cardwell about the latest political developments in Northern Ireland.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Rishi Sunak has outlined plans to ban disposable vapes, and is hoping to change vape packaging to make it less appealing to children. Why?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows.
Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch says she wants no part in Tory plotting. UN aid workers are accused of participating in Hamas attacks. The Post Office fallout continues. Jonathan Reynolds says Labour don’t want to make false promises. And the US Navy chief says Donald Trump is a danger to the world.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
Donald Trump seems to have the Republican primaries wrapped up. He’ll almost certainly be up against Joe Biden on 5 November in the general election. If Trump wins, and in Britain’s own elections in the second half of 2024, Starmer wins, the two will make an odd pair. Will they get on?
Max Jeffery speaks to Katy Balls and Freddy Gray, The Spectator’s deputy editor and host of the Americano podcast.
NHS consultants have (narrowly) rejected another pay increase offered to them by the government. They will not immediately go back on strike, and will instead negotiate further with the government. Kate Andrews takes us through the details.
Also on the podcast, Fraser Nelson responds to Spectator chairman Andrew Neil's comments on BBC's Newsnight last night, on the potential sale of our magazine to UAE-backed RedBird IMI.
Produced and presented by Max Jeffery.
Rishi Sunak seems to be facing his own 'plot'. But unlike in Nadine Dorries' now infamous book, it's not a secret cabal orchestrated by Dougie Smith hoping to depose him, but a mysterious rebel group, backed by Tory donors, who have been funding the polling we've seen in the Telegraph recently. The news today is that they have added Will Dry – Rishi Sunak's former pollster – to their ranks. Is this plot a serious and organised threat to Rishi's premiership?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Paul Goodman, editor of Conservative Home.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Tory MP Simon Clarke called for Rishi Sunak to resign last night. In a piece in the Telegraph, he wrote that the Prime Minister was ‘uninspiring’ and ‘does not get what Britain needs.’ Will other Conservative MPs also demand Sunak resign, or will they unify around their leader?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
The UK launched a new set of strikes on eight Houthi targets last night. Typoon jets dropped £30,000 Paveway bombs on an underground storage site and surveillance and missile capabilities controlled by the Yemeni rebel group. But are the strikes working? The Houthis have continued to attack ships in the Red Sea, and a row has also started about whether government properly briefed Keir Starmer and Sir Lindsay Hoyle.
Max Jeffery speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Jeremy Hunt said he would look to cut taxes in the March budget. In the Mail on Sunday, he said he would look to emulate the late Nigel Lawson, who as Margaret Thatcher’s chancellor slashed rates. But Hunt has been promising tax cuts, and hardly delivering, for a while. Will this time be any different?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday's political shows.
Grant Shapps calls Netanyahu's rejection of a two-state solution 'disappointing', and talks UK defence spending. Yvette Cooper is vague on immigration policy. Humza Yousaf accuses politicians of lacking moral courage. And John Bolton thinks the West should attack Iran directly.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
As problems in the Middle East and war on the continent dominate the headlines, David Cameron has been front and centre in his new role as foreign secretary. Is his experience coming in handy? Is he Rishi's 'prime minister abroad'?
Katy Balls speaks to Craig Oliver, director of communications at No. 10 during the Cameron era, and Sophia Gaston, head of foreign policy at Policy Exchange.
Produced by Max Jeffery and Oscar Edmondson.
Katharine Birbalsingh, headteacher at the Michaela community school in Brent, is being challenged in the High Court over a policy which allegedly bans students from praying. Ms Birbalsingh has defended the policy, arguing that it is vital to 'maintain a successful learning environment where children of all races and religion can thrive.' Should the Tories step in?
Max Jeffery speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Heale.
Produced by Max Jeffery and Oscar Edmondson.
After much back and forth, the Rwanda Bill passed last night with only 11 votes against while other critics, such as Lee Anderson who resigned his party role, abstained. Rishi Sunak can celebrate a small victory as it appears that the Brexit 'Spartans' of yesteryear are something of a spent force today. Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Last night Rishi Sunak faced the largest rebellion of his premiership over amendments to the Rwanda bill. There were also three resignations – deputy chairs Lee Anderson and Brendan Clarke-Smith as well as PPS to Kemi Badenoch, Jane Stevenson. How much damage could do to his already divided party? Today, MPs will debate for a second time on the government's flagship immigration policy. It is likely the bill will pass through Parliament but that won't mean the Prime Minister is out of the woods yet. How could today play out? Natasha Feroze speaks to James Heale and Katy Balls.
The Spectator is hiring! We are looking for a new producer to join our broadcast team working across our suite of podcasts – including this one – as well as our YouTube channel Spectator TV. Follow the link to read the full job listing: https://www.spectator.co.uk/article/wanted-a-broadcast-producer-for-the-spectator-2/
With the Tories reeling from yesterday's poll in the Telegraph, it is interesting that the party’s official election strategist Isaac Levido was already scheduled to address Tory MPs last night. Levido ran the 2019 election campaign and holds clout with Conservative MPs. What did he have to say? Is the Tory strategy evolving?
Also on the podcast, Rallings & Thrasher have put out polling today which demonstrates how difficult it will be for Labour to achieve a majority considering the new boundaries. They will need a national swing of 12.7 per cent – higher than in 1997 and 1945. Are voters enthusiastic enough about Labour to provide such a huge swing?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
The Spectator is hiring! We are looking for a new producer to join our broadcast team working across our suite of podcasts – including this one – as well as our YouTube channel Spectator TV. Follow the link to read the full job listing: https://www.spectator.co.uk/article/wanted-a-broadcast-producer-for-the-spectator-2/
Polling published in the Telegraph has ruffled more than a few feathers in Westminster today. The YouGov survey shows that the Tories are on course to lose half of their MPs – including eleven members of the cabinet – at the next election. Are the Tories heading for another 1997 moment? What should we read into the timing of the poll?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Paul Goodman, editor of Conservative Home.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
The Spectator is hiring! We are looking for a new producer to join our broadcast team working across our suite of podcasts – including this one – as well as our YouTube channel Spectator TV. Follow the link to read the full job listing: https://www.spectator.co.uk/article/wanted-a-broadcast-producer-for-the-spectator-2/
Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday’s political shows.
Conflict in the Middle East is escalating, as the UK and US launch retaliatory strikes against the Houthi rebels in Yemen. David Cameron says the lights are flashing red on the global dashboard, but South Africa’s genocide case against Israel is ‘nonsense’. Starmer supports the government’s military action, but is again proving tricky to pin down on his own policies. And as more migrants die crossing the channel, Cameron says it reinforces the need for the government’s Rwanda plan.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill
New polling from JL Partners shows how Rishi Sunak has changed, in the eyes of the public. They found that while Sunak was initially seen as a direct ‘breath of fresh air’, he is now frequently described as ‘out of touch’, ‘spineless’ and ‘false’.
To discuss what went wrong for the PM, James Heale and Katy Balls are joined by James Johnson, the co-founder of JL Partners.
Last night the US and the UK launched airstrikes against Houthi rebels in Yemen whose continued attacks are disrupting trade in the Red Sea. The decision to sanction military action has been broadly welcomed in Westminster, but some have urged the PM to hold a retrospective vote on airstrikes amid fears that the UK risks being sucked into a tinder-box region. Will these airstrikes increase tensions in the Middle East? What impact will they have on the economy?
Meanwhile, Rishi Sunak is in Kyiv where he has announced a landmark new package of support for Ukraine totalling £2.5 billion.
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Simon Mayall, former British Army officer and Middle East advisor at the MoD.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Max Jeffery.
James Heale speaks to Kate Andrews and Katy Balls about Rishi Sunak's new strategy to focus more on the economy as the election year kicks off. Can Rishi Sunak convince the public that he is the best man for the job? And how much control does the government really have when it comes tackling the economy?
At PMQs today Rishi Sunak took the opportunity to announce that the government will be introducing legislation to 'swiftly' exonerate the victims of the Post Office scandal. Keir Starmer chose not to probe, instead grilling Rishi on his commitment to curbing migration. With the Safety of Rwanda Bill returning to the Commons next week, will the prime minister be able to juggle demands from the left and the right of his party and avoid a rebellion?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
The Spectator is hiring! We are looking for a new producer to join our broadcast team working across our suite of podcasts – including this one – as well as our YouTube channel Spectator TV. Follow the link to read the full job listing: https://www.spectator.co.uk/article/wanted-a-broadcast-producer-for-the-spectator-2/
Paula Vennells, the former head of the Post Office, has handed back her CBE. Will her decision put more pressure on politicians like Ed Davey, the Liberal Democrat leader who has so far refused to resign?
Max Jeffery speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
Chris Skidmore has formally announced his resignation today, triggering another by-election in the process. His departure from the Commons is in protest against the government's bill on new oil and gas licenses, which is set to be debated later this evening. What's the reaction been in Westminster?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
The Spectator is hiring! We are looking for a new producer to join our broadcast team working across our suite of podcasts – including this one – as well as our YouTube channel Spectator TV. Follow the link to read the full job listing: https://www.spectator.co.uk/article/wanted-a-broadcast-producer-for-the-spectator-2/
The election year is here, and Sunak is still under pressure. Do leaked documents suggest he doubts the efficacy of the Rwanda scheme? Starmer wants 'hope and change', but what does that look like? The Post Office scandal is back in the news, and Sunak says the government is doing everything it can, but hundreds of victims are yet to receive compensation. Mike Pence hopes for fresh leadership in the American elections. And Shadow Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson says irresponsible parents are to blame for persistent absenteeism in schools.
Rishi Sunak has all but confirmed that this year’s general election will take place in autumn. How will the Prime Minister, and Keir Starmer, run their campaigns?
James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katie Perrior, former director of communications for Theresa May, and now a director at iNHouse Communications.
The Liberal Democrats began their 2024 campaigning this week by unveiling a huge poster branding them as ‘Ed Davey’s Tory Removal Service’, but they will have to be more than just the 'none of the above party' if they hope to make a difference come the election. What do the Lib Dems stand for? And can they turn by-election success into election success?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Nick Tyrone, author of the This Week in Brexitland substack.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
The Spectator is hiring! We are looking for a new producer to join our broadcast team working across our suite of podcasts – including this one – as well as our YouTube channel Spectator TV. Follow the link to read the full job listing: https://www.spectator.co.uk/article/wanted-a-broadcast-producer-for-the-spectator-2/
Keir Starmer delivered his new year's speech, promising 'Project Hope' ahead of the general election. Critics claimed the speech was rhetoric heavy, low on policy. Having attacked the Prime Minister for dithering over the May general election, Rishi Sunak later announced it was his 'working assumption' to hold the general election in autumn 2024. Was this a communications win for No.10? And can Starmer still garner support by playing it safe? Natasha Feroze speaks to James Heale and former Labour advisor John McTernan.
The Spectator is hiring! We are looking for a new producer to join our broadcast team working across our suite of podcasts – including this one – as well as our YouTube channel Spectator TV. Follow the link to read the full job listing: https://www.spectator.co.uk/article/wanted-a-broadcast-producer-for-the-spectator-2/
As junior doctors begin the longest strike in history, Lucy Dunn speaks to Isabel Hardman and Kate Andrews about whether public support for industrial action is starting to wane, and how talks might be different under Labour.
The Spectator is hiring! We are looking for a new producer to join our broadcast team working across our suite of podcasts – including this one – as well as our YouTube channel Spectator TV. Follow the link to read the full job listing: https://www.spectator.co.uk/article/wanted-a-broadcast-producer-for-the-spectator-2/
Rishi Sunak has claimed that the Conservatives have cleared the 92,000 asylum claims, despite figures showing the backlog still stands at tens of thousands of applicants, with several thousand missing. Natasha Feroze speaks to James Heale and Fraser Nelson about the figures, and whether blags like these are a gift to The Reform party.
The Spectator is hiring! We are looking for a new producer to join our broadcast team working across our suite of podcasts – including this one – as well as our YouTube channel Spectator TV. Follow the link to read the full job listing: https://www.spectator.co.uk/article/wanted-a-broadcast-producer-for-the-spectator-2/
How well did Rishi Sunak do on his five pledges? Are we any clearer on what Keir Starmer stands for? Is the SNP done for in Scotland? On this episode, Cindy Yu, Katy Balls, James Heale and Coffee House Shots regular Stephen Bush look back on the past year in British politics.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Joe Bedell-Brill.
Rishi Sunak appeared in front of the Liaison Committee this afternoon. In an interview with The Spectator last week, the PM said that he was enjoying the job. So why did he seem so agitated at the grilling today?
Max Jeffery speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Heale.
Foreign Secretary David Cameron and Defence Secretary Grant Shapps have signalled a shift in the British position towards the Israel-Gaza conflict, suggesting that British support for Israel's actions may be time-limited. James Heale talks to Katy Balls and Stephen Bush.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday’s political shows.
Baroness Michelle Mone admits she lied about her involvement in PPE deal but also claims she and her husband have done nothing wrong. Oliver Dowden rejects accusations of cronyism in government, but Wes Streeting says Labour would investigate pandemic corruption. Streeting also says the NHS needs reform not more money. And Rishi Sunak thinks Rwanda legislation is the ‘best thing we can get’.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
The big economic news of the week was that the Bank of England has held interest rates at 5.25 per cent for the third consecutive time. This was the expected outcome of the Monetary Policy Committee’s latest vote, but it wasn’t unanimous. There were six MPC votes to hold rates but three to raise it to 5.5 per cent. Should we expect a rate cut any time soon?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
The big political news today is the Standards Committee recommendation against Scott Benton, meaning a likely by-election in Blackpool South. He was the MP caught on camera by the Times in April, allegedly boasting about lobbying ministers for cash to a gambling firm. When will Rishi catch a break?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Paul Goodman, editor of Conservative Home.
The Tories are reeling from a week of painful infighting over Rwanda. Who are the ‘five families’ of Conservative dissenters?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
The government has won this evening’s vote on the ‘safety of Rwanda’ bill comfortably at 313 votes to 269 against. This means Rishi Sunak has managed to pass his bill at second reading after a day of negotiations with the various Tory tribes. Not a single Tory MP voted against the bill but 38 conservative MPs abstained. Katy Balls and James Heale discuss what comes next.
Rishi Sunak faces the first major test of his premiership today over the second reading of the Rwanda bill. How could the day play out? And what will happen if the Prime Minister loses the vote? Natasha Feroze speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale
It was Rishi Sunak's turn at the Covid Inquiry today. The Prime Minister faced questions on Eat Out to Help Out, his relationship with No.10, tiers and PPE procurement. How did the former Chancellor come across? And how has his tone changed because he is now Prime Minister? Natasha Feroze speaks to Fraser Nelson and Kate Andrews.
Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday's political shows.
On Wednesday Robert Jenrick resigned over the government's Rwanda legislation, so the focus this morning was on immigration. Jenrick says Sunak's bill is weak, Michael Gove says it's robust, and Liz Kendall says Labour have a better plan to cut legal immigration. Plus, Ukrainian First Lady Olena Zelenska makes a plea for continued support.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
Nick Robinson asked Suella Braverman on the Today programme this week whether the Tories had a death wish. She said no. But why is the party, when it's doing so badly in the polls, fighting among itself?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls ands Craig Oliver, former director of communications in No. 10.
Rishi Sunak is stuck in a migration quagmire and will be spending the weekend drumming up support from MPs ahead of the vote on his amended Rwanda bill on Tuesday. He will be hoping for a Christmas miracle in the form of support from both One Nation MPs and those on the right of the party. Will Tuesday's vote be a de facto confidence vote in the prime minister?
Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
Kate Andrews speaks to James Heale and Katy Balls about Robert Jenrick's resignation last night and whether this is another sign of Tory party implosion.
It was a big day in the Covid inquiry as Boris Johnson gave evidence for the first time. Just as Johnson launched into an apology during his opening statement, protestors off-camera made their presence known. There were also revelations concerning the attention he paid to Sage minutes and Cobra meetings and the former prime minister defended his decision not to lock down sooner. What else did we learn? Was this a turning point in the perception of the inquiry?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Michael Simmons.
As James Cleverly meets leaders in Rwanda to sign a new asylum treaty, the government has laid out a series of plans to bring down legal migration. Some Tories on the right would like the measures to go further, but are these policies too little too late? James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Spectator writer, Patrick O'Flynn.
This weekend Keir Starmer's team took the opportunity to discuss Margaret Thatcher in an op-ed for the Sunday Telegraph. Whilst Starmer also praised other former prime ministers – such as Tony Blair and Clement Attlee – his admission that ‘Margaret Thatcher sought to drag Britain out of its stupor by setting loose our natural entrepreneurialism', has ruffled a few feathers in the Labour party. Could this be a genius piece of politics to reach out to those on the right? Or is it a misfire?
Also on the podcast, Rishi Sunak has started the week with the news that he has recorded his lowest rating ever in the latest ConservativeHome league table, racking up a dire -25.4 among card-carrying Conservatives. Can he turn it around?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Isabel Hardman presents highlights from today's political shows.
Winter means incoming trouble for the NHS. The health secretary blames industrial action for long hospital waiting lists, despite waiting times rising continually since 2010. Meanwhile, Starmer is praising Margaret Thatcher, Ndileka Mandela talks about 'climate apartheid', and the truce ends in Gaza as Mark Regev defends the IDF's actions in the face of rising civilian fatalities.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
Former chancellor Alistair Darling passed away this week, aged 70. To discuss his career, life and legacy, Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and Catherine MacLeod, former political editor of the Herald, and later a special adviser to Darling.
As Matt Hancock appears before the Covid inquiry for a second day, we take a look at the revelations from the former health secretary, including the allegation that involving the Prime Minister and former prime minister, Boris Johnson. Both are due to be up at the Covid inquiry in the coming weeks. Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Jeremy Hunt said last night that Labour’s economic plans are ‘fundamentally dishonest’. Is he right, and are the Tories really just as bad?
Natasha Feroze speaks to Katy Balls and the FT’s Stephen Bush.
Immigration Minister Robert Jenrick, long thought of as one of Rishi Sunak's closest allies in Parliament, hinted yesterday at a row with the Prime Minister. He had a plan to reduce immigration ready ‘last Christmas’, he said. Why didn’t Sunak take it anywhere?
Max Jeffery speaks to Katy Balls and Paul Goodman.
An extraordinary row has broken out between the British and Greek governments over the future of the Parthenon Marbles. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis was due to meet Rishi Sunak in London today, but No. 10 cancelled the meeting at the last minute over comments that Mitsotakis made on the Laura Kuenssberg show. Is this whole row all part of a high-culture war, to win back the Red Wall? Or has No.10 lost its marbles?
Natasha Feroze speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.
Rishi Sunak is on the defensive over legal migration. After figures late last week revealed net migration hit a record 750,000 in the year to December 2022, the Prime Minister is under pressure from his own side to act. This afternoon James Cleverly will address the House and is expected to lay out a series of proposals the government is considering. Can they shift the dial?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Figures out this week put net migration at 672,000 in the year to June 2023. Should the government cut the number of work visas, to immediately reduce this figure, or should it accept that high levels of immigration are needed to sustain the economy?
Natasha Feroze speaks to Fraser Nelson and Kate Andrews.
There were riots in Dublin last night. Looters smashed shops, and burnt police cars in a night of unrest in the capital of Ireland. What provoked the angry crowd, and should the police have done a better job at stopping them?
Max Jeffery speaks to Katy Balls and Pat Leahy, political editor of the Irish Times.
After much Whitehall spin, the official figures are now in. Net migration in the year to June hit 672,000, down from 745,000 in 2022. A total of 1.2 million people arrived to live in the UK, whilst 508,000 moved overseas. The ONS says it's too early to call this a downward trend, but has migration to the UK peaked?
Katy Balls speaks to James Heale and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
The Chancellor today delivered his fiscal update, branding it as an ‘Autumn Statement for Growth’. In it, he announced a series of tax cuts for both businesses and workers including the decision to make 'full expensing' permanent and a surprise announcement on National Insurance, which has been cut by two percentage points for workers and simplified for the self-employed. Fraser Nelson, Kate Andrews and Katy Balls unpack the details of Jeremy Hunt's Autumn Statement.
This week it is the scientists’ turn to appear before the Covid Inquiry with Sir Chris Whitty, the Chief Medical Officer and Sir Patrick Vallance. James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and The Spectator's data editor, Michael Simmons to discuss the findings this week.
James Heale, Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson look ahead to the Autumn Statement this week. Will Rishi Sunak commit to cutting taxes? And with barely a year to go before the election, would implementing any policies now be felt in time?
Katy Balls presents highlights from this week's political shows.
It's an economy special, as Jeremy Hunt prepares to deliver his autumn statement next week. With tax at an all time high, which tax cuts will the government make, if any? Changes to benefits may see many lose out if they don't find jobs. Labour's Rachel Reeves says fixing the NHS is the way to get people back to work, and isn't impressed with potential inheritance tax cuts. And the government is desperate to make their Rwanda plan work - will it be possible?
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
HMP Bedford was issued with an urgent notification yesterday, meaning it must immediately make reforms to improve. It’s the fifth prison to receive such a notification this year. What’s going wrong in Britain’s prisons, and what will fix them?
Max Jeffery speaks to former prison governor Ian Acheson and former prisoner David Shipley.
The chancellor Jeremy Hunt will deliver his autumn statement next week and Rishi Sunak will be hoping to stamp his authority onto a fracturing party after a difficult few days. There are lots of rumours swirling around about what might be included, such as cuts to inheritance tax and to taxes for small businesses. What should we expect?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Fifty-six Labour MPs rebelled last night and voted for an SNP amendment calling for a ceasefire in Israel and Gaza. Keir Starmer had ordered his party to abstain on the vote, and said afterwards that Israel had suffered ‘its worst terrorist attack in a single day’ on 7 October, and that ‘no government would allow the capability and intent to repeat such an attack to go unchallenged’. Is Starmer’s authority now under threat?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
The Supreme Court has ruled that the government scheme to deport illegal migrants to Rwanda is unlawful. Why? And how will Rishi Sunak respond? Will he try to take Britain out of the European Convention on Human Rights?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
When Suella Braverman was sacked on Monday she warned that she would have more to say in due course, and has just released her resignation letter. It is predictably punchy, accusing the prime minister of backtracking on policy promises he made her and especially on his commitment to stop the boats. Will Sunak come to regret casting Suella Braverman aside? Is this the start of a leadership bid?
Cindy You speaks to Katy Balls and Paul Goodman.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
Rishi Sunak has spent today selecting new people for his Cabinet. With MP's to the right such as Suella Braverman removed from office, has Rishi Sunak's bold reshuffle made deeper divides in his party?
It’s reshuffle day in Westminster. Suella Braverman is out as Home Secretary, replaced by James Cleverly, with former prime minister David Cameron making a shock return to parliament in the vacant Foreign Secretary slot. It’s the first time since 1974 that a former PM has been appointed to the cabinet. Can Rishi Sunak really still claim to be the candidate to end the ‘thirty year status quo’? Will he regret bringing Cameron back?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Isabel Hardman presents highlights from this week's political shows.
The Palestine march on Saturday was accompanied by violence after far-right groups converged on the Cenotaph. Did the Home Secretary's controversial Times article undermine the police and inflame tensions? Grant Shapps won't criticise Suella Braverman, but Yvette Cooper certainly does. Labour division continues with an upcoming vote on a motion calling for immediate ceasefire. And President Isaac Herzog claims Israel have been going out of their way to protect civilians in Gaza.
This week Nadine Dorries’s new book The Plot: The Political Assassination of Boris Johnson has been published, and it has ruffled some feathers in Westminster. In it, she claims there was a plot orchestrated by a secret cabal of back room advisors, politicians and individuals in the media to overthrow Boris Johnson. Just what is ‘the movement’?
James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and Christopher Howse, assistant editor at the Telegraph.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Despite mounting pressure from Conservative MPs to remove Suella Braverman, no announcement has been made yet. How much pressure is Rishi Sunak facing over the Home Secretary's stand-off with the Met Police? Also on the podcast, Natasha Feroze speaks to James Heale and Isabel Harman about the Conservative Home Cabinet league table ahead of a possible reshuffle.
Suella Braverman has again dominated conversation with her controversial rhetoric, this time comparing the pro-Palestinian marches to the Orange Marches of Northern Ireland in a punchy op-ed for the Times. Has she finally gone too far for this government? Max Jeffery talks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
Produced by Max Jeffery and Cindy Yu.
Rishi Sunak met with Met Commissioner Mark Rowley today to discuss the pro-Palestine protests planned for the Remembrance weekend. Sunak has called the marches ‘disrespectful’, and said he would hold Rowley ‘accountable’ for not banning them. Will the Commissioner change his mind?
Isabel Hardman speaks to Katy Balls and Danny Shaw, former home affairs correspondent for the BBC.
It was the King’s speech today. King Charles announced that the government would introduce new laws to, among other things, force criminals to attend their sentencing hearings, scrap most jail sentences of less than a year, and sell all new houses as freehold properties. Is it enough for the Tories to turn around their deficit in the polls?
Katy Balls speaks to James Heale and Isabel Hardman.
The Home Secretary sparked fury over the weekend for her comments on homelessness, suggesting that rough sleepers using tents is a 'lifestyle choice'. Senior cabinet members including the Rishi Sunak didn't jump to her defence from the comments. What was behind her decision to take such a firm line? Also on the podcast, Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and Isabel Hardman about the serial rapist cover-up allegations levelled at the Tory party.
Isabel Hardman presents highlights from this week's political shows.
The Israel-Palestine conflict is creating division in the UK, with pro-Palestine rallies being labelled as 'hate marches' by Suella Braverman, and Keir Starmer continuing to reject calls for a ceasefire from members of his party. Hossam Zaki warns that a political solution is the only way forward. Plus, Oliver Dowden reacts to explosive testimony in the Covid inquiry this week, and Succession star Sarah Snook talks about the dangerous potential of deepfakes in the entertainment industry.
WhatsApps between officials in Boris Johnson’s government have been centre-stage at the Covid inquiry this week. Is the app encouraging on-the-hoof policymaking and nasty briefing?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Guido Fawkes chief Paul Staines.
This week the prime minister hosted his landmark AI summit at Bletchley Park which wrapped up with an interview with Elon Musk, who warned that AI will one day render all jobs obsolete. The who's who of AI were in attendance over the two days as well the likes of Kamala Harris and Ursula von der Leyen, but what was actually achieved?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Madhumita Murgia, AI editor at the Financial Times.
The Bank of England has once again taken the decision to hold interest rates at their 15-year high. There is growing market consensus that this second pause is a sign that interest rates have peaked, or nearly reached their peak. Will the Bank be able to tread the thin line between tackling inflation but also keeping the country out of recession? Will Rishi Sunak hit his target to 'halve inflation'?
Natasha Feroze speaks to Kate Andrews and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.
Today the Covid inquiry heard from Helen McNamara, former deputy cabinet secretary (who infamously supplied a karaoke machine for one of the government's lockdown parties). Her evidence suggested that the government's pandemic response had a women problem – from not properly understanding lockdown's impact on domestic abuse to not considering that PPE is designed for male bodies, not female. Is that fair? Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Fraser Nelson speaks to Michael Simmons about the second phase of the Covid inquiry, looking at political governance. Attending the inquiry today was former No.10 aids Dominic Cummings and Lee Cain.
The Covid inquiry enters its most dramatic week, questioning Martin Reynolds (a.k.a. 'Party Marty'), as well as former No. 10 advisors Lee Cain and Dominic Cummings. But it seems that the inquiry has gone down more the route of interpersonal drama rather than lessons learnt for government decisionmaking. So what's the point of it? Katy Balls talks to Isabel Hardman and James Heale.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
Israel's ground invasion has begun. We hear the latest response from the government and Labour, as calls grow for a humanitarian pause to the offensive. MP Layla Moran speaks of the desperation of her family, who are unable to move from the north of Gaza. And the head of the tech company Palantir says patient data will be safe, as his company attempt to get a massive deal with the NHS over the line.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill
As the government faces a general election defeat, is there a home for traditionally conservative thinkers? An international branch of new right Conservatives will join together on Monday for the Alliance of Responsible Citizenships (ARC) designed to share ideas and debate policy. But why won't many call themselves 'Conservatives'? And can ARC bring anything to the future of the party?
Keir Starmer is under mounting pressure from his party to back a call for a ceasefire in the Israel-Palestine conflict. The week began with the Labour leader correcting comments he made on LBC that Israel had a right to defend itself. But now, politicians to the left of his party are campaigning for a ceasefire. Is this something Starmer can support? Also on the podcast, James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson about more 'pestminster' scandals and Liz Truss on AI and China.
Keir Starmer has had a difficult week, trying to keep his party on message over the war in Israel and Gaza. The official position is that Israel has a right to respond to Hamas’s attacks on 7 October, but a number of Labour MPs are now calling for a ceasefire. Could Starmer have better handled the situation?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and John McTernan.
Today, Keir Starmer held a long meeting with some Muslim Labour MPs over their concern on his stance on the Israel-Hamas conflict, first ignited by comments he made on LBC which seemed to justify Israel's electricity and water blockade of Gaza. The Labour leader has made huge progress to move his party on from the reputation of anti-Semitism forged during the Corbyn era – but can he find a middle way to please all wings of his party on this deeply emotive issue? Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Natasha Feroze speaks to Stephen Bush and Katy Balls about some of the geopolitical problems that lie ahead for Labour. Will David Lammy have to roll back on his views on Trump? Will Keir Starmer appeal to his muslim voter base whilst taking the standard Biden line on Israel/ Palestine? What about the Indian general election in November?
This week marks one year since Rishi Sunak entered No.10. Faced with the weekend's double by-election defeat, Labour's lead in the polls and another by-election coming soon, what can Rishi Sunak still do to turn things around? Natasha Feroze speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
Isabel Hardman presents highlights from this week's political shows.
Some aid has been allowed into Gaza, but the situation is still dire. We hear from immigration minister Robert Jenrick on what the UK is doing to help. Naftali Bennett says Israel are not responsible for Gaza, Hanan Ashrawi gives us the Palestinian point of view, and Labour clarifies their own position. Plus the Tory slide continues as they lose another two seats in the by-elections.
This week there have been some interesting developments in the public Covid-19 inquiry where scientists and mathematical modellers have been giving testimony on how prepared the government was to tackle the pandemic and how they used expert advise.
Within the sessions, WhatsApp messages revealed that Dame Angela McLean – who at the time was chief scientific advisor to Ministry of Defence – sent a secret message referring to Rishi Sunak as 'Dr Death the chancellor' in reference to the public health impacts of the 'eat out to help out' scheme. What were some of the other revelations? Did we get any clarity on how these mathematical models were produced and implemented? And what can we hope to learn from what promises to be a long and protracted inquiry?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Kate Andrews and Michael Simmons.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Labour has overturned the Tamworth and and Mid Bedfordshire by-election results, overturning the biggest majority in by-election history. Is there anymore road for Rishi Sunak? Isabel Hardman speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
Today Rishi Sunak joined Benjamin Netanyahu for a joint press conference in which he pledged support to Israel. Netanyahu thanked him for his, ‘strong statement of support’ and grounded Israel’s fight in the context of Britain’s own history. ‘You fought the Nazis 80 years ago,’ he said, ‘Hamas are the new Nazis'.
Also on the podcast, the polls have opened for by elections in Tamworth and Mid Bedfordshire. What should we expect?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Photo credit: Simon Walker/No. 10 Downing Street
September's inflation data was released today, and showed that it was at the same level as August. Is inflation getting stuck a problem? Cindy Yu talks to Kate Andrews and Katy Balls. Also on the podcast: Labour's Israel headaches and a look ahead to tomorrow's by-elections.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
At his first speech as SNP leader at the party's conference, Humza Yousaf gave a policy-filled address. He hasn't had an easy start to his leadership, but can he turn things around? Katy Balls talks to Lucy Dunn and Iain Macwhirter.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Cindy Yu.
So far, both major parties in the UK have aligned on their approach to the Israel-Gaza conflict, but can the Labour party really hold their position, considering how much of the party's grassroots support come from Muslim backgrounds? James Heale talks to Katy Balls and Conservative Home's editor, Paul Goodman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Cindy Yu.
Justice Secretary Alex Chalk has been talking about bringing 'Texas-style justice' to the UK in his latest proposals for reform of the prisons system. What does it really mean? James Heale talks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Cindy Yu.
Isabel Hardman presents highlights from today's political shows.
This week it's all about the Israel-Palestine conflict. An Israeli government adviser says Israel is following international law, but the Head of the Palestinian Mission to the UK refutes this, and describes horror and carnage in Gaza. James Cleverly says the UK stands with Israel, but both he and his Labour counterpart urge restraint. And the First Minister of Scotland fears for family members trapped in Gaza.
James Heale speaks to foreign policy expert Sophia Gaston and defence correspondent Sean Rayment about what could be Israel's next steps, the strength of their military and how much political backing they have worldwide.
Conference season is over, so we thought that we’d run through this year’s winners and losers. Did Rishi Sunak manage to present himself as the Action Man who can end the ‘thirty year consensus’ in British politics? Did Keir Starmer finally answer the question: if not them, why us? Did anyone surprise us? Or was it all for nothing, as new YouGov polling might suggest.
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Lisa Cameron MP has quit the SNP to join the Conservative party, just days before the SNP holds its party conference in Aberdeen. What does this say about the state of the Scottish National Party under Humza Yousaf? James Heale talks to Isabel Hardman and Lucy Dunn.
Produced by Max Jeffery and Cindy Yu.
Wes Streeting, the shadow health secretary, said in a speech today that this NHS must ‘modernise or die’. But will a Labour government under Keir Starmer have the cash to really reform?
Max Jeffery speaks to James Heale and Isabel Hardman.
Keir Starmer's leadership speech today in Liverpool didn't get off to the best start after a protestor ran onto the stage and dumped glitter all over him. But after dusting himself down and rolling up his sleeves, the leader of the opposition set about addressing the question that many prospective voters have wanted answering: If not them, why us?
He made big promises on the NHS and pledged to 'bulldoze through' the obstacles to growth caused by the planning system, including with a new generation of new towns. It was one of his best speeches yet, but can they deliver?
Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman discuss.
It was Rachel Reeves's moment on day two of Labour party conference. Addressing the hall she detailed her ambitious plans for growth and vowed to stick to 'iron-clad fiscal rules' if in power. She also received a surprise endorsement from former governor of the Bank of England Mark Carney. Once branded 'boring snoring' by a BBC editor, Reeves doesn't look boring anymore. Will she be the first female chancellor of the exchequer?
Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
It's the first day of Labour party conference and whilst the mood is buoyant the story that has dominated the weekend is of course the Hamas attack on Israel. Former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn has refused to condemn the attack, will he be a thorn in Keir Starmer's side this week? And will Starmer finally be able to answer the question: If not the Tories, why us?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
Cindy Yu is joined by immigration minister Robert Jenrick, Fraser Nelson and Kate Andrews to discuss the Rwanda plan and whether it can truly stop the boats.
Seven years after the Brexit vote, Katy Balls is joined for a fringe panel from the Conservative Party Conference to discuss if voting to leave the EU was worth it, where the wins are and if opportunities are being missed.
Katy Balls in conversation with John Redwood MP, Theresa Villiers MP, Camilla Cavendish, Charles Grant and Vote Leave founder Matthew Elliott.
Labour has secured a resounding win against the SNP in the Rutherglen and Hamilton West by-election with a swing of 20.4%. Fraser Nelson speaks to Katy Balls and Iain Macwhirter about whether this the end of the Scotland hegemony of the SNP, and if Labour have drifted closer to the right.
One of the announcements made in Rishi Sunak's conference speech was to scrap A-levels in favour of a qualification which includes compulsory English and Maths. With several problems in the education system, and years of disruption for students, what was behind the PM's decision to radically overhaul the system? James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and David Laws, former education minister who now chairs the Education Policy Institute.
After spending most of his conference refusing to say much at all, Rishi Sunak used his speech to make three big policy announcements on HS2, smoking and A-levels. Will these gambles pay off?
Fraser Nelson speaks to Katy Balls, Isabel Hardman, Kate Andrews and John Connolly.
It's day three at Tory conference and the story that won't go away is HS2. Rishi Sunak insisted in his media round this morning that a decision has not been made, meanwhile Downing Street sources are reporting that a decision has been made. Standing outside the Midland hotel, Mayor of the West Midlands Andy Street urged the prime minister not to abandon HS2. Can we expect an announcement in Rishi's speech tomorrow?
Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Heale.
Isabel Hardman and James Heale discuss day two of the Conservative party Conference. From Jeremy Hunt's speech, to Mark Harper's Hs2 dodge and a swelling support for Kemi Badenoch.
The Spectator’s Fraser Nelson, Katy Balls and Kate Andrews are joined by special guest Frank Luntz for a live recording of Coffee House Shots from Tory party conference. It was at this event two years ago that Frank first declared Liz Truss to be the next Tory leader. Who might succeed Rishi Sunak? And is a Labour 2024 victory certain?
It's day two at Tory conference and the mood seems muted and lacking in energy. This is in direct contrast to Rishi Sunak who appeared to have fire in his belly in a tetchy interview over the weekend with Laura Kuenssberg. He will be hoping to use this conference as his reset moment, but will he be undermined by those in the cabinet with an eye on the leadership?
In Manchester, Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman discuss.
Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
Rishi Sunak is in the limelight as the Conservative party conference begins. The polls don't look good for him, but he comes out fighting, claiming he's 'going to do things differently'. The public associate him with personal wealth, does he think that makes him look out of touch? Sunak claims his values are clear, and contrasts himself with the 'hiding' Starmer. Meanwhile, Gove wants tax cuts before the next election, unlike the chancellor and prime minister. Priti Patel isn't impressed with the Home Secretary's comments on multicultralism. And Wes Streeting defends Labour's shifting policies.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill
The Conservative party conference begins in Manchester this weekend. Where have conferences gone wrong for previous Tory party leaders, and what will Rishi Sunak want to get out of this one?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Craig Oliver, dormer director of communications in No. 10 under David Cameron.
Tax levels in the UK are at their highest since records began 70 years ago and are unlikely to come down, or so says the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) in their report today. How has the tax burden increased over the four years of this parliament? What's driving up taxes?
Also on the podcast, there are reports today that Rishi Sunak will stop councils imposing 20 mph zones, is Rishi on the side of motorists?
Katy Balls speaks to James Heale and Fraser Nelson.
Keep up to date with The Spectator's data hub: https://data.spectator.co.uk/
Produced by Max Jeffery and Oscar Edmondson.
Another day, another U-turn. But this time it's Labour, who have changed tack on their plans to end charitable status for private schools. Labour leader Keir Starmer previously declared that the charitable status for private schools could not be justified, so what’s behind the move?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and John McTernan, former political secretary to Tony Blair.
The UK's largest untapped oil and gas field has been given the green light in a move that has been criticised by Labour, although Keir Starmer has said he will honour the Tories' approval of the controversial Rosebank site should Labour enter government next year. Has the language changed around net zero?
Also on the podcast, new polling suggests that Sadiq Khan holds only a slender lead ahead of Susan Hall in the London mayoral race, should he be worried?
Max Jeffery speaks to James Heale and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Max Jeffery and Oscar Edmondson.
Suella Braverman is in Washington today, giving a speech to a think tank on illegal migration in which she will argue that seeking asylum and seeking better economic prospects are two different things. It's a punchy line she's taking, should Rishi be taking note? Or is this a thinly veiled bid for the Conservative leadership?
Also on the podcast, as Ed Davey wraps up this year's Liberal Democrat conference in Bournemouth, is there optimism in Lib Dem HQ as we look towards the next election?
Cindy Yu speaks to Patrick O'Flynn and James Heale.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
Rishi Sunak is on his tour of hard truths, saying the unsayable on areas of policy where he believes his predecessors didn't want to be honest with the public. First we had the net zero pivot – scaling back the government's environmental commitments – and over the weekend there has been speculation that HS2 could be the next victim of tough talking Rishi Sunak. What's the latest? Is Rishi gifting Starmer an easy ride by clearing the weeds on this controversial project?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Conference season has kicked off this weekend with the Liberal Democrat conference in Bournemouth. Buoyed by their success in the recent by-elections, could the Lib Dems be the kingmakers at the next election?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Stephen Bush, associate editor at the Financial Times.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Rupert Murdoch stepped down as chairman of News Corp and Fox News this week. But is this really the end of Murdoch’s career? ‘I can guarantee you that I will be involved every day in the contest of ideas’, he wrote in a statement. And what will the media tycoon’s legacy be?
James Heale speaks to Andrew Neil, chairman of The Spectator, and former editor of the Murdoch-owned Sunday Times.
Jeremy Hunt said yesterday that it would be ‘virtually impossible’ to cut taxes in 2023. James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews about why the government has decided to spent more, rather than cut levies, and about whether Hunt and Sunak’s economic plan will come under criticism from Tory MPs at the Conservative party conference in a few weeks.
Rishi Sunak is being attacked by Conservative and Labour politicians for choosing to delay some of Britain’s climate commitments. But is his new approach to policy really a welcome one?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and Rupert Darwall, a senior fellow at RealClearFoundation.
Rishi Sunak is set to give a speech this week outlining changes to the government's environmental policies. The plans to phase out new petrol and diesel cars, and gas boilers, will likely be delayed. What does the Prime Minister stand to gain?
James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Keir Starmer is in Paris today. It's a bid to 'look statesman-like', Katy Balls says, but also underlines where a Labour government would take British relations with the EU. Oscar Edmondson talks to Katy and Charles Grant, director of the Centre for European Reform.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Cindy Yu.
Liz Truss took the stage this morning for her first major intervention on the economy since leaving No. 10. Her speech at the Institute for Government comes almost a year to the day since her mini-Budget saw the markets panic and her premiership come to an abrupt end not long after. What did she have to say?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson, Kate Andrews and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Isabel Hardman hosts highlights from Sunday morning's political shows. Electoral campaigns are soon to begin in earnest, and Labour is talking tough on immigration. But this week policy is overshadowed by criminal allegations against Russell Brand, devastating floods in Libya, and the researcher accused of being a Chinese spy. Ian Russell also talks about the dangers of the internet and the importance of the Online Safety Bill.
For the first time since 1992 the US and the UK will have elections in the same year, and – for the first time since 1964 – there is a real chance that those campaigns could overlap. How will they impact each other?
Kate Andrews speaks to Katy Balls and Freddy Gray.
The government is reportedly looking into whether it should cut the second phase of HS2. But with so much money having already been pumped into the project, should they just see it through to the end?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and Kate Andrews.
Keir Starmer today unveiled Labour’s plan to stop illegal migration. Trying to deport migrants to Rwanda is a waste of money, he said – the millions would be better spent on a ‘new security agreement’ with Europe. But what does that mean?
Max Jeffery speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
At PMQs, neither Labour nor the Tories wanted to commit to keeping the state pension triple lock. Have the two parties, awkwardly and unofficially, reached a consensus on dropping the promise?
Max Jeffery speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Heale.
Rishi Sunak has refused to commit to keeping the pensions triple lock in the next Conservative manifesto. What’s behind his equivocation? And, if the triple lock is ditched, will Labour follow suit?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Over the weekend, it was reported that a parliamentary researcher was arrested on suspicion of spying for China. The accused has released a statement this morning claiming he is 'completely innocent'. Katy Balls speaks to Cindy Yu and James Heale about the arrest and what this could mean for Britain's relationship with China.
Isabel Hardman hosts highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows. After Daniel Khalife's escape from HMP Wandsworth this week, the focus is on prisons. Did overcrowding and staff shortages contribute to the escape? What can the government do about rising prisoner numbers? Would Labour increase funding? There's also talk about the parliamentary researcher accused of spying for China, and military chiefs comment on the situation in Ukraine.
Produced Joe Bedell-Brill.
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Lucy Dunn for the latest update on Scottish politics. Humza Yousaf has been on a 'reset'. But critics claim the Scottish First Minister is simply rehashing Nicola Stugeon's policies. Also on the podcast, will Labour take the Scotland by-election from the SNP? And what happened at the Holyrood Magazine awards?
Rishi Sunak has landed in Delhi ahead of the G20 summit this weekend. He will be hoping to cement a new free trade deal with India. What does a good result look like for the prime minister? Will the new deal result in increased immigration?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Heale.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
The Conservative MP Chris Pincher has resigned following the Commons decision to refuse his suspension appeal. Follow Nadine Dorries's most recent resignation, this means the government faces their 9th by-election since Rishi Sunak became Prime Minister – can they come back from this? Also on the podcast, Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Isabel Hardman about Rishi Sunak's move to rejoin the EU Horizon Project and the latest on the UK-India trade deal.
It was the first PMQs since the summer recess today and Labour were on the attack, comparing the Tory government to 'cowboy builders' over the ongoing school concrete debate. Rishi Sunak replied by calling out the leader of the opposition as 'captain hindsight'. Who came out on top?
Also on the podcast, it's a year since Liz Truss's doomed premiership. How should we reflect on her time as PM?
Max Jeffery speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
The government is struggling to change the story. After Gillian Keegan yesterday said, about the concrete crisis, that ‘everyone else has sat on their arse and done nothing’, the story has continued to dominate the news. How can the government recover? Who should take the blame?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Conservative Home’s Paul Goodman.
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has reshuffled his shadow cabinet but just who has made it in and who has been moved aside?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and John McTernan.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Linden Kemkaran.
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has reshuffled his shadow cabinet but just who has made it in and who has been moved aside?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and John McTernan.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Linden Kemkaran.
Parliament is back from recess and the row which will be dominating MPs inboxes is the school concrete crisis, which has disrupted the start of term for over 100 schools. Why didn't the government act sooner?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Theresa May's new book, Abuse of Power, will not be a gossip-fuelled account of her time in No. 10. Instead, it'll be an account of how powerful people make mistakes, and how institutions corrupt. What's the point of the book, and has the former Prime Minister landed on a real, punishing problem in British politics?
Kate Andrews speaks to Fraser Nelson and Gavin Barwell, Theresa May's former chief of staff.
Rishi Sunak may have shelved his plan for a big reshuffle but we have had some cabinet changes today. Grant Shapps has taken his fifth cabinet position in one year, replacing Ben Wallace as Defence Secretary, and Sunak loyalist Claire Coutinho will take over as Energy Secretary. What does Coutinho’s appointment reveal?
James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
James Cleverly is in Beijing, a decision which he has been pushed to defend in a clip given to the BBC. Much has changed in the five years since a British foreign secretary last visited China. What's the purpose of the trip? How has it been received in Westminster?
Katy Balls speaks to Cindy Yu.
Listen to Cindy's fortnightly podcast on Chinese politics, society and culture here: https://www.spectator.co.uk/podcasts/chinese-whispers/
Nadine Dorries’s seat in Mid Bedfordshire has a majority of 25,000. With the Boris Johnson ally now leaving Parliament, the seat is set to be a three-way race between the Tories, Labour and the Liberal Democrats. Who stands the best chance of challenging the Conservatives? Also on the podcast: Suella Braverman has instructed police to ‘investigate every crime’. Will it improve the public’s faith in the force?
James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Nadine Dorries resigned from Parliament over the weekend, writing in a letter to Rishi Sunak that the Conservatives have been ‘corrupted’, and accusing the Prime Minister of ‘opening the gates to whip up a public frenzy against one of his own MPs’. Is Dorries, at least in part, right?
James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and Kate Andrews.
Are the Tories right to pick local candidates, over Westminster favourites, to be their next generation of MPs?
Cindy Yu speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Heale.
Rishi Sunak is reportedly going to delay a planned major reshuffle. A Cabinet switch-up was expected next month, but it now seems that only ministers like Ben Wallace, who has already indicated that he wants to step down, will be moved from their posts. What changed the Prime Minister's mind?
Max Jeffery speaks to James Heale and Craig Oliver, former director of communications in No. 10.
Produced by Max Jeffery.
If Labour wins the next election, will Keir Starmer have any money to spend on his programme of government? In a piece for the Times yesterday, journalist Philip Collins says it won't, and he thinks Labour is suffering because of this constraint. How can Labour be intellectually interesting if the government purse strings are so tight? Fraser Nelson disagrees. He says that, thanks to the Tories taking tax levels to record highs, Starmer will have plenty of cash to work with.
Kate Andrews speaks to Philip and Fraser.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Max Jeffery.
Downing Street has extended an invite to Mohammed bin Salman to visit the UK in Autumn. Five years after the murder of Jamal Khashoggi, is it time to let Saudi Arabia in from the cold?
Fraser Nelson speaks to Simon Mayall, a former Middle East adviser in the Ministry of Defence, and to Jawad Iqbal, a Spectatorcontributor.
As A-level students receive their exam results, Cindy Yu speaks to Isabel Hardman and Mary Curnock Cook who is the former chief executive of UCAS. In a bid to curb recent grade inflation, fewer of the top results have been handed out to students who were the first year group to sit through pandemic style examinations. Can the government return to 2019 levels this summer?
Produced by Cindy Yu and Natasha Feroze.
Today we had the – seemingly – good news that the headline rate of inflation for July has come down to 6.8%. This is in line with Bank of England targets which suggest that Rishi could be set to meet his pledge to halve inflation. Is this cause for celebration in Number 10? Or should we be wary?
Cindy Yu speaks to Michael Simmons, The Spectator's data editor.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
Check out The Spectator's data hub: https://data.spectator.co.uk/
Natasha Feroze speaks to Fraser Nelson and Isabel Hardman about today's wage growth figures which have reached a 22-year high due to public sector pay. Are these an accurate reflection of the economy? Also on the podcast, Isabel Hardman takes a look at NHS week – each day the government has announced new measures to improve the National Health Service. Is a 'quit smoking' campaign really want the system needs?
It’s been 16 years since Tony Blair walked away from frontline politics, but rather than retiring to Fife to write his books – like another Labour leader – he has managed to build his Tony Blair Institute for Global Change into one of the most sophisticated and influential think tanks in modern politics. What role could he play under a Starmer government?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and John McTernan, former political advisor to Tony Blair.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Katy Balls and editor of Conservative Home Paul Goodman join Natasha Feroze to discuss the troublemaker Lee Anderson. This week, his inflammatory comments on small boats dominated the news – is this good or bad for the Conservatives? And what role does Rishi Sunak have in mind for the former miner and deputy Chairman of the party?
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
This morning the UK’s electoral watchdog The Electoral Commission said that it had been the victim of a 'complex cyber attack' by 'hostile actors'. What do we know about the attack?
The cyberattack has been a distraction from what was meant to be the government's small boats week. We've had migrants refusing to board the Bibby Stockholm barge, Lee Anderson's comments splitting the party, the Home Office floating the idea of a holding centre on the Ascension Island and a new deal with Turkey. What's the latest on Rishi's plan to stop the boats?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Matt Dathan, Home Affairs Editor at the Times.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Bibby Stockholm, the government's first migrant barge opened this morning. Intended to house up to 500 migrants, will this plan to cut the costs of putting migrants up in hotels work? Also on the podcast, Natasha Feroze speaks to Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls about the Liz Truss honours list – who are the contenders? And who may politely decline a new title...
Rishi Sunak is apparently looking to expand the teaching of chess in schools, and to install chess sets in public parks, and will unveil the policy alongside a giant chessboard in the No. 10 garden. What is the Prime Minister thinking? And what does it say about Sunak’s idea of education?
Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and Jamie Njoku-Goodwin, a former special adviser and Westminster chess hustler.
Rishi Sunak is likely to hit his target of halving inflation by the end of the year, according to the latest Bank of England forecasts. But is that enough to make people feel better off, and will the Tories reap any political benefits for doing it?
Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and Michael Simmons.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Max Jeffery.
A by-election is on the cards for Rutherglen and Hamilton West, after former SNP MP Margaret Ferrier was recalled by her constituents. She'd flouted lockdown rules in 2020, taking a train from London to Scotland despite testing positive for Covid. Given that Labour will need to make gains in Scotland in order to win the next election, this by-election has become a bellwether for the party. Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and Lucy Dunn about what to expect.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
As the Conservative candidate selections are underway, how will the associations balance the need for a local champion to win back constituency support vs Tory stars, such as Nick Timothy, getting selected? Paul Goodman from Conservative Home and Katy Balls speak to Natasha Feroze.
Since the Tories retained Uxbridge in the by-election a fortnight ago by campaigning against Ulez, some Conservative MPs have been questioning whether the party should ditch their climate commitments. Was Uxbridge a one-off? What do British people want?
Natasha Feroze speaks to Katy Balls and Scarlett Maguire, director at polling firm JL Partners.
The High Court has ruled that Sadiq Khan can expand the Ultra Low Emission Zone, after five Tory councils challenged the proposed policy. Will Keir Starmer be happy that a Labour mayor has won the day?
Natasha Feroze speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Natasha Feroze speaks to Kate Andrews and Fraser Nelson about the sudden decision for the NatWest boss Alison Rose to hand in her resignation. Prompted by the Nigel Farage Coutts bank account scandal, the bank's CEO faced mounting pressure to resign after late last night No.10 said they had serious concerns over the bank's actions. But why does the government play a role in this decision? And will there be more resignations to come?
Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson speak to James Heale about Labour rows over issues such as ULEZ and the child benefits cap. Whilst not in government yet, is this something Keir Starmer will need to get a grip on in order to become the next Prime Minister?
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
The dust has settled after yesterday's by-election results. Having narrowly avoided a triple by-election defeat there seems to be little sign of Conservative party in-fighting, despite their poor showing. There is however a war of words brewing between the London Labour Party and Kier Starmer who blames Sadiq Khan's Ulez plan for the failure to snatch Uxbridge and South Ruislip. What lessons will each party take from the by-elections into next year's general election?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and pollster James Johnson, co-founder of JL Partners.
There was something for everyone in the by-elections with each of the three big parties getting a seat. The Tories lost Somerton and Frome to the Lib Dems and Selby and Ainsty to Labour but did narrowly cling on in Boris Johnson’s former seat of Uxbridge and South Ruislip, albeit with a reduced majority of just 495 votes.
James Heale unpacks the results with Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Katy Balls speaks to Kate Andrews and James Heale about today's inflation figures and the latest news about the Conservative Mayoral Candidate for London. Will Susan Hall's strongly pro-Boris Johnson, Donald Trump-supporting assembly member win her the 'outsider' vote?
Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and former Labour advisor John McTernan to discuss the ongoing Labour row over the child benefits limit. Reactions were muted during today's shadow cabinet meeting, but is this a reflection of a looming reshuffle?
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Keir Starmer has said that Labour will not be reversing the two-child benefits cap, after Angela Rayner said it was ‘obscene and inhumane’. But will he continue to back the policy, which allegedly saves the Treasury £1.3 billion, or change his mind in the face of pressure from his shadow front bench?
James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Produced by Max Jeffery.
Keir Starmer sets out his vision and is grilled on specifics. He claims Labour's green plans have not been delayed. Business Secretary and Equalities Minister Kemi Badenoch talks about the new trans-pacific trade deal, and forthcoming guidance on trans pupils in schools. And Tony Blair says technology is the answer to the country's problems in healthcare and the economy.
Advanced economies are not seeing the economic growth that they once did, and none more so than the UK where there has been little productivity or real wage growth since 2008. What factors have contributed to this? Which industries will be at the forefront as we chart a path towards a high-growth British future?
Kate Andrews speaks to American economist Tyler Cowen, at Civic Future's Great Stagnation Summit in Cambridge.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
The Tories are defending three seats next week, and could lose them all. Boris Johnson's old seat, Uxbridge and South Ruislip, Nigel Adams's old seat, Selby and Ainsty, and David Warburton's old seat, Somerton and Frome, are all being contested. How are the Tories trying to win back voters? And is it wise of Rishi Sunak to, as is rumoured he's going to, do a reshuffle straight after the results come in?
Max Jeffery speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Max Jeffery.
It looks like the summer could be about to get a whole lot easier after the government announced that millions of public sector workers will get a pay rise between 5 and 7 per cent. In a press conference this afternoon, Rishi said this was the governments 'final offer' and the result of consultation independent pay review bodies. So far, the four teachers unions have announced that they will put the offer to their members, but will the junior doctors follow suit? How are the government planning to pay for this?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Tory whips will be smiling today after a mammoth three and a half hour voting session on amendments to the Illegal Migration Bill last night. All the amendments put down by the House of Lords were defeated by the government across 18 divisions. Are Rishi's hopes of stopping the boats still alive? Where do Labour stand on the bill?
James Heale speaks to Stephen Bush and Katy Balls.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.
Labour have been criticised this week for 'following the same tram lines' as the Tories, especially on spending. Meanwhile, Starmer has been boosted by the decision taken by Unite – one of the UK’s biggest unions – to retain close ties with the Labour Party. Do they have a raft of transformative policies that will deliver change? Is the relationship between Labour and the unions as rosy as the Unite vote suggests?
Also today, the Nato summit in Vilnius is underway and the mood seems optimistic after Erdogan agreed to support Sweden's membership bid. What can we expect from the summit?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and John McTernan, former political secretary to Tony Blair.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Joe Biden was in London today to meet with Rishi Sunak. The pair had discussions in No. 10, and Biden described US-UK relations as ‘rock solid’. But the pair have recently had disagreements about who the next Nato secretary general should be, and about whether the West should send cluster munitions to Ukraine – so is the relationship really so rosy?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Freddy Gray.
Produced by Max Jeffery.
Allegations involving the sexual misconduct of a BBC presenter. The US agrees to supply cluster bombs to Ukraine. The Conservative view on UK debt and tax cuts. Labour's plans for housing. And John Kerry speaks about the need for cooperation on climate policy.
James Heale speaks to John Ferry and Iain Macwhirter about Humza Yousaf's first 100 days in Holyrood. Plagued by Sturgeon's arrest, does the Scottish First Minister's future look bright?
It is one year since Boris Johnson announced his resignation as prime minister. That day, Labour held an 11 point lead in the polls but new YouGov polling today indicates that gap has widened to 25 points. Is there any hope the Tories can turn it around?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.
A year on from allegations that Chris Pincher groped two young men at the Carlton Club (allegations that ultimately triggered the downfall of Boris Johnson), Parliament's standards watchdog has now found that Pincher brought the House into disrepute and recommended an eight-week suspension. On the podcast, Isabel Hardman says that this makes a by-election in his constituency of Tamworth a question of when, not if. But even worse for the Conservative party, their newly-selected candidate in that constituency is the current MP of another constituency. Cindy Yu talks to Isabel and Katy Balls about the mess that CCHQ finds itself in now.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
The NHS marks its 75th anniversary today, and in Westminster, both Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer attended a service at Westminster Abbey in honour of the organisation. James Heale talks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews about why there was a church service for the NHS and whether Rishi Sunak's time would have been better spent at Prime Minister's Questions.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Rishi Sunak’s personal approval rating among Tory members has turned negative for the first time in his premiership. Why is the Prime Minister becoming more unpopular in his party? Should he be worried about internal dissent?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Max Jeffery.
A group of 25 Tory MPs, calling themselves the New Conservatives, have launched a plan that they say will cut net migration from 606,000, last year's figure, to 226,000, the figure in 2019. Temporary visa schemes for care workers should be shut, the 'skilled work' salary threshold raised, and the number of refugees accepted into the UK capped. Who is in the group, and what do they want?
James Heale speaks to Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls.
Produced by Max Jeffery.
The government unveils its plans for the future of the NHS. But its progress on the healthcare problems of today is called into question. Can the NHS withstand the pressure that today's society places on it? How would Labour deal with teacher union negotiations? And do public sector pay rises cause inflation? Plus, an interview with the first woman to be sent on a mission around the moon.
Next week is the NHS's 75th birthday. Why is the health service in such a poor state? Are the Tories selling it off? And is there any hope for its future?
Max Jeffery speaks to Kate Andrews and Isabel Hardman.
Zac Goldsmith has resigned as a minister, and says he quit because Rishi Sunak is 'simply uninterested' in the environment. It comes a day after Goldsmith was named by the Privileges Committee as one of 10 Tories who organised a campaign to undermine their Partygate inquiry. How much will his resignation hurt the government?
James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Produced by Max Jeffery.
It never rains but it pours for Rishi Sunak, as the Court of Appeal has today ruled against his Rwanda plan, raising concerns about the safety of asylum seekers. It now looks as though Rishi could be set to fail in all five of his pledges. Is the prime minister heading for embarrassment?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Heale.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
Daniel Korski, the former David Cameron aide who was standing to be the Conservative candidate for London mayor, has dropped out of the race after a woman claimed he groped her in a meeting in 2013. Korski had won the support of a number of high-profile Tory MPs, and was seen as the likely candidate to face Sadiq Khan in next year's mayoral election. With only two people left in the race, will the Conservatives reopen nominations?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Max Jeffery.
Matt Hancock gave evidence at the Covid inquiry today. The former health secretary said that ‘the doctrine was wrong’, care home preparation was ‘terrible’ and improper planning was an ‘absolute tragedy’. But why was it accepted that harsher lockdowns would’ve helped?
Max Jeffery speaks to Isabel Oakeshott and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Max Jeffery.
As mortgage rates surge and a new Opinium poll finds Labour’s lead has jumped to 18 points, Rishi Sunak appeared on Laura Kuenssberg’s BBC show to insist that his plan is the right one. But was his slightly cranky reaction to some of the questions a reflection of how the party is really feeling about its future? Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Fraser Nelson is joined by Svitlana Morenets and Mark Galeotti as Vladimir Putin faces an armed insurrection from the Wagner mercenary group – what could happen next?
Kate Andrews is joined by Fraser Nelson and Johan Norberg, author of The Capitalist Manifesto: why the global free market will save the world. On the podcast Johan talks about its why lockdown societies never worked; whether he finds the word capitalism useful and his endless optimism for a better future.
Today is the seven years' anniversary of the Brexit referendum, and new polls find that a majority of Brits would prefer a closer relationship with the EU, or rejoining the European Union altogether. Can Labour capitalise on this? Cindy Yu talks to James Heale and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
James Heale speaks to Isabel Hardman and Kate Andrews as the Bank of England announced it has hiked interest rates to 5 per cent. Faced with inflation, a looming mortgage crisis and personal debt, Rishi Sunak said today he is '100 per cent on it'. But can he turn things around?
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Natasha Feroze speaks to Kate Andrews and Katy Balls about today's inflation figures, stuck at 8.7 per cent despite predictions it would fall. As a flagship policy of Rishi Sunak's to half inflation, what options does the Prime Minister have?
In last night's vote on the Privileges Committee's report into whether Boris Johnson misled parliament, just six MPs backed the former prime minister. What's the reaction in Westminster today?
Also on the podcast, after shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves rowed back on Labour's £28bn green projects pledge, why are both parties in such a mess on energy?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Katy Balls speaks to Kate Andrews and Fraser Nelson about the developments in the mortgage markets and how the Tory MPs are expected to vote on partygate.
In his politics column for The Spectator this week James Heale profiles the three candidates that the Tories have shortlisted for London mayor. With the seventh London mayoral election coming up, can the Tories capitalise on Sadiq Khan's declining popularity recently, and offer some answers in the ongoing Ulez debate?
Cindy Yu speaks to James Heale and Dave Hill the former Guardian London commentator who now runs the website On London.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
The release of The Privileges Committee's report into whether Boris Johnson knowingly misled parliament has caused a war of words in the press. Several MPs have announced that they will vote against the report when it comes to House of Commons on Monday. What's the latest?
Also on the podcast, Boris Johnson is expected to be announced as the Mail's 'erudite' new columnist in tomorrow's edition. Does Johnson need a political office in order to cause trouble?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
We have finally got the results of the Privileges Committee's report into whether Boris Johnson deliberately misled parliament, and it doesn't make for comfortable reading for the former prime minister.
The 30,000-word document finds that he committed multiple contempts of parliament, including deliberately misleading the house, deliberately misleading the committee, breaching confidence, impugning the committee and the democratic process of the house and ‘being complicit in the campaign of abuse and attempted intimidation of the committee’.
What will these findings mean for Boris? And what has the reaction been in parliament?
Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Heale.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
Having said she'll step down, Nadine Dorries has now said that she won't formally resign as an MP until later this year... It's hard to see this as anything other than revenge taken on Rishi Sunak, so as to prolong the by-election pain, Katy Balls says. Cindy Yu also talks to Kate Andrews about the economic pain in the country at the moment – from lacklustre GDP growth to rising mortgage rates.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Nadine Dorries has hit out on various platforms saying that 'sinister forces' stopped her from receiving her peerage, as promised to her by former prime minister Boris Johnson. This has been met a strong rebuke from Number 10, but do Boris and Dorries have grounds to feel aggrieved?
Also on the podcast, tomorrow we will learn the Privileges Committee's findings on whether Boris Johnson knowingly misled the House. What should we expect?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Paul Goodman, editor of Conservative Home.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
This morning Rishi Sunak has delivered a direct rebuke of Boris Johnson over the resignation honours row, during an interview at London Tech Week. Is this the Prime Minister going into fighting mode? Do his comments go some way towards heading off a Johnson-led rebellion?
Also on the podcast, Nicola Sturgeon was released from custody yesterday evening after seven hours of questioning. What's the latest?
Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
Boris Johnson's resignation provokes contrasting reactions. The honours system is called into question. Nigel Farage claims an insurgency could be on the cards. And Humza Yousaf says he will achieve Scottish independence.
Nicola Sturgeon has been arrested in connection with the probe into SNP finances.
A spokesperson for Nicola Sturgeon confirmed: ‘Nicola Sturgeon has today, Sunday 11th June, by arrangement with Police Scotland, attended an interview where she was to be arrested and questioned in relation to Operation Branchform. Nicola has consistently said she would co-operate with the investigation if asked and continues to do so.’
Katy Balls, Fraser Nelson and Iain Macwhirter discuss.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Natasha Feroze speaks to Katy Balls and former Labour advisor John McTernan about Labour's announcement that they are watering down their green investment pledge. Is Labour in trouble over this U-turn? And could this be seen as a change in strategy for the party?
Produced by Natasha Feroze
Kate Andrews, Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson react to the news that Boris Johnson has decided to stand down as an MP. Will the former Prime Minister go quietly?
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Boris Johnson has published his resignation honours list, proposing a number of supporters, long time loyalists and even young staffers to be given peerages and honours. But is this an abuse of a system which should, instead, be about rewarding people for their public service? Cindy Yu talks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
The Green Party's first and only MP, Caroline Lucas, has announced today that she'll be stepping down at the next election. On the episode, Katy Balls talks with Isabel Hardman and Fraser Nelson about Lucas's achievements and what it's like to be the sole MP of your party in a parliamentary system like ours.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
It was prime ministers questions today and while Rishi Sunak is away in the US Oliver Dowden stood in. The Covid inquiry was a hot topic of debate. Rishi Sunak says he is not worried about being embarrassed by messages seen by the inquiry, but is he right to be so calm?
Also on the podcast, the OECD has forecasted that the UK will narrowly avoid recession. But with growth at only 0.3 per cent for 2023, can we consider this a good outcome?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
The Prime Minister will be flying stateside tonight to visit Joe Biden. Top of the agenda will be AI regulation (they may also talk about Ben Wallace's bid to become the next Secretary General of Nato). It's a tricky issue and famously fast moving, so can the two leaders crack it? Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
James Heale is joined by Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls to discuss Rishi Sunak's visit to Dover in a bid to tackle small boats. Also, following a clash between Keir Starmer and members on the left of the party, how much of a problem has Andy Burnham become for the Labour leader?
The Cabinet Office has officially triggered a judicial review against the Covid Inquiry – but is this a misstep, if eventually they will lose their legal case against it? On the episode, James Heale talks to Katy Balls and the Institute for Government's Catherine Haddon.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Natasha Feroze speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Heale about Geraint Davies, a Labour MP who has been suspended from the party amid allegations of sexual harassment. Another Pestminster scandal to add to the list, how many more could be out there? Also on the podcast, as Rishi Sunak meets European leaders in Moldova to discuss illegal migration, how has it been received back home with his own party?
Boris Johnson's team today suggested that they would be happy to hand over his WhatsApp messages from during the pandemic to help the Covid enquiry. Why has the civil service got itself in such a muddle over this, and why have the Tories failed to reform Whitehall?
Max Jeffery speaks to James Heale and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Max Jeffery.
Natasha Feroze is joined by James Heale and Fraser Nelson to discuss the Covid inquiry's requested release of Boris Johnson's unredacted Whatsapp messages and diary entries. Meanwhile, Rishi Sunak has spent the day in Kent looking at ways to clamp down unsafe vaping. But he won't go as far as other countries who intend to ban them.
The Russian Ambassador has his own opinions about the war in Ukraine. Kuenssberg questions the Health Secretary over the government's pledge to build 40 new hospitals. Debate continues over junior doctors' pay demands. Jonathan Ashworth gives Labour's pitch for creating more jobs for British people. And Andrea Jenkyns comments on the recent Conservative WhatsApp messages leak.
This week's net migration figures were lower than expected, but still far higher than the 'tens of thousands' first promised by David Cameron. What's gone so wrong, and what's the downside of using immigration to boost economic growth?
Fraser Nelson speaks to Damian Green, the Conservative MP and former immigration minister, and James Kirkup, a Spectator regular who runs the Social Market Foundation.
James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and Kate Andrews about the news that borrowing costs are back to being the highest since last Autumn. Are markets responding to another interest rate hike? What could this mean for the Chancellor Jeremy Hunt?
James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and Robert Colvile from the Centre for Policy Studies about today's migration figures, which hit a record high yet still came in lower than expected.
Isabel Hardman speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews about the ongoing case of Suella Braverman's speeding saga. And now Boris Johnson has returned to the spotlight over reports he broke more lockdown rules. Does the energy around these stories say something about the culture of Westminster? Also on the podcast, Kate Andrews takes a look at today's inflation figures.
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Paul Goodman, editor of Conservative Home joins Katy Balls and James Heale to discuss the most recent victims accused of breaching the ministerial code. The code covers things like telling the truth in Parliament, keeping cabinet discussions secret and not allowing conflicts to arise between public duties and private interests. But is it fit for purpose?
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman about how Suella Braverman's speeding scandal might unravel; and what to expect from Keir Starmer's vision to build and NHS fit for the future.
Isabel Hardman presents the highlights from Sunday morning's shows. Suella Braverman is under fire again, with allegations she may have broken the ministerial code. Environment Secretary Thérèse Coffey talks about water pollution and energy bills. Liz Kendall outlines Labour's plans for the NHS. And Arnold Schwarzenegger tells governments to get moving on climate policy.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill
Immigration and the economy are priorities for Rishi Sunak's government. But under Boris Johnson and Theresa May, net zero was also a major policy focus for Conservative governments. Is Sunak as keen on it as his predecessors were?
James Heale speaks to Fraser and Isabel Hardman.
Rishi Sunak is in Hiroshima for the G7 summit. President Zelensky has said he'll be making a surprise appearance, and Sunak will be meeting with President Modi on the sidelines. What does Sunak want from the trip?
Max Jeffery speaks to James Heale and Isabel Hardman.
James Heale speaks to Isabel Hardman and Fraser Nelson about Rishi Sunak's response to the impending migration figures and whether Keir Starmer could be the man to 'make Brexit work'.
Keir Starmer promised in an interview with the Times today that as prime minister he would back the 'builders not the blockers'. But is it all bluster?
Max Jeffery speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
The Prime Minister has gone to Iceland today to see the Council of Europe, where he has been talking about immigration and the ECHR with other European leaders. On the episode, Katy Balls explains his mission to get other leaders on board with the UK's hardline approach to immigration. Cindy Yu also talks to James Heale about the second day of the National Conservatism Conference and Michael Gove's recommendation for conservatives.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Home Secretary Suella Braverman said that there is no good reason the UK can't train its own lorry drivers and fruit pickers in order to bring immigration rates down. Katy Balls speaks to James Heale and Isabel Hardman about why this has rubbed some up the wrong way and Keir Starmer's speech over the weekend, outlining Labour's vision for the future.
As the Conservative party continues to reel from the local elections results, on the Sunday shows this week Energy Secretary Grant Shapps defended Rishi Sunak's record as party leader, while even Boris Johnson ally Jacob Rees-Mogg admitted that the Conservatives cannot change leaders again. On The Laura Kuenssberg Show, Labour's Jonathan Reynolds hit back at claims that Keir Starmer is a changeable character, while AI engineer Emad Mostaque told the show that the technology could be an existential threat to humanity.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill and Cindy Yu.
The coronation will commemorate the start of a new era, but what will this mean for the United Kingdom? How will Charles III secure his place in history – and what kind of monarch will he be?
From pageantry to the polls: will the coronation distract voters from the Tories’ predicted heavy losses in the local elections? And will Rishi Sunak be able to turn his party’s fortunes around for the general election?
Fraser Nelson speaks to Katy Balls and special guests Camilla Tominey and Matthew Goodwin for a special edition of Coffee House Shots Live.
The UK economy grew by 0.1 per cent in the first quarter of this year. Jeremy Hunt said that the government needed to 'stay focused on competitive taxes, labour supply and productivity.' Is that enough to improve growth?
Natasha Feroze speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Will Kemi Badenoch, the business and trade secretary, lose her supporters in the ERG, after the government confirmed that it would be going back on its pledge to remove all EU legislation from UK law by the end of 2023?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Stephen Bush about the Lord's debate on the Illegal Migration Bill. Now in its third reading, will the government face substantive amendments to the legislation?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman about the fallout from the local elections, some of the arrests made during the Coronation and Rishi Sunak’s plans to give powers to the pharmacies.
On today's Sunday shows, the fallout from the local elections dominated. Lucy Frazer defended the Conservative record while Wes Streeting argued that the results didn't rule out a Labour majority in a national election. Isabel Hardman brings you the round-up.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
Is the government using mass immigration to mask failures in the welfare system?
James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and Matthew Goodwin, author of Values, Voice and Virtue
The local election results so far paint a fairly grim picture for the Conservatives, whilst Labour and the Liberal Democrats have made big gains in key areas. With Starmer in the advantage position ahead of the next general election, how will No. 10 respond? Is there a path for the Tories in 2024?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and pollster James Johnson.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Early results from the local elections are coming in. The Conservatives were expected to perform badly, and Labour to make gains, and that's certainly happened. But, if Labour were to replicate these results in a general election, would they win? And are the Liberal Democrats the ones really doing well?
Max Jeffery speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Max Jeffery.
In today's Prime Minister's Questions, Keir Starmer accused the Prime Minister and his party of having 'killed the dream of homeownership'. With news this week that Rishi Sunak is considering reintroducing 'Help to Buy' while Michael Gove is sued for blocking a new housing development in Kent, does Starmer actually have a point? Katy Balls talks to Kate Andrews and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
The Cabinet Office has published its written statement into the resignation of Sue Gray, stating that it has given a 'confidential assessment' to the Advisory Committee on Business Appointments (Acoba) about whether she broke civil service rules in taking up a job from Keir Starmer while still a senior civil servant. On the episode, Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and the UK In A Changing Europe's Jill Rutter, who is also a former civil servant, about the implications for the civil service if Gray is found to have broken the rules.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Isabel Hardman hosts highlights from Sunday morning's political shows. Today's shows looked ahead to next week's local elections, with both parties keen to manage expectations. The Green Party's Adrian Ramsey was questioned on the party's stance on local solar initiatives and the government's new AI advisor Matt Clifford explained what the £100 million new AI fund would be used for.
Produced Joe Bedell-Brill.
The Tories are preparing for a drubbing in the local elections next week. But just how bad will they be? Natasha Feroze speaks to Katy Balls and John Curtice.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Max Jeffery.
Richard Sharp has quit as chairman of the BBC, following an investigation into whether he properly disclosed his role in enabling an £800,000 loan to Boris Johnson before his appointment. What will happen next?
Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Max Jeffery.
A judge has ruled that strikes by the Royal College of Nursing be cut short by a day, because the six-month mandate for strike action will have passed. Two more unions are still to vote on Health Secretary Steve Barclay’s pay offer. If they support it, could the RCN change their mind on the deal?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Max Jeffery.
Xi Jinping said he will send diplomats to help broker peace in Ukraine after he had a phone call with Volodymyr Zelensky. But are China’s aims really as noble as they seem?
Fraser Nelson speaks to Isabel Hardman, Svitlana Morenets and Cindy Yu.
Colin Beattie, the SNP’s former treasurer, said today that he ‘didn't know’ about the party’s purchase of a motorhome worth £100,000, the vehicle at the centre of an ongoing police probe into SNP finances. What’s going on? And as the military begins to evacuate British citizens from Sudan, did the Foreign Office react fast enough?
James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Katy Balls, Fraser Nelson and Isabel Hardman discuss Diane Abbott's suspension from the Labour party. Given her hasty apology, could Keir Starmer allow such a key figure to Labour's left back into the party? Also on the podcast, what has been the fallout from Dominic Raab's resignation? And how is Rishi Sunak trying to woo business leaders?
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Isabel Hardman hosts highlights from Sunday morning's political shows. Today's shows focussed heavily on Dominic Raab's resignation from Rishi Sunak's government. Whilst new deputy PM Oliver Dowden described Raab as a 'man of his word', Labour's Jonathan Ashworth was less flattering, calling him: 'Not just a bullying minister, a failing minister'. Education was also a hot topic. In the aftermath of the tragic death of headteacher Ruth Perry, questions have arisen over whether Ofsted is a positive influence on the sector.
Produced Joe Bedell-Brill.
As world leaders gathered to mark the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement, is violence glorified when it comes to remembering the Troubles? John Connolly speaks to Spectator columnist Douglas Murray and former DUP leader Arlene Foster. This episode can be watched in full on Spectator TV's Week in 60 Minutes.
This morning Dominic Raab has resigned from Rishi Sunak's government following the findings of an investigation into bullying claims against him. Raab has been one of Sunak's closest allies, serving as deputy PM and justice secretary. Where does this leave the prime minister?
Natasha Feroze speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.
Today was meant to be judgement day for Dominic Raab as we learnt the outcome of Adam Tolley's investigation into historic bullying claims made against the deputy PM. His fate now rests squarely in Rishi Sunak's hands. Will he resign?
Also on the podcast, there have been a couple of amendments tabled today on the Conservative's Illegal Migration Bill, will these changes placate the rebels?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Prime Minister's Questions was a punchy affair today. Rishi Sunak fought back against accusations that the Conservatives have failed on tackling crime, calling Keir Starmer 'Sir Softy' to turn the attack back around on Starmer, for his track record as the Director of Public Prosecutions. But was it an effective attack? Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
The investigation into Rishi Sunak leads several papers today, but how much does it really matter? On the episode, James Heale talks to Katy Balls and Conservative Home editor Paul Goodman about why the episode is unlikely to hurt Sunak in the long run. They also discuss the coming report on Dominic Raab's alleged workplace bullying and the centenary of the 1922 committee.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
The arrest of the SNP's treasurer Colin Beattie in relation to the probe into the party's finances has overshadowed Humza Yousaf's relaunch speech scheduled for today. Beattie has been taken into custody two weeks after Peter Murrell, the SNP's chief executive, was questioned by police regarding loans made in June 2021. Can Yousaf distance himself from the chaos in his own party? What does this mean for Scottish Labour's chances at the next election?
Michael Simmons speaks to Katy Balls and Stephen Daisley.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Parliament is back from the Easter break and Rishi Sunak has taken the opportunity to reiterate his commitment to improving maths literacy in the country. Listeners will remember that the plan to make maths compulsory until 18 was first announced in Rishi's new year's speech along with his five priorities. Why is maths provision so important to him?
Also on the podcast, with local elections on the horizon, how does Tory campaigning shape up against Labour's new tactics?
Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
Isabel Hardman hosts the highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows. This morning’s shows heavily focussed on the crisis in the NHS, after the Royal College of Nursing voted against the government’s pay deal, meaning further strike action. Pat Cullen says the strikes could last as long as Christmas. Conservative Party Chair, Greg Hands disagrees and says the deal is a 'very reasonable offer'. In an interview with Wes Streeting, the Shadow Health Secretary says he is deeply worried about patient safety.
Striking junior doctors are demanding a 35 per cent pay rise. Is that realistic? And are junior doctors really underpaid? Lucy Dunn is joined by economics editor Kate Andrews and Spectatorcontributor James Kirkup.
Home Secretary, Suella Braverman has come under fire from senior Conservatives who have accused her of 'racist rhetoric', but are these accusations fair? Also on the podcast, Katy Balls takes a look at the latest deal on strikes and Natasha Feroze asks Fraser Nelson why he's against voters bringing ID for the May local elections.
Fraser Nelson speaks to Katy Balls and Stephen Bush from the Financial Times about the two party leaders as Britain starts to think about the next year's general election. As Labour's lead in the polls narrows, is their campaigning strategy working? And how is a fractious Conservative party responding to having Rishi Sunak as their leader?
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
James Heale is joined by Katy Balls and Talk Radio political editor, Peter Cardwell who has been in Belfast for Biden's state visit. A symbolic time as Northern Ireland marks the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement. Given the President's proud Irish roots and vocal criticism of former Prime Ministers, was Rishi Sunak able to thaw the special relationship?
On the day that junior doctors begin a four-day strike over pay and working conditions, Lucy Dunn, The Spectator's social media editor and qualified doctor speaks to Kate Andrews and Fraser Nelson. Will public support for the strikes turn if patient safety is put at risk? Also on the podcast, Kate takes a look at the latest IMF forecast for the UK.
Today Keir Starmer has doubled down on Labour Party adverts attacking the Conservative's record on crime, and which seemingly accuse Rishi Sunak of not caring about child sex abuse. But is everyone in the party willing to play hardball? Or have the adverts highlighted divisions between senior Labour MPs?
Also on the podcast, after Peter Murrell was arrested in connection with an investigation into the SNP's finances, why has a luxury motorhome now been seized by police?
James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and Michael Simmons.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Rishi Sunak's personal poll ratings are on the up, by why don't the public love Starmer? We talk through the latest polling. And Mark Spencer, now the farming minister, has been cleared by an investigation into whether he made Islamophobic investigations to fellow Tory MP Nus Ghani. Is the row over?
Max Jeffery is joined by James Heale and James Johnson, the co-founder of polling firm JL Partners.
Produced by Max Jeffery.
Nicola Sturgeon's husband, Peter Murrell, has been arrested today in connection with an investigation into the SNP’s finances. James Heale talks to Fraser Nelson and Conservative Home editor Paul Goodman on the episode. They also discuss Trump's arrest and ask whether Suella Braverman might need a new seat.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Nigel Lawson, former chancellor and Spectator editor, passed away yesterday aged 91. How did he affect conservative economic thinking? And have the lessons from his time in the Treasury been properly learnt?
James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and Lucy Fisher.
Produced by Max Jeffery.
Channel crossings were down 17 per cent in the first three months of 2023, compared with 2022. Why? And a new poll of Tory members from Conservative Home shows Rishi Sunak jump from being the sixth least popular member of the cabinet in November, to being the sixth most popular member member today. Does it matter?
Max Jeffery speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Produced by Max Jeffery.
Katy Balls hosts the highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows. The Home Secretary Suella Braverman stands by her Rwanda immigration policy despite evidence refugees were shot by police there in 2018. Business representatives Minette Batters and Murray Lambell argue immigration needs to go up, not down. Braverman and Labour’s Lisa Nandy clash over who is to blame for a lack of action over child sexual exploitation. And Skype co-founder Jaan Tallinn suggests AI might represent an existential threat to humanity.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill and Cindy Yu.
Natasha Feroze speaks to Katy Balls and Freddy Gray about Biden's upcoming visit to the UK. Given the President's proud Irish roots, how much will he try throw his weight around on Brexit? And how worried are the Democrats about Trump's indictment?
Britain has agreed to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), a £9 trillion trade bloc with 11 members. James Heale, speaks to Katy Balls and a special guest, Alexander Downer about whether this is a win for the government. And what it could mean for those looking to reverse Brexit.
The first day of Easter recess is a chance to reflect on the last couple of months in politics and look at the challenges that lie ahead. As Keir Starmer launches his local election campaign in Swindon today, how are the parties going to position themselves for their largest reckoning this year? The polls predict a hammering for Rishi Sunak, and could this be a good result for the Lib Dems? Natasha Feroze speaks to James Heale and Katy Balls.
Kate Forbes has quit the government after turning down an offer to be rural affairs minister in Humza Yousaf's cabinet. With some suggesting the new First Minister of Scotland should keep his friends close as his enemies closer – was this wise? Also on the podcast, James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson about asylum hotels, a topic that is becoming increasingly contentious as the government explores new ways to house migrants.
Labour has voted to block Jeremy Corbyn from running as a Labour candidate in the next general election. For the podcast, Natasha Feroze speaks to Katy Balls and Gabriel Pogrund who is the Whitehall editor of the Sunday Times about whether this was a fight worth picking for Starmer. Also, given the former Labour leader has had ten consecutive successful campaigns for his seat in Islington North, is he likely to run again as an independent?
Humza Yousaf has been announced as the new leader of the SNP after a narrow victory over second placed Kate Forbes. What will this mean for the cause of Scottish independence?
Katy Balls speaks to Michael Simmons, Stephen Daisley and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Tory party divisions over the small boats policy are starting to appear. Although the bill sailed through its second reading in parliament, now Rishi Sunak is facing amendments to the legislation. Where are the dividing lines? Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
Isabel Hardman hosts the highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows. Michael Gove was quizzed by Laura Kuenssberg on the sting operation by Led By Donkeys, which showed five Tory MPs asking for hefty sums on second jobs. He also defended Boris Johnson on partygate and the government's proposed ban on nitrous. Lucy Powell, shadow culture secretary, said that the government was putting the BBC under threat and agreed with the World Athletics Federation's decision to ban trans women from women's sports. Finally, the OBR's Richard Hughes gives his pessimistic take on the economy.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
On this special Saturday edition of Coffee House Shots, The Spectator’s James Heale, journalist Peter Hitchens and the IEA’s Christopher Snowdon argue the cases for and against daylight saving time. Are we all being needlessly robbed of an hour in bed? Or should we lighten up and embrace the longer days?
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.
This morning Buckingham Palace has announced that King Charles's State visit to France has been cancelled as the country struggles with nationwide strikes against the government's pension reform. The King was due to visit Paris and Bordeaux, two of the cities which have been hit by the most extreme violence. Will his trip to Germany go ahead as planned?
Also on the podcast, Rishi Sunak has been buoyed by a successful week in which he pulled off his Brexit plan. Will he be able to weather the storm next week when small boats are back on the agenda? Is there a world in which Sunak could pull off an election victory?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Keir Starmer today seemed to change his party's stance on self-identification for transgender people. Before, Starmer said Labour would update the Gender Recognition Act so transgender people could self-identify as whatever gender they wanted. Today, he said that 'if you’re going to make reforms, you have to carry the public with you.' What's changed?
Max Jeffery speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Today Boris Johnson sat through a grueling four-hour hearing into whether the former Prime Minister deliberately misled parliament. Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson take a look at the key moments of the meeting; and whether Rishi Sunak should be worried about the Brexit vote rebels.
Boris Johnson has today made his defence of partygate, before he is questioned by the Privileges Committee tomorrow. He accepts that he misled the House of Commons, but insists he made his statements ‘in good faith’ and that he ‘would never have dreamed’ of doing so intentionally. But who's going to support him now?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and Paul Goodman.
Ahead of the vote on Rishi Sunak’s Brexit deal, Sir Jeffrey Donaldson, leader of the DUP has said he will not back the key parts of the Windsor Framework. How much could this become a problem for Rishi Sunak? Also on Wednesday, what are the possible outcomes of Boris Johnson’s probe into Partygate? Natasha Feroze, Katy Balls and James Heale take a look at the week ahead.
Isabel Hardman hosts the highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows. Oliver Dowden, the chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, defended it taking so long for the government to come to an agreement with NHS unions over pay; Lisa Nandy, the shadow foreign secretary, said the government's Rwanda deportation policy was 'unworkable'; and SNP leadership candidate Kate Forbes explained how she thinks her party can regain the trust of its members.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
The SNP has confirmed that its membership has fallen to 72,000 – a loss of over 30,000 since 2021. This has prompted an open letter from leadership candidates Kate Forbes and Ash Regan, calling for transparency when it comes to membership numbers. Why are so many leaving?
Also on the podcast, Humza Yousaf has committed yet another public gaffe when he went to visit a group of female Ukrainian refugees. Is he still the firm favourite?
Katy Balls speaks to Michael Simmons, Lucy Dunn and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
A look ahead to next week where MPs will vote on parts of the Northern Ireland Protocol. What would a win look like for the government? The vote has been conveniently placed on the same day Boris Johnson is already in parliament for the privileges committee hearing. The lone rebel of the protocol will have to put his money where his mouth is – which way will he vote? Natasha Feroze speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
The day after Jeremy Hunt's Spring Budget has been fairly muted compared to recent Budget hangovers. What has been the overall reaction? On the global markets, Kate Andrews looks at the international reaction after Credit Suisse shares fell by more than 30 per cent yesterday. And what's behind the recent breakthrough in negotiations between NHS Unions and Ministers?
Natasha Feroze speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Jeremy Hunt, the Chancellor has unveiled his spring Budget, which was accompanied by forecasts predicting that the UK will avoid recession this year and that inflation will drop to below 3 per cent by the end of the year. But do the measures go far enough? Katy Balls speaks to Kate Andrews and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.
After a tumultuous two weeks, voting is now open for the SNP leadership elections until 27 March. But are members any closer to knowing who they’ll vote for? The deputy first minister of the SNP, John Swinney has backed Humza Yousaf to be SNP leader. What could be seen as an influential endorsement by some, can also be a sign that the Yousaf campaign is worried things are tighter than hoped.
Michael Simmons speaks to Katy Balls and Alex Massie.
MPs voted through the second reading of the Illegal Migration bill last night with a 62-vote majority. There was a handful of Tory MPs that abstained from voting but importantly, despite threats of a rebellion, no Conservative MPs voted against it. Seen as an election-winning issue, is this a rare sign of unity from the party? Also on the podcast, Katy Balls and James Heale take a look ahead at the Budget tomorrow.
Today Rishi Sunak's diplomacy is taking centre stage. He is currently in San Diego for talks with President Biden and the government has just released its refreshed Integrated Review, which includes strengthened language on China, the Russia-Ukraine war and science and tech.
Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and Sophia Gaston, head of foreign policy at the think tank Policy Exchange.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
Two stories dominated the news agenda over the weekend, one concerning a household name and the other involving a bank which – before Sunday – few had heard of. What is the political significance of Gary Lineker's row with the BBC? And after the fall of Silicon Valley Bank, are we heading for a regional banking crisis?
Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
Boris Johnson is reportedly cutting the number of names on his honours list from 100 to 60 (still much higher than the average honours list for former prime ministers). This is a Tory sleaze scandal in the making, so should Rishi Sunak think about blocking it? Or could the reminder of Johnson's flaws actually help the Sunak premiership? James Heale discusses with Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Kevin Swartwood.
Rishi Sunak was in Paris today meeting with President Emmanuel Macron. The pair unveiled a new deal to stop the Channel crossings as part of the first Franco-British summit for five years. Will the new measures work?
Cindy Yu speaks to Fraser Nelson and Charles Grant, director of the Centre for European Reform.
The shadow education secretary Bridget Phillipson is giving a speech to centre-right think tank Onward today, all about childcare. But is the party actually saying anything new on the issue? Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and the FT's Stephen Bush.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
We had the first televised hustings for the leadership of the SNP last night, and it was a fiery affair to say the least. Will the lack of party unity end up costing the SNP?
Lucy Dunn speaks to Katy Balls and Stephen Daisley.
It's been reported that more damaging messages sent by Cabinet Secretary Simon Case during the pandemic will surface in the Daily Telegraph's Lockdown Files, leading to speculation over whether he will still be in position by the time of the King's coronation. Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and James Heale about whether the Cabinet Secretary will soon have to step down.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Suella Braverman unveiled the Illegal Migration Bill today in the Commons. The Home Secretary said that Britain had been 'taken for a ride', as she revealed the government's plan to detain asylum seekers for up to 28 days 'without bail or judicial review until they can be removed'. Will this contravene the European Convention on Human Rights? And even if it does, will it make a difference to small boats crossings?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Tomorrow the government is set to deliver its plan the tackle small boats, legislation Rishi Sunak has been promising since before Christmas. Is Rishi about to get tough on immigration?
Also on the podcast, what is the latest in the Sue Gray scandal? Will this – alongside continuing questions over Simon Case – start a serious conversation about impartiality in the civil service?
Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Isabel Hardman hosts the highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows. Matt Hancock's leaked WhatsApp messages dominated the interviews as Chris Heaton-Harris defended Boris Johnson, and Jonathan Ashworth called for an inquiry into what the Treasury knew about the 'eat out to help out' scheme. And on Sophy Ridge on Sunday, Sinn Fein's Michelle O'Neill called for the DUP to return to the executive.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
It's been an interesting week in the race for the leadership of the SNP. Kate Forbes's campaign has been plunged into fresh doubt by the news that her husband attended a private Tory hustings, whilst Douglas Ross has been forced to apologise after swearing during First Minister's Questions. We also had the first televised hustings, but who came out on top?
Michael Simmons speaks to Fraser Nelson, Katy Balls and Stephen Daisley.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson about Sue Gray's new role as Keir Starmer's chief of staff and what happened on the Tory MP's away day in Windsor.
Boris Johnson delivered his first speech since leaving No.10 and told the audience he would not be able to back Rishi Sunak's Brexit deal. Although the Windsor Framework has largely received a lukewarm reception, does Boris have a point? Also on the podcast, Sue Gray has just resigned from the civil service to become Keir Starmer's chief of staff. What could this mean politically for both parties?
Natasha Feroze speaks to Katy Balls and Sam Lowe, partner at Flint.
In the first of The Spectator's special Coffee House Scots series, Michael Simmons speaks to Isabel Hardman, Katy Balls and Stephen Daisley about the SNP leadership race. Given that the main motivation uniting the SNP is the ambition for an independent Scotland, how do the candidates differ ideologically?
The Daily Telegraph has splashed on over 100,000 WhatsApp messages to and from Matt Hancock during his time as Health Secretary. Altogether they show the internal workings of the government and how key lockdown decisions were made during that time. On the podcast, James Heale talks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson, who has been working with the Telegraph on putting these files into the public eye.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
James Heale speaks to Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls about some of the key points in the Windsor Framework. Having reached an agreement with the EU, can Rishi Sunak do the same with both the Tories and the DUP?
Today Rishi Sunak has reached a revised agreement with the EU on Northern Ireland, and hailed it a 'turning point' for the people of Northern Ireland. But how will the DUP and – more importantly – Tory MPs, react?
Isabel Hardman speaks to Katy Balls and Sam Lowe.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Isabel Hardman hosts the highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows. Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab says there's 'quiet confidence' about the Northern Ireland Protocol deal. Shadow Foreign Secretary David Lammy said Labour would act in the 'national interest', and expects to support the deal. SNP leadership hopeful Humza Yousaf said that with sustained public support, ‘independence will absolutely be inevitable’.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
Today marks one year since Putin sent the Russian army into Kyiv. Since then, what has been the experience of the Ukrainians who fled their homes and came over to the UK? Svitlana Morenets, a staff writer at The Spectator speaks to Kate Andrews about the year reporting on her war-torn country from Britain. Also joining the podcast is Matt Downie, chief executive of Crisis UK whose work involves helping those 4000 Ukrainians who arrived on the Homes for Ukraine scheme and are now at risk of homelessness.
A poll of the SNP membership puts Kate Forbes as the frontrunner. Despite becoming embroiled in a row over her religious views, Forbes enjoys the support of 28 per cent of members, compared to Humza Yousaf's 20 per cent. Could she win the contest?
Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
Keir Starmer has set out Labour's five missions for government in a speech today, but was there anything Labour about them? Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman about where this speech leaves the Labour party's chances to win the next election. Also on the podcast: the government's plan to cut the asylum backlog.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Rishi Sunak continues to try to get his MPs onside when it comes to the government's deal with the EU on the Northern Ireland Protocol. Some Eurosceptics have warned that the Prime Minister could see resignations from his government if this is handled badly, with some touting Home Secretary Suella Braverman's name. What's the latest? James Heale talks to Fraser Nelson and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Cindy Yu.
Today was meant to be the day that Rishi Sunak presented his Northern Ireland Protocol plans to parliament, instead he told the cabinet that intensive negotiations continue with the EU. Is he doomed to repeat Theresa May's Brexit mistakes? Will he need the backing of the DUP for any agreement?
Also on the podcast, as prospective SNP leader Kate Forbes continues to defend her views on gay marriage, can her campaign survive?
Cindy Yu speaks to Isabel Hardman and Patrick O'Flynn.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
Scotland's finance secretary, Kate Forbes has formally declared her campaign to be leader of the SNP. Currently the bookies' favourite – what direction would she take the party in? Also on the podcast, will there be more news on the Northern Ireland protocol this week?
After the news this week that Nicola Sturgeon will step aside as leader of the Scottish National Party, can the cause of Scottish independence survive without her?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and James Johnson, former Downing Street pollster and co-founder of JL Partners.
As it looks like the government is about to agree a new deal with the European Union on the Northern Ireland Protocol, Rishi Sunak is in Belfast today meeting with the DUP. Will they accept a compromise?
Max Jeffery speaks to Isabel Hardman and Charles Grant, director of the Centre for European Reform.
Produced by Max Jeffery.
With Labour nearly 30 points ahead in the polls, Keir Starmer is consolidating his position at the top. He said yesterday that Jeremy Corbyn will not stand as a Labour candidate in the next election, and he could be looking to reshuffle his shadow cabinet soon. How much power does Starmer have? Could he completely cut Labour's ties to the trade unions?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and the Times's Patrick Maguire.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Max Jeffery.
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Conservative Home editor Paul Goodman about the union. Both in terms of Nicola Sturgeon's sudden decision to resign this morning and the possibility of an imminent agreement on the Northern Ireland protocol.
Nicola Sturgeon has announced her resignation as First Minister of Scotland. James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman about her decision to leave and Sturgeon's nine years as leader.
Ben Wallace, the Secretary of State for defence has launched a security review in the wake of Chinese spy balloons entering Western airspace. This accelerated a row over defence spending ahead of the Spring Budget. How far is the government willing to go under pressure over the Ukraine war and now an intensified Chinese threat?
James Heale speaks to Cindy Yu and Katy Balls.
To learn more about Chinese politics, society and culture, listen to The Spectator's Chinese Whispers podcast.
Whilst the government is in recess, a group of cross-party politicians joined a private meeting to discuss 'How we can make Brexit work better with our European neighbours?' Are the critics right that this is an attempt to unravel Brexit?
Also on the podcast, Labour dropped their GPC files [government procurement cards] early this morning – what can be learnt from their big scoop?
Natasha Feroze speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
This week has seen the return of Liz Truss, firstly with her op-ed in the Telegraph and then her Spectator TV exclusive interview. Has enough time passed to revise our opinion of her pro-growth agenda?
Cindy Yu speaks to Fraser Nelson and Kate Andrews.
New GDP figures show that the UK economy narrowly avoided recession at the end of 2022. Between the final quarter and the third quarter of last year, there was no change in the economy's output. Is this really good news? And do GDP figures matter if people still feel poorer?
Max Jeffery speaks to Kate Andrews and James Heale.
The chatter in Westminster has been dominated by comments the new deputy chairman of the Conservative Party gave to James Heale, The Spectator's diary editor, in an interview published today. When asked if he was in support of the death penalty, Lee Anderson said: 'Yes. Nobody has ever committed a crime after being executed. You know that, don’t you? 100 per cent success rate.’
On the podcast, Isabel Hardman talks to James and Katy Balls about whether No. 10 anticipated that the Conservative Party's new deputy chairman would be making quite so many headlines, so soon into his promotion.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
President Zelensky was in Westminster today to address Parliament. The Ukrainian leader came to London to ask MPs to give Ukraine fighter jets. Will Rishi Sunak agree to?
Max Jeffery speaks to Svitlana Morenets and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Max Jeffery.
Rishi Sunak announced a reshuffle of his cabinet this morning. Among other changes, Greg Hands will become the Tory party chair, and Michelle Donelan will become the culture secretary. Why is Sunak making these changes just 18 months before an election? Will they make any real difference to how his government works?
Max Jeffery speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Max Jeffery.
Today Liz Truss has broken her silence, giving her first broadcast interview since leaving No.10 to SpectatorTV. Was she denied a ‘realistic chance’ at success?
Fraser Nelson speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
You can watch the full interview now on SpectatorTV: https://www.youtube.com/@SpectatorTV
Isabel Hardman hosts the highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows. Featured today are interviews with Business Secretary Grant Shapps, Sharon Graham from Unite and Labour's Liz Kendall and Jonathan Reynolds.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
In his column for the Telegraph, Fraser Nelson says that Sweden has become a gangster's paradise, with its liberal approach to criminal justice allowing a shocking subculture of violence. He is joined by Katy Balls and Fredrik Erixon, Swedish economist and writer, to discuss how the country should respond to gun violence.
In her Times column this week Katy Balls says that Rishi Sunak is about to roll his sleeves up on EU trade and small boats, potentially setting him against both the right and the left of his party. What should we expect?
Also on the podcast, as allegations about Dominic Raab's bullying continue to swirl, is this another area where Rishi will be forced to get tough?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
A new poll today shows that more than half of voters think that Rishi Sunak has handled the economy badly, and that a third of voters think Boris Johnson was a better prime minister. This comes as Sunak marks his first 100 days in office. But did the PM ever have a political honeymoon to speak of? Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Today the Times has reported that a partial agreement has been made over the Northern Ireland Protocol. Why are the government playing down the progress made over the Irish border?
Also on podcast, Boris Johnson has been on maneuvres this week, weighing in on the row over sending jets to Ukraine. Has he succeeded in undermining Rishi Sunak?
Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and Charles Grant, director of the Centre for European Reform.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
The IMF report suggests Britain will be the only advanced economy to fall into recession this year – predicting the worst growth figures of any G7 country. Historically, how reliable have these forecasts been? Can we take some of it with a pinch of salt? Also on the podcast, MPs have approved new powers to curb public sector strikes, is this a ray of hope for party cohesion?
Natasha Feroze speaks to Kate Andrews and Katy Balls.
The problem of Nadhim Zahawi may not have gone away as quickly as the Prime Minister might have hoped. Today, allies of the former Tory Chairman have suggested the decision to sack Zahawi has been 'rushed' and 'unfair'. Is there more of this story to come?
Natasha Feroze speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Isabel Hardman hosts the highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows. Featured today are interviews with Michael Gove, Bridget Phillipson, Mary Bousted and Michel Barnier.
This morning, the Prime Minister Rishi Sunak fired the Conservative party chairman Nadhim Zahawi over the scandal surrounding his tax affairs. This story has been ongoing for a few weeks now – why now?
Natasha Feroze speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
It emerged this week that Nadhim Zahawi was in a row last year with HMRC over tax payments, but he is currently holding onto his post as Conservative party chairman. When should a politician resign? And is it worth fighting back? Ten years ago, the News of the World broke a story about then Liberal Democrat MP Mark Oaten’s personal life. On the podcast, Mark joins Fraser Nelson and James Heale to talk about what it’s like to be in the centre of a scandal.
Jeremy Hunt unveiled his plans to grow the economy in a speech this morning. His strategy will focus on four pillars or 'four E's': enterprise, education, employment and everywhere. Natasha Feroze speaks to Kate Andrews and Fraser Nelson – who were at the Bloomberg headquarters, on their key takeaways from the speech.
Over the last few days, Downing Street has been quietly distancing itself from Nadhim Zahawi, though seems unwilling to do anything until the investigation into Zahawi's tax affairs finishes. Today, the Tory chairman's plight was made worse by comments from Jim Harra, chief executive of HMRC. Is the government preparing for the inevitable? Cindy Yu discusses with Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Today, Rishi Sunak faced another round of questioning over the two ongoing Tory sleaze scandals. What is it about these stories that infuriate voters, and can the Prime Minister close the chapter on them as he promised to do? Max Jeffery talks to Katy Balls and pollster James Johnson, co-founder of JL Partners.
Produced by Max Jeffery and Cindy Yu.
This morning government minister Chris Philp gave a less than convincing defence of former chancellor Nadhim Zahawi as the row over his tax affairs continue to cast a cloud over Rishi Sunak’s government. Does he have to go?
Also on the podcast, shadow foreign secretary David Lammy will lay out Labour's foreign policy plans today at Chatham House. What can we expect?
Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and Stephen Bush.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
Having just recovered from his own seatbelt fine saga, Rishi Sunak spent the weekend fighting two more Tory sleaze scandals. First over the ongoing investigation into Nadhim Zahawi's taxes and the second linked to the BBC chairman Richard Sharp's £800,000 loan guarantee. Both stories link back to Boris Johnson's time as Prime Minister, but how much damage could this do to Rishi Sunak?
Natasha Feroze speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Isabel Hardman brings you the highlights from Sunday morning's political shows. Guests featured today include James Cleverly, Nicola Sturgeon and Rachel Reeves.
Kate Andrews talks to Fraser Nelson and the New Zealand based journalist and author Andrea Vance about the surprise announcement from Jacinda Ardern that she will be leaving the world stage next month.
Rishi Sunak may be facing a fine from the police for not wearing a seatbelt in the backseat of a car on his tour around the country yesterday. Is this all a storm in a teacup or is there a legitimate point to the row? Kate Andrews and Fraser Nelson debate on the podcast, hosted by Katy Balls.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Rishi Sunak faces the fury of Red Wall MPs and other Tories today as he announced the distribution of the second round of the government's levelling up fund. Of all the regions receiving money, the southeast will in fact receive the most (£210 million), while the government would rather point to the fact that, on a per capita basis, the North and Wales benefit more. Cindy Yu discusses with Katy Balls and James Heale.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
In today's Prime Minister's Questions, Rishi Sunak went heavy on accusations that Keir Starmer cannot be trusted, having flip-flopped on various policy positions throughout his time in politics – 'he is not just for the free movement of people; he also has the free movement of principles'. On the podcast, Katy Balls discusses with Fraser Nelson and Isabel Hardman whether that's such a bad thing.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Westminster and Holyrood are going head to head on Scotland's newly passed Gender Recognition Bill. Last night, the UK government blocked the legislation from Edinburgh, citing that the powers it gives – requiring those identifying as a different gender to only live in that gender for three months, and reducing the age of self-identification to 16 – would contravene the UK's Equality Act. In the end, it may be the courts that decide. Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
It's looking like a busy week in Westminster. So busy in fact that prime minister Rishi Sunak will not be attending the annual Davos meeting, organised by the World Economic Forum. His opposite number Kier Starmer will be making the trip however, is this a shrewd move from Labour?
Also on the podcast, amended plans to widen police powers when it comes to public protests are being introduced to parliament today, what impact will the Public Order Bill have on civil liberties? Will the government come to regret this?
Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Isabel Hardman presents the highlights from Sunday's political shows, with interviews from Sir Keir Starmer, Mark Harper, and John Bercow.
Boris Johnson's potential comeback has been dominating headlines for several months now. As Rishi struggles to unite the party, Katy Balls, Fraser Nelson and James Heale discuss whether the prime minister should be worried.
Rishi Sunak is in Scotland meeting with First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, and said today that he is concerned about new gender laws in Scotland which would allow 16-year-olds to apply for a gender recognition certificate to change their gender. But with Sunak trying to improve relations with Holyrood, should he send Kemi Badenoch, the minister for women and equalities, to fight the fight for him?
James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Welfare reform is back on the agenda. Today there have been reports of how the Tories plan to reform welfare benefits in this country. What is Mel Stride thinking?
Also on the podcast, Rishi Sunak will this evening travel to meet with Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon. What will they be discussing? Why is it that our prime ministers treat trips north of the border like foreign visits?
Cindy Yu speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
Rishi Sunak has finally answered questions over his healthcare arrangements with a statement in Prime Minister's Questions, stating that he is currently registered with an NHS GP but has used private healthcare in the past. Is this change in tack an admission that he should have answered the question sooner? Katy Balls talks to Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Business Secretary, Grant Shapps has introduced a bill proposing a minimum level of public sector work during strike action for six key industries. Labour's Angela Rayner told the Commons these plans are 'insulting and utterly stupid'. As a policy that Tories largely agree on, could this bill bring the party together? Also on the podcast, Isabel Hardman reacts to Ken Clarke's suggestion that the middle class should pay fees to use the NHS, and why has former minister Claire Perry O'Neill torn up her Conservative party membership?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
In an interview on Sunday, Rishi Sunak refused to tell Laura Kuenssberg whether he has a private GP. Could this question come back to haunt him amid accusations he is 'out of touch'? As Parliament returns from recess, ministers are holding talks with unions to avoid further public sector strikes. However, with strike action still set to go ahead, the expectation of these talks by union bosses may not coincide with reality. Is the government fighting a losing battle?
Also on the podcast, could a Boris Johnson comeback be on the cards? Isabel Hardman speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Isabel Hardman presents the highlights from Sunday's political shows, with Rishi Sunak, Sir Keir Starmer and Wes Streeting.
Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and James Heale about the former Prime Minister's lunch with her loyalists at Ma La Sichuan, and whether her ideas might be mounting a comeback.
Prince Harry describes losing his virginity, taking drugs, and scrapping with his brother in his upcoming book, Spare. Will Buckingham Palace have anything to say about it? And junior doctors are threatening to stage a walkout for three days in March. Can the government stop them?
James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and Isabel Hardman.
Keir Starmer said this morning that communities would 'take back control' under a Labour government. In a speech delivered just down the road from where Rishi Sunak spoke yesterday, the Labour leader promised to expand devolution. Is his vision radical enough?
Max Jeffery speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Heale.
Rishi Sunak made five pledges to fix Britain in a speech in London today. Inflation will halve, the economy will grow, debt will fall, NHS waiting lists will be cut, and the government will pass laws to tackle the small boats crisis. Is the PM promising too much, or not enough?
Max Jeffery speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Heale.
Millions of Britons will forever shun trains because of the ongoing strikes, a government sources told the Times today. Are the strikes proving as effective as unions hoped?
James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Max Jeffery.
This year in politics has ended with a row over nurses pay. Will the government be able to resolve the dispute in the New Year? Meanwhile, in Scotland, a new law about gender identification has caused a standoff between Westminster and Holyrood. Who will blink first? And finally, has Christmas come early for the Prime Minister?
Cindy Yu speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
On this special podcast, Cindy Yu speaks to Svitlana Morenets, author of The Spectator's Ukraine in Focus newsletter.
Whilst Zelensky's visit to the US yesterday was his first trip outside Ukraine since the start of the invasion, Svitlana has recently arrived home for the first time since the war began to spend Christmas with her family. They discuss whether Zelensky struck the right tone, how decisive US Patriot missiles could be and why this Christmas in Ukraine will be different.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
Today tens of thousands of ambulance workers are on strike over a pay dispute. The government is calling on people to stay safe, avoid doing anything dangerous and only call 999 if essential. With patient safety at risk, where is public opinion?
Also on the podcast, after the high court ruled the government's controversial Rwanda policy to be legal, is the judgement a complete win for the government?
Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
Isabel Hardman rounds up the highlights from Sunday morning's political shows. The final guests highlighted from 2022 are Oliver Dowden, Yvette Cooper, Justin Welby and Victoria Newton.
Katy Balls, Isabel Hardman and James Heale review the political maelstrom that was 2022, a year with more Prime Ministers than some decades have managed.
The nurses' strike is well underway and there seems to be no sign of an agreement over pay any time soon. The government seems to be receiving fiercer criticism from within the Conservative party than from across the aisle, as former Conservative party chairman (and Truss and Johnson ally) Jake Berry turns into the rebel-in-chief. What's he up to? James Heale talks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Cindy Yu.
Nurses in England, Wales and Northern Ireland are on strike today in search of a 19 per cent pay rise. Chief Nursing Officer Dame Ruth May appeared outside St Thomas's hospital to show her solidarity with those striking. What is the significance of this?
Also on the podcast, after a further three episodes of Harry and Meghan's new Netflix documentary were released, can either side end up the winner in the war of the Windsors?
Max Jeffery speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Keir Starmer put in a weak performance in today's Prime Minister's Questions, Isabel Hardman says on today's podcast. Is Labour's fence sitting and vagueness on the strikes starting to hurt them? Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Rishi Sunak today revealed a plan he says will tackle illegal immigration. 'Enough is enough', he said. The asylum backlog of 150,000 will be cleared by the end of next year, and the government will do a deal with Albania to return people from the country. Will it work?
Max Jeffery speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Rishi Sunak has now served as prime minister longer than his predecessor Liz Truss, but that doesn't mean that it's all plane sailing. Former Home Secretary Priti Patel has backed a campaign to 'restore democracy' in the Conservative party. Should the government be worried?
Also on the podcast, as Rishi prepares to set out his agenda, is there a narrow path to conservative re-election?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Katy Balls presents the highlights from Sunday morning's politics shows. Featured on today's podcast are Sir Stephen Powis, James Cleverly, Wes Streeting and Dr Emma Runswick.
James Heale asks Katy Balls and Stephen Bush about whether Labour can maintain the public's confidence on tax and spending decisions now that the mini budget is fading from memory.
James Heale speaks to Kate Andrews and Katy Balls about Jeremy Hunt's latest proposals to reform the banking system. Will the 'Edinburgh Reforms' kickstart the much-needed growth in Britain's economy? And is this the Brexit future Rishi Sunak always wanted?
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
A number of measures are under discussion as Christmas looks like it will be dominated by strike action. What measures will the government put in place to limit the disruption?
Also on the podcast, after the first episodes of Netflix's new series Harry and Meghan were released, could the documentary be bad for Global Britain?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Shots were fired at PMQs today as Keir Starmer referred to Rishi Sunak as a 'blancmange Prime Minister'. The line came after Rishi Sunak conceded on the Tory rebellion over mandatory housing targets. Katy James and Fraser mull over this attack. Also on the podcast, with Stephen Fry elected as the SNP's new Westminster leader, what could this mean for Sturgeon?
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
The government has backed down in the face of the planning rebellion, watering down their targets for housebuilding. At the same time, another revolt is brewing over permissions to build onshore wind. Is Rishi Sunak facing a more unruly Tory coalition than his predecessors, and does he have a grip on the party? Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Today former prime minister Gordon Brown has released a review which includes recommendations to overhaul the constitution and replace the House of Lords. Could Labour push through reform?
Also on the podcast, after Kier Starmer said that he doesn't see Jeremy Corbyn standing at the next election, has Starmer finally silenced the far left faction in his party?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Isabel Hardman presents the highlights from Sunday's political programmes. Featured today are Nadhim Zahawi, Bridget Phillipson and Iain Duncan Smith.
Katy Balls speaks to Cindy Yu, James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson about the Prime Minister’s attitudes towards China and how to deal with the challenges it presents for the UK and the world.
Sajid Javid has announced that he won't be standing for re-election, while also today, the Chester by-election saw the Conservative party suffered the worst loss in seat since 1832. Is the party in terminal decline? Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Ian Blackford will stand down as SNP leader. After five years in the role, it is time for 'fresh leadership', Blackford says. But who will take over? Cindy Yu speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
In today's Prime Minister's Questions, Keir Starmer went in on Rishi Sunak's privileged background. Starmer detailed the various facilities available at Winchester College, where Sunak was educated, from an art gallery to a shooting range. Is this an effective line of attack, or do voters simply not care? Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Rishi Sunak has signalled the end of the 'golden era' of relations between Britain and China, warning of Xi Jinping's creeping authoritarianism. In his first foreign policy set piece, was it enough to get the China hawks onside? Also on the podcast, James Forsyth and Katy Balls look at the latest amendments to the Online Harms Bill.
Produced by Natasha Feroze
As MPs mull over whether they would like to stand in the next general election, the cracks in the party widen. Notable MPs like Chloe Smith and Dehenna Davison have already declared they will not stand but there are likely to be more over the coming days.
Meanwhile, the Prime Minister has two rebellions to take on this week. One led by Theresa Villiers over mandatory housing targets; the other by Simon Clarke railing against the ban on offshore wind farms. On the podcast, Katy, James and Fraser discuss what kind of uphill struggle this week might bring. Can the cracks in the party be patched over ahead of the general election?
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Isabel Hardman presents the highlights from Sunday's political shows. Today's interviewees include Mark Harper, Lisa Nandy, Jake Berry and Theresa Villiers.
Katy Balls, Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth discuss the impact of the Supreme Court ruling on the SNP and the union.
Today the nurses' union have announced that they will strike this winter as they seek a pay rise of 5 per cent above inflation. How do the government navigate these strikes? Where do Labour stand?
Also on the podcast, with the government trying to fill the 1 million vacancies in the job market, how do they get people back into work?
Cindy speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
New migration numbers out today show that, for the first time ever, net migration have exceeded 500,000 a year. Is this a problem for the government, or is this the kind of immigration that they actually quite like to see? Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Starmer and Sunak have today come up against each other at PMQs for the first time since the Autumn Statement. It was an occasion dominated by questions from the Scottish Nationalists on the decision handed down by the Supreme Court ruling against a new independence referendum.
James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman discuss.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Rishi Sunak is facing his first Tory Commons rebellion on the issue of UK house building targets. Could this be game over?
Also on the podcast, after Chloe Smith announced that she will be leaving politics at the next election, could more follow her out of parliament?
Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Over the weekend, government briefings that they will be looking towards a Swiss-style arrangement with the EU reignited the Brexit rows. Dormant Brexiteers like Nigel Farage and the European Research Group resurfaced, making it clear that they would not accept a so-called 'Chequers 2.0'. On the record, the government has been keen to reject this briefing. So what really happened? Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Isabel Hardman rounds up the highlights from Sunday morning’s politics shows. Featured today are Steve Barclay, Gary Smith, Kwajo Tweneboa and Chloe Morgan.
It's no doubt a depressing time for the British economy, but how much that is the fault of the government, either for getting us to this stage and/or for not setting out a more optimistic exit route? On this episode, Cindy Yu moderates a debate between Fraser Nelson, James Forsyth and Kate Andrews who battle out their respective views.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Matt Taylor.
The front pages are almost universally bad today, but the government is more concerned with the reaction from the markets, which, so far, have not turned against yesterday's budget. Could this high tax low spend fiscal statement yet pass scrutiny, given the torrid economic climate at large? Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
The Conservative party is still digesting Rishi Sunak and Jeremy Hunt's Autumn Statement, a far cry from the last fiscal statement from this party. Have the Prime Minister and the Chancellor managed to deliver a budget that hits the political sweet spot of cornering Labour without splitting their own party? Isabel Hardman talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Last night there were fears of a direct attack from Russia on a NATO country, after a missile struck two Polish nationals on the border with Ukraine. An investigation is now underway, but who is responsible for these deaths?
Also on the podcast, Dominic Raab took PMQs today despite bullying allegations against him gathering pace. What are the latest developments in the bullying row?
Cindy Yu speaks with James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
Figures released today show that the number of people in employment has dropped by 50,000 since September, despite a national worker shortage of 1.25 million. Does this shed some light on the recession? Are these shortages simply because of disputes over pay or could the NHS waiting list be to blame?
Also on the podcast, as public sector pay stagnates, how many will be lost to the private sector?
Cindy Yu speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
The G20 summit kicked off as world leaders arrived in Bali overnight. Ahead of the summit, Biden and Xi met to discuss tensions over trade, tech and human rights. The two claim they are ready for candid exchanges as China-US relations are at their lowest in decades.
Rishi Sunak also flew to his first G20 summit. The Prime Minister is expected to hold multiple bilateral meetings as he tries to make his mark on the world stage. Meanwhile, can he keep a grip on domestic issues ahead of the Autumn Statement this Thursday?
Isabel Hardman speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Isabel Hardman presents the highlights from Sunday morning's political shows. Featured today are Jeremy Hunt, Rachel Reeves, Admiral Sir Tony Radakin and Simon Clarke.
Natasha Feroze hosts as Fraser Nelson and Kate Andrews debate Lord Wolfson’s recent BBC interview in which he called for the UK to import more low skilled workers in order to fill the country’s job vacancies.
The ONS forecasts reveal that UK output fell by 0.2 per cent between July-September. Whilst not a recession yet, it is increasingly likely the next quarter will see another dip following a surge in interest rates. Will the government's messaging change ahead of the Autumn Statement next week? Also on the podcast, Kate and James discuss Kwasi Kwarteng's interview in The Times as he reflects on his short time as Chancellor.
Isabel Hardman is joined by Kate Andrews and James Forsyth.
Produced by Natasha Feroze
For the first time in history, nurses have voted to go on strike over poor pay and working conditions. As we head for winter with record waiting lists, what is going to happen to a body that is already in crisis?
Also on the podcast, James and Isabel discuss the ongoing situation in Northern Ireland over Stormont. And how will Matt Hancock fare in the jungle?
Natasha Feroze is joined by Isabel Hardman and James Forysth.
Produced by Natasha Feroze
For the first time in history, nurses have voted to go on strike over poor pay and working conditions. As we head for winter with record waiting lists, what is going to happen to a body that is already in crisis?
Also on the podcast, James and Isabel discuss the ongoing situation in Northern Ireland over Stormont. And how will Matt Hancock fare in the jungle?
Natasha Feroze is joined by Isabel Hardman and James Forysth.
Produced by Natasha Feroze
For the first time in history, nurses have voted to go on strike over poor pay and working conditions. As we head for winter with record waiting lists, what is going to happen to a body that is already in crisis?
Also on the podcast, James and Isabel discuss the ongoing situation in Northern Ireland over Stormont. And how will Matt Hancock fare in the jungle?
Natasha Feroze is joined by Isabel Hardman and James Forysth.
Produced by Natasha Feroze
Though Gavin Williamson has now resigned, Rishi Sunak still had to fend off a number of questions on the disgraced minister at today's Prime Minister's Questions. How much damage has the row done to the Prime Minister? Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Though Gavin Williamson has now resigned, Rishi Sunak still had to fend off a number of questions on the disgraced minister at today's Prime Minister's Questions. How much damage has the row done to the Prime Minister? Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Though Gavin Williamson has now resigned, Rishi Sunak still had to fend off a number of questions on the disgraced minister at today's Prime Minister's Questions. How much damage has the row done to the Prime Minister? Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Ahead of the Autumn Statement next week, questions remain over whether the government intends to protect the pensions triple lock. Will Jeremy Hunt risk a wave of backlash from some of the party's key supporters? Also on the podcast, what will Rishi Sunak do about Gavin Williamson as the bullying claims grow?
Cindy Yu is joined by Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Natasha Feroze.
Ahead of the Autumn Statement next week, questions remain over whether the government intends to protect the pensions triple lock. Will Jeremy Hunt risk a wave of backlash from some of the party's key supporters? Also on the podcast, what will Rishi Sunak do about Gavin Williamson as the bullying claims grow?
Cindy Yu is joined by Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Natasha Feroze.
Gavin Williamson is in trouble, again. This time the reveal of some expletive-laden texts he sent to then-chief whip Wendy Morton has raised questions for the government over why Williamson was brought back into frontline politics. On the podcast, Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman about whether the dual role of government whips (as discipline enforcers and pastoral carers) is confused and out of date.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Isabel Hardman rounds up the highlights from Sunday’s interview shows. Today’s guests include Oliver Dowden, Ed Miliband and Paul Blomfield.
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson, James Forsyth and opinion pollster James Johnson, about how the Conservatives can carve a path back to electoral relevance in the face of a gloomy economic picture.
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson, James Forsyth and opinion pollster James Johnson, about how the Conservatives can carve a path back to electoral relevance in the face of a gloomy economic picture.
Today the planned rail strikes have been cancelled at the 11th hour. Is this an indication that a deal may be soon reached to end the months of disruption?
Also on the podcast, after it was announced that Arts Council England would cut its funding, it looks like the English National Opera will be forced out of London. Is this 'levelling up'?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Today the planned rail strikes have been cancelled at the 11th hour. Is this an indication that a deal may be soon reached to end the months of disruption?
Also on the podcast, after it was announced that Arts Council England would cut its funding, it looks like the English National Opera will be forced out of London. Is this 'levelling up'?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Today the planned rail strikes have been cancelled at the 11th hour. Is this an indication that a deal may be soon reached to end the months of disruption?
Also on the podcast, after it was announced that Arts Council England would cut its funding, it looks like the English National Opera will be forced out of London. Is this 'levelling up'?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Alongside an interest rate hike of 3 per cent, the Bank of England have today warned the economy will 'be in recession for a long period'. How much of the blame can we place on Truss's economic policy? What will this recession look like?
Also on the podcast, Rishi Sunak plans to remove the 'legal but harmful' censorship clause from the Online Harms Bill, what will this mean for online safety?
Katy Balls speaks with Fraser Nelson, James Forsyth and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.
Alongside an interest rate hike of 3 per cent, the Bank of England have today warned the economy will 'be in recession for a long period'. How much of the blame can we place on Truss's economic policy? What will this recession look like?
Also on the podcast, Rishi Sunak plans to remove the 'legal but harmful' censorship clause from the Online Harms Bill, what will this mean for online safety?
Katy Balls speaks with Fraser Nelson, James Forsyth and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.
Alongside an interest rate hike of 3 per cent, the Bank of England have today warned the economy will 'be in recession for a long period'. How much of the blame can we place on Truss's economic policy? What will this recession look like?
Also on the podcast, Rishi Sunak plans to remove the 'legal but harmful' censorship clause from the Online Harms Bill, what will this mean for online safety?
Katy Balls speaks with Fraser Nelson, James Forsyth and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.
Rishi Sunak has said that he will now attend the Cop 27 summit in Sharm el-Sheikh, which begins on Sunday. What's behind the U-turn, and should we expect more policy reversals from the new PM?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Max Jeffery.
Rishi Sunak has said that he will now attend the Cop 27 summit in Sharm el-Sheikh, which begins on Sunday. What's behind the U-turn, and should we expect more policy reversals from the new PM?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Max Jeffery.
Rishi Sunak has said that he will now attend the Cop 27 summit in Sharm el-Sheikh, which begins on Sunday. What's behind the U-turn, and should we expect more policy reversals from the new PM?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Max Jeffery.
Matt Hancock has signed up to be a contestant on I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! What's behind the former health secretary's move into reality television? Robert Jenrick, the immigration minister, took to television studios this morning to defend how the government has handled overcrowding at the Manston processing centre for asylum seekers. Is there a rift growing between him and the Home Secretary, Suella Braverman?
Max Jeffery speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Produced by Max Jeffery.
Matt Hancock has signed up to be a contestant on I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! What's behind the former health secretary's move into reality television? Robert Jenrick, the immigration minister, took to television studios this morning to defend how the government has handled overcrowding at the Manston processing centre for asylum seekers. Is there a rift growing between him and the Home Secretary, Suella Braverman?
Max Jeffery speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Produced by Max Jeffery.
Matt Hancock has signed up to be a contestant on I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! What's behind the former health secretary's move into reality television? Robert Jenrick, the immigration minister, took to television studios this morning to defend how the government has handled overcrowding at the Manston processing centre for asylum seekers. Is there a rift growing between him and the Home Secretary, Suella Braverman?
Max Jeffery speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Produced by Max Jeffery.
Suella Braverman is under attack for sharing confidential documents with other members of parliament, and has admitted to sending official documents to her personal email on six occasions. Could she be forced out, again?
Also on the podcast, as Rishi Sunak faces pressure on the small boats crisis as well as his decision not to attend the COP27 climate summit, what sort of leader will he be? Will he buckle under the pressure?
James Heale speaks with Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.
Suella Braverman is under attack for sharing confidential documents with other members of parliament, and has admitted to sending official documents to her personal email on six occasions. Could she be forced out, again?
Also on the podcast, as Rishi Sunak faces pressure on the small boats crisis as well as his decision not to attend the COP27 climate summit, what sort of leader will he be? Will he buckle under the pressure?
James Heale speaks with Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.
Suella Braverman is under attack for sharing confidential documents with other members of parliament, and has admitted to sending official documents to her personal email on six occasions. Could she be forced out, again?
Also on the podcast, as Rishi Sunak faces pressure on the small boats crisis as well as his decision not to attend the COP27 climate summit, what sort of leader will he be? Will he buckle under the pressure?
James Heale speaks with Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.
Isabel Hardman hosts the highlights from Sunday's political shows, with Michael Gove, Yvette Cooper, Jeffrey Donaldson and Caroline Lucas.
Isabel Hardman hosts the highlights from Sunday's political shows, with Michael Gove, Yvette Cooper, Jeffrey Donaldson and Caroline Lucas.
Isabel Hardman hosts the highlights from Sunday's political shows, with Michael Gove, Yvette Cooper, Jeffrey Donaldson and Caroline Lucas.
A poll in the i on Friday showed that Rishi Sunak is more trusted with the economy than Keir Starmer. How will Labour break down that support? Max Jeffery speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
A poll in the i on Friday showed that Rishi Sunak is more trusted with the economy than Keir Starmer. How will Labour break down that support? Max Jeffery speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
A poll in the i on Friday showed that Rishi Sunak is more trusted with the economy than Keir Starmer. How will Labour break down that support? Max Jeffery speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Reports today suggest the government is planning to pledge £50 billion to close the fiscal black hole. Are they laying the groundwork for a combination of spending cuts and tax rises?
Also on the podcast, after Elon Musk completed his purchase of Twitter today, what will the repercussions be for the Online Safety Bill?
Max Jeffery speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Produced by Max Jeffery and Oscar Edmondson.
Reports today suggest the government is planning to pledge £50 billion to close the fiscal black hole. Are they laying the groundwork for a combination of spending cuts and tax rises?
Also on the podcast, after Elon Musk completed his purchase of Twitter today, what will the repercussions be for the Online Safety Bill?
Max Jeffery speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Produced by Max Jeffery and Oscar Edmondson.
Reports today suggest the government is planning to pledge £50 billion to close the fiscal black hole. Are they laying the groundwork for a combination of spending cuts and tax rises?
Also on the podcast, after Elon Musk completed his purchase of Twitter today, what will the repercussions be for the Online Safety Bill?
Max Jeffery speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Produced by Max Jeffery and Oscar Edmondson.
Rishi Sunak has completed ministerial appointments to the Department for Education. Now led by Gillian Keegan, who left school at 16 to become an apprentice, and with old hands such as Robert Halfon and Nick Gibb returning, how ambitious will he be on education reform? Katy Balls and James Forsyth discuss on this episode.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Rishi Sunak has completed ministerial appointments to the Department for Education. Now led by Gillian Keegan, who left school at 16 to become an apprentice, and with old hands such as Robert Halfon and Nick Gibb returning, how ambitious will he be on education reform? Katy Balls and James Forsyth discuss on this episode.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Rishi Sunak has completed ministerial appointments to the Department for Education. Now led by Gillian Keegan, who left school at 16 to become an apprentice, and with old hands such as Robert Halfon and Nick Gibb returning, how ambitious will he be on education reform? Katy Balls and James Forsyth discuss on this episode.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Rishi Sunak faced up against Keir Starmer in his first Prime Minister's Questions today, and rallied the Conservative backbenches to a more enthusiastic mood than has been seen in, perhaps, months. Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth about the attack lines that Labour are trying out at the moment (on everything from the appointment of Suella Braverman to Rishi Sunak's comments about diverting money away from 'deprived urban areas').
Rishi Sunak faced up against Keir Starmer in his first Prime Minister's Questions today, and rallied the Conservative backbenches to a more enthusiastic mood than has been seen in, perhaps, months. Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth about the attack lines that Labour are trying out at the moment (on everything from the appointment of Suella Braverman to Rishi Sunak's comments about diverting money away from 'deprived urban areas').
Rishi Sunak faced up against Keir Starmer in his first Prime Minister's Questions today, and rallied the Conservative backbenches to a more enthusiastic mood than has been seen in, perhaps, months. Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth about the attack lines that Labour are trying out at the moment (on everything from the appointment of Suella Braverman to Rishi Sunak's comments about diverting money away from 'deprived urban areas').
Rishi Sunak has spent his first day in office appointing his new Cabinet. As the Prime Minister vowed to fix the 'mistakes' of his predecessor's administration – who's in and who's out?
Katy Balls and James Forsyth discuss.
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Rishi Sunak has spent his first day in office appointing his new Cabinet. As the Prime Minister vowed to fix the 'mistakes' of his predecessor's administration – who's in and who's out?
Katy Balls and James Forsyth discuss.
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Rishi Sunak has spent his first day in office appointing his new Cabinet. As the Prime Minister vowed to fix the 'mistakes' of his predecessor's administration – who's in and who's out?
Katy Balls and James Forsyth discuss.
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Katy Balls and James Forsyth discuss from the rooftop of Parliament the key takeaways from Liz Truss' departure speech. How does she reflect on her time in office?
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Katy Balls and James Forsyth discuss from the rooftop of Parliament the key takeaways from Liz Truss' departure speech. How does she reflect on her time in office?
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Katy Balls and James Forsyth discuss from the rooftop of Parliament the key takeaways from Liz Truss' departure speech. How does she reflect on her time in office?
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
We have a new leader of the Conservative party. After Penny Mordaunt dropped out of the race just seconds before the deadline, Rishi Sunak will become the next prime minister. But he inherits a disunited party, war in Ukraine and a huge economic mountain to climb. What comes next?
James Forsyth and Katy Balls discuss.
Produced by Max Jeffery and Oscar Edmondson.
We have a new leader of the Conservative party. After Penny Mordaunt dropped out of the race just seconds before the deadline, Rishi Sunak will become the next prime minister. But he inherits a disunited party, war in Ukraine and a huge economic mountain to climb. What comes next?
James Forsyth and Katy Balls discuss.
Produced by Max Jeffery and Oscar Edmondson.
We have a new leader of the Conservative party. After Penny Mordaunt dropped out of the race just seconds before the deadline, Rishi Sunak will become the next prime minister. But he inherits a disunited party, war in Ukraine and a huge economic mountain to climb. What comes next?
James Forsyth and Katy Balls discuss.
Produced by Max Jeffery and Oscar Edmondson.
After Boris pulled out of the leadership race last night, all eyes are on Rishi Sunak who could be Prime Minister by lunchtime. Can Rishi rescue the Conservatives?
Kate Andrews speaks to Katy Balls, James Forysth and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
After Boris pulled out of the leadership race last night, all eyes are on Rishi Sunak who could be Prime Minister by lunchtime. Can Rishi rescue the Conservatives?
Kate Andrews speaks to Katy Balls, James Forysth and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
After Boris pulled out of the leadership race last night, all eyes are on Rishi Sunak who could be Prime Minister by lunchtime. Can Rishi rescue the Conservatives?
Kate Andrews speaks to Katy Balls, James Forysth and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Kate Andrews, James Forsyth and Katy Balls discuss the surprise withdrawal of Boris Johnson from the Conservative leadership race.
Kate Andrews, James Forsyth and Katy Balls discuss the surprise withdrawal of Boris Johnson from the Conservative leadership race.
Kate Andrews, James Forsyth and Katy Balls discuss the surprise withdrawal of Boris Johnson from the Conservative leadership race.
Katy Balls presents the highlights from Sunday's political shows. Featured today's Conservative leadership special are interviews with Steve Baker, Penny Mordaunt, Jacob Rees-Mogg, Sir Keir Starmer and George Osborne.
Katy Balls presents the highlights from Sunday's political shows. Featured today's Conservative leadership special are interviews with Steve Baker, Penny Mordaunt, Jacob Rees-Mogg, Sir Keir Starmer and George Osborne.
Katy Balls presents the highlights from Sunday's political shows. Featured today's Conservative leadership special are interviews with Steve Baker, Penny Mordaunt, Jacob Rees-Mogg, Sir Keir Starmer and George Osborne.
Katy Balls, James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson discuss the latest party leader endorsements by MPs and the likelihood that the next Prime Minister will be in 10 Downing Street by tomorrow.
Katy Balls, James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson discuss the latest party leader endorsements by MPs and the likelihood that the next Prime Minister will be in 10 Downing Street by tomorrow.
Katy Balls, James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson discuss the latest party leader endorsements by MPs and the likelihood that the next Prime Minister will be in 10 Downing Street by tomorrow.
James Heale, James Forsyth and Katy Balls discuss whether the Tories are an impossible coalition to preside over.
James Heale, James Forsyth and Katy Balls discuss whether the Tories are an impossible coalition to preside over.
James Heale, James Forsyth and Katy Balls discuss whether the Tories are an impossible coalition to preside over.
Whilst no candidate has officially declared their candidacy for the Tory leadership race, speculation is rife about a possible Boris Johnson return. Could he get the 100 supporters he needs? Will he extend an olive branch to Rishi Sunak?
James Heale speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Produced by Max Jeffery and Oscar Edmondson.
Whilst no candidate has officially declared their candidacy for the Tory leadership race, speculation is rife about a possible Boris Johnson return. Could he get the 100 supporters he needs? Will he extend an olive branch to Rishi Sunak?
James Heale speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Produced by Max Jeffery and Oscar Edmondson.
Whilst no candidate has officially declared their candidacy for the Tory leadership race, speculation is rife about a possible Boris Johnson return. Could he get the 100 supporters he needs? Will he extend an olive branch to Rishi Sunak?
James Heale speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Produced by Max Jeffery and Oscar Edmondson.
Forty-four days into her premiership, Liz Truss said she was resigning as Prime Minister. There will now be a week-long race to elect a new leader. Who will be the contenders?
Isabel Hardman speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Forty-four days into her premiership, Liz Truss said she was resigning as Prime Minister. There will now be a week-long race to elect a new leader. Who will be the contenders?
Isabel Hardman speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Forty-four days into her premiership, Liz Truss said she was resigning as Prime Minister. There will now be a week-long race to elect a new leader. Who will be the contenders?
Isabel Hardman speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Fraser Nelson, James Forsyth, Katy Balls and Kate Andrews discuss plans to stop spiralling inflation – and a spiralling government.
Fraser Nelson, James Forsyth, Katy Balls and Kate Andrews discuss plans to stop spiralling inflation – and a spiralling government.
Fraser Nelson, James Forsyth, Katy Balls and Kate Andrews discuss plans to stop spiralling inflation – and a spiralling government.
Suella Braverman has resigned as Home Secretary over a row on immigration measures. Grant Shapps has been selected to replace her. Will more follow?
Isabel Hardman speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Suella Braverman has resigned as Home Secretary over a row on immigration measures. Grant Shapps has been selected to replace her. Will more follow?
Isabel Hardman speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Suella Braverman has resigned as Home Secretary over a row on immigration measures. Grant Shapps has been selected to replace her. Will more follow?
Isabel Hardman speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Another day, another u-turn. Liz Truss met with her Cabinet today and is reportedly considering u-turning on the pensions triple lock. Are ministers heading for more ‘lengthy discussions’ on public spending? Should we brace ourselves for resignations?
Also on the podcast, as Hunt looks at which departments to cut, what could this mean for the NHS?
Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Another day, another u-turn. Liz Truss met with her Cabinet today and is reportedly considering u-turning on the pensions triple lock. Are ministers heading for more ‘lengthy discussions’ on public spending? Should we brace ourselves for resignations?
Also on the podcast, as Hunt looks at which departments to cut, what could this mean for the NHS?
Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Another day, another u-turn. Liz Truss met with her Cabinet today and is reportedly considering u-turning on the pensions triple lock. Are ministers heading for more ‘lengthy discussions’ on public spending? Should we brace ourselves for resignations?
Also on the podcast, as Hunt looks at which departments to cut, what could this mean for the NHS?
Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
This afternoon Leader of the House Penny Mordaunt stepped in for Liz Truss to field an urgent questions called by the Leader of the Opposition. What could the Prime Minister have been doing which was so urgent that she couldn't attend?
Also on the podcast, after Jeremy Hunt reverses nearly all of Trussonomics, will there be a raft of departmental cuts? Could we be looking at a number of Cabinet resignations?
James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.
This afternoon Leader of the House Penny Mordaunt stepped in for Liz Truss to field an urgent questions called by the Leader of the Opposition. What could the Prime Minister have been doing which was so urgent that she couldn't attend?
Also on the podcast, after Jeremy Hunt reverses nearly all of Trussonomics, will there be a raft of departmental cuts? Could we be looking at a number of Cabinet resignations?
James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.
This afternoon Leader of the House Penny Mordaunt stepped in for Liz Truss to field an urgent questions called by the Leader of the Opposition. What could the Prime Minister have been doing which was so urgent that she couldn't attend?
Also on the podcast, after Jeremy Hunt reverses nearly all of Trussonomics, will there be a raft of departmental cuts? Could we be looking at a number of Cabinet resignations?
James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.
Chancellor Jeremy Hunt gave a statement this morning in which he outlined plans to scrap 'almost all' the tax measures announced by his predecessor, Kwasi Kwarteng just four weeks ago. In one of the largest U-turns in history, the markets have become the most important force in British politics.
James Forsyth, Katy Balls, Kate Andrews and Fraser Nelson discuss what may happen over the next few weeks.
Produced by Max Jeffery and Natasha Feroze.
Chancellor Jeremy Hunt gave a statement this morning in which he outlined plans to scrap 'almost all' the tax measures announced by his predecessor, Kwasi Kwarteng just four weeks ago. In one of the largest U-turns in history, the markets have become the most important force in British politics.
James Forsyth, Katy Balls, Kate Andrews and Fraser Nelson discuss what may happen over the next few weeks.
Produced by Max Jeffery and Natasha Feroze.
Chancellor Jeremy Hunt gave a statement this morning in which he outlined plans to scrap 'almost all' the tax measures announced by his predecessor, Kwasi Kwarteng just four weeks ago. In one of the largest U-turns in history, the markets have become the most important force in British politics.
James Forsyth, Katy Balls, Kate Andrews and Fraser Nelson discuss what may happen over the next few weeks.
Produced by Max Jeffery and Natasha Feroze.
Isabel Hardman presents the highlights from Sunday's political shows. Featured today are Jeremy Hunt, Matt Hancock, Robert Halfon and Crispin Blunt.
Isabel Hardman presents the highlights from Sunday's political shows. Featured today are Jeremy Hunt, Matt Hancock, Robert Halfon and Crispin Blunt.
Isabel Hardman presents the highlights from Sunday's political shows. Featured today are Jeremy Hunt, Matt Hancock, Robert Halfon and Crispin Blunt.
Isabel Hardman, James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson discuss the appropriate units of time in which to measure the remainder of the Prime Minister’s tenure...
Liz Truss has delivered an 8-minute long press conference confirming the latest corporation tax U-turn and insisting she will stay on as Prime Minister. Did it do enough to reassure voters and calm the markets?
Cindy Yu speaks to James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Natasha Feroze.
Prime Minister Liz Truss has sacked her Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng and replaced him with Jeremy Hunt. By removing her closest ideological ally. Can she save herself?
Kate Andrews speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
After a day of speculation, the rumours that Liz Truss was about to U-turn on more areas of the mini-budget proved untrue. Conservative MPs had a tense evening in the 1922 Committee meeting last night – has the Prime Minister's premiership reached the point where there is no way out?
Isabel Hardman speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Did Liz Truss misspeak or did she mean it when she said that she wouldn't go ahead with spending cuts, as promised in her leadership campaign? On the episode, Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls about what the Prime Minister could have meant, given the need to balance the books to pay for her tax cuts. James suggests that there may be a question over whether she meant nominal or real spending cuts. Whatever it is, the government needs to do more to reassure the markets – the team also discuss whether or not the Bank of England's bailout will really end in the coming days.
Did Liz Truss misspeak or did she mean it when she said that she wouldn't go ahead with spending cuts, as promised in her leadership campaign? On the episode, Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls about what the Prime Minister could have meant, given the need to balance the books to pay for her tax cuts. James suggests that there may be a question over whether she meant nominal or real spending cuts. Whatever it is, the government needs to do more to reassure the markets – the team also discuss whether or not the Bank of England's bailout will really end in the coming days.
Parliament is back today and Kwasi Kwarteng is facing questions from the opposition as well as from those within his party. How much pressure is he under?
Also on the podcast, looking ahead to another fiscal event at the end of the month, are we heading for a series of departmental spending cuts? What would our political team announce if they were Chancellor on October 31st?
Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
This morning the Chancellor has announced that the government will bring forward both its medium term fiscal event and the accompanying Office for Budget Responsibility forecast. Will Kwarteng exercise some spending restraint to calm the Bank of England?
Also on the podcast, after Truss appointed Sunak ally Greg Hands as Minister of State for Trade Policy, is she extending an olive branch to unite her party?
Natasha Feroze speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.
This morning the Chancellor has announced that the government will bring forward both its medium term fiscal event and the accompanying Office for Budget Responsibility forecast. Will Kwarteng exercise some spending restraint to calm the Bank of England?
Also on the podcast, after Truss appointed Sunak ally Greg Hands as Minister of State for Trade Policy, is she extending an olive branch to unite her party?
Natasha Feroze speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.
Isabel Hardman presents the best bits from Sunday morning's political interview shows, with highlights today coming from Nadhim Zahawi, Nicola Sturgeon, Alistair Darling, Nadine Dorries and Jonathan Ashworth.
Isabel Hardman presents the best bits from Sunday morning's political interview shows, with highlights today coming from Nadhim Zahawi, Nicola Sturgeon, Alistair Darling, Nadine Dorries and Jonathan Ashworth.
Max Jeffery, Katy Balls and James Forsyth discuss Liz Truss's premiership and walk through the various options being cooked up to replace her.
Max Jeffery, Katy Balls and James Forsyth discuss Liz Truss's premiership and walk through the various options being cooked up to replace her.
Liz Truss attended the European Political Community summit in Prague, where her frosty relations with Macron came to a head. Rather than 'frenemies', there were signs of thawing relations between the two. After years of diplomatic tensions over Brexit, immigration and energy, can the two leaders kiss and make up?
Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.
Produced by Max Jeffery and Natasha Feroze.
Liz Truss attended the European Political Community summit in Prague, where her frosty relations with Macron came to a head. Rather than 'frenemies', there were signs of thawing relations between the two. After years of diplomatic tensions over Brexit, immigration and energy, can the two leaders kiss and make up?
Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.
Produced by Max Jeffery and Natasha Feroze.
Nadine Dorries, a loyalist to Boris Johnson, has a front-page piece in the Times today, accusing the new Liz Truss government of lurching too far towards the right. As someone who previously backed Liz for leader, is there a growing sense people wish Boris never left?
Also on the podcast, the National Grid has suggested we may face blackouts this winter – how likely is this? And will we end up relying on energy supplies from the French?
Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Liz Truss has today delivered her speech to the Conservative Party Conference where she set out the vision for her government. It was arguably the best moment of a difficult week for the party. Has she succeeded in calming Tory nerves? Who are the 'anti-growth coalition' that she is taking on?
Isabel Hardman speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Produced by Max Jeffery.
Liz Truss is coming under pressure over another of her policies. Should she increase benefits payments in line with inflation, or in line with earnings, as she would prefer? Will the PM change her mind again?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Produced by Max Jeffery.
The Prime Minister has abandoned her plan to scrap the top 45 per cent rate of income tax. Why?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Produced by Max Jeffery.
Isabel Hardman presents the highlights from Sunday morning's political shows as the Conservative party conference enters the spotlight. Featured in today's podcast are Liz Truss, Michael Gove, Jake Berry and Mel Stride.
Michael Gove this morning said that Liz Truss's plans to scrap the top 45 per cent tax rate are a 'display of the wrong values'. It comes as Jake Berry, the Tory party chairman, confirmed that MPs who vote against the budget would lose the Conservative whip. Has Gove just ruined Truss's conference?
James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Produced by Max Jeffery.
Isabel Hardman, James Forsyth and Katy Balls discuss whether Liz Truss will be able to recover her authority after several opinion polls show the Conservative party trailing Labour by double digit margins.
Despite rejecting the Office for Budget Responsibility's offer of a forecast to accompany last week's so-called fiscal event, this morning it appears that the government have u-turned. What can we expect from the OBR's statement ahead of the November budget?
Also on the podcast, after last night's YouGov poll put Labour ahead by 33 points, how has the news been received by Conservative MPs? Will Truss row back on her economic plans?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.
Despite rejecting the Office for Budget Responsibility's offer of a forecast to accompany last week's so-called fiscal event, this morning it appears that the government have u-turned. What can we expect from the OBR's statement ahead of the November budget?
Also on the podcast, after last night's YouGov poll put Labour ahead by 33 points, how has the news been received by Conservative MPs? Will Truss row back on her economic plans?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.
Liz Truss broke her silence this morning and embarked on a pre-Tory conference media round of regional stations across the UK. In a brutal set of interviews, the Prime Minister faced questions on tax cutting the rich at the expense of the poor, fracking and bankers' bonuses.
With the conference just three days away, what will be her next moves to take back control of her party, and win back the British public? Could Chancellor, Kwasi Kwarteng be sacrificed to save her instead?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Liz Truss broke her silence this morning and embarked on a pre-Tory conference media round of regional stations across the UK. In a brutal set of interviews, the Prime Minister faced questions on tax cutting the rich at the expense of the poor, fracking and bankers' bonuses.
With the conference just three days away, what will be her next moves to take back control of her party, and win back the British public? Could Chancellor, Kwasi Kwarteng be sacrificed to save her instead?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
The Bank of England has today announced a major intervention into gilts to prevent a 'material risk' to financial stability as a result of government policy. How unprecedented is this move? Will Liz Truss and Kwasi Kwarteng break their silence? Are we heading for another leadership election?
Kate Andrews speaks with Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
The Bank of England has today announced a major intervention into gilts to prevent a 'material risk' to financial stability as a result of government policy. How unprecedented is this move? Will Liz Truss and Kwasi Kwarteng break their silence? Are we heading for another leadership election?
Kate Andrews speaks with Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Keir Stamer took centre stage for his speech at the Labour party conference today. Unlike last year, there were several standing ovations and loud cheers from the audience. Was his speech one to remember in Labour's history? And has he secured his position as leader of the party?
James Heale speaks to Katy Ball and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
It's day two of Labour Conference and the party appear upbeat and confident of their chances at the next election. But are they being too reactionary in their narrative? What do they have to offer other than not being the Conservative party?
From Liverpool, James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
It's day two of Labour Conference and the party appear upbeat and confident of their chances at the next election. But are they being too reactionary in their narrative? What do they have to offer other than not being the Conservative party?
From Liverpool, James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Following Chancellor, Kwasi Kwarteng's 'mini' budget, the pound has fallen to a record low against the dollar, fueling speculation that the Bank of England will hike interest rates. How worrying are these figures?
'I think the pound falling is a bit of a distraction from the real problem' - James Forsyth
Katy Balls speaks to Kate Andrews and James Forsyth.
Produced by Natasha Feroze
Following Chancellor, Kwasi Kwarteng's 'mini' budget, the pound has fallen to a record low against the dollar, fueling speculation that the Bank of England will hike interest rates. How worrying are these figures?
'I think the pound falling is a bit of a distraction from the real problem' - James Forsyth
Katy Balls speaks to Kate Andrews and James Forsyth.
Produced by Natasha Feroze
Isabel Hardman rounds up the highlights from Sunday's political shows as the Labour party conference begins. Highlights this week come from Sir Keir Starmer, Andy Burnham, Kwasi Kwarteng and Mick Lynch.
Isabel Hardman rounds up the highlights from Sunday's political shows as the Labour party conference begins. Highlights this week come from Sir Keir Starmer, Andy Burnham, Kwasi Kwarteng and Mick Lynch.
Kate Andrews speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls about how Labour will position themselves in response to Friday’s statement, as they prepare for their party conference in Liverpool.
Kate Andrews speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls about how Labour will position themselves in response to Friday’s statement, as they prepare for their party conference in Liverpool.
Kwasi Kwarteng has today announced what has been dubbed as his mini-Budget, but looking at the scale of the package it is far from small. The Coffee House Shots team take us through what has been revealed. Who are the winners and who are the losers?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson, James Forsyth and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Kwasi Kwarteng has today announced what has been dubbed as his mini-Budget, but looking at the scale of the package it is far from small. The Coffee House Shots team take us through what has been revealed. Who are the winners and who are the losers?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson, James Forsyth and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
With hours to go till the Chancellor's fiscal statement, we've heard today that the National Insurance hike will be scrapped, as promised during Liz Truss's leadership campaign. This comes as the Bank of England increases the base rate to 2.25 per cent. How much further will Kwasi Kwarteng go, and just how willing is the Truss government to be unpopular? Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Vladimir Putin warned the West that, if pushed, Russia would use a nuclear weapon. How seriously should we take his threat? And reports emerged overnight that Liz Truss will cut stamp duty to increase demand for housing. But will that help more people get onto the housing ladder?
Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Max Jeffery.
Vladimir Putin warned the West that, if pushed, Russia would use a nuclear weapon. How seriously should we take his threat? And reports emerged overnight that Liz Truss will cut stamp duty to increase demand for housing. But will that help more people get onto the housing ladder?
Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Max Jeffery.
Liz Truss is in New York today on her first foreign visit as prime minister. On the flight across the Atlantic, Truss said that a trade deal with the United States was unlikely in the 'short to medium term'. Why has the PM, who was so vocal about a free trade agreement with the US in the 2019 election, changed her tune?
Cindy Yu speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Max Jeffery.
Liz Truss is in New York today on her first foreign visit as prime minister. On the flight across the Atlantic, Truss said that a trade deal with the United States was unlikely in the 'short to medium term'. Why has the PM, who was so vocal about a free trade agreement with the US in the 2019 election, changed her tune?
Cindy Yu speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Max Jeffery.
Today was the state funeral of Britain's longest reigning monarch Queen Elizabeth II. From Westminster, we evaluate the day's proceedings.
Also on the podcast, as the period of mourning ends and politics resumes, can Liz Truss hit the ground running? Will we get some clarity on how much her energy plan will cost?
Katy Balls speaks with Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Today was the state funeral of Britain's longest reigning monarch Queen Elizabeth II. From Westminster, we evaluate the day's proceedings.
Also on the podcast, as the period of mourning ends and politics resumes, can Liz Truss hit the ground running? Will we get some clarity on how much her energy plan will cost?
Katy Balls speaks with Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Isabel Hardman rounds up the highlights from Sunday morning's political shows. Today's podcast features Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, Jacinda Ardern, Sheikh Hasina, John Kerry and The Right Reverend John Sentamu.
Isabel Hardman rounds up the highlights from Sunday morning's political shows. Today's podcast features Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, Jacinda Ardern, Sheikh Hasina, John Kerry and The Right Reverend John Sentamu.
Cindy Yu, James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson discuss the impression Queen Elizabeth II made during her 70 years as a head of state.
Two police officers were stabbed this morning near Leicester Square in central London. What can new Metropolitan Police Commissioner Mark Rowley do to fix the capital's crime epidemic? And the pound today fell to a 37-year low against the dollar. What can the government do to give the markets confidence?
Max Jeffery speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Produced by Max Jeffery.
Preparations are well under way for the Queen's funeral next week, but which world leaders will be in attendance? Will they all be able to behave themselves?
Also on the podcast, as the new Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng works quietly in the background, is his idea to scrap caps on banker's bonuses a risk worth taking?
Cindy Yu speaks with James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
The Queen's coffin has been taken from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Hall. The first mourners will pay their respects for the next four days before the funeral on Monday.
Also on the podcast, James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson discuss the latest news in the Ukraine conflict.
King Charles arrived in Belfast where he was met by the new minister for Northern Ireland, Chris Heaton-Harris. The King pledges to follow the 'shining example' set by his mother during her life of public service. Tonight, the Queen's body will be moved from Edinburgh to Buckingham Palace where her body will lie in state ahead of the funeral.
Also on the podcast, is Ukraine's largest counteroffensive against Russia working? And how might Russia escalate?
This morning, surrounded by the lead, oak and stone of Westminster Hall, King Charles III addressed parliament. Lindsay Hoyle, speaker of the Commons, introduced him, and said that he knew the new King would 'bear those responsibilities which fall to you'. King Charles said that he was resolved to follow his mother's 'selfless duty'.
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth about what comes next.
Produced by Max Jeffery.
Isabel Hardman hosts the highlights from Sunday's political shows, with Anthony Albanese, Gordon Brown, Gabriel Gavin, Dr Mike Martin and David Cameron.
Freddy Gray, The Spectator's deputy editor, is joined by our former editor Charles Moore, and our political editor James Forsyth, to discuss the Queen's death. What was her coronation like? Should unionists be concerned? How important was the Queen's faith to her? What do we miss about the Queen?
Fraser Nelson, James Forsyth and Katy Balls pay tribute to and reflect upon the life and reign of her majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
Today Liz Truss has announced in parliament an energy price cap to tackle rising bills. As of October, the average household energy bill will be frozen at £2,500 for the next two years. How effective will this be? And how have her free market allies reacted to her use of price controls?
James Forsyth and Katy Balls discuss.
It's Liz Truss's first full day as prime minister and, backed by a fully assembled cabinet, she has conducted her first Prime Minister's Questions with Labour leader Keir Starmer. Who came out on top?
Cindy Yu speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
Liz Truss has appointed her cabinet. Allies of Rishi Sunak are out, and the former foreign secretary's closest allies are in. What does this mean for her government? Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Boris Johnson finally departed Downing Street early this morning, but left the door slightly ajar on the prospect of a comeback. What will this mean for Liz Truss?
Also on the podcast, as Truss makes her way to Balmoral to meet with the Queen, what will the rest of the day look like for the new prime minister?
Isabel Hardman speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Produced by Max Jeffery and Oscar Edmondson.
Liz Truss has won the Conservative leadership race, and will become Britain's prime minister tomorrow. In a speech in Westminster this morning, after finding out the result, Truss paid tribute to Boris Johnson, promised to 'govern as a conservative' and said she would 'deliver, deliver, deliver'. What should we expect from the first days of the Truss premiership?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Produced by Max Jeffery.
Isabel Hardman is back with the highlights from the Sunday interviews. Featured today are clips from Liz Truss, Nicola Sturgeon, Rishi Sunak, Emily Thornberry and Lord Edward Lister.
James Forsyth speaks to prime ministerial biographer Anthony Seldon about whether it will be possible for the incoming PM to make their mark before the next general election.
Boris Johnson has released legal advice that he received from Lord Pannick about the Commons investigation into partygate, where the lawyer said the investigation in its current form would be 'unlawful' if it were taking place in the courts. Can Boris really get off the hook?
Max Jeffery speaks to James Forsyth and James Heale.
Produced by Max Jeffery.
Despite a relatively quiet summer from the government, Boris Johnson has waded finally waded into the energy crisis, announcing £700 million of funding for Sizewell C, the nuclear plant. On the podcast, Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman about what's behind this development (and whether it could be anything to do with Johnson trying to establish some kind of legacy, in the last days of his premiership). Isabel sums up his energy contribution as: 'To a certain extent it's him saying: if you look backwards or forwards, it's not my fault'.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Today rail union leaders announced another round of strikes, this time to coincide with the Labour Party Conference. Is there a message here that they are trying to send to Kier Starmer? Should we expect similar disruption during the Conservative Party Conference?
Also on the podcast, after the death of the last leader of the Soviet Union Mikhail Gorbachev, instrumental in ending the Cold War, how well do we understand the next geopolitical threat?
Cindy Yu speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
Boris Johnson is on his farewell tour but is remaining coy about the possibility of a political comeback. What problems will this throw up for the next prime minister? Will Boris be friend or foe?
Also on the podcast, after Liz Truss pulled out of her BBC interview with Nick Robinson, is she trying to avoid scrutiny of her plan to tackle the cost of living?
Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Max Jeffery and Oscar Edmondson.
Kate Andrews and Isabel Hardman discuss the challenges facing the NHS and whether the incoming government will be able to tackle these burdens when it takes office.
Produced by Matt Taylor.
Today Ofgem announced that household energy bills will climb to an average of £3,549 a year, starting in October. Have the government prepared Brits for how bad the crisis could get? How do Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak plan to reach those that need help the most urgently?
Also on the podcast, there are reports that Liz Truss plans to trigger Article 16, suspending parts of the Northern Ireland Protocol. Is now a good time for a trade war?
Max Jeffery speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Max Jeffery and Oscar Edmondson.
Rishi Sunak is remaining coy as to whether he would vote though a Liz Truss budget but has confirmed that he will stay on as an MP despite what the leadership result may be. Will he be a rebel from the backbenches? Or could Boris be the bigger problem for Truss?
Also on the podcast: How has Spectator Editor Fraser Nelson's interview with the ex-Chancellor on the truth behind the lockdowns been received?
Max Jeffery speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Max Jeffery and Oscar Edmondson.
In the latest leadership hustings, Liz Truss promised to take money away from the NHS to put into social care. But as Kate Andrews points out in this episode, given that Truss is also planning on scrapping the National Insurance rise, Truss'll need to find more money in order to fund this latest pledge. On the episode, Kate talks with Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
'This is the second time in her campaign that she has done something which has made me really doubt whether she's serious about her economic mission. And the other time, of course, was when she announced that she'd do regional pay.' - Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Cindy Yu.
There are only three hustings left in the Tory leadership race, after six weeks which have seen the party tear itself apart. What will fix the party? Is Jeremy Corbyn the solution?
Max Jeffery speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Produced by Max Jeffery.
'Liz Truss is going to have a short window to give the good news of a tax cut. After that, I suspect it'll be bad, after bad, after bad.' – Fraser Nelson
The focus is on Liz Truss's planned emergency budget. Over the weekend it was revealed that she wouldn't consult the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) before announcing her plans. Could this backfire politically?
Also on the podcast, investment bank Citi have warned that inflation could hit 18 per cent come January: Were the Bank of England's projections too optimistic?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.
Isabel Hardman discusses the latest batch of A-Level results and the impact on university places, with Fraser Nelson and recent college graduate Lella Halloum.
It seems like Labour has a problem when it comes to the size of its membership. It lost 91,000 members last year and recorded a £4.8 million deficit. Is this the Keir Starmer effect on the Corbyn membership?
Also on the podcast, Rishi Sunak has gone viral after sharing his McDonald's breakfast order on This Morning today. Katy Balls tells us why it was such a controversial choice.
Cindy Yu speaks to Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls.
Produced by Cindy Yu & Natasha Feroze.
The UK inflation rate is now at 10.1 per cent according to the Office for National Statistics. Is there much that the government can do to relieve its effects?
Also on the podcast, the leadership contenders are in Belfast for the next hustings: how will the audience respond to the candidate's position on The Northern Ireland Protocol?
Katy Balls is joined by Kate Andrews and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.
New figures released this week show that wages have fallen significantly behind the rising cost of living. Are we yet to see the extent of the impacts of inflation? Should we brace ourselves for more disruption in the public sector?
Also on the podcast, as Rishi Sunak and Liz Truss attend hustings in Scotland: which candidate is favoured the most north of the border?
Katy Balls is joined by Kate Andrews and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Max Jeffery and Oscar Edmondson.
Keir Starmer has unveiled a £29 billion plan to freeze energy bills for six months. Under his proposals, the Labour leader said Brits would not face the enormous price hikes anticipated in October and January.
But is his idea a serious one? Where would the money come from? And how have the Tories responded? Isabel Hardman speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Produced by Max Jeffery.
Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth about why Sir Keir Starmer and his frontbench have been seemingly missing in action during the Tory leadership race and the ongoing cost of living crisis.
'Profit is not a dirty word', Liz Truss said at last night's leadership hustings. The Foreign Secretary has made clear that she would prefer to cut taxes than take money from energy firms and give it directly to struggling Brits. But, if Truss makes it into No. 10, could she really reverse the windfall tax?
Isabel Hardman speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Produced by Max Jeffery.
Thirty thousand people waited 12 hours or more in A&E, new figures showed today – the highest number on record. The NHS usually runs into trouble during the cold winter weather, but it looks like the annual crisis has already arrived. Is there any solution? Max Jeffery speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Max Jeffery.
Both leaders are yet to announce their plans to help households and businesses as energy bills are set to soar this winter with more blue-on-blue fighting to come. Labour are still yet to announce any emergency reforms. Is this part of a strategy to leave the Tories to turn on themselves?
Also on the podcast, Nicola Sturgeon has made a comeback at Liz Truss who earlier in the month called the Scottish leader an attention seeker. At the Edinburgh fringe festival, she told the audience that Liz Truss once asked her how to be featured in Vogue. So who is the real attention seeker now? And will they ever see eye-to-eye if Truss gets into No.10?
Isabel Hardman speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Rishi Sunak and Liz Truss head to the Red Wall for hustings in Darlington this evening, new figures released by Cornwall Insight on the extent of the energy price cap make for grim reading. Will Labour respond with their own package?
Also on the podcast, as countries look to ensure domestic supply, What could this mean for the UK, as a net importer of energy?
'In a crisis, borders want to reassert themselves. Any country is going to prioritise preventing black-outs in its own country over exporting power' - James Forsyth
Finally, it’s results day in Scotland, how do they compare to previous years?
Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman
As the leadership contest refocuses on the economy, Katy and James discuss each camp's plan to deal with the cost of living crisis. Are both candidates being pushed towards the centre ground?
Also, looking ahead to winter, does the UK have enough energy in storage to keep the lights on, and what is being done to prepare the NHS?
Cindy Yu speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman about the challenges facing the incoming Prime Minister, not least the dire forecast from the Bank of England predicting recession for 2023.
The Bank of England's announcement to raise interest rates comes as the UK is predicted to fall into recession this year – with the lowest downturn expected since 2008. Are Rishi Sunak or Liz Truss ready for what's ahead?
The two candidates went head-to-head once again last night in the Sky News studios. This time, the audience, made up of Conservative party members, grilled contenders and Kay Burley followed with some hard-hitting questions. By the end, most of the audience were persuaded by Rishi. Could the tide be turning?
Katy Balls speaks to James Forysth.
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
The Bank of England raised its rates by another half per cent today, as it warned that inflation will peak at 13 per cent by the end of this year. The question about the Bank of England's effectiveness arises again – should it have foreseen the inflationary crisis we are in now, and done more about it? Liz Truss has pledged to review the Bank's mandate. Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
On today's podcast, Katy Balls and James Forsyth discuss a sticking point for Rishi Sunak as he meets the membership – that he was part of a 'coup' to overthrow Boris Johnson. Whilst travelling the country, can he persuade the membership otherwise?
Also today, a new YouGov poll of Conservative members gives Liz Truss a 34-point lead ahead of Rishi Sunak. Is there enough time for him to turn the tide? How many Tory members have already made up their minds? Do all these polls really matter?
'I think this leadership contest has come too soon, in terms of the healing process you need after Boris Johnson left for anyone who is too implicated in it.' - Katy Balls
Cindy Yu is joined by James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Liz Truss has U-turned on a public worker pay plan announced just last night – the idea being that pay would reflect the cost of living in regional areas. What made her backtrack on the announcement? And how damaging has this been to her campaign?
'Any discussion of lowering pay right now is politically intolerable. Timing matters a lot here' - Kate Andrews.
Also on the podcast, Kate and James discuss the political tensions behind 'fat cat' pay and windfall taxes on the day BP announce its largest profit in 14 years.
Cindy Yu is joined by Kate Andrews and James Forsyth.
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
This morning, Lisa Nandy defied party orders by joining a picket line in Wigan to support BT Openreach workers on strike. This comes after last week, Keir Starmer sacked Sam Tarry MP, who went on an unauthorised media round at an RMT picket line. Similarly, Labour’s biggest union, Unite, threatened to pull all funding from the party over the Labour leader's refusal to back strike action. Is Keir Stamer losing control over his party?
Also on the podcast, what's the latest update in Liz Truss vs Rishi Sunak leadership contest?
Max Jeffery is joined by Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.
Rishi Sunak sat down this evening for a 30-minute interview with Andrew Neil. They covered the economy, the NHS, immigration and the former chancellor's personal finances. Sunak knew he was taking a risk in sitting down with Neil. Was it worth it?
Max Jeffery speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Max Jeffery.
Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak were in Leeds yesterday for the first of the leadership hustings in front of Tory members. Truss put in an assured performance, while Sunak had to defend his announcement that he would cut VAT on energy bills, after saying that tax cuts would be 'immoral'. With little time left for the former chancellor to turn things around, is Truss unstoppable?
Cindy Yu speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Produced by Max Jeffery.
You can always count on Labour to descend into civil war while the media is focused on the Conservative party's in-fighting. After Keir Starmer fired a junior shadow transport minister, Sam Tarry, earlier this week for his involvement in the strike action, the left of the party has hit back, raising questions over Keir Starmer's leadership and the raison d'etre of the Labour party itself. Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Kate Andrews about the best line for Starmer to take, as this will not be the last strike of the summer. On the episode, they also discuss the energy crisis coming in the autumn and what Truss and Sunak plan to do about it.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Rishi Sunak has proposed a VAT cut on energy bills should he become the next Prime Minister. Having spent the last four debates suggesting that tax cuts are irresponsible and immoral, this new policy announcement has opened him up to a lot of criticism.
His team have responded to say that this particular tax cut is temporary, it is funded and will help ease the cost of living crisis. Are they right?
Katy Balls is joined by Kate Andrews.
Produced by Natasha Feroze
Yet another post debate poll, out today, shows that Tory members believe Liz Truss performed better in Monday evening's BBC debate. With the next week pivotal according to received wisdom (members are expected to vote soon after they receive their ballot papers), can Rishi Sunak turn things around in time? Katy Balls discusses with James Forsyth.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Fraser Nelson, James Forsyth, Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls give their analysis and snap reaction to Monday evening's first head-to-head debate between Rishi Sunak and Liz Truss. Was Rishi Sunak too aggressive? Or did Liz Truss's economic pledges get skewered? And ultimately, will this have changed any Conservative party member's mind?
The Tory leadership contest is entering its third week, and becoming more bitter. Nadine Dorries, the culture secretary, today mocked Rishi Sunak for wearing a bespoke suit and Prada shoes while his rival Liz Truss would be travelling to the north of England wearing £4.50 earrings from Claire’s Accessories. ‘FFS Nadine! Muted.’ replied Tory MP Angela Richardson. Will whoever wins the contest be able to fix the party afterwards? Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Max Jeffery.
Isabel Hardman speaks to Fraser Nelson, James Forsyth and Matthew Parris about the influence Margaret Thatcher exerts over the Conservative leadership race.
Over the next few weeks, Conservative party members will cast their votes on who they want to be the next Prime Minister. YouGov has released another poll suggesting that members have placed Liz Truss 24 points ahead of Rishi Sunak.
'This shows the difference between the parliamentary party from the membership at large' - Isabel Hardman.
Ballots start to go out on the 1st of August, does Rishi Sunak have enough time to pull it back?
Cindy Yu speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.
So far, most polls of Tory members show that they'd prefer Liz Truss to Rishi Sunak when it comes to the next Conservative party leader. With ballots for the membership phase going out at the beginning of August, it's vitally important for Sunak to break through to members as soon as possible. Can he catch up? Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Conservative MPs have chosen the final two candidates to be presented to the Tory membership in the final round of this leadership contest. Over the rest of the summer, Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak will be travelling around the country to attend dozens of hustings with Tory members. Will this phase be less rancorous? Or will the divides between the two candidates only become more apparent? Isabel Hardman talks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
One of Penny Mordaunt, Rishi Sunak or Liz Truss will be Britain's next prime minister. What are the contenders' answers to the big questions facing Britain? Isabel Hardman spoke to Mordaunt (00:36), Sunak (21:17) and Truss (42:15).
There has been another elimination in the Tory leadership race. Break-out star Kemi Badenoch is out, with three remaining candidates left until tomorrow’s vote. Who will be the final two in the race? And are there signs of Tory MPs lending votes to manipulate the results?
James Forsyth is joined by Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Natasha Feroze.
Tom Tugendhat has been knocked out of the Tory leadership race. With Rishi Sunak leading the pack, and Liz Truss, Penny Mordaunt and Kemi Badenoch in a cluster behind, who will come out on top? Max Jeffery speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
This morning, Rishi Sunak and Liz Truss pulled out of the Sky News leadership debate, scheduled for tomorrow evening. What does this say for public scrutiny in Britain?
'I’m afraid to say if you want to be Prime Minister you need to be able to fight anywhere, any place, anytime' - Fraser Nelson.
This evening, candidates will be whittled down to four remaining prospective leaders. Who do we expect to be knocked out and where will their votes go? Tune in again tonight for a second Coffee House Shots after the results.
Katy Balls is joined by Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Produced by Natasha Feroze
Isabel Hardman, James Forsyth and Katy Balls pick through tonight’s ITV debate with the five candidates for Prime Minister.
Isabel Hardman hosts the highlights from Sunday's political shows. Featured today are Penny Mordaunt, Suella Braverman, Iain Duncan Smith, Dominic Raab and Bridget Phillipson.
In the first televised Tory leadership debate, the five remaining candidates set out their stalls on trust in politics, tax cuts and the NHS ahead of the next round of voting on Monday. How did each candidate fare tonight?
Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.
The ERG's favoured candidate, Suella Braverman, dropped out of the Tory leadership race last night. This morning, ERG chair Mark Francois said that he wanted the 60-strong group to now back Liz Truss. Will they? And looking ahead to tonight's Channel 4 debate, why does the format most benefit Kemi Badenoch?
Cindy Yu speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Produced by Max Jeffery.
The Tory briefing war continues to get underway, with David Frost launching a vicious broadside at Penny Mordaunt on talkRadio this morning. 'She wasn't fully accountable or visible. Sometimes I didn't even know where she was', Lord Frost said.
On the episode, Cindy Yu talks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth about the latest round of the leadership ballot, where Suella Braverman has been culled, and look ahead to the weekend consisting of two TV debates, which present a make-or-break opportunity for relatively unknown candidates like Penny Mordaunt and Tom Tugendhat.
The first ballot of the Tory leadership contest is now over, with Jeremy Hunt and Nadhim Zahawi knocked out as they weren't able to meet the 30 votes required in this round (on 18 votes, Hunt actually lost two supporters from yesterday's nomination round). The question of who their supporters fold in behind next is the biggest for the next 24 hours. On the podcast, Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls about the big night ahead for the remaining six leadership contenders, as well as the battle for the right of the party between Liz Truss, Kemi Badenoch and Suella Braverman.
Today all candidates need 30 nominations to make it through to the next round. One dark horse in the race is Penny Mordaunt who is seen as Labour's greatest threat. This morning she held her official campaign launch in at Westminster's Cinnamon Club - promising to 'fix a broken Whitehall'.
But will she be able to see off her rivals in the Tory leadership race?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Appropriately matched to the summer heatwave, the Tory leadership contest is hotting up. Whilst Grant Shapps has just pulled out and decided to back Rishi Sunak, candidates must secure nominations from at least 20 MPs by this evening to enter the contest.
Who will go through to the next round? And are they ready to be Prime Minister?
James Forsyth speaks to Katy Balls.
Liz Truss has today announced her candidacy for the Tory leadership. With Kemi Badenoch and Suella Braverman already looking to win votes from MPs on the right of the Conservative party, and with Jacob Rees-Mogg and Priti Patel also considering a run for the top job, who will become the candidate of the Tory right?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Produced by Max Jeffery.
Isabel Hardman hosts the highlights from Sunday morning's political shows as the Conservative leadership race kicks off, featuring interviews with Sajid Javid, Jeremy Hunt, Grant Shapps, Yvette Cooper, David Davis and Tom Tugendhat.
James Forsyth speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls about what Boris Johnson has achieved and if he will leave a significant imprint as a result of his time in office.
The Tory leadership race has begun. Some candidates, like Steve Baker and Suella Braverman, have already declared that they will be running. Others, like Nadhim Zahawi, Rishi Sunak and Liz Truss, are expected to announce their candidacy in the coming days.
What are their platforms? How many MPs will hopefuls need to have supporting them to make it onto the ballot? What should the party look for in a new leader? Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Produced by Max Jeffery.
After fighting words briefed out to the papers overnight, this morning, the Prime Minister has finally decided to resign. A statement is expected today. On the episode, Katy Balls discusses with Isabel Hardman and Fraser Nelson whether he should have gone sooner (and the implications for the post-politics speaking circuit) and the leadership race that is about to start.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Despite mass resignations and calls from newly appointed ministers to resign, Boris has dug his heels in and refused to leave. What will be his next moves? And are the rumours of a snap general election really on the cards?
Isabel Hardman speaks to James Forsyth.
As several cabinet ministers have resigned, is it hours, days, weeks or months before Boris Johnson is kicked out?
James Forsyth joins Katy Balls from the roof of Parliament.
Rishi Sunak and Sajid Javid have resigned from government. In letters to the Prime Minister this evening, Sunak said the government 'cannot continue like this', while Javid told the PM that 'the situation will not change under your leadership.' Will more ministers now resign? And is this the end of Boris Johnson's premiership?
Isabel Hardman speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Boris Johnson was briefed 'in person' on a formal Whitehall complaint into Chris Pincher, a former Foreign Office official said today, despite No. 10 saying yesterday that the Prime Minister was unaware of specific allegations against the MP. With the government having to explain itself once again, how much more will Tory MPs take?
Max Jeffery speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Subscribe to Isabel Hardman's Evening Blend newsletter at www.spectator.co.uk/evening-blend
Boris Johnson knew of media reports about Chris Pincher's conduct when he invited him to join the government, it emerged today. How serious a crisis is this for the government? And as the Prime Minister today returned from three international summits, was he able to put his domestic problems behind him in the Commons? Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Isabel Hardman presents the highlights from Sunday morning's political shows. Today's podcast features Thérèse Coffey, Jonathan Reynolds, Andy Burnham, Dr Jenny Harries and Lord Richard Dannatt.
Isabel Hardman speaks to James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson about Nicola Sturgeon’s latest plans to hold a referendum on Scottish independence on 19th October 2023, and whether they will even get off the ground.
Last night Chris Pincher resigned from his role in the government - after 'drinking far too much' and 'embarrassing himself'. Witnesses reportedly saw the deputy chief whip 'groping' men at the Carlton Club in London.
Also on the podcast, today is the 25th anniversary of the handover of Hong Kong to China. Can the government keep its promise to protect Hong Kong?
Cindy Yu is joined by Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.
After an eight-day world tour, Boris Johnson is back on British soil to come face-to-face with Tory MPs for the first time since the hammering by-election defeat. Meanwhile, the privileges committee begins with Harriet Harman as its chair.
Critics have suggested this inquiry into whether The Prime Minister misled parliament over partygate risks becoming a 'kangaroo court'. Will this give Downing Street the chance to disregard the outcome of the inquiry?
Also on the podcast, food tariffs might be cut in order to curb the cost of living crisis. But difference will this make?
'You'll have to eat an awful lot of olives for this to make a difference' - James Forsyth.
Cindy Yu is joined by James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
The campaign for a second independence referendum is well and truly on, as Nicola Sturgeon tours the airwaves this week. But can the SNP will Indyref2 into existence, given Boris Johnson is very unlikely to allow it? Natasha Feroze speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth on the podcast, in which James suggests that, perhaps, Sturgeon doesn't even want an independence referendum right now.
The Northern Ireland Protocol Bill passed its second reading last night with a majority of 74 votes. A number of Tory rebels voiced their opposition to the bill including former Prime Minister, Theresa May, Simon Hoare and Andrew Mitchell. However, despite vocal opposition, not one Tory MP voted against the bill. Instead, they abstained. Did the whips office play a part in this?
The bill will now go through its second reading where it is expected to be amended quite heavily in the House of Lords.
Also on the podcast, Nicola Sturgeon unveils her plans to have a second independence referendum, with or without Boris Johnson’s consent. What chance has she got?
After a bruising few days, Boris Johnson remains bullish about his intentions to remain in Downing Street, suggesting he intends to stand for a third term. Is this approach landing well with Tory MPs?
Also on the podcast, a Cabinet reshuffle may be approaching. Who is under threat and why?
Isabel Hardman is joined by Katy Balls and James Forsyth
Isabel Hardman presents the highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows, with Brandon Lewis, David Lammy, João Vale de Almeida and Sir Ed Davey.
Isabel Hardman talks to James Forsyth and James Johnson of the J.L. Partners polling company, about how much the Conservative party has to fear from tactical votes at the next election.
In a major blow, the Conservatives have lost two seats in the Tiverton and Wakefield by-elections. Immediately after, the Conservative party chairman, Oliver Dowden resigned citing 'a deeply personal decision' following a 'run of very poor results for our party'.
The Lib Dems overturned a huge Tory majority in Tiverton and Honiton, Devon, their third by-election victory over Boris Johnson's party in a year. What does this suggest about the public mood towards their current government?
‘At the moment, Boris Johnson motivates the anti-Tory vote more than the Tory vote’ - James Forsyth
Isabel Hardman is joined by Katy Balls and James Forsyth
Today, British Airways staff have voted have a strike of their own, adding to the government's woes as rail workers continue to strike throughout this week. On the podcast, James Forsyth adopts a term from the Americans and asks: can the government prevent a 'bummer summer', where nothing quite works? Cindy Yu also talks to Katy Balls, who gives the low down on the risks the Prime Minister is taking on with his eight days foreign trip at a time of two by-elections back home.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
The inflation figures released today suggest that inflation has risen at the highest rate in 40 years. Now at 9.1 per cent, some may say this is good news because the rate at which inflation is increasing has in fact slowed down. However, on the podcast, our economics editor, Kate Andrews suggests we are nowhere near the peak yet. How worried should the government be over these figures?
Also on the podcast, the strikes took centre stage at PMQs today, how much trouble is Keir Stamer in with his own party over the party line on strikes?
The first day of strike action has begun with large parts of the country's railways, as well as London's underground lines, shut down. But where workers are trying to put pressure on the government and Network Rail over higher pay, it seems like the Labour party is in more trouble. Disagreement over the party's position on strike action (after all, it was set up to represent the unions in parliament) are playing out publicly, even on the front bench. Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Cindy Yu.
Today begins a chaotic week for commuters who face major travel disruptions as rail staff stage the biggest walkout in 30 years. Union leaders have accused the government of 'inflaming tensions', as Grant Shapps has refused to negotiate with the unions over pay, conditions, job cuts and safety.
Also on the podcast, what could be the outcome of Thursday's two by-elections?
Isabel Hardman is joined by Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Isabel Hardman presents the highlights from Sunday morning's political shows, today featuring clips from Grant Shapps, Mick Lynch, Micheál Martin and Lisa Nandy.
Katy Balls discusses the vacant role of ethics adviser with James Forsyth and prime ministerial biographer Lord Anthony Seldon.
The calls for Indyref2 are coming thick and fast from the SNP leader this week with a plan for a monthly speech to express the benefits of Scotland leaving the UK. But would allowing a referendum now be better than resisting one? Newer generations of Scots tend to be more nationalist than their elders. Should unionists push for Indyref2 now before more young people reach voting age?
Katy Balls talks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Lord Geidt became the second ethics advisor to leave Boris Johnson's government last night. It seems like Chinese steel tariffs was the straw that broke the camel's back, but it is clear that he hasn't been happy in the position for sometime. Will the Prime Minister be able to find anyone to pick up this poisoned chalice?
Max Jeffery speaks with James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
the first flight taking asylum seekers to Rwanda was stalled just before takeoff after a late intervention from the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR). As Priti Patel returned to the Commons to defend the policy, many Tory MPs are furious at the prospect of the courts taking precedent over government legislation. Could this lead to the UK leaving the ECtHR?
Also on the podcast, is Keir Starmer too boring? After growing accusations, the Labour leader has urged his shadow cabinet to stop calling him boring and focus on returning to government.
Cindy Yu is joined by Katy Balls and James Forsyth
The government is fighting on two fronts today. Firstly defending is Rwandan immigration plan from a unified front of Bishops as the first flight is set to take off tonight. Secondly, the Northern Ireland protocol bill which was announced yesterday afternoon faces scrutiny on many fronts.
Katy Balls talks with Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
The Foreign Secretary has outlined fresh legislation to change the post-Brexit trade agreement with the EU today – allowing ministers to override parts of the Northern Ireland protocol. Whilst the government insists that this is not a breach of international law, critics remain unconvinced.
‘I had one member of government say to me this bill is going to be a proxy on Boris Johnson’s leadership’ - Katy Balls.
If this were a proxy, could this work in the Prime Minister’s favour? And why has the government not used the safety valve in the protocol itself which is to trigger Article 16?
James Forsyth speaks to Katy Balls.
Isabel Hardman presents the highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows, with clips from Brandon Lewis, Rachel Reeves, Mark Serwotka and Tony Danker.
Max Jeffrey talks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth about the former Health Secretary's week.
Two British citizens fighting the Russians have been sentenced to death in Ukrainian territory controlled by the Kremlin. How has the UK responded thus far?
And domestically, Lord Frost has said that Boris Johnson has until the autumn to turn things around.
Max Jeffery talks with Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
By sticking to his promise to ‘move on’ after the confidence vote, Boris has announced his new flagship policies during a speech in Blackpool. He unveiled the ‘benefits-to-bricks' pledge aimed at extending a home-buying scheme. Will new housing measures be enough to regain the support of the public and the dwindling respect from his party?
Also on the podcast, two by-elections are on the way. This could be either a triumphant or disastrous result for the Prime Minister. How might he fare in an election of his own?
Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.
It is the day after the night before when Boris Johnson narrowly survived a confidence vote. Today he held a meeting with the Cabinet to encourage his colleagues that it was time to ‘move on’.
‘This looks like a slow Tory suicide to me’ - Fraser Nelson
Some critics have pointed to the fact that shortly after winning a confidence vote with similar margins, John Major, Margaret Thatcher and Theresa May ended up resigning. What will be Boris Johnson's fate as the Tory rebels plot out their next moves?
Isabel Hardman is joined by Katy Balls, James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson.
The results are in. 211 Tory MPs expressed confidence in the Prime Minister, while 148 said they had no confidence in Boris Johnson continuing to lead the Conservative party. While this is technically a win, it is a narrower victory than Theresa May (who looked splendid in her ball gown tonight) got in her no-confidence vote which lead to her resignation only months later. Is this the beginning of the end for Boris?
Isabel Hardman is joined by Katy Balls and James Forsyth on the roof of Parliament to discuss.
Boris Johnson will face a confidence vote tonight. Announcing the news this morning, the chair of the 1922 committee Sir Graham Brady said in a statement: 'The threshold of the 15% of the parliamentary party seeking a vote of confidence in the leader of the Conservative Party has been exceeded.' Will he win? Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Isabel Hardman hosts the highlights from Sunday morning’s political programmes, with contributions coming from Grant Shapps, Sadiq Khan and Sir Howard Morrison QC.
As this week marks the Queen's platinum jubilee, we take a look back at her greatest political achievements in her role as head of state. How important is the relationship between the monarch and the Prime Minister?
'I think there is a restraining act on the behaviour of Prime Ministers, that they will have to explain themselves to the Queen at some point - James Forsyth.
Since her reign, she has served 14 Prime Ministers, one of whom was Margaret Thatcher. What was her relationship like with the Iron Lady? Lord Charles Moore, former editor of The Spectator who also wrote a biography on Mrs Thatcher spoke of the mutual respect the Queen and Margaret Thatcher had for one another.
Also on the podcast, the Queen has always made clear that her son, Prince Charles is the next in line to the throne. What kind of King will he be?
All to be discussed as Cindy Yu speaks to James Forsyth and Charles Moore.
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
There is a lot of news to cover on Coffee House Shots before the celebrations for the Jubilee begin. First in Westminster with Lord Geidt threatening to resign over Boris Johnson's handling of partygate. Then more internationally to the fraying of the alliance to defend Ukraine. And finally, has Scotland found its Margret Thatcher in Kate Forbes?
Cindy Yu talks with James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson.
The government wants to cut the civil service by over 90,000 people to 2016 levels. Part of the plan is to suspend the Fast Stream recruitment scheme, which hires high-achieving graduates out of university. Why is the government so set on the cut, and is this really the best way to do it? Cindy Yu speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
James Forsyth: 'If these graduates go and work in the private sector instead, frankly the civil service won't be able to afford them in three, five or seven years time.'
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The Sue Gray report came in last week, but we haven't seen a coordinated effort to either stand behind the Prime Minister, or kick him out. Instead, there has reportedly been a drip of letters of no confidence letters coming in from individual Tories, rather than an organised group. Could we finally see the 54 letters needed to trigger a vote on Johnson's leadership?
Cindy Yu, Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth discuss.
Isabel Hardman presents the highlights from Sunday morning's political shows. This podcast contains clips featuring Andrei Kelin, Brandon Lewis, Anneliese Dodds and Mick Lynch.
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson, James Forsyth, and Kate Andrews about Rishi Sunak's latest support package to aid with the cost of living, including the windfall tax on energy companies.
There have been mixed opinions following Rishi Sunak's plans to help the cost of living crisis. The £15 billion budget is targeted to help the whole country with a particular emphasis on those most in need - but has it gone far enough? Or will we pay the price for the Chancellor's handouts in the future?
Kate Andrews speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Rishi Sunak has announced a new tranche of economic measures designed to help ease the cost of living crisis in the UK. The new payments will be funded by a windfall tax on energy companies, which comes as the government U-turns on its previous opposition to the policy. On the episode, Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Kate Andrews about these measures – and especially the windfall tax.
Kate doesn't mince her words, arguing that 'This tax grab is possibly going to be a nail on the coffin for a Tory party that has been hiking taxes for the last two years'.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Cindy Yu.
The long-awaited Sue Gray report is finally published today. It included new photographs (including of the birthday bash, though James Forsyth describes the photo as looking more like 'an enforced office socialising occasion' than a party), colourful details (one staffer was threw up at one drinks) and some unsavoury revelations (Sue Gray was damning about some of the staffers' treatment of cleaners and security staff). But amidst all this, has the report really worsened the situation for Boris Johnson? Katy Balls talks to Isabel Hardman and James on this episode.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Cindy Yu.
Sue Gray's report into Downing Street parties during lockdown is set to be released on Wednesday morning. The tone Boris Johnson takes will be vital to his political future. What will he say?
Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
It's finally happening! This is the week the infamous Sue Gray report into partygate will be released. Details are few and far between, although we do know that the Prime Minister will be mentioned by name in the document. Mutterings from Tory HQ are that this is not going to be a good week for the government but not the end of Boris Johnson. Only time will tell.
Isabel Hardman talks with Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Isabel Hardman presents the highlights from Sunday morning's political shows. Today's best bits come from Nadhim Zahawi, Pat McFadden and Michael Lewis.
Some Tories want to lose the next election. Conservative policies and ideologies are stale, they say, and the party could do with a period in opposition. Is this really a good idea? And could a Labour, SNP and Liberal Democrat coalition find a way to keep the Tories out of government for decades?
'If anyone is thinking that way, they don't deserve to be in power.' – Fraser Nelson
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Given that Boris Johnson escaped the latest and final set of party fines from the police yesterday, does this mean partygate is over? Sue Gray's report is still yet to be published, where she intends to name and shame those in her report. Could this take some of the pressure off the Prime Minister?
Also on the podcast, there is a growing divide within the Conservative party between those who want a windfall tax and those that don't. But where does Boris stand on this?
All to be discussed as Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson.
The Met police have today announced that their investigation into No. 10 parties is now over, and No. 10 have confirmed that neither the Prime Minister nor his wife have received more fines. Is Boris Johnson out of the woods? Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
James points out the fortunate timing of the Met police's announcement – at a time when the Durham police are investigating Keir Starmer for his potential breach when he was having a beer and curry, leaving the Labour party handicapped when the Sue Gray report comes out next week.
'The Gray report, though, I think is still very dangerous for Johnson, because it will highlight a lot of cultural and leadership problems within No. 10', Isabel says. Conservative MPs may yet have another wobble.
With the cost of living crisis looming large, pressure is on the government to come up with effective solutions. With Labour snapping at their heels for an emergency budget and a windfall tax on oil and gas companies, will the Conservatives eventually bend to this pressure? And if they do, will these solutions even work?
Katy Balls talks to Isabel Hardman and Kate Andrews.
Liz Truss made a speech in the House of Commons today laying out the government's plans to scrap parts of the Northern Ireland protocol. James Forsyth first broke this story in last week'sSpectator magazine. How will the EU react to the news? And could this spark a trade war with the EU?
Moving onto the cost of living crisis, Labour have put forward an amendment to the Queen's Speech asking for a windfall tax. Having once dismissed the idea, the Conservatives are under pressure from some of their backbench MPs to go ahead with the tax. Could this be a big win for Labour?
All to be discussed as Isabel Hardman speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Boris is in Belfast today in an attempt to repair relations between the DUP and Sinn Fein. In a 2000 word article for Belfast Telegraph, the Prime Minister laid out his intentions not to scrap the Northern Ireland Protocol, but instead to fix it. Can these two polarised parties find a middle ground?
Also on the podcast, Jeremy Hunt was on a media round over the weekend to publicise his new book on the NHS. Yet he was unable to avoid questions about his party.
All to be discussed as Isabel Hardman speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Isabel Hardman rounds up the highlights from Sunday's political shows, with Kwasi Kwarteng and Ed Miliband.
Finland this week has expressed its wish to join Nato and Sweden is expected to follow suit. But with an America more focused on China, an ever aggressive Russia and Turkey with a membership veto card what does the future of this organisation look like?
Cindy Yu talks with Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth
Jacob Rees-Mogg has said that the government plans to axe 91,000 posts within three years from the civil service. The argument for it is that the reduced tax burden will help the public deal with the ever-growing cost of living crisis. But will this have the desired effect and will it be anywhere near enough?
Kate Andrews talks to James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson about if the Prime Minister has the right temperament to weather this particular storm.
Boris Johnson met Conservative MPs in Stoke-on-Trent for a Cabinet away day. The focus is on how new legislation would level up the UK and protect people from the cost of living crisis as it intensifies.
Meanwhile, the GDP figures show the UK economy contracted in March as consumers cut back on spending. Can the government. Is the UK heading towards a recession?
All to be discussed as Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Today Boris Johnson pledged his support to protect Sweden and Finland in a mutual defence pact. As non Nato members, the deal is intended to protect these two countries from unexpected attacks. Will Putin see this as provocative? And how might this deal clash with Macron's view of a European defence bloc?
'I think we can see the phrase Global Britain taking some meaningful form now' - Fraser Nelson.
All to be discussed as Cindy Yu speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Inside the Lord's Chamber, Prince Charles delivered the Queen's Speech in his mother's absence. The key themes of the Prime Minister's legislative agenda included easing the cost of living crisis, post-Brexit economic arrangements and a particular emphasis on crime.
'You can tell the Tory party is trying to shore itself up from being outflanked on crime and immigration come the next election' - James Forsyth.
What was the reaction to the speech in the debate that followed?
All to be discussed as James Forsyth speaks to Katy Balls.
As pressures mount over claims that Keir Starmer broke lockdown rules, the Labour leader has just pulled out of a keynote speech he is due to give today. How much trouble is he really in? Katy Balls looks at Starmer's future in a blog on Coffee House today.
Also on the podcast, what will be the fallout from the Sinn Fein victory in Northern Ireland? Brandon Lewis heads to Belfast today to press for the return of a fully functioning government.
Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.
Isabel Hardman hosts the highlights from Sunday's political shows, with Dominic Raab, Lisa Nandy, Sir Ed Davey and Jukka Siukosaari.
Katy Balls, James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman delve into the 2022 local election results and discuss how the Conservatives will adapt their strategy to remain in power.
We've had more election results in and it looks like the Lib Dems will be celebrating tonight, encroaching on many Tory seats around the country. But is this Liberal passion from voters or disaffection with the two major parties?
Katy Balls talks with James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman about all the latest results.
The results are coming in! While the Tories seem to have done quite badly in the capital, Labour have not made the gains in the rest of the country that many predicted they would. The Lib Dems and the Greens have had a good showing so far but we won't know just how good until the full tally of results come in.
Isabel Hardman talks with Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
The Monetary Policy Committee has just raised interest rates again. This is the fourth consecutive rise, the first time this has happened within a quarter of a century. Economically the future is looking pretty bleak and not just in the UK, this looks like it may be a global problem caused by several factors. China's no Covid policies, US inflation, the Eurozone trying to wean itself off Russia's oil and gas, etc.
Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Kate Andrews about the state of the global economy.
A new poll from ComRes has shown Scottish Labour taking second place in tomorrow's local elections, overtaking the Scottish Conservatives. On the podcast, James Forsyth explains the torrid flip-flop that Douglas Ross, leader of the Scottish Tories, has made over partygate, first calling for Boris Johnson to resign before rowing back ('He thought that the 54 letters triggering a vote of no confidence were on their way in').
Katy Balls also talks to Isabel Hardman about the Environment Secretary George Eustice's suggestion that people might buy from cheaper supermarkets in order to deal with the cost-of-living crisis ('The phrase "teaching your grandma to suck eggs" was possibly invented for this piece of advice', Isabel says).
Campaigning in the local elections is entering its final few days. But what are the expectations for the Tories and Labour and can they be met?
Both leaders Boris Johnson and Keir Starmer have already put their foot in it to some degree, with the Labour leader getting rather too defensive about his lockdown mid-work beer and Boris seeming out of touch over the cost of living crisis.
Isabel Hardman talks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth about the state of the race.
Isabel Hardman rounds up the best bits from Sunday's political shows, with Kwasi Kwarteng, Sir Keir Starmer, David Lammy, Adrian Bailey and Sir Ed Davey.
A big congratulations to Linda Nelson who has just become a British citizen. Fraser details the long and taxing journey it took for his wife to reach this point in his Telegraph column this week and asks why as an immigrant nation do we make becoming British so challenging for new arrivals?
On the podcast, Fraser talks with Cindy Yu and James Forsyth about this question. And Cindy brings a few questions from the citizenship test, to see if her colleagues would pass.
Labour has admitted that deputy leader Angela Rayner, was also at an event where Keir Starmer was pictured drinking a beer. Could the pair be fined? Cindy Yu speaks to James Forsyth and Kate Andrews
This has been a bad week for the reputation of the House of Commons. From inappropriate comments toward female MPs, three cabinet ministers facing sexual misconduct claims and one MP accused of watching pornography in the chamber. Can anything be done to change this grotesque culture? And is it Westminster specific or an issue with society at large?
Isabel Hardman talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
The chief whip Chris Heaton-Harris has started an investigation after a female Tory MP reported that she had seen a male colleague watching pornography in the House of Commons. This comes in the wake of the Mail On Sunday's Angela Rayner/Basic Instinct story, and of the Sunday Times's investigation that three current cabinet ministers are under investigation for #MeToo claims. Will more allegations come out of the woodwork in the coming days? Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Today a pre-briefing on what Boris Johnson plans to say to the Cabinet about the cost of living crisis was released. He wants them to brainstorm ideas to ease the pain felt by the British public in the face of rising prices of food and energy. The catch, is these have to be non-fiscal ways.
Isabel Hardman talks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth about how effective these plans could be and how they may be received by the voters.
To keep up to date with the world of Westminster, sign up for unrivalled insight and analysis with Isabel Hardman’s Evening Blend newsletter, delivered to your inbox every weekday evening. Sign up at www.spectator.co.uk/evening-blend
French President, Emmanuel Macron secured victory over the weekend. But with the election over, will we see a reset in relations between the UK and France? Apart from support for Ukraine, there has been little the governments on either side of the Channel have agreed on.
Katy Balls is joined by Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth to test the temperature of these turbulent political waters, as well as giving a look forward to our own local elections in May.
Isabel Hardman rounds up the highlights from Sunday's political shows, with Sir Keir Starmer, Oliver Dowden and Jamie Wallis.
At the beginning of the year, letters from Conservative MPs looked to be reaching the 54 threshold needed to trigger a no-confidence vote in Boris Johnson. Most would think a fixed penalty notice from the Met would bring us at least back to those levels. And though there have been some full-throated calls of support and condemnation of his leadership from his parliamentary party, the majority have remained conspicuously quiet.
James Forsyth asks Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson why?
Boris Johnson has met his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi to discuss defence, energy and trade ties. Will he be able to secure a trade deal with India?
Meanwhile back at home, Boris Johnson faces an investigation by the Commons Committee of Privileges over claims he misled Parliament on partygate.
All to be discussed as Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson
The government's response to Labour wanting to refer the Prime Minister to the Privileges Committee – who could then rule that he mislead the Commons – has been messy. At first, Conservative MPs were to be forced to vote with the government against the motion, but No. 10 then changed its position, saying it would be a free vote. Why the U-turn?
Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Tomorrow there will be a vote in the Commons where Labour is pushing for an investigation into whether Boris Johnson is in contempt of Parliament over his comments on partygate. Which way will the Tory MPs vote?
'Tory MPs are sick to the back teeth of partygate now' - James Forsyth.
All to be discussed as Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson.
Boris Johnson faced MPs today for the first time since he was issued a fine for breaking lockdown rules. He apologised in the Commons, but maintained that he did not know he was breaking any rules at the time. Is that enough?
Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.
Cindy Yu, Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls discuss the Prime Minister's remarkable ability to keep his head above the surface of even the choppiest waters.
This week the government has announced a pilot scheme meant to address the increasing number of asylum seekers dangerously crossing the English Channel. While some have criticised this plan as expensive and immoral it could prove to be popular among large swathes of Conservative voters.
Cindy Yu talks with Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls about this new policy as well as giving us a partygate update.
After the news of the fixed penalty notices, Boris Johnson, his wife Carrie Johnson and Rishi Sunak paid their fines and issued a public apology.
For Boris, the reaction has been surprisingly positive compared to the beginning of the year. The majority of cabinet ministers have come out in support of the Prime Minister, but there are still some voices of discontent. Nigel Mills was the first Tory MP to announce he no longer has faith in the Prime Minister and thinks he should resign, who will be next?
All to be discussed as Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and Professor Sir John Curtice, a political scientist currently the professor of politics at the University of Strathclyde, and senior research fellow at NetCen Social Research and the ESRC’s ‘The UK in a Changing Europe’ initiative.
Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak have been told that they are going to be fixed penalty notices by the Metropolitan Police over parties held in Downing Street. The Chancellor has already had a tough week – might he now resign? Could Tory MPs push the Prime Minister out of No. 10? Isabel Hardman speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Crispin Blunt, a Conservative MP, was forced to apologise today after he tweeted support last night for Imran Ahmad Khan, another Tory MP who was found guilty of sexual assault. His statement called the verdict 'a dreadful miscarriage of justice' that relied on ‘lazy tropes of LGBT+ people'.
‘The condemnation has been pretty universal. I haven’t spoken to anyone that has who has stuck up for him [Crispin Blunt].’ - Lucy Fisher
In the wake of the David Warburton scandal last week, does the Conservative party have a more widespread culture problem?
Also on the podcast, 50 more fines have been made for partying in Westminster during the lockdown. How serious is this?
Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and Lucy Fisher, the chief political commentator at Times Radio.
Rishi Sunak has referred himself to Boris Johnson’s ethics advisor to investigate whether he followed the rules on ministers' interests. After the row over Rishi Sunak’s wife’s tax status has built up, how much has this weakened his position as a possible contender for the Tory leadership?
‘The two top players in the Tory Party have suddenly been taken out and it's now not clear who else there is in the government that can provide new momentum' - Paul Goodman
Also on the podcast, Boris Johnson made a surprise visit to Volodymyr Zelensky in Ukraine over the weekend? Could this be what saves his reputation from Partygate?
Isabel Hardman is joined by Katy Balls and Paul Goodman, Editor of ConservativeHome.
Isabel Hardman presents the highlights from Sunday's politics shows. Today's podcast features Kit Malthouse, Yvette Cooper, Caroline Lucas and Ihor Zhovkva.
Ahead of the first round of France's presidential elections on Sunday, Katy Balls asks whether Emmanuel Macron will be able to justify his apparent distance from the campaign trail. Taking part in the discussion with Katy Balls are Spectator contributor Jonathan Miller, Georgina Wright, from Institute Montaigne, and The Spectator's data journalist Michael Simmons.
The Rishi Sunak star seems to be falling further every day. The latest revelation is that he and his wife, Akshata Murthy held American green cards for some time while Rishi was Chancellor. The response from his crisis coms team has been muddled at best. Is there any way for the former golden boy to restore his shine?
Cindy Yu talks with Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls.
The government is publishing its long-awaited energy security strategy today, but Labour has criticised it for the strategy's lack of action on onshore wind, among other concerns. Has Boris wrongly buckled to backbenchers on a policy that would have been efficient and popular? Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman. Isabel argues that 'the failure of the Conservative government over the past - it's been more than a decade now - to address Britain's supply needs has come home to roost now'.
They also discuss the new revelations that Rishi Sunak's wife, Akshata Murthy, holds non-domicile status, which means she doesn't pay UK taxes. Katy points out that there is no suggestion of any wrongdoing, but nevertheless that 'this story is going to roll on, as people try to work out how much tax have they effectively saved? And I think pressure will grow on that'.
The National Insurance hike comes into effect today which is going to hit doubly hard when coupled with the ever-increasing cost of living. While we are all going to feel this burden on our bank accounts, Rishi Sunak is taking his first major political blow. Is there anything he can do to bounce back, or are his future aspirations dead in the water?
Max Jeffery talks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews about the Chancellor's political future and our economic one.
There has been a wave of backlash against the government's announcement that it intends to privatise Channel 4. What's behind their decision? Some argue it could be politically motivated given that Channel 4 has historically been a left-leaning news organisation.
Also on the podcast, Iain Anderson has resigned as the UK's LQBTQ business champion over the government's u-turn on trans conversation therapy. He said the decision to exclude trans people from the conversion therapy ban was 'deeply damaging'.
All to be discussed as Cindy Yu talks to Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls.
The government will publish its long-awaited energy security strategy this Thursday. The plan, which has been repurposed since Putin's invasion of Ukraine, is expected to include commitments to reduce the 6 per cent of energy Britain currently gets from Russia, and pledges to increase the use of nuclear energy. But could net zero, a priority for the Prime Minister when he went into No. 10, also be quietly shelved? Cindy Yu speaks to Fraser Nelson, Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
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Isabel Hardman hosts the highlights from the day's political shows, with Sergey Nikiforov, Grant Shapps, Jonathan Reynolds, Alicia Kearns, Herman Halushchenko and Nathan McGovern.
This week it looks like the war in Ukraine is turning. The Ukrainian resistance has moved from the defensive to the offensive against their invaders and American intelligence has reported that the Russian forces are struggling by almost every metric. What does a true victory look like? And what should our attitude towards Russia be when the conflict ends?
Cindy Yu is joined by Fraser Nelson, James Forsyth and Paul Mason to discuss.
The cost of living crisis became a reality as millions today face a £700 per year price hike to their energy bills. What can the government do to support those that fall into fuel poverty?
Also on the podcast, the government has quietly approved the takeover of Newport Wafer Fab by a Chinese owned technology company, Wingtech. As the largest microchip firm in the country, what could this mean for China's dominance in the semiconductor market?
'China wants to create a market-dominant position which could create vulnerabilities for the UK' -James Forsyth.
All to be discussed as Cindy Yu speaks to James Forsyth.
We've learnt from a speech this morning from GCHQ director Jeremy Fleming that the Russian army is in even more disarray than was previously thought. This has led some to think that not only could the Ukrainians succeed in holding the Russians at bay but even opens up the possibility of them retaking some of the lands that the Kremlin has already captured. But to be successful in this they would need to be sent more offensive weaponry than the UK and Nato have given so far. Boris Johnson seems keen to help in this manner but will other allies be as enthusiastic?
Isabel Hardman talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Despite the fines issued yesterday, Keir Starmer's attacks at Prime Minister's Questions today failed to land on Boris Johnson. In part, this was down to the Prime Minister's 'remarkably pugnacious' attitude, according to James Forsyth on this episode. What's more, it seems that Conservative MPs are happy to allow partygate to take a back seat for now. James remarks that 'previously when Boris Johnson tried that kind of very aggressive tactic... you could see the discomfort on Tory benches. Today I thought that was much less visible.'
This all comes after a team bonding dinner at the Crowne Plaza last night, where Boris Johnson gave a boisterous speech to backbench MPs, followed by after-dinner remarks from broadcaster Gyles Brandreth. Was this good timing? 'I do think that the jokes that Boris Johnson was telling is a sign of the current confidence in No 10 about his position', James says.
Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman also discuss the Shrewsbury maternity scandal. On Sajid Javid's pledge that this won't happen again, Isabel Hardman says: 'I'm not sure that that is a promise he can really make, because we had that promise after Morecambe Bay, which again was exposed by a bereaved father'.
Partygate is back in the news with fines being issued by the Metropolitan Police to twenty individuals. But this is not the end of the matter, this is only the first batch of fines and the full Sue Grey report is still to come. Is this scandal still enough to bring down the Prime Minister or have the party and the public moved on?
Isabel Hardman talks with James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
During the tail end of his Europe trip, President Biden stated of Vladimir Putin 'for God's sake, this man cannot remain in power.' This was quickly walked back by his staff saying that the US had no plans for regime change in Russia. But with the potential of the Russia Ukraine situation turning into long-term conflict, the UK needs to adjust its priorities, particularly when it comes to energy. Whether that future is in wind, nuclear, or fracking.
Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Isabel Hardman rounds up the best bits from Sunday's politics shows, with today's guests Nadhim Zahawi, Jonathan Ashworth, Mariia Mezentseva and Frances Haughen.
For the last two years, Rishi Sunak has appeared the frontrunner in any future Tory leadership election. But has his spring statement and damaged his standing within his party and among the public?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth about Rishi Sunak's future and Britain's economic forecast.
The Prime Minister has just returned from a Nato meeting in Brussels. So far, the alliance's members have been unified in their response to Russia, but with President Zelensky now asking for Nato to send tanks to Ukraine, are we going to see cracks emerge?
Katy Balls talks with James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Well the papers haven't been too kind about Rishi Sunak's spring statement. To unpack if it truly deserves this level of vitriol Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth about the UK's economic future as well as Nato's more unified front.
While on the surface there might seem like a lot to like in Rishi Sunak's spring statement. Yes, the NI tax increase is still there, but the tax threshold to pay it is being raised. And there is even a promise of an income tax cut coming in 2024. But does the spectre of inflation mean that many of these supposed benefits won't be felt tangibly for the average taxpayer and may even see the amount they give to the government go up?
Katy Balls is joined by James Forsyth, Kate Andrews and Fraser Nelson to discuss.
Tomorrow is the spring statement. The proposed NI rise set to be outlined in it has been described by the Labour leader Keir Starmer as a 'cynical' move so the Chancellor can cut taxes before the next election for political brownie points. But what are Rishi Sunak's true motives?
Cindy Yu deciphers them with Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Over the weekend, Boris Johnson sparked a wave of criticism after he linked the Ukraine crisis to Brexit. During his speech at the Conservative Party's Spring Conference, the PM suggested that Ukraine's decision to 'choose freedom' was reminiscent of Brexit.
'I think it was up there with the Jimmy Saville joke which he made about Keir Stamer in things which should not have been said.' - Fraser Nelson.
Also on the podcast, will Rishi Sunak be forced to u-turn on his commitment to low taxes? In the week of the Chancellor's Spring Statement, Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine means that the goalposts have moved.
All to be discussed as Isabel Hardman is joined by Katy Balls, James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson.
Isabel Hardman rounds up the highlights from Sunday's political shows, ahead of the Chancellor's Spring Statement on Wednesday, with Rishi Sunak, Rachel Reeves, Olga Stefanishyna and Martin Lewis.
As Rishi Sunak finalises his Spring Statement, how can he resolve the trilemma of an ageing society, no peace dividend and low growth? Meanwhile, there is a broad Tory desire for increased defence spending amid the Russia Ukraine invasion. But from where will this money be taken?
'This isn't an easy time for Rishi. If you look at what it is costing us just to service the debt, it's going up by billions and billions of pounds' - Kate Andrews.
All to be discussed as Katy Balls speaks to Kate Andrews and James Forsyth.
The Tory spring conference is this weekend. Before the invasion of Ukraine, when partygate dominated the headlines, it was predicted to have the feel of a pageant show for potential candidates to replace Boris Johnson. But now, with even Labour quieting their cries for resignation, what will the atmosphere of this event be?
Max Jeffery talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Today P&O ferries announced to 800 staff that they were being made redundant with immediate effect as security mounted to ferries to escort the staff off the premises.
The company said the staff will be served with "enhanced" severance packages, calling it a "necessary decision" to protect its remaining 2,200 staff. Was this fair when they received furlough pay from the taxpayer all through lockdown?
Also on the podcast, the Bank of England has announced a rise in interest rates in a bid to curb inflationary pressures. Can this help ease the looming cost of living crisis?
All to be discussed as Katy Balls speaks to Kate Andrews and James Forsyth.
After 6 years in jail, Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe has been released and will return home from Iran to her husband and their seven-year-old daughter. The UK has paid a debt of £400 million as part of this negotiation which has been an ongoing diplomatic dispute between Britain and the Iranian government. Who were the key players in her release negotiations? And is this a win for Boris Johnson?
Also on the podcast, Boris Johnson continues his trip in Saudi Arabia to encourage Mohammed bin Salman to sell more oil to the UK.
'Now we see a sort of Boris of Arabia heading off into Riyadh. He's always had a good relationship with bin Salman ever since he was Foreign Secretary, they are on texting terms' - Fraser Nelson.
All to be discussed as Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Boris Johnson is travelling to the Middle East tonight, where he'll be meeting Gulf leaders and trying to convince them to pump more oil. With Britain's energy price cap likely to rise to £3,000 in October, how important is it for the Prime Minister to get what he wants? And will more supply alone fix the problem?
Max Jeffery speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Vladimir Putin's war in Ukraine has caused the prices of oil and gas to skyrocket. One of the Prime Minster's strategies to combat this appears to be a visit Saudi Arabia this week, where he'll ask Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman to release more oil. But what's the chance of this working?
Katy Balls is joined by James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Isabel Hardman rounds up the highlights from Sunday's interview shows, with Michael Gove, Sir Keir Starmer and Polish president Andrzej Duda.
Kate Andrews and Fraser Nelson discuss the government's feet-dragging response to allowing Ukrainians easier entry to the UK.
While the world is hearing mummers that Vladimir Putin is considering using chemical weapons in Ukraine, the UK government has imposed sanctions on hundreds of Russian Parliamentarians. But will this latest move make the Kremlin pause or is it a largely symbolic gesture?
Katy Balls talks with Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
After seemingly dragging its heels for weeks, the government is ramping up its individual sanction measures against those close to the Kremlin. When Roman Abramovich bought Chelsea football club it was seen as a symbol of closer Russian and British ties, we will now see what signal him losing it creates.
Kate Andrews hosts Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth to talk through sanctions, peace talks and Eurovision.
While Europe opens its arms up to the Ukrainians fleeing war, the UK is taking a much slower approach. While people are allowed to come in relatively quickly if they have family here, that definition of family is extremely limited. Our response is causing confusion with the public but seemingly also within the Conservative party.
Katy Balls and James Forsyth are joined by Kate Andrews from Calais who has been spending the last two days talking to refugees on the ground looking to seek refuge in Britain.
Former Speaker of the House, John Bercow has been banned from the Commons after the publishing of a review that reveals the extent of his bullying behaviour towards members of his staff. How will Labour react to this after welcoming him in with open arms?
Also, Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky will today address a number of UK MPs and is expected to ask for more aid on all fronts: sanctions, humanitarian and military. But just how much more can the UK offer without causing an escalation in Putin's brutality?
And finally, one look at the Spectator's Data Hub will show a shocking rise in the price of gas in the UK in reaction to the war in Ukraine, but has Boris Johnson prepared the public enough for this shocking rise in cost?
Sam Holmes talks with James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Book tickets for Coffee House Shots Live: The Spring Statement
As the Russian invasion enters its twelfth day, fuel prices hit new records in the UK. Global leaders are preparing for the worst, is the UK braced for this too?
Also on the podcast, what's behind Boris Johnson's six-point plan?
'I would far rather Boris Johnson wasn't turning away Ukrainian refugees at the border in Calais than coming up with the six-point plan' - Fraser Nelson.
All to be discussed as Kay Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
For more information on the Russian nation, The Spectator is covering the economic impacts of the Ukraine-Russia war on our Datahub.
Isabel Hardman rounds up the highlights from Sunday's political shows, which today featured Dominic Raab, Sir Keir Starmer, Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, Ruth Smeeth and Tony Blair.
Kate Andrews talks to James Forsyth and the historian Orlando Figes about whether Europe's united response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine will hold, and the effect of sanctions on Russia's economy and its oligarchs.
It's been just over a week since Vladimir Putin began his invasion of Ukraine and in that time we have seen some truly unprecedented events: A former comedian leading an extremely effective homeland resistance against one of the world's largest armies, an estimated million people fleeing over the borders and a more unified Western response than we have seen in decades.
Kate Andrews talks with The Spectator's Editor Fraser Nelson and its Deputy Editor Freddy Gray to assess the shocking events we have seen this week.
Though Britain has been sending weapons to Ukraine, and led Europe's push to get Russia taken out of the Swift banking system, the government has been criticised for being slow in sanctioning Russian oligarchs. What more should we be doing?
Max Jeffery talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
PMQs began with a rather unorthodox but touching round of applause to welcome the Ukrainian ambassador to the chamber. While the Commons was united in its support of Ukraine and condemnation of Putin's actions, Labour leader Keir Starmer confronted Boris Johnson about certain Russian individuals who have been sanctioned by our allies but not by the UK.
But why is Boris Johnson holding back? Though many talk about the close relationship between the Tories and Russian money, the bitter truth of the matter may be that we are running out of non-military options for opposing Putin.
Katy Balls breaks down the session with James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman from the roof of Parliament.
During a press conference in Poland today, Prime Minister Boris Johnson was confronted by Ukrainian journalist and campaigner Daria Kaleniuk, who took issue with the excuse for not imposing a no-fly zone because it may start World War Three, saying it had already begun.
While it is completely understandable that on the streets of Ukrainian cities that is how it must feel, the UK and the West are committed to not involving themselves with direct military action against Russia. Though the sanctions that have been imposed on Putin's regime are unprecedented, can they work quickly enough to pause the conflict before things get even bloodier?
Katy Balls talks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth about how the Prime Minister has been handling this situation so far.
Over the weekend, the West unveiled further measures to punish Russia for invading Ukraine. The European Union said it would put limits on the Russian central bank's ability to access its reserve of foreign currency, Finland blocked Russia from its airspace, and Germany pledged that it would increase its defence spending to 2 per cent. Has Putin underestimated western resolve?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson, James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Isabel Hardman rounds up the highlights from today's political shows, featuring Liz Truss, David Lammy and Sir Chris Deverell.
Katy Balls speaks to Kate Andrews and Tony Danker, the director general of the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), about the Chancellor's Mais lecture on Thursday, where he reaffirmed his belief in 'sustainably' cutting taxes.
Russian forces are attempting to take Kiev, the capital of Ukraine. Ben Wallace, the defence secretary, said he would be spending the day trying to convince European allies like Germany and Italy, who are reluctant to put too harsh sanctions on Russia, to ban them from the Swift payments system. How else can the West put Putin under pressure?
Max Jeffery speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Vladimir Putin has launched an attack on multiple fronts across Ukraine. In a televised speech, the Russian leader announced a 'military operation' in Ukraine's Donbas region.
Today, Boris Johnson has vowed to hit Russia with a 'massive' package of sanctions. But who will really suffer from these sanctions? And will it be enough to deter stop Putin in his tracks?
All to be discussed as Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Owen Matthews, The Spectator's Russia correspondent.
For the last few weeks, the UK has condemned Putin and promised a strong response in the face of more Russian aggression. But when Boris Johnson announced his sanctions, for many, including those within his own party, they felt a little small. Particularly when compared to Germany cancelling the Nord Stream 2 pipeline.
Isabel Hardman talks with James Forsyth and Katy Balls about the UK's response to the Russian invasion.
Last night Vladimir Putin gave an hour-long television address to the Russian people over his decision to move troops into Ukraine. Amid international condemnation, Boris Johnson held a Cobra meeting this morning to discuss the UK's next moves. Meanwhile, Germany has put the brakes on Nord Stream 2.
‘The ball is now back in Vladimir Putin’s court. This is at the maximal end of responses that were expected' - James Forsyth.
Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
With Boris Johnson set to announce the end of legal Covid restrictions later today, how will people respond? Will they continue to isolate, or choose to go about their life even if they have the virus?
Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth, Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson about the change, as well as the continuing crisis in Ukraine.
Isabel Hardman rounds up the highlights from Sunday's political shows, with today's guest stars including Boris Johnson, Wes Streeting and Michelle O'Neill.
The government's Online Safety Bill could be about to hand social media giants even more powers over journalism and free speech. Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and Damian Collins, who chairs Parliament's joint committee on the bill.
Next week is the end of recess and Boris Johnson is expected to scrap universal access to free covid tests. What will be the reaction to this?
'You do have to wonder if tests are the best use of taxpayer's money given the pressure on the NHS' - Fraser Nelson
Also on the podcast, the Met Office has told millions to stay at home as Storm Eunice battles across the UK. Could this be another sign of the times?
Cindy Yu is joined by Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls
Angela Rayner received an outburst of criticism today after her views on shooting terrorists went viral. The deputy Labour leader is known for her colourful language, but how much is this damaging Labour's branding?
In her column this week, Katy Balls takes a look at the Labour Party’s strategy around Boris:
‘I think Boris Johnson staying on is now good for them because he’s mortally wounded’ - Katy Balls.
Also on the podcast, what is the latest British intelligence on Russia and Ukraine?
All to be discussed as Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Joe Biden has set out his intentions to impose sanctions against Russia should Putin decide to launch an invasion against Ukraine. Are European countries that economically rely on Russia for their energy prepared for the inevitable costs that will come with these sanctions?
'There is no way you could have a set of sanctions on Russia without thinking there will be some cost to the West for imposing them' - James Forsyth
Also on the podcast, what's the latest with the Partygate police probe?
All to be discussed as Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Two issues dominate the news this week. While Putin is recalling some troops back to their barracks, the situation in Ukraine is far from over. Meanwhile at home, we are in a cost of living crisis that could continue for years to come. What will the government do to resolve this crisis?
All to be discussed with Katy Balls and James Forsyth on today's Coffee House Shots.
Over the weekend things between Ukraine and Russia seem to have gone from bad to worse. After a call between Biden and Putin failed to yield any meaningful results, the US warned that a Russian invasion of Ukraine could being as soon as Wednesday.
Cindy Yu sits down with Katy Balls and James Forsyth to discuss whether war is truly just days away.
Cindy Yu rounds up the highlights from Sunday's interview shows, with Brandon Lewis, Yvette Cooper, Derek Chollet and Zoë Billingham.
During the Cold War, the US saw Russia as global threat number one. But with China looming large on the world stage its focus is shifting. This leaves Europe to take the lead in dealing with Putin's desires on Ukraine.
Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Sophia Gaston the director of the British Foreign Policy Group about the growing tensions on the continent.
Cressida Dick announced yesterday evening that she is stepping down as head of the Metropolitan Police. In a statement, Dick said she had been left with 'no choice' but to resign, after it was made clear to her that London mayor Sadiq Khan did not have confidence in her leadership.
Who will replace her? And what does her resignation mean for the investigation into parties in No. 10?
Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth.
The Foreign Secretary's trip to Moscow today ended with Russian Foreign Minister, Sergey Lavrov, walking out of their joint press conference. Did the trip achieve anything – and was it a mistake from the start? Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth on this episode. For James, '[Lavrov's] rudeness is a sign that Liz Truss held the line in their meeting'.
The Prime Minister tried to start today's PMQs with an announcement to fire up the right of his base, an early end to all Covid restrictions. But the partygate scandal is the gift that keeps on giving when during the Commons session a new photo leaked of Boris Johnson at a Christmas quiz with a bottle of Prosecco and a colleague draped in tinsel.
Isabel Hardman is joined by James Forsyth and Katy Balls to break down today's events in Westminster.
A mini reshuffle has happened, but this time nobody has been fired. Is this an advertisement of Boris Johnson being strategic? Or is it more an advertisement of the little room he has to manoeuvre?
Also on the podcast, James and Isabel discuss the NHS backlog. Today the Health Secretary was forced to admit to MPs that the NHS waiting list in England, which already stands at a record 6 million, will keep on growing for another two years.
What are the holes in his new plan? All to be discussed as Isabel Hardman speaks to James Forsyth.
On Saturday night, No. 10 announced two new appointments: Steve Barclay would become chief of staff, and Guto Harri would become director of communications. Will Downing Street's reshuffle improve the mood of Tory MPs? And what else does Boris Johnson have to do?
Katy Balls talks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth about the new faces inside No. 10.
Isabel Hardman hosts the highlights from Sunday's political shows. Featured today are Kwasi Kwarteng, Iain Duncan Smith, David Lammy, Sir Jeffrey Donaldson, and Gavin Barwell.
Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson about what happens if and when Graham Brady receives 54 letters of no confidence in Boris Johnson's leadership.
Five members of Boris Johnson's team have now resigned from No. 10. This led Downing Street to bring forward changes to Johnson's top team – announcing the resignations of chief of staff Dan Rosenfield, director of communications Jack Doyle and Martin Reynolds, his principal private secretary (who sent the now notorious BYOB email). How will the PM fill the vacuum they leave in No. 10? Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Munira Mirza, Downing Street's head of policy, has resigned over Boris Johnson’s Jimmy Savile attack on Keir Starmer.
Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson about how the defection of one of Johnson's oldest allies will affect an already turbulent No. 10.
'This does look terminal.' – Fraser Nelson
While Westminster politicians and journalists alike continue to predict exactly how many letters of no confidence in Boris Johnson have been officially filed. Michael Gove's levelling up white paper has finally arrived. A bizarre document that references many ancient cites and how they 'levelled up', but does it propose any tangible solutions on how to achieve its goal in present-day Britain?
Isabel Hardman is joined by James Forsyth and Katy Balls to dissect the document.
While Boris Johnson's performance in the Common's yesterday was seen broadly as tone deaf – thanks to comments about Jimmy Savile and drug-taking on the Labour front bench – he was given a chance to redeem himself at a private meeting with his party yesterday evening.
'One of my favourite questions was when one 2019 MP asked if they could reschedule the Parliamentary away day. This received a number of groans from politicians.' – Katy Balls.
Today, the Prime Minister leaves the Westminster drama behind him as he embarks on a diplomatic trip to Ukraine.
Isabel Hardman speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth about the mood in the Tory party.
The long anticipated Sue Gray report was finally published today albeit lacking significant chucks of details. Following the report Boris Johnson made a statement in the Commons addressing Partygate.
Though he apologised at the beginning, his tone did not seem particularly apologetic which clearly riled a number of MPs across party lines.
'The discomfort among the Tory benches today was striking'- James Forsyth
But what will be the aftermath of the debate? And can Boris Johnson still come back from this?
Listen to the full discussion on Sue Gray's report as Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.
Isabel Hardman showcases the best bits from Sunday's interview shows. In the spotlight today are Liz Truss, Lisa Nandy and Sir Ed Davey.
Boris Johnson has come out fighting, but that doesn't mean he's in the clear. Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls about the Prime Minister's efforts to keep himself inside No. 10.
Today the Met Police requested that Sue Gray's report makes 'minimal reference' to the events in her inquiry, whilst there is an ongoing police investigation.
'I think it puts the government in a difficult position. If you publish the report with minimal reference to the alleged parties being investigated by the police you’ll be accused of a whitewash report' - Katy Balls.
As a consequence of the police investigation, there are also rumours that others in Whitehall might be fined over parties in the coming weeks. What will be the outcome of this? Will the culprits, who are likely to be junior staffers at No.10 dispute the fines?
All to be discussed as Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Whilst everyone waits for the Sue Gray report, all eyes turn to the next scandal: Pen Farthing's animal rescue operation out of Afghanistan. It has been revealed that Boris Johnson's parliamentary private secretary, Trudy Harrison contacted a jet hire company in an attempt to secure a plane to evacuate the pets. The PM has responded to these allegations saying they are 'total rhubarb' - but what does that mean?
'You don’t seem to get the impression that Downing Street feels as if they are under pressure about this' - Katy Balls
Also on the podcast, is Boris Johnson planning a shake-up of his staff at No.10? And if so, who might go? Martin Reynolds? Dan Rosenfield?
All to be discussed as Isabel Hardman speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
The view on the Tory benches at the moment seems to be consistently ‘wait for Gray’ before they decide whether or not they will send a letter of no confidence. The 54 letters required is now more likely since the announcement of the police probe into Downing Street parties, but it is still by no means a certainty.
Boris Johnson gathered a surprising amount of support at PMQs today. Helped in part. by opposition MPs calling on him to resign:
'Richard Burgon, a former member of Jeremy Corbyn's shadow cabinet making a grand statement of how the PM should resign is naturally going to bring the Tory MPs together on Boris Johnson’s side' - Katy Balls.
Also on the podcast, Pen Farthing and his Afghan animal rescue operation has just resurfaced. Emails have been leaked suggesting that Boris Johnson did in fact authorise a rescue operation having publically denied allegations.
All to be discussed as James Forsyth speaks to Katy Balls from a breezy rooftop in the House of Commons.
The latest in the scandal of Downing Street parties points to the Prime Minister’s own birthday, where a gathering took place in the Cabinet Office. Whilst this has been played off by a Downing Street spokesperson as being on ‘the edges of a work event’. Cressida Dick announced this morning that events at No.10 during lockdown have now been deemed serious enough to deserve a police investigation.
How long does this now go on for? It could make the May election results terrible for the Tories, prompting more MPs to write a letter of no confidence.
'Someone close to Boris Johnson said to me that this idea to 'delay to Gray' is wrong. He’s going to need it to come out so that he can apologise and move on so that people’s opinions of him don’t calcify' - James Forsyth
All to be discussed on today's podcast as Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.
Over the weekend the MP Nusrat Ghani accused the government of sacking her because allegedly her Muslim faith was an issue, and they thought she didn't defend the Conservative party's charges of Islamophobia more. In the week of the release of the infamous Sue Gray report into Partygate how are the Tories dealing with these two scandals?
'The whip's office is caught between Sandhurst and a HR department.' - James Forsyth
Cindy Yu is joined by James Forsyth and Katy Balls to unpack the weekend's revelations.
And if you are interested in learning more about Nasrat Ghani's Journey to become an MP do listen to Katy's interview with her from last year's Women with Balls podcast here: https://www.spectator.co.uk/podcast/the-nus-ghani-edition
Isabel Hardman rounds up the highlights from Sunday's political shows, with Dominic Raab, Emily Thornberry, Nicola Sturgeon and Vadym Prystaiko.
Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and the Spectator's Russia correspondent Owen Matthews about the buildup of forces on the border with Ukraine.
After Christian Wakeford's defection to Labour, Boris Johnson looks to be in the clear – for now. The Prime Minister's backbenchers, though, are still frustrated by the aggressive tactics used by his whips to ensure their support. Is blackmail normal in the Commons, and are their complaints a result of Parliament's generational divide? Cindy Yu speaks to James Forsyth.
'If you had turned up in Westminster in the 1970s, you would find whips pushing people up against the wall. I don't think that goes on today.' – James Forsyth
As the Prime Minister has a stay of execution after the pork pie plot came to nothing, today allegations are flying that Tory whips have been using unsavoury methods to threaten wavering MPs into line. Christian Wakeford, the newly defected Labour MP to Bury South, says that whips threatened to withdraw funding from a local school; while William Wragg claims that MPs have been blackmailed with information about their private lives. But how much of this is true, and how much, as some in SW1 are saying today, is this just a part of being a whip?
On the podcast, James Forsyth points out how some of this comes down to 'the fact that some of the new intake of Tory MPs have been quite shocked at how aggressive the "flush-out" tactics have been', when it comes to using newspaper headlines to publicly name rebels (for example the pork pie-ers earlier this week). Meanwhile, Katy Balls tells Isabel Hardman that this will be a troubling development if more revelations come up: 'Any piece of news that can fit into the general narrative of Boris under pressure on party-gate and... give it a fresh lease of life, is a problem'.
Last night rumours were flying around Westminster that letters of no confidence from Tory MPs were pouring in and Boris might be leaving sooner rather than later. But with the surprising crossing of the aisle by MP for Bury South, Christian Wakeford, it appears that old party tribalism may have stayed some hands.
'While a coup against a leader is one thing defecting is quite another.' - James Forsyth
Katy Balls talks with James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman about all of today's political drama, from Keir Starmer's 'very good' jokes to David Davis's public call for Johnson to 'in the name of God go!'
Subscribe to The Spectator's Evening Blend email, from Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls, for analysis of the day's political news and a summary of the best pieces from our website. Go to www.spectator.co.uk/blend to sign up.
To keep Partygate alive, Dominic Cummings has released fresh accusations on his blog about Boris Johnson, who he claims knew about the parties taking place. The former chief advisor to the Prime Minister is prepared to swear under oath on this. As divisions in the Tory party are starting to show, a no confidence motion could be expected in days.
'There is a cat and mouse game where those loyal to the leader are trying smoke out potential rebels' - James Forsyth
All eyes are on Keir Starmer for PMQs tomorrow.
Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth.
Tory MPs have just returned from their constituencies after a weekend of persuading voters to support their party in the May local elections. It’s not just the public that is angry, the local associations are equally outraged at the scandals that have marred the first month of 2022.
Those around Boris Johnson are planning 'Operation Red Meat' which is a policy tactic to save the Prime Minister's premiership. Nadine Dorries has announced her plans to cut the budget of the BBC. It has also been announced that the military is stepping in to try to stop migrants crossing the English Channel. But is it a little too late?
‘They’ve been telling us they are going to sort this [migrant crisis] out but for two years the problem has got worse' - James Forsyth.
Even by the government’s own admission, the solution rests on finding somewhere to host an offshore processing centre. But most of the countries the government is looking towards are unlikely to be suitable partners.
All of this on the podcast as Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.
Isabel Hardman hosts the highlights from Sunday's political shows, with interviewees Sir Keir Starmer, Oliver Dowden, and Iain Duncan Smith and Kurt Volker.
Katy Balls, James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson discuss what happens if Boris Johnson's premiership is overwhelmed by the sheer volume of Downing Street parties he may or may not have attended.
"I will eat this microphone if Steve Baker or Kemi Badenoch stand." – Fraser Nelson
It's been revealed that two more parties took place in No. 10 during the pandemic. This time, on the eve of Prince Philip's funeral. While the Prime Minister was not at this event, is No. 10's party culture coming straight from the top?
Max Jeffery is joined by Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
After a hard PMQs for Boris Johnson which included multiple MPs calling for his resignation, the cabinet took to the media to show support for their embattled leader... though some took a bit longer than others.
'Notably, Rishi Sunak and Liz Truss took quite some time. I think they both got round to it by the early evening.' - Katy Balls
Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls about how deep the senior Tories' loyalties lie.
Boris Johnson has finally commented on the accusations of a Downing Street garden party held in the first lockdown. Yet his defence – 'I believed implicitly that this was a work event' – has satisfied nobody.
On the episode, James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman give their verdict. 'When I started my career I spent a lot of time in magistrates courts and I have to say, I've heard better ones from people who were drunk who were defending themselves in Portsmouth Magistrates Court', Isabel says. And for James, the problem was Boris Johnson's own party – 'The Tory benches were almost totally silent'. Can these MPs really defend Boris Johnson to their constituents, and what happens to this Prime Minister if they can't?
Another day, another party scandal at No.10. ‘Bring your own booze’ said Martin Reynolds, the Prime Minster's private secretary in a leaked email to 100 staff in May 2020 inviting them to a picnic at 10 Downing Street. At the same time, the rest of the country was limited to socialising within household bubbles or one other person.
'This is the most serious party allegation yet when it comes to Boris Johnson specifically' - Katy Balls
No.10 have refused to respond to the leaked email whilst Sue Gray's investigation into other Downing Street parties are ongoing. Can this line of response last through to PMQ’s tomorrow? Boris Johnson can expect challenging questions from Keir Starmer on this scandal.
Meanwhile, Michael Gove is keeping busy with his newly announced policy on cladding. The new housing minister has gone against his predecessor, Robert Jenrick’s policy, making developers pay for dangerous cladding.
Max Jeffery is joined by Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
With some early signs that the Omicron threat is waning, talk has begun around Westminster as to when we can get rid of the remaining Covid restrictions. To help Katy Balls, James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman make sense of the latest figures, they are joined by Editor, Fraser Nelson with an update from The Spectator's data hub.
'When you look at the number of admissions to hospitals, that actually hit a peak of 2,370 on December the 29th. It hasn't been back at that.' - Fraser Nelson
Katy, Isabel and James also assess Michael Gove's plan to address new-build cladding in the wake of Grenfell.
Isabel Hardman presents the first Sunday interviews roundup of the year. Highlights from today feature Nadhim Zahawi, Rachel Reeves and Dr Clive Kay.
Despite a torrid time for the Prime Minister's popularity over the last few months, there may be a political revival on the horizon. His decision not to lockdown over the Omicron variant seems to have paid off and won back some of the support from his party. But will the Johnson project end up a failure?
A lot of the Prime Minister’s future rests on the people who work closest him. On the podcast, Fraser Nelson points to the high turnover of staff at No.10 that has been destabilising, especially for someone who usually builds a strong support system around him.
‘This is a sign, the high turnover of staff suggests a dysfunctional No.10 which isn’t capable of making decent high-quality decisions' - Fraser Nelson
Also on the podcast, can the success of the booster campaign help Boris Johnson try to win back some of the government's lost reputation for competence?
All to be discussed as Cindy Yu speaks to James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson.
The ‘lost’ texts sent by Boris Johnson to Lord Brownlow over his Downing Street flat refurbishment continues to dominate the headlines today. As the story unravels, it's a sign that the Tory sleaze issues hitting Boris at the end of 2021 will continue way into the new year.
'It’s not going to go down well when people are seriously thinking about the cost of their energy bills over the next few months: how much it costs to buy food, what supplies are in shortage, to be reminded that the Prime Minister was trying to put extremely expensive wallpaper up in his flat' - Kate Andrews
Also on the podcast, various problems are snowballing towards a cost of living crisis. The energy price cap is expected to rise just as household contributions are due to increase from the National Insurance hike. Can the government retain support as households struggle to cope with costs this winter?
‘It is politically imperative for the Tories that they can cut taxes before the next election’ - James Forsyth
Cindy Yu speaks to Kate Andrews and James Forsyth.
In yesterday's Cabinet debate, Jacob Rees-Mogg called on Boris Johnson to abandon the planned hike in national insurance, amid warnings of a looming cost of living crisis. This is not the first time the leader of the Commons has criticised the government following his opposition to tougher Covid restrictions. Might this be a sign that Rees-Mogg is going to jump before he is pushed?
‘After the Patterson affair, there is now a clear distance between No.10 and the whips office. As we both know Isabel, when that is the case, that is when Parliament begins to unravel quite quickly' James Forsyth
Also on the podcast, the decorations to the Downing Street flat debacle has resurfaced and the Colston four trial, which has been dominating the headlines over the last couple of days is discussed.
Isabel Hardman speaks to James Forsyth.
Subscribe to The Spectator's Evening Blend email, from Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls, for analysis of the day's political news and a summary of the best pieces from our website. Go to www.spectator.co.uk/blend to sign up.
The first PMQs of 2022 was a little different. It was Angela Rayner’s turn to step up to the dispatch box whilst Keir Starmer is isolating having tested positive for Covid.
Rayner went after Boris Johnson on inflation and the cost of living crisis looming in Britain, criticising the government for refusing to cut VAT on energy bills. Another topic that came up was the pressure on the NHS as a result of the pandemic. NHS Trusts are declaring critical incidents saying they’re not going to be able to perform certain treatments due to high staff absences.
'The crisis in the healthcare sector is not that anybody is being overwhelmed. The crisis is coming from government policy which is requiring people to isolate when they don’t strictly speaking need to' Fraser Nelson
For daily Covid data updates, follow The Spectator Data Hub.
Isabel Hardman speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Subscribe to The Spectator's Evening Blend email, from Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls, for analysis of the day's political news and a summary of the best pieces from our website. Go to www.spectator.co.uk/blend to sign up.
Keir Starmer arrived in Birmingham today to deliver his agenda-setting speech, outlining Labour's vision for the future. The opposition leader had to tread the delicate path between offering a substantial, policy-based agenda whilst holding his cards close to his chest.
'One of the challenges of opposition in the midterm is, they come up with new policy and then the government pinches it' - James Forsyth.
Also on the podcast, James and Isabel discuss the reaction to the news that Tony Blair is to be awarded a knighthood. The former prime minister is a controversial choice for some, raking up to 500,000 signatures on a petition demanding to reverse the decision. For others, the question is: why has it taken this long?
Cindy Yu is joined by Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.
The government has delayed making any announcements about further Covid restrictions in the face of Omicron for weeks. But with more data coming in every day about this new variant, seemingly showing it leads to a lot less hospitalisations than previous waves, will there even be any new measures at all?
'The science and the vaccines have created the situation where Britain doesn't have to lockdown.' - Fraser Nelson
Cindy Yu talks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth about the UK's response to Covid at the beginning of 2022.
Subscribe to The Spectator's Evening Blend email, from Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls, for analysis of the day's political news and a summary of the best pieces from our website. Go to www.spectator.co.uk/blend to sign up.
Boris Johnson chaired a Cabinet meeting yesterday to discuss the imposition of new Covid restrictions over Christmas. After three hours, the Prime Minister emerged to announce that no new restrictions had been decided on.
These meetings are usually called for the Cabinet to rubber-stamp a decision made by Boris and his advisers, so what's changed?
Reports today suggest that the Prime Minister was actively encouraging opposing voices, and that a majority of the Cabinet was against bringing in new rules. After the resignation of David Frost, has Boris been forced to accept a new way of decision-making? Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and Kate Andrews.
On the podcast, Fraser says: 'This was the first taste of the new Cabinet. The Prime Minister is being boxed in now by what his Cabinet will go with. He's now got to win them around. That's a very different process.'
Isabel Hardman presents the highlights from the final Sunday interview shows of the year. Today's podcast features Sajid Javid, Andrew Bridgen, Wes Streeting, Sir Ed Davey and Andrew Marr.
Boris Johnson once boasted that you couldn't hold a cigarette paper between him and David Frost, the man he brought on to take Brexit over the line. Yet this key ally has resigned when the Prime Minister is at his most vulnerable. In his resignation letter, Lord Frost cites his concerns on whether the country is making the most of Brexit to cut taxes and red tape, and the direction of travel when it comes to dealing with the pandemic. On the podcast, Katy Balls talks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth about the significance of this moment – which Fraser says is 'a bigger blow to the Prime Minister than the by-election'. Taking a look at his reasons for departure, James says 'All the reasons he is citing – high taxes, Covid passes, net zero – punch every vulnerability that Boris Johnson has with the Tory activist base'.
Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and James Johnson, the co-founder of the J. L. Partners polling company, about what the Conservative defeat in North Shropshire means for the Prime Minister's future.
The Conservative majority of 23,000 was wiped out overnight in North Shropshire, with Liberal Democrat Helen Morgan winning the by-election by nearly 6,000 votes. Tory MPs are already making their frustrations known, with Roger Gale saying Boris Johnson has 'one more strike and he's out', and John Redwood saying it's 'Time to listen to Conservatives.' Is Boris Johnson's leadership in danger? Isabel Hardman speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
On the podcast, Isabel asks: 'You can change your staff, you can change your policies, but if the common denominator in all of these crises is Boris Johnson, what are you going to do?'
Today saw record numbers of Covid cases with infections higher than the January 2021 lockdown. In reaction to soaring cases, Boris Johnson held a press conference yesterday. Although nothing new was announced, he pushed further on the booster program and encouraged the public to rethink their socialising ahead of Christmas.
Many people believe the PM is encouraging a lockdown by stealth, with hospitality venues struggling to cope under staff shortages coupled with vast cancellations. But should financial support be put in place for them throughout this tricky time?
Also today, the Bank of England has increased interest rates to 0.25% in reaction to inflationary pressures.
‘We have to consider, does changing interest rates help [inflation]? Given that some of it is caused by supply chains that haven’t gone back to normal post the pandemic' - James Forsyth
Cindy Yu is joined by Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Last night Boris Johnson suffered the biggest rebellion of his Tory premiership. But, unlike his predecessor, he still managed to get his vote through with Labour's support. Nearly 100 Conservative MPs voted against the government's plans for vaccine passports.
Their reasons for rebelling varied. For some, they want to send a message to the PM that he cannot take his majority for granted. For others, it is about the principle of vaccine passports.
'Boris Johnson is proving to be a deeply illiberal Prime Minister. He’s turning into the sort of Prime Minister he used to warn us against when he was writing’ - Fraser Nelson
Katy Balls is joined by Isabel Hardman, Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth to discuss last night's rebellion and the booster vaccine program.
Christopher Whitty has told the public he expects a 'significant increase' in Omicron hospitalisations over the next few weeks. The chief medical officer is concerned about the pressures this new variant will put on the NHS. Could he be overreacting? In contrast, there are encouraging signs coming from South Africa that continue to show that Omicron is less severe than Delta.
The Commons vote on vaccine passports is looming where Boris Johnson could face a rebellion larger than his majority. The vote this evening is currently predicted to have over 80 rebels that want to send a message to the Prime Minister:
'The worry is that the vaccine program, something that Boris Johnson has taken huge political capital from, is starting to fade as a success story for a lot of voters' -Isabel Hardman.
To discuss this and the North Shropshire by-election, Katy Balls is joined by Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.
Subscribe to The Spectator's Evening Blend email, from Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls, for analysis of the day's political news and a summary of the best pieces from our website. Go to www.spectator.co.uk/blend to sign up.
Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls, James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson about the contents of - and the potential fallout from - Boris Johnson's address to the nation last night.
Cindy Yu hosts the highlights from Sunday's political shows, with today's guests including Sir Keir Starmer, Nadhim Zahawi, Steve Baker and Dr Susan Hopkins.
Isabel Hardman talks to Katy Balls and the New Statesman's Stephen Bush about the possibility of an upset next Thursday in the seat recently vacated by Owen Paterson.
Boris Johnson's problems are not going away anytime soon and he is facing extreme pressure on several fronts going into the weekend. Hypocrisy charges from the media and the Labour Party, more scandal regarding the No. 10 flat refurbishment, and a massive Tory rebellion regarding his Plan B measures. Not to mention his recent announcement that it is time to have a serious conversation about vaccine mandates.
'This anger is diffuse across the parliamentary party. It isn't just one ideological faction that are upset with him.' - James Forsyth
Katy Balls breaks down the Prime Minister's many woes with James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Subscribe to The Spectator's Evening Blend email, from Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls, for analysis of the day's political news and a summary of the best pieces from our website. Go to www.spectator.co.uk/blend to sign up.
Cindy Yu speaks to Isabel Hardman and Kate Andrews about the level of Conservative support for the Prime Minister after his latest Covid restrictions, and the Electoral Commission's findings about the refurbishment of the flat above No. 11.
Cindy Yu talks to Kate Andrews, Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson about the contents of the Prime Minster's latest Covid press conference.
It is all kicking off in Westminster.
A leaked video has emerged where the former Prime Minister's spokesperson is seen laughing when questioned about a Christmas party at 10 Downing Street last year. In yet another blow, many Conservatives shared their dismay at the leaked footage. At PMQs, Boris Johnson said that he is furious about the video but remains adamant that no lockdown rules were broken last Christmas.
Also on the podcast, more talk of vaccine passports are spreading through Westminster with a press conference expected later today. Should Boris be pushed into boosting restrictions, could he face another rebellion in the Commons? Possibly not, whilst Keir Stamer is around.
‘Boris is very lucky, his single greatest asset is Keir Starmer and when things get tough he can always send for his useful idiots on Labour’s front bench who will come and vote with him’ - Fraser Nelson
Katy Balls is joined by Fraser Nelson and Isabel Hardman.
Subscribe to The Spectator's Evening Blend email, from Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls, for analysis of the day's political news and a summary of the best pieces from our website. Go to www.spectator.co.uk/blend to sign up.
A new 40-page document written by Raphael Marshall, a former desk officer at the Foreign Office, depicts a disorganised mess in the handling of this year's Afghanistan withdrawal.
'I think the picture that is painted of chaos... it raises a whole slew of questions.' - James Forsyth
Katy Balls and James Forsyth dissect some of the key accusations in this report and give us an update on tensions between the US and Russia over Ukraine and the spread of the Omicron variant.
Subscribe to The Spectator's Evening Blend email, from Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls, for analysis of the day's political news and a summary of the best pieces from our website. Go to www.spectator.co.uk/blend to sign up.
Boris Johnson is launching a week of crime-related government announcements. Tackling middle-class drug use tops the agenda today, and the Prime Minister watched police raid a home in Liverpool this morning as part of 'Operation Toxic' to infiltrate county lines drug dealing.
But with a report from the Sunday Times revealing that traces of cocaine were found in several of Parliament's lavatories, and some Cabinet ministers having previously been asked about their own drug use before entering politics, could the plan backfire? Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.
On the podcast, James says: 'It is inevitably going to turn into every Cabinet minister and minister who does interviews on this being asked about their own personal drug use.'
Isabel Hardman rounds up the highlights from Sunday's political shows. Today's best bits come from Dominic Raab, Dame Rachel de Souza and Jim McMahon.
With the Omicron variant putting everyone on edge, there has been quite a bit of mixed messaging from the government about how we should all be conducting ourselves this festive period. With a bizarre emphasis placed on snogging - some preaching caution, others saying snog away.
'I don't think I've ever heard people say the word snogging this much in my entire life.' - Isabel Hardman
Katy Balls talks to Fraser Nelson, Isabel Hardman, and James Forsyth about the cabinet's conflicting advice and the politics of public displays of affection.
Subscribe to The Spectator's Evening Blend email, from Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls, for analysis of the day's political news and a summary of the best pieces from our website. Go to www.spectator.co.uk/blend to sign up.
The by-election last night was a result for the Tories. However, their majority for this seat fell dramatically. Labour tried to badge it as good news for them, claiming that they are 'back in business'. But the poor voter turnout was more likely the reason for the fall in Tory votes rather than a swing in Labour's direction. With this win, will the Conservatives move on from the difficult month they’ve had? Perhaps not with more scandals appearing. Tory peer, Michelle Mone has just been accused of racism after some leaked WhatsApp messages show that she told a man of Indian heritage that he was a ‘waste of a man’s white skin’. Also on the podcast, the report on the 2020 Euros has concluded that there was ‘collective failure’ in the planning of the match which saw 2000 people break into the stadium illegally. ‘I think this touches again on how well-led the Metropolitan police is’ - James Forsyth Can Cressida Dick cling onto her job this time?
Isabel Hardman is joined by Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Subscribe to The Spectator's Evening Blend email, from Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls, for analysis of the day's political news and a summary of the best pieces from our website. Go to www.spectator.co.uk/blend to sign up.
A lot of news coming out of Europe this week. From French President Emmanuel Macron calling Boris Johnson a clown, to more extreme Covid prevention methods rolling out in Germany. Will Anglo-French tensions cool, boil or simmer? Are we going to see the return of talks about Covid passports and vaccine mandates?
Isabel Hardman looks for answers to these questions with James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Subscribe to The Spectator's Evening Blend email, from Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls, for analysis of the day's political news and a summary of the best pieces from our website. Go to www.spectator.co.uk/blend to sign up.
Keir Starmer went on the attack today at PMQs. The controversy over last years Christmas party resurfaced, with accusations that No.10 breached lockdown rules. He then went on to criticise the government's new hospitals program.
Boris was dealt another blow, this time from his own side. Tory MPs are in uproar about the threats of growing restrictions. Yesterday, two votes in the commons over the new Covid rules led to another rebellion.
'40 is considered the problematic number for a rebellion. That second vote was very close to that' - Isabel Hardman.
A lot of MPs are worried the UK will just bounce in and out of these restrictions endlessly. But when the government is juggling both the Delta and the Omicron variant, can they hold off from a lockdown forever?
Yesterday Keir Starmer's Labour Party announced a new reshuffle of its shadow cabinet. It just coincidentally happened on the same day Angela Rayner gave a big speech on Tory sleaze, leading some to speculate on friction within the party.
'What you can't avoid is that they ultimately decided to do the reshuffle on a day where Angela Rayner, the deputy leader was trying to make a big statement that would lead the news.' - Katy Balls
Isabel Hardman talks with Katy Balls and James Forsyth about Labour's key moves, as well as the latest updates on the new Omicron variant and the plans to thwart it.
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We are slowly learning more and more about this new Covid variant, but it could be weeks before we know just how contagious and harmful it could be. Wasting no time, over the weekend the government has banned travel from certain countries and tightened domestic Covid measures.
'It's fair to say that ministers are anxious enough to bring back things that they have developed a personal resistance too.' - Isabel Hardman
To discuss the ramifications of Omicron Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Subscribe to The Spectator's Evening Blend email, from Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls, for analysis of the day's political news and a summary of the best pieces from our website. Go to www.spectator.co.uk/blend to sign up.
Isabel Hardman hosts the highlights from Sunday's political shows. Guests today include Sajid Javid, Nicola Sturgeon and Lisa Nandy.
The migrants that tragically lost their lives in the English Channel has caused Anglo- French relations to further deteriorate. There is a theory however, that it suits Macron’s purpose to be in a perpetual war with the Brits. Could this be the case when migrants are still in the hands of the traffickers?
'These people-smuggling gangs are becoming more sophisticated in their operations' - James Forsyth
Meanwhile, sports shops such as Decathlon on the French coast have stopped selling dinghy boats in an attempt to try and curb the number of people crossing.
Also on the podcast, is the term ‘migrant’ offensive? According to Priti Patel it is.
All to be discussed as Isabel Hardman is joined by Jonathan Miller, a Spectator contributor and James Forsyth.
Subscribe to The Spectator's Evening Blend email, from Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls, for analysis of the day's political news and a summary of the best pieces from our website. Go to www.spectator.co.uk/blend to sign up.
A new Covid variant dubbed 'Nu' has been discovered in South Africa and the UK has already put travel restrictions in place. Though early tests have shown that Nu is more transmissible, we don't know conclusively if it is any more deadly or can evade vaccines.
'We don't know yet, whether this variant is more severe or not.' - James Forsyth
With people already worrying if this, if handled poorly, could lead to another Christmas lockdown, Isabel Hardman talks with Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth about their Nu perspectives.
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The 27 migrants that tragically lost their lives whilst trying to cross the English Channel have sparked urgent appeals for Priti to resolve the migrant crisis. However, there is still no stopping some migrants attempting to flee their homes.
‘By 8.30 this morning, three more boats had arrived on the coast, even after the news had broken’ - James Forsyth
How can this problem be solved within the confines of international law? And what are the migrants’ motivations for leaving their homes? Is it economic? Fear of persecution?
Also on the podcast, Katy and James reflect on The Spectator’s Parliamentarian Awards last night. Read more about the event and hear all of the acceptance speeches by MPs here.
To discuss this and more, Cindy Yu is joined by James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Subscribe to The Spectator's Evening Blend email, from Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls, for analysis of the day's political news and a summary of the best pieces from our website. Go to www.spectator.co.uk/blend to sign up.
With multiple weeks of bad publicity and rumours of some Conservative MPs sending in letters of no confidence, today’s PMQs witnessed much more noise than last week’s. However, is the Prime Minster hitting back at critics, including a more confident Keir Starmer, effectively?
‘Today I thought Keir Starmer looked like he was actually really enjoying himself, and that is a sign of a shifted political mood.’ - James Forsyth
Katy Balls discusses these topics with James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
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It has been a challenging week for Boris. Following the Peppa Pig speech, immediately after the Owen Paterson u-turn, the party may be starting to lose patience. This could have implications for the government's future, shown most recently by the rebellion on the social care bill. Many MPs did a ‘no show’ and the government’s majority fell from 77 to 26.
'When the majority looks under threat, the personal loyalty disappears quite quickly' - Isabel Hardman
Is the rebellion a reflection of Boris losing support from his party? Or were there other issues to consider?
Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth
Subscribe to The Spectator's Evening Blend email, from Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls, for analysis of the day's political news and a summary of the best pieces from our website. Go to www.spectator.co.uk/blend to sign up.
During the last general election campaign, Boris Johnson's persona as the improvisational, brash, comedian was endearing to many voters and those in his party. But with multiple weeks of own goals and bad press is this attitude beginning to look careless rather than amusing?
'People are now looking out for the next banana skin' - James Forsyth
Isabel Hardman talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls about the PM's position in the wake Owen Paterson affair and the current migrant crossings in the channel.
Subscribe to The Spectator's Evening Blend email, from Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls, for analysis of the day's political news and a summary of the best pieces from our website. Go to www.spectator.co.uk/blend to sign up.
Isabel Hardman presents the highlights from Sunday's political shows, with today's podcast featuring Sajid Javid, Nick Thomas-Symonds, Maroš Šefčovič and Professor Sir Andrew Pollard.
Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson about the latest lockdown in Austria, the prospect of Germany following suit, and Austria's plans for mandatory vaccination.
Priti Patel has blamed the European Union's freedom of movement for the 'mass migration crisis' that Britain is facing. In a visit to Washington, the Home Secretary said: 'the real problem on illegal migration flows is the EU has no border protections whatsoever — Schengen open borders'. Tories MPs are reportedly frustrated at the government's failure to stop the flow of migrants getting boats across the channel, so what should Priti Patel do? Cindy Yu speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
'I think this is a little bit like a sailor complaining about the sea. It is more diplomatic than blaming the French. So in some ways it's an improvement. But it's very hard to think that the UK is in control of its borders when every night on the news you're seeing pictures of people climbing out of dinghies on the south coast.' – James Forsyth
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The announcement of the Integrated Rail Plan has left many, including a number of Conservative MPs, disappointed due to the proposed new routes and notable omissions. This comes at a bad time for Boris Johnson who is already in the dog house over his handling of the Owen Paterson affair.
'Boris Johnson is not in a good place with his party and it's not just over second jobs, it's over a number of things.' - Isabel Hardman
Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Isabel Harman about the Prime Minister's popularity going off the rails.
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Now entering its second week, the foray around members of parliament holding second jobs shows no sign of dying down. And, unfortunately, it seems whatever Boris Johnson tries to do to get himself out of this situation, he appears to just be digging himself and his party a deeper and deeper hole.
'Boris Johnson hadn't thought these proposals through, which has really upset Conservative MPs on both sides of this divide.' - Isabel Hardman
Cindy Yu talks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth about just how long this political hurricane will blow.
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The Prime Minister has written to the Commons Speaker to propose new lobbying rules for MPs. While some may welcome the measure, like former PM Theresa May, who gave a blistering critique of the way the Owen Paterson affair was handled, others in his party might not be so happy.
‘The challenge for him is that it is going to worsen relations with a bit of the Parliamentary party that he already finds it difficult to deal with.’ – James Forsyth
Max Jeffery sits down with James Forsyth and Katy Balls to discuss these possible changes and what they could mean for parliament. As well as looking at the issues of racism in cricket and the suspension of the Nord Stream 2 pipeline.
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COP26 is now over, but was it a flop? Even Alok Sharma, the President of COP26, apologised on the last day for 'the way this process has unfolded', as he teared up when announcing the final agreement to phase down, rather than phase out, coal. On this episode, Cindy Yu talks to Fraser Nelson and Isabel Hardman about the lasting legacy of COP26.
For Fraser, the summit was a mixed bag: 'I don't think that anybody is going to talk, in future years, about the "Glasgow declaration". But there are... some moves forward'. And Isabel points out the disappointment to Boris Johnson, for his own personal legacy: 'He then got to the end of the summit saying, well we've made a start, which is not something you're going to have on your legacy. The authorised biography of Boris Johnson is not going to [say] "well, we've made a start".'
Isabel Hardman brings you the highlights from Sunday's political shows. Clips today come from Alok Sharma, Ed Miliband, Angela Rayner and General Sir Nick Carter.
Since the cabinet met on Thursday to map out their levelling up agenda, we take another look at what this ambiguous slogan really means and how important it is for a Tory majority in the next election. Can we compare the UK levelling up to other places? Gove recently referenced 15th century Florence. But what about German reunification?
As James Forsyth says in the episode ’I think on levelling up and on reducing regional inequality, it is very hard to find a successful playbook to go after’.
Max Jeffery talks to James Forsyth and Andrew Carter, the CEO of Centre for Cities.
British troops have been deployed to the Polish border as part of a ‘reconnaissance’ mission, as Poland tries to stop migrants crossing from Belarus. Belarus’s president, Alexander Lukashenko, backed by Russia, is flying Syrian, Iraqi and Yemeni citizens into his country and encouraging them to cross the border into Poland. As the United States turns away from Europe and the Middle East and towards Asia, does Britain think it can to take its place?
Meanwhile, Britain is having its own migrant crisis, with 1,185 people crossing the English Channel by boat yesterday – a record number. It brings the number of people crossing the Channel this year to more than 23,000, three times higher than the total last year. Why can’t the government get a grip on this? Max Jeffery speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
After the government abandoned plans to overhaul the Commons standards rules, Rishi Sunak has said the government needs to 'do better'. Will the PM show some contrition soon? Max Jeffery talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
On the podcast, James Forsyth says: 'He really doesn't like apologies, never has done. So when he doesn't apologise he gives the story legs.'
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Boris Johnson today has said that Britain is not a corrupt country, but what does it mean that he felt the need to say that? On today's Coffee House Shots, Fraser Nelson points out that there is no clear firebreak to the present string of sleaze stories; and James Forsyth estimates that around a quarter of MPs have some kind of external earnings. So what more will come out of the woodworks? Cindy Yu talks to Fraser, James and Katy Balls.
The Owen Paterson affair has is shining a light on the extra cash MPs earn on top of their £80,000 salary. One MP, Geoffrey Cox, earned nearly £1 million from outside legal work. But is there an argument to be made for allowing elected officials to receive a second income? Max Jeffery is joined by Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
On the podcast, James says: 'On principle, I think MPs continuing to earn money from their former professions or former trades is acceptable. They're not trading on the fact that they are an MP.'
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Over the weekend most media tore into the Owen Paterson affair, with a lot of talk about MPs' second jobs like those of Geoffrey Cox...
‘I think if you go down this route of essentially banning all these outside interests, we’re going to end up with far more people of inherited wealth in the House of Commons, who don’t need to earn any other money, and I think you will lose some knowledge and expertise.’ - James Forsyth
...How Conservatives pick their peers, and even Lords reform. But how did it come to this? Who should have told Boris that last week's actions and reactions were bad politics?
'I know some MPs who think the way that they voted last week will be held against them at the next election. They can imagine Labour running an anti-sleaze ticket.' - Fraser Nelson
Katy Balls gets into all the Westminster details with Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
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Isabel Hardman takes you through the highlights from Sunday's interview shows, with Sir Keir Starmer, Thangam Debbonaire, George Eustice and Dr Susan Hopkins.
Fraser Nelson talks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman about how MPs should clean up their act in the wake of Parliament's latest lobbying scandal.
Owen Paterson has resigned as an MP after being embroiled in a lobbying row. Allies of the Prime Minister have blamed the Chief Whip, Mark Spencer, for the fiasco, while other Tory MPs are fuming at the Prime Minister's miscalculation. How did Boris not realise the potential backlash? Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
On the podcast, James says: 'It was really obvious how the press, the public, the opposition, were going to react to the Tory party trying to upend the standards rules and stay a guilty verdict against one of their own MPs. This is not an unexpected reaction to that kind of action.'
The team also talk about the resignation of Yorkshire Cricket Club Chairman Roger Hutton, who quit after the club's board refused to accept racism allegations from former player Azeem Rafiq. Isabel says: 'There's a cut-through between politics and cricket here. You have these cultures of people who are not prepared to have their behaviour questioned, who are not prepared to have their institution questioned.'
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The Owen Paterson story continues today with the government u-turning quicker than expected. This came after realising that allowing Tory MPs to mark their own homework by scrapping the standards committee might cause more outrage than they first thought. Leaving them now in a situation described by James Forsyth as, 'an infinitely worse position for absolutely everyone involved.'
James is joined by Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls to discuss this, self-inflicted, political nightmare.
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The row over Owen Paterson has come to a head today as the amendment to lift his suspension - tabled by fellow Conservative MP Andrea Leadsom and backed by the government - has upset many sides. Labour and the SNP are going in hard on accusations of Tory sleaze, with a real possibility of this spreading further than the Westminster bubble; while some Tory MPs who were whipped to vote in favour of the amendment are disgruntled at the position the government put them in. So what will be the impact of today's vote? Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Sign up to the Evening Blend email - a free daily round up of analysis and news from Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls - at www.spectator.co.uk/blend.
With the fishing war between the UK and France not necessarily over but at least at a ceasefire, today's Shots focuses on the Commons. Conservative MP Owen Paterson was found to have committed an 'egregious' breach of lobbying rules, but some in his party, including Jacob Rees-Mogg, have raised concerns about the investigation.
On the podcast, Isabel Hardman says: 'I think a lot of MPs on both sides of this, regardless of their views of Owen Paterson's activities, allegedly on behalf of these companies, feel very uncomfortable about the whole thing.'
Also, Rob Roberts, who was suspended for repeated and unwanted sexual advances against a member of staff, is back in the Commons. But how is his return being taken by the Tory MPs he still shares the benches with?
Katy Balls is joined by James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman to discuss.
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COP26 is officially underway with world leaders meeting this morning. But what can these presidents and prime ministers promise given their domestic political challenges and the seeming disinterest of other nations like China? Katy Balls is joined by Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth to discuss the opening of COP26 and the continuing rise in Anglo-French tensions.
Isabel Hardman brings you the best of Sunday's political interviews, with Alok Sharma, Ed Miliband, Tina Stege, Owen Paterson and Kemi Badenoch.
Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and the Paris-based journalist John Lichfield about the nature of the dispute between France and the UK over fishing rights.
The new year is fast approaching and if your resolution is to quit smoking, the taxpayer will now cover the cost for your new vape. Opinions differ on the podcast as to whether this is a good idea. Cindy Yu talks with Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth about this new scheme as well as looking at Labour's reaction to the Budget and our growing tensions with France.
The Budget was revealed yesterday, but what do Rishi Sunak's conservative colleagues make of it? To discuss this, another row with the French about fish, and the end of the Covid travel red list, Isabel Hardman is joined by James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Rishi Sunak's Budget, as much as it was trailed ahead of time, still had a couple of surprises - including a return of the 0.7 per cent aid budget and a cut to the universal credit taper rate. Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Kate Andrews about the high and lowlights from today's Budget.
Budget week rolls on. But today in the house the Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle voiced his displeasure at how much had been told to the press before tomorrow's unveiling in the Commons. Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman about this tension, the budget, and the sewage situation.
It's Budget Week and Rishi Sunak has already telegraphed a lot of what we can expect from it, branding it as a good news affair including NHS spending and minimum wage reform...but who stands to feel the pinch? Katy Balls sits down with James Forsyth and Kate Andrews to discuss the Budget as well as the rising Covid numbers and the chances of the implementation of the government's Plan B.
Cindy Yu presents the highlights from Sunday's politics shows, with Rishi Sunak, Rachel Reeves and Dr Katherine Henderson.
Katy Balls talks to Kate Andrews and James Forsyth about the prediction from the Bank of England's chief economist that the UK's inflation rate could hit 5%.
The Chancellor is making final preparations to his Budget, announced next Wednesday. On the podcast, Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls about the major themes coming up, and whether this is the moment when Rishi Sunak sees a turn in his popularity.
Compared to our extremely strong vaccine rollout, the booster numbers are not doing so well. But what is causing the slow take-up? Cindy Yu is joined by James Forsyth and Katy Balls to discuss this as well as the ever-rising covid figures, partisan mask wars, and a potential new trade deal with New Zealand.
There was a sombre tone as Boris Johnson faced Keir Starmer at the despatch box for PMQs. This was seen as one of the Labour leader's most successful outings as he emphasised finding common ground on tackling certain issues like online abuse, extremism and terrorism
Cindy Yu is joined by Katy Balls and James Forsyth
With COP26 fast approaching, the Heat and Buildings Strategy has been published today along with the Net Zero Strategy. But what do these papers mean for the environment, you, and your boiler? Isabel Hardman is joined by James Forsyth and Katy Balls to dissect these plans as well as looking at why the NHS is still so low-tech?
Parliament meets today to pay tribute to David Amess MP who was stabbed to death at his constituency surgery last week. But what have we learnt about the suspect currently still in police custody? And going forward what can be done to keep our representatives safe? Katy Balls is joined by Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth to discuss these questions as well as the sharp rise in Covid cases.
Isabel Hardman rounds up the highlights from Sunday's political shows, with clips from Priti Patel, Lisa Nandy, Gordon Brown, and Lindsay Hoyle.
As the temperature starts to fall, the question for the global economy is: how long will energy prices remain high? Industrial production has already started to feel the energy-related price pressures. Many more suppliers are unlikely to make it through the winter. But with the governement divided over bailing out businesses, who should be absorbing all of the costs?
James Forsyth is joined by Fraser Nelson and Javier Blas, chief energy correspondent at Bloomberg News as they discuss how this is just the beginning of the energy crisis.
David Amess, the MP for Southend West, has died after being stabbed at his constituency surgery. Essex Police say that a 25-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder. Amess had been an MP since 1983, and represented Southend West since 1997. Fraser Nelson speaks James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
With the R-number being higher than 1.0 for some days now, could we be seeing some of the least invasive covid restrictions being put back into place as winter approaches? Isabel Hardman is joined by Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth to discuss the figures, as well as the continuing labour shortages.
GPs have been promised £250 million to improve their services, but only if they increase face-to-face appointments. The Health Secretary must meet the demands of patients that want more face-to-face meetings. But he got a hostile reaction from doctors after a difficult two years for the healthcare service. Meanwhile, the Brexit row is still bubbling away. Lord Frost received an olive branch from the EU towards a ‘new’ Northern Ireland Protocol. But will the British government even entertain these proposals?
In an attempt to save the Northern Ireland Protocol, the EU has promised ‘very far reaching’ changes which are due to be revealed tomorrow. Dominic Cummings has also piled into the debate, suggesting that Boris ‘never had a scoobydoo what the deal he signed meant’. He also claimed that it was ‘always the plan’ to tear up the Brexit deal, which has grown tensions with Ireland. Meanwhile, Matt Hancock has a new job. But will he be invited back into the cabinet soon?
To discuss this, Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth.
Katy Balls and James Forsyth dissect the Covid report to see if anyone came out smelling like roses. They also look at the ongoing gas crisis and how the government is planning to proceed.
With the energy crisis showing no signs of improving, many industries warned over the weekend that they may have to shut down some manufacturing points due to the rising costs. This has lead to tensions between the Treasury and the Business Secretary, Kwasi Kwarteng about how to proceed.
Isabel Hardman is joined by Katy Balls and James Forsyth to discuss.
Isabel Hardman presents the highlights from Sunday's political shows, with Kwasi Kwarteng, Jonathan Reynolds, Lord Heseltine and Dr Jenny Harries.
Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson about the rise of 'Trussmania' that seemed to be sweeping the Conservative party conference in Manchester.
The former housing secretary, Robert Jenrick delivered a warning to his former colleagues in government yesterday that a failure to build new homes will cost the Conservatives down the line. Cindy Yu is joined by James Forsyth and Katy Balls to discuss this, as well as the update to Covid holiday restrictions and the sad passing of James Brokenshire.
Although Boris won over the audience during his conference speech, the opinion polls might say otherwise. Starmer's voice of reason could be starting to resonate with the public as the cost of living continues to rise. Underlying tensions with businesses are also still bubbling. Are they really to blame for labour shortages? And what now is the biggest threat facing the Tories?
Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Marking the end of the conference, Boris Johnson gave what James Forsyth describes as ‘the most Boris speech possible’. The Prime Minister set out his ambition for ‘radical and optimistic conservativism' and won over the crowd with his characteristic jokes. The Conservatives are in a strong position, but was the speech enough to retain support across the country amid a fuel crisis and labour shortages? And was the lack of concrete policies a problem?
Isabel Hardman speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
It is day three at the Conservative party conference and, as Isabel says on the podcast, Boris Johnson started the day a ‘little tetchy’ on his morning media round-up. After being told by Nick Robinson to ‘stop talking’ on Radio 4, the Prime Minister clashed with the host when asked about rising wages and inflation. Where the Tories stand on working from home has also been up for debate throughout the conference. With some ministers eager to get Britons back to their desks, there are whispers that backbenchers don't agree.
Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.
Katy Balls, James Forsyth, Isabel Hardman and Fraser Nelson are joined by special guest, the American pollster Frank Luntz, in this episode of Coffee House Shots, recorded in front of a live audience at Conservative Party Conference. They discuss what it means to be a Conservative these days, whether 'levelling up' means anything and who should be the next Tory party leader.
The Conservative party conference is underway, and Boris Johnson appeared on The Marr Show this morning to talk about the petrol crisis, the shortage of HGV drivers, and Wayne Couzens. James Forsyth and Katy Balls discuss the weekend's events.
Ministers are bracing for the ‘EFFing crisis’ - that’s energy, fuel and food. As shortages are set to continue for months ahead, the knock-on effects of the EFFing crisis have started to snowball. Will families have a turkey for Christmas? Will inflation cause the costs of living to spiral out of control? Can businesses cope with labour shortages?
Katy Balls is joined by James Forsyth and Kate Andrews to discuss.
A shortage of HGV drivers has led to empty petrol pumps and talk that supermarket shelves could be empty come Christmas. Delivery firms want the government to ease immigration rules to fill the gap, but, aside from allowing a small number of emergency visas, they have refused to step in. Why? Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
As Wayne Couzens receives his sentence today, Harriet Harman has called for Cressida Dick to resign over the Met's handling of the death of Sarah Everard. It's not the first time Dick has faced pressure to resign (not even this year), but her tenure as police chief was renewed only earlier this month. So will she - should she - go? Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
After a rocky few days, Sir Keir Starmer has delivered his first in person speech as Labour leader to conclude the 2021 Labour Party Conference. The 90-minute speech featured hecklers, multiple references to ‘tools’ and 17 standing ovations. But was it enough to win over the country or even his party? Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.
With petrol and gas supply issues still continuing Labour doesn't seem to be focusing on this important issue gripping the nation. Instead, though Starmer had a victory in pushing through his changes in regards to Labour leadership voting, his parade was rained on by the resignation of Andy McDonald over disputes about the minimum wage.
Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls join us from the conference in Brighton along with James Forsyth in London.
With images of long queues at the petrol station dominating social media this weekend, not due to lack of petrol but lack of drivers, the Labour party conference continues in Brighton. Shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves made more of an impact with her speech than some others, but Labour's real problem at this conference seems to be finding a distinct message to rally the party loyal. Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Angela Rayner said the government were 'homophobic, racist, misogynistic... scum' at a Labour party conference event this weekend. Responding to the remarks on the Andrew Marr Show, Keir Starmer said he and Angela 'take different approaches', and that it is 'not language that I would use'. How serious is the fracture in Labour's leadership? Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and the New Statesman's Stephen Bush.
For this week's Saturday Coffee House Shots, Katy Balls, Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth sit down with John Kemp, senior energy analyst at Reuters to discuss the energy crisis. How long will this continue? How high will prices go? What will the government do in response? And is there a possibility of blackouts during the winter months?
First gas, now petrol. The strange thing is there is no actual lack of petrol just a dearth of drivers to bring it to the stations. There are differing thoughts as to the reason for this, some say Brexit, others that this is a wider issue. Katy Balls, Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth discuss this as well as what we can expect from this weekend's Labour conference.
Keir Starmer released a nearly 12,000-word essay about what he stands for as the Labour leader. But who was it for? And while Starmer braces himself for his party's conference this weekend, should we be bracing ourselves for this gas crisis to worsen? Max Jeffery talks with Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
With Boris Johnson still on his American trip, it was up to the deputies to cross swords in PMQs today. Dominic Raab, the newly-minted deputy prime minister went up against Labour's Angela Rayner, but who came out on top? Also on the podcast, Katy Balls, James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman discuss the Boris and Biden meeting and how Kier Starmer is fairing with the unions?
The Prime Minister is in America to meet Joe Biden and discuss COP26 and the new Aukus security pact. But what do the two leaders hope to achieve? Also, the Labour party conference is this weekend. can Keir Starmer get the left of his party to heel or will his leadership be brought even more into question? Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
With many smaller energy companies folding because of a steep rise in the cost of gas, how long will it take before the bigger firms turn to the government for help, and will continuously rising wages help soften the blow?
Katy Balls talks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Isabel Hardman presents the highlights from Sunday's political shows, with Alok Sharma, Sir Ed Davey, Caroline Lucas and Gerard Araud.
Michael Gove has been tasked with transforming levelling up from a soundbite to an agenda. What will this look like? And what Michael Gove will we get, the liberal reformer or big state lockdown supporter? Katy Balls is joined by Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth to discuss.
As Boris Johnson today chairs the first meeting of his new cabinet, he's focused on delivering on his levelling up agenda. What's the plan? To discuss this, the ongoing junior ministerial appointments and the Liberal Democrat conference this weekend, Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
With the Commons still reeling from the reshuffle, the UK, US, and Australia have formed a new security alliance, the Aukus pact. Many have seen this as early preparation for a more aggressive China, as the US nuclear submarines being gifted to Australia will be able to reach territories like Taiwan without refuelling. To discuss the pact, and the fallout from yesterday's reshuffle, Isabel Hardman talks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Boris Johnson has reshuffled his cabinet. Gavin Williamson is gone. Dominic Raab is no longer Foreign Secretary, but is now the Deputy Prime Minister, with Liz Truss taking over his former position. These changes and many more are dissected by Katy Balls and James Forsyth on today's Coffee House Shots.
Health Secretary Sajid Javid today laid out his two plans for dealing with Covid this winter. The first, Plan A, proposes a booster shot for everyone over 50, combined with the flu jab. This would also see contact tracing continue, along with self-isolation for the infected and financial support for those isolating. Plan B proposes vaccine passports and mask mandates in certain settings. To discuss how this was received in the Commons, Katy Balls is joined by Isabel Hardman, James Forsyth and, making a surprise appearance, Fraser Nelson.
Over the weekend, the Health Secretary Sajid Javid announced that the government would be scrapping plans for a vaccine passport system - at least for now. But what led to this change of mind? Did they not have the numbers? Have fears about Covid dissipated? Katy Balls and James Forsyth discuss.
Isabel Hardman rounds up the highlights from Sunday's political shows. Today's best bits come from Sajid Javid, Jonathan Ashworth and Nicola Sturgeon.
It's been 20 years since the 11 September attacks and their effect has had a lasting impact on the world. Katy Balls talks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth about their memories of that day, the mistakes made in its aftermath and if the new Taliban takeover of Afghanistan leaves us more vulnerable to similar attacks.
Labour are ahead of the Conservatives in a poll for the first time since January. It comes just days after Boris Johnson announced his government's plan to fix social care: a rise in National Insurance. Should the Tories worry? Katy Balls is joined by James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson.
Boris Johnson has got his social care payment plan past the Commons, but there were a fair number of Tory abstentions, who still have a philosophical issue with this policy. Also with vaccine passports seemingly just around the corner, could this be another battleground for a Conservative rebellion?
Katy Balls is joined by Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth to discuss.
In the first session of PMQ's completely Covid restriction free, Keir Starmer proved that the Prime Minster wouldn't commit to definitely getting rid of the NHS waiting list within three years or the risk of people having to sell their homes to pay for care. But Boris Johnson seemed pretty bullet proof with not a whiff of tory rebellion even though some of his new policies go against his members more conservative principles.
Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman about today's session.
Boris Johnson admitted in the House of Commons today that he is breaking the manifesto promise of not raising taxes in order to get rid of the NHS waiting list and fund social care, but will this move work for the Prime Minister politically.
Katy Balls and James Forsyth discuss.
With the vaccine secretary Nadhim Zahawi declaring on the radio that the Conservatives were a 'party of fair taxation', could the government be looking at rebellion from its right with its new plans for tackling the social care crisis?
Katy Balls in conversation with James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Isabel Hardman rounds up the highlights from Sunday's political shows, with today's podcasts featuring Nadhim Zahawi, Lord Philip Hammond, Lisa Nandy, Gordon Brown and General Sir Nick Carter.
In a speech this week, Joe Biden said America will focus more on threats from Russia and China and less on foreign interventions. The US President signalled that his country would return to using 'over the horizon' drone strikes against terrorist targets, and would need to prove it was 'competitive' in combatting emerging threats.
Ben Wallace, the defence secretary, addressed this in an interview with The Spectator last week. He said: 'If America makes the decision that it needs to tilt more, the question for the West, for Europe, for the United Kingdom and for other nations is: are we going to go with them? Do we backfill? Or do we do both?'
So will Britain follow America, or will it instead make more of its bilateral relationships with European countries like France? Cindy Yu speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Despite pledging not to raise taxes in the 2019 manifesto, rumours abound in Westminster that Boris Johnson is about to increase National Insurance in order to raise funding for healthcare and social care. Katy Balls talks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth about whether the government has other options.
In an interview for the latest issue of The Spectator, Defence Secretary Ben Wallace hits back at Dominic Raab's suggestion that it was military intelligence which failed the British side when it comes to evacuation planning. On the podcast, Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth about the increasing public acrimony between the two secretaries of state, and ask - why isn't No 10 putting a stop to it?
Dominic Raab was hauled before the Foreign Affairs Committee today to answer questions about how the government handled the withdrawal from Afghanistan. The Foreign Secretary faced tough questions about being on holiday during the crisis, risk reports produced from his own department, and whether a portrait of the Queen in Britain's Kabul embassy was taken by Taliban militants. How did he fare? Cindy Yu also speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls about whether China will fill the vacuum left by the West, and whether tension is emerging between the government and the JCVI.
The Pentagon says the UK pushed to keep Abbey gate at Kabul airport open, which was later the site of a terrorist attack that killed 13 US soldiers and 170 Afghans. Dominic Raab took on today's broadcast round and defended the work of the Foreign Office during the evacuation process, but said the intelligence community's assessment of the strength of the Afghan government was wrong. Who is to blame for the chaos of the last few weeks? Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
New data from Israel shows that the Delta variant is getting through the protection offered by double jabs, even though the vaccines do lessen symptoms. With this and cases rising in the UK again, could it be that vaccines can never offer us the highly effective protection once hoped? Perhaps natural immunity is the strongest of all, as one study (yet to be peer-reviewed) showed this week. Isabel Hardman talks to Fraser Nelson and Kate Andrews.
After the attack on Kabul's airport by Isis, President Biden addressed the world last night and mourned for the 13 US marines who were killed. But with this grim event already being politicised by the Republicans, what will the lasting damage to the president legacy be?
Isobel Hardman in conversation with Kate Andrews and Fraser Nelson.
Chaos surrounds the Hamid Karzai airport today as two explosions and a potential knife attack has left at least 13 dead. The attacks are suspected to be suicide bombers from ISIS-K, as the American and British military had feared. What does this mean for the evacuation in its last days? Cindy Yu talks to Isabel Hardman and Lucy Fisher, deputy political editor of the Telegraph.
In his first broadcast round since coming back from Crete, Raab's handling of the questions surrounding his holiday have only managed to fuel the conversation further, with choice quotes such as 'the sea was closed that day'. Cindy Yu talks to Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls about what went wrong with the Foreign Secretary's handling of the issue.
As many had expected, President Biden has not agreed to extend the August 31 deadline despite pleas from Nato allies in today's G7 call. Meanwhile, there are signs that the veneer of the new and reformed Taliban is already beginning to crack in Afghanistan. Katy Balls talks to Isabel Hardman and Fraser Nelson.
The Prime Minister has requested Washington to extend the August 31 deadline for the withdrawal of US troops from Kabul. But will Joe Biden acquiesce, amidst warnings from the Taliban that there will be 'consequences' if the US stays longer? Isabel Hardman talks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
With Dominic Raab in the firing line for his £40,000 Crete holiday, the Coffee House Shots team reflects: can ministers ever go on holiday? And if they do, should they be sticking to the domestic ones, and at what point of a political crisis does one decide to turn back? Isabel Hardman talks to Fraser Nelson and former special advisor for Sajid Javid, Salma Shah.
While Dominic Raab continues to weather charges of incompetence and call for resignation, it is the Health Secretary Sajid Javid who might not have any time for a holiday come autumn. Israel, one of the most vaccinated countries in the world, is seeing a rush of new Covid cases. Could mean a wave of Covid and flu, later this year?
Cindy Yu talks to Fraser Nelson and Isabel Hardman.
Pressure on the Foreign Secretary is piling up after the Daily Mail revealed today that Raab had rejected the strong advice of Foreign Office civil servants to call his counterpart in the Afghan government before the weekend, to ensure the safe departure of interpreters from the country. Instead, his junior minister Zac Goldsmith took the call. Could - or should - Dominic Raab be sacked? Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
This morning was the first time that we saw the chamber of the House of Commons full since the pandemic began. MPs were called back from recess to discuss the worsening situation in Afghanistan. Emotions and tensions ran high on both sides, some directed at the government, some at the Prime Minister and some at the White House. Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman dissect the first half of today's debate.
With Parliament being called back from recess tomorrow, including the Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab who maybe stayed on the beach a touch too long given the worsening circumstances on the ground in Afghanistan. Isabel Hardman talks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls about just what we may hear tomorrow.
Defeat in Kabul now means that the Taliban have effectively taken over Afghanistan. Katy Balls talks to Fraser Nelson and Isabel Hardman to discuss the West's response to the occupation.
‘we have got a peacekeeping military, not a war fighting military, but still I think we’ve got this muscle memory from the days when Britain did have a bigger military’ – Fraser Nelson
The south of Afghanistan is now under Taleban control, after the group took the cities of Kandahar and Lashkar Gah this week. Meanwhile, Britain and America are deploying thousands of troops - as many as were there before the withdrawal began earlier this year - to evacuate expats and the majority of embassy staff. After a 20-year war in Afghanistan, the West is running away.
Britain and her allies, however, will continue to face challenges like Russian aggression and Chinese expansionism in the coming decade. Will we just sit back and accept our decline? Isabel Hardman speaks to James Forsyth and General Sir Richard Barrons, who helped set up the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan in 2001, and was deputy chief of the defence staff from 2011 to 2013.
With things on the ground in Afghanistan accelerating from bad to worse so fast that the Americans are now even worried about the safety of their embassy. Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman about what the UK Defence Secretary Ben Wallace's attitude towards this 20 year conflict has been like in statements both past and present.
The Taleban are continuing their advance through Afghanistan, and are on the cusp of taking control in the major cities of Herat and Kandahar. The group's fighters have predictably ignored the Doha Agreement, but has the speed of their success taken politicians by surprise, and how much of an embarrassment is the deteriorating situation for the White House and Downing Street? Cindy Yu speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Equalities minister Kemi Badenoch could replace Gavin Williamson as education secretary in the next reshuffle, according to reports today. Should he be moved, and how is he making his case for staying? Cindy Yu speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
A record number of students got As or A*s in their A levels this year. After last year's fiasco, teachers were given the responsibility of grading their own pupils. Has leniency put less well-off kids at a disadvantage, and will the achievements of future students now look worse? Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
With the Chancellor's leaked letter to the Prime Minister (which apparently he'd never seen) showing some disagreement about COVID policy, is this an omen signalling a fracas to come over future spending plans?
Isabel Hardman talks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth
Boris Johnson and Nicola Sturgeon seem to be battling for the position of most amiable leader. The First Minister invited Johnson to meet with her on his visit to Scotland, but the PM politely declined, instead inviting Sturgeon to a more formal meeting of devolved administrations. The Prime Minister's visit to Scotland is part of a wider plan to soften support for independence. Will a 'love bomb' work? Katy Balls speaks to James Forysth and James Johnson, co-founder of polling firm JL Partners and former pollster at No. 10.
The Prime Minister joked yesterday that thanks to Margaret Thatcher closing coal mines, the UK 'had a big early start and we're now moving rapidly away from coal altogether.' Is this typical Boris, or has he misread the room? Isabel Hardman speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
US intelligence agencies are combing through reams of documents from the Wuhan Institute of Virology, according to reports from CNN, which could provide a vital indication as to whether Covid was leaked. What would be the repercussions if it was? Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Boris Johnson is visiting Scotland today, but has declined an offer from Nicola Sturgeon for a meeting. Why doesn't the PM want to meet with the First Minister, and, after a period of relative quiet, is independence back on the agenda for Sturgeon's government? Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth.
Nicola Sturgeon said she expects that the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation will soon be recommending that those aged 16 and above will be offered a vaccine. Is this an acceptance that vaccine certificates and Deliveroo discounts aren't enough to reach herd immunity? Isabel Hardman speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
In a ConservativeHome poll on who should replace Boris Johnson, Rishi Sunak came out on top. It comes as the Chancellor is reportedly pushing the PM to relax travel restrictions. Is this a problem for No. 11? Cindy Yu speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Team GB has had a brilliant start in Tokyo - can the government learn lessons on how to pick and nurture talent? And looking to the Beijing Winter Olympics in 2022 - which foreign secretary Dominic Raab said he is 'very unlikely' to attend - should Britain boycott them? Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Sebastian Coe, president of World Athletics and member of the International Olympic Committee.
A row is brewing with France over the government's decision to put the country on an 'amber plus' list, where restrictions on quarantine are tighter. But the reasoning for this has been ill-communicated by the government - is the measure worth the trouble? Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
With over two thirds of young people now vaccinated, does the messaging on how to reach the final third need to shift? And are the government putting the cart before the horse by hinting that vaccine passports are more about coercion than safety? And finally are we in for another turbulent exam season?
James Forsyth speaks to Katy Balls.
Fully vaccinated travellers from the EU and US could be allowed to come into the Uk without quarantining, under plans being discussed by the government. Will this help businesses to recover, or is it an unnecessary change that risks seeing a repeat of the fiasco around India's traffic light status back in April? Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel.
On a visit to Glasgow today, Cabinet Office Minister Michael Gove went further than other politicians have in saying that those who refuse the vaccine for non-health reasons are 'selfish'. It looks as if the government will continue pushing through its vaccine certificate plans, but what if it has to rely on Labour votes to get it through? Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth.
University students could need to be double-vaccinated if they want to attend lectures or stay in halls, according to reports today. Young people have the lowest jab uptake, and these reports follow the announcement last week that clubbers will need a vaccine passport to enter venues from September. Will it work? James Forsyth speaks to Katy Balls.
It's our first 'freedom' weekend, but it was only a few weeks ago when our own Fraser Nelson and Kate Andrews clashed heads over the most sensible way to open up. Kate thought we should stick to the 21st of June, Fraser argued that the later opening date made sense. Now it's time to see who was right? This cage match was refereed by Katy Balls.
Daily cases have fallen again today, leading to cautious optimism that - perhaps - cases in this exit wave have peaked. Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Today the CBI gave a stern warning that the test and trace app is 'closing down the economy'. Despite this, the government's key workers list - promised on Monday - has still not been released. What's the hold up, and what will this mean for Boris Johnson's summer as MPs head home for recess? Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
On the 80th anniversary of Prime Minister's Questions, viewers were treated to a distinctly lacklustre performance today. James Forsyth argues that Starmer's questions are still too long; and proper scrutiny is not helped by the technical issues that accompanied the Prime Minister's virtual contribution. Isabel Hardman talks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
It's the day after 'freedom' day and it's not entirely clear just how free we are, with the prime minister last night say that from September nightclub goers will have to prove their vaccination status or provide a negative test. But with just the threat of vaccine passports leading to record appointments booked in both Israel and France could this method get us to herd immunity? Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Yesterday in what was the quickest public turnaround in government history. The prime minister and the chancellor are now in isolation after getting pinged for being too close to the Covid ridden health secretary Sajid Javid. There is something a little ironic about the leaders of the country being locked up on what was initially billed as 'Freedom Day', but it is a keen reminder we are just one ping away from losing our new found liberation. Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman. §
Isabel Hardman hosts the highlights from Sunday's interview shows, with Robert Jenrick, Jonathan Ashworth and Professor Neil Ferguson.
In our last Coffee House Shots before the so called 'Freedom Day' on Monday, James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson share their thoughts on just how free it will feel, what's the right call on vaccine passports and would a further delay be the right thing to do rather then open and close again later?
After a year and a half of Zoom speeches held in empty rooms, opposition leader Keir Starmer is heading out on a listening tour to connect with voters. That may be all well and good, but is anyone listening to him? And even if they are, does he have anything worth saying? James Forsyth talks to Isabel Hardman about the struggling Labour leader.
The government has been advised by Henry Dimbleby, founder of LEON food chain, to introduce a new tax on sugary and salty foods. While the Prime Minister has distanced himself away from the proposal, it has caused a lively debate in The Spectator's office. Tune in to hear Fraser Nelson, James Forsyth and Kate Andrews debate the limits of the state when it comes to our health and our diets; how much obesity is related to class; and whether it really is impossible to find vegetables in Tooting.
The Prime Minister looked visibly uncomfortable at Prime Minister's Questions today, as Keir Starmer accused him of 'giving racism the green light' with the Conservative party's stance on footballers taking the knee. It comes after a week in which other Tories - notably Priti Patel - have been criticised by footballers and begs the question - did the Conservatives wade into a culture war they can't win? Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Boris Johnson and his government won the vote today to cut foreign aid spending, but there were rebels and some very prominent ones, including former Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt and former Prime Minister Theresa May. What should the government learn from this in order to win potentially even more contentious votes down the line? To discuss Isabel Hardman speak to James Forsyth.
The new Health Secretary Sajid Javid addresses the Commons this afternoon ahead of Boris Johnson's 5pm remarks about the lifting of restrictions on July 19. And in what was an already painful night for England it was made even grimmer by the horrific, racist abuse that Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho and Bukayo Saka received online from supposed England 'fans' after the final. James Forsyth talks to Isabel Hardman.
Isabel Hardman rounds up the best bits from Sunday's interview shows. Highlights today come from Nadhim Zadhawi, Kate Green, Professor David Spiegelhalter, General Sir Nick Carter and Raffaella Trombetta.
James Forsyth talks to award winning journalist Isabel Hardman about her brand new Spectator podcast Building Back.In it first episode, out now, she looks at current state of the NHS and its ever expanding waiting list. James and Isabel discuss what the political fallout could be from not tackling this issue competently.
Listen to Isabel's podcast here:
https://www.spectator.co.uk/podcast/The-NHS-edition
Polling released yesterday revealed that a surprisingly large minority of the British public support not only just a permanent mask mandate but also the closure of nightclubs and a 10pm curfew. To discuss these bizarre findings James Forsyth is joined by Ben Page, CEO of Ipsos MORI, the firm behind the numbers, and Francis Elliott, director of advocacy at Engage Britain and former political editor of the Times.
State pensions may rise by 8pc this year due to the Conservative policy of the pensions triple lock. But can the government keep to it, given the extraordinary economic circumstances we are in? Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Tory MPs today re-elected Graham Brady as chair of the 1922 Committee - the group that represents backbench Conservatives to the government. Brady, who has voted against the government's coronavirus laws, was standing against Heather Wheeler, who was seen as a candidate more aligned to No. 10. Despite having an 80-seat majority, Boris has been warned. Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Sajid Javid today said there could be 100,000 Covid cases a day in summer. He said the government would be focusing on hospitalisation and death figures, but added Britain was in 'uncharted territory for any country in the world'. Many thought of the new health secretary as a lockdown sceptic, so why is he urging caution? Isabel Hardman speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
In a bonus Coffee House Shots, James Forsyth and Katy Balls breakdown the announcement from the Prime Minister this evening about the end of Covid restrictions and try to piece together why something that should feel like a celebration seems so stoic.
Boris Johnson will announce details of the 19 July reopening later today. According to reports over the weekend, masks will be ditched, social distancing will be scrapped, indoor venues will open to full capacity and mass events will be allowed. How will Labour react, what's the thinking behind the PM's decision, and is it reversible?
Isabel Hardman rounds up the highlights from Sunday's political shows, which today featured Robert Jenrick, Rachel Reeves and Sir Jeffrey Donaldson.
Life might feel normal when nightclubs reopen and masks are tossed aside, but worries about unemployment and inflation will persist. What will happen to the economy after 19 July? James Forsyth speaks to Fraser Nelson and economist David Miles about what to expect.
In an extremely close race Labour candidate and sister to the late Jo Cox Kim Leadbeater has won her by-election with a majority of just 323. What will the opposition do with this narrow but note worthy win? And is it time to for the tories to admit they aren't as invincible as they first thought? To discuss Katy Balls is joined by James Forsyth and Isobel Hardman.
Reports emerged overnight that Angela Rayner's allies are ready to mount a leadership challenge if Keir Starmer loses Batley and Spen tomorrow. What will happen if the Tories win another Labour heartland seat? James Forsyth speaks to Katy Balls.
Katy Balls and James Forsyth dissect the back and forth from today's session in the House of Commons. Does Boris really think he can sell his 'I fired Matt Hancock' story?
A bizarre flourish of tactics are on display in the run up to the Batley and Spen by-election. And are we already feeling the new Health Secretary's influence? To discuss, Fraser Nelson is joined by James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
It's Sajid Javid's first day in the office as health secretary. The former chancellor's comments last year that he would 'run the economy hot' have led some to think he will try to end restrictions as soon and as extensively as possible, but might he have changed his mind? Isabel Hardman speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Isabel Hardman rounds up the best from Sunday's political shows. Highlights come from Brandon Lewis, Lucy Powell, Sadiq Khan and Dr Chaand Nagpaul.
Matt Hancock has resigned as health secretary this evening following this week's scandal and his replacement has already been appointed: former chancellor Sajid Javid. Katy Balls is joined by Isabel Harman and Fraser Nelson to discuss this breaking news.
Cindy Yu talks to Fraser Nelson and Guido Fawkes blogger Paul Staines about the Matt Hancock revelations and how reporting on sex scandals has changed over the years.
The Sun broke the news this morning that Health Secretary Matt Hancock has seemingly been up to some extra-marital exploits with his aide Gina Coladangelo, possibly breaking many of the Covid restrictions that he himself put in place. What will be the consequences of his hypocrisy? Cindy Yu is joined by James Forsyth, Isabel Hardman and another special appearance from Fraser Nelson.
Daily new cases are just under 17,000 today, and Angela Merkel has advised other EU leaders to make British tourists quarantine upon entry to the bloc. So even if the British government allows a more liberal green list, would British tourists be welcomed abroad? Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls. Katy points out that this bodes well for July 19:
'So I wouldn't be surprised if you get some scientists used to commenting on this sounding the alarm in the coming days if it keeps going up at this rate. But I think from Boris Johnson's perspective, ultimately deaths and hospitalisations are the most important things and also you've got people like Patrick Vallance saying, you've got to have an exit wave at some point'
With a week to go until the Batley and Spen by-election, we also discuss how Labour's chances of holding the seat look. James points out that the stakes are higher for Starmer:
'Hartlepool they could almost say, look this is the vaccine rollout, the government are getting a big boost from that... The problem is that because the Lib Dems won in Chesham and Amersham, I think that will be a harder excuse to pull off this time around'
It's the five year anniversary of when the UK decided to leave the European Union and while the opposition are looking to try and put the referendum behind them, the government still seems keen to put any UK success squarely on the shoulders of Brexit. But with nationalist sentiment rumbling on in both the north and west are the Conservatives ignoring the battles to come? And also are the prospects of vaccine passports looking better? James Forsyth and Katy Balls discuss... with another surprise visit from Fraser Nelson.
While Labour are shuffling people round yet again and the DUP are getting ready to welcome in their third leader in less than a month, a new report seems to show that in education, the group seemingly most negatively effected by the idea of 'white privilege' are white, working class children. Katy Balls discusses the day's events with Isabel Hardman, James Forsyth and a special appearance from Fraser Nelson.
With the Conservatives still taking stock after their loss in the recent by-election, it seems the governments ambitions for planning reform are now firmly under the microscope. And on what would have been 'freedom day', there are reports that the powers at be don't think they'll have to extend restrictions again (we've heard that one before). Isabel Hardman is joined by James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Isabel Hardman rounds up the highlights from Sunday's interview shows. Today's guests included John Bercow, Robert Buckland, Andy Burnham, Sir Ed Davey and Steve Reed.
The surprise result of Friday's Chesham and Amersham by-election has led to questions over why the Conservative lost just so badly - and why no one saw it coming. On today's Coffee House Shots, Conservative Home's Paul Goodman warns against over-reading the situation:
'When it comes to by-elections, the golden rule should be, why not presume that voters will kick the establishment? ... I really think, as I'm looking around at these Remainers coming out of their various holes and lairs, indulging these pathetic fantasies, that they have this out of proportion'
James Forsyth adds that the result isn't so much a problem for the Conservative party, as it is symptomatic of the future problems in party management. Tory MPs of various stripes have analysed the results through the lens of their personal cause, and for southern MPs, the issue stems from a tilt away from the traditional Tory base to appease the new Red Wall seats:
'Every rebel with a cause is going to say that that cause has been demonstrated by this result, and all of it will just make party management more complex.'
In a political upset the Liberal Democrats have won the by-election in Chesham and Amersham in a massive poll swing from the Tories. And in other political the new DUP leader Edwin Poots has resigned, leaving his party to figure out what to do next. To dissect what happened, Cindy Yu is joined by James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
New DUP leader Edwin Poots faces his first challenge today as he tries to push through a controversial candidate for First Minister. How much trouble is the party in, just weeks after the ousting of Arlene Foster? Isabel Hardman talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Another day another Dom Bomb. In Cummings latest release, a number of WhatsApp messages reveal communications between himself and the Prime Minister, with the latter describing the health secretary Matt Hancock's performance as 'fucking hopeless'. To discuss the new revelations and its potential fallout Katy Balls is joined by James Forsyth, Isabel Hardman with a surprise appearance by Fraser Nelson.
The government has agreed its first post-Brexit bespoke trade deal. But the agreement with Australia has already caused consternation among Conservative MPs about the potential competition from Australian farmers. Are these fears overstated? Isabel Hardman talks to James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson.
It seems Freedom Day is no longer June 21st. The writing was clearly on the wall this morning, but now the Prime Minister has officially told the public, it is likely to be another four weeks of restrictions. But after so many backtracks how much credibility does Boris have left? Katy Balls is joined by James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman to discuss.
Boris Johnson is expected to announce a delay to reopening later today. How will the Prime Minister make his case, and will his backbenchers support him? Separately, world leaders bumped elbows over the weekend at the G7 summit in Cornwall. What came out of the conference, and is the unanimity on the biggest challenges facing the West? Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Isabel Hardman hosts the highlights from Sunday's political shows. Featured today are Dominic Raab, Gordon Brown, Emily Thornberry, Micheál Martin and Professor Andrew Hayward.
On Monday, the Prime Minister will announce whether the 21 June unlocking is to go ahead. Because of the increased transmissibility of the Indian Covid variant, cases in the UK are continuing to rise. Does it make sense to wait for data to confirm that the link between cases, hospitalisations and deaths has been broken, or should we confidently reopen? Fraser Nelson, Katy Balls, Kate Andrews and Cindy Yu discuss.
As the G7 rolls on and the world leaders learn where their peers stand on certain issues post Covid, the wealthy western nations need to decide how best to help vaccinate the world's poorer countries without risking their own rollouts at home. Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
The long-anticipated G7 meeting in Cornwall has got off to a rocky start today, as it transpired that the US had lodged a 'demarché' - a diplomatic ultimatum - with David Frost, earlier in the week, over the UK's position on the Northern Ireland Protocol. Could tensions spill over? Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Today, talks between David Frost and the EU's negotiator Maroš Šefčovič ended with little agreement about how to move forward on the Northern Ireland Protocol. Isabel Hardman talks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth about what this means, and what Joe Biden might say when he lands in the UK later this week.
Though the amendment on foreign aid was not selected by the Speaker yesterday, the row over the budget cut is not over yet. Today MPs will have an emergency debate about the policy, and Lindsey Hoyle has advised that the government should bring the matter in front of the House in the future. This is just one of a number of things bothering Tory MPs at the moment - is there a pattern here of rebellion, and how much more resistance will the Treasury meet as it tries to tighten the pursestrings? Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
After the government cut the UK's foreign aid budget a group of rebellious Tory MPs bound together to try and reverse the decision, will it come to a head this week? And has the culture war spread to cricket after the suspension of Ollie Robinson for decade old racist remarks? And with Portugal moving to the amber list, just how limited will the options be for our summer holidays? Cindy Yu talks with James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Isabel Hardman hosts the highlights from Sunday;s political programmes. Interviewees today include Matt Hancock, Lisa Nandy, Kate Green, Tony Blair and Sir Bob Geldof.
As China changes its two child policy to a three child policy over fears of population decline, the west is also having to regularly change its approach towards the world's next superpower. John Connolly talks to James Forsyth and Cindy Yu about our precarious relationship with China.
With the G7 looming the range of subjects on the agenda is vast. One of the first items up is the proposal of a global corporate tax rate which President Joe Biden has already endorsed. But how will the first meeting of Boris and Biden go and is possible the G7 could become the G10? Katy Balls and James Forsyth discuss with Cindy Yu their thoughts on what to expect.
It's been a stressful day for those who've booked foreign holidays, as the government updated the latest countries on its various coloured travel lists. No new countries were added to the green list, but some were moved to amber. On the podcast, Katy Balls and James Forsyth discuss with Cindy Yu how this decision is down to a desire to prioritise domestic reopening to liberalisation of our borders.
The government's education tsar Kevan Collins resigned this afternoon, saying that the £1.4 billion pledged by the government for schools is only a tenth of what is needed. Cindy Yu speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls about who will take the flack.
Now officially in June, the significance of the 21st seems even greater for the country, but with the Indian variant still on the rise how safe is the date? And a glorious weekend of weather for the Prime Minister's secret nuptials, but what does this wedding mean for the warring factions that circle No. 10? And finally Keir Starmer sits down with Piers Morgan tonight, will this interview be the thing to renew the Labour leader's image? Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Isabel Hardman hosts the highlights from Sunday's political interviews. Guests today included Nadhim Zadhawi, Mike Padgham, Edwin Poots, Maroš Šefčovič, Franak Viačorka and Carl Bildt.
This week Edwin Poots was formally endorsed as the DUP's new leader, in a meeting which Arlene Foster, Sir Jeffrey Donaldson (Poots's rival in the leadership campaign) and other senior DUP politicians walked out of before Poots gave a speech. What does the future hold for the divided political party that held so much sway in Westminster during the Brexit process? Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and the Irish Times's Denis Staunton.
Matt Hancock defended his position at a Downing Street press conference yesterday. He told journalists that, by his 'recollection of events', he told the Prime Minister that hospital patients would be tested before being sent to care homes 'when we could do it'. Dominic Cummings says the Health Secretary promised all patients would receive a test.
As he comes under continued pressure, is Hancock's position in doubt? Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
After the hanger full of Dom bombs that were dropped in yesterday's epic seven hour hearing, health secretary Matt Hancock got a sizeable chunk of Cummings wrath. Just how is Hancock going to proceed and how certain is his future in the department? Isabel Hardman talks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
From accusing Matt Hancock of criminal incompetence, to lifting the lid on the true nature of his relationship with Boris Johnson, Dominic Cummings's evidence was nothing short of explosive. Katy Balls talks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth about the highlights and what we learnt.
Islamophobia 'remains a problem' in the Conservative party, a report has found. Professor Swaran Singh, who analysed more than a thousand complaints of misconduct for his investigation, said that some Tories needed a 'completely new mindset'.
Boris Johnson himself gave evidence to the inquiry, and when asked about his column saying a group of black people had 'watermelon smiles' said: 'Would I use some of the offending language from my past writings today? Now that I am prime minister, I would not.'
On the podcast, James Forsyth says: 'There's an interesting question now about whether Boris Johnson goes further. Normally he is very reluctant to get drawn into specific newspaper articles.'
And one year on from Dominic Cummings's extraordinary press conference in the No. 10 rose garden, Katy Balls asks Isabel Hardman about how his trip to Barnard Castle changed the course of Boris Johnson's government.
Isabel says: 'It definitely changed a lot of people's attitudes towards the guidance and the reliability of the government.
'A lot of Cabinet ministers will be wishing they had been more clear-sighted in their defence of Dominic Cummings given that they are now all bracing themselves for him to go all guns blazing in this committee hearing tomorrow.'
When Dominic Cummings appears in front of a parliamentary committee on Wednesday, the former aide is expected to attack Whitehall's institutional structure, a lack of government transparency in the pandemic, and the Prime Minister himself.
In a still growing Twitter thread, the former aide has laid out his critique of how the government handled Covid-19. He says herd immunity was 'literally the official plan' in March, and that a detailed response was 'bodged amid total & utter chaos.'
But how much damage can he do the PM? The Conservatives are just coming out of a successful local election campaign, the country is on course for social restrictions to end on 21 June, and the latest YouGov poll shows just 14 per cent of Brits trust Cummings. Isabel Hardman speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Isabel Hardman hosts the highlights from Sunday's political shows. Featured today are Priti Patel, Nick Thomas-Symonds, Dr Jenny Harries, Andrew Morton and John McDonnell.
Politicians have buttressed Prince William and Prince Harry's criticisms of the BBC in the wake of the Dyson report, which detailed Martin Bashir's forgeries to get access to Princess Diana, and the BBC cover up which ensued. Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman about the renewed scrutiny on the broadcaster.
Boris Johnson is increasingly confident that Britain will drop the majority of Covid restrictions on 21 June. But with the Indian variant forcing case rates in Bolton to more than ten times the national average, and in Blackburn to more than six, why is he optimistic? Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Despite some misgivings in Cabinet, free marketeers seem to have won the argument on the Australia trade deal, one of the first major deals to be struck after Brexit. Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman about the latest discussions in government.
Nicola Sturgeon unveiled her new Cabinet today, reshuffling familiar faces with a clutch of new ministerial appointments. Will it be a line-up that causes sleepless nights for No 10? Joining Isabel Hardman to assess Team Sturgeon's new look are Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Keir Starmer is reportedly thinking about giving access to a camera crew in order to create a fly-on-the-wall documentary about his leadership of the Labour party. Is this a good idea? Isabel Hardman talks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
As England moves into the next phase of its lockdown easing today, the Indian variant threatens to throw the final phase off schedule. Could the government delay June 21? Isabel Hardman speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Isabel Hardman hosts the highlights from Sunday's political shows. Today's guests include Matt Hancock, Yvette Cooper, Steve Reed and Sir Mark Walport.
While the local elections bore fruit for the Tories in the red wall, the party’s rebranding has had some southern shire MPs worried – does the party under Boris Johnson still speak for them and their voters? Cindy Yu speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls about this growing fracture.
Further listening:
Katy Balls with Natalie Elphicke and other panellists on Britain's housing crisis.
Cases of the Indian coronavirus variant have more than doubled in the last week, and Nadhim Zahawi, the vaccines minister, this morning said that jabs could be deployed in areas with higher case loads to contain its spread. Will the variant delay the 21 June unlocking? Cindy Yu speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Further listening:
Kate Andrews in conversation with Jeremy Hunt on healthcare in Brexit Britain.
David Cameron is giving evidence to MPs today over his lobbying for Greensill Capital, in the latest round of embarrassment for the former prime minister. On the podcast, Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth about the graceful way to leave Downing Street.
Boris Johnson has announced that an inquiry into the government's Covid response will be launched next year. Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson about what could surface and whether it will shed any light.
Carolyn Harris, a key Starmer aide, has resigned her post as his parliamentary private secretary over allegations that she was behind some of the negative briefing against Angela Rayner. On the podcast, Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman about whether Angela Rayner has come out of Labour's scrap, on top.
After a messy and delayed reshuffle, there is more rancour in the Labour party than there was before the weekend. Has Keir Starmer taken a serious hit to his authority? Isabel Hardman speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls about the possible future for Labour.
Isabel Hardman takes you through the highlights from Sunday's interview shows, with clips from Michael Gove, Nicola Sturgeon, John McDonnell, Ian Murray and Alex Salmond.
Scotland will have a pro-independence majority at Holyrood, but the SNP has fallen short of an overall majority. What does this mean for the party, its leader Nicola Sturgeon, and the campaign for a second independence referendum? Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Stephen Daisley.
The local election results are coming in over the weekend, but the bombshell came early with Hartlepool going to the tories in a massive 16-point swing. Isabel Hardman speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls about how much the red wall has left to give.
Once again it's all about the fish - following protests from French fisherman over their rights in the waters surrounding Jersey, Boris Johnson has despatched Royal Navy boats to the Channel. Isabel Hardman speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls about why tensions escalated so quickly.
A poll last night gave the Tories a 17-point lead in Hartlepool. Tomorrow's by-election in the red wall seat is to be one of the first barometers of Keir Starmer's leadership so far. How serious would a Labour loss be? Isabel Hardman speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
One of the key aspects of the imminent G7 summit will be the return of face-to-face meetings between politicians. What will be on the agenda, and can the rest of us hope to follow suit and leave Zoom behind? Fraser Nelson talks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Isabel Hardman presents the highlights from Sunday's political shows. Interviewees today include Douglas Ross, Dominic Raab and Lisa Nandy.
Arlene Foster's departure has left the DUP in a difficult place. Unionists could become disaffected if another relative moderate takes over, but younger voters might abandon the party if a hardliner becomes leader. What does this mean for Northern Ireland? Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Denis Staunton, London editor of the Irish Times.
Boris Johnson's mobile phone number has been available online for 15 years, it emerged last night. Why does the Prime Minister give it out so freely? John Connolly speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Keir Starmer was pictured shopping for wallpaper in John Lewis today, poking fun at Boris's ongoing No. 10 refurbishment troubles. But is the Labour leader really just playing to the PM's advantages? Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth.
Arlene Foster has stepped down as leader of the Democratic Unionist Party. What's next for the party? Isabel Hardman speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Reports today suggest that the Conservative Party initially covered the costs of the Downing Street refurbishment. Will Conservative members, and the public at large, care? Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Simon Case dodged questions from MPs about his lockdown leak inquiry at a select committee appearance this afternoon, and refused to go into details about how Boris Johnson paid for the refurbishment of his Downing Street flat, saying the PM would make the 'relevant declarations'. Why did Case stonewall the committee? Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
The Downing Street psychodrama continues today, with the Daily Mail reporting that Boris Johnson said he would rather see the 'bodies pile high in their thousands' than order a third lockdown. Where will the war between the PM and his former adviser Dominic Cummings end? Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Isabel Hardman presents the highlights from Sunday's political shows. Interview clips today came from Liz Truss, Jess Phillips, Nicola Sturgeon, Anas Sarwar and Bill Gates.
Russian troops had been building up on the Ukrainian border for weeks now, only for Putin to announce their pullback this week. Moscow claims it was only ever a military exercise, but the troop presence was enough to fuel speculation of further annexation of parts of Ukraine. Fraser Nelson speaks to James Forsyth and Owen Matthews about Putin's geopolitical game.
After damning accusations in the papers that Dominic Cummings leaked a series of the Prime Minister's texts, the former No 10 aide has wasted little time in hitting back. In a blog this afternoon, he attacks the Prime Minister and those closest to him. Gus Carter speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Downing Street insiders have accused Dominic Cummings of being behind a series of lobbying leaks. But why is the Prime Minister's team turning on the former adviser, and will he hit back? Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Joe Biden is hosting world leaders for a virtual summit on climate change today. In attendance was Boris Johnson, who was keen to impress the President with his own green credentials. Will he succeed? Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Michael Gove is on a fact-finding mission in Israel this week, studying the country's vaccine passports scheme. But are the plans not already set for the UK to adopt them? Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Fans, players, managers and politicians have spoken out against the proposals by 12 of Europe's top football teams to form a breakaway league. Boris Johnson wrote in today's Sun that he would show the plans the red card, but can government really stop them? Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Boris Johnson's trip to India was today cancelled as the country battles a new coronavirus variant. The PM was expecting to push Modi to release AstraZeneca vaccines to Britain, but that now looks unlikely. What does this mean for the UK's roadmap? Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Isabel Hardman hosts the highlights from Sunday's political shows, with George Eustice, Nicola Sturgeon, Andrei Kelin and Rachel Reeves.
A new YouGov poll shows that the Conservative party is 14 points ahead of the Labour party. What is Keir Starmer doing wrong? Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and the Mail on Sunday's Dan Hodges.
The UK and EU are holding talks over how to fix the Northern Ireland Protocol and stop the continuing violence on the island. Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman about whether there's a way forward.
A number of cases of the South African variant have been detected around parts of London, leading to surge testing of those neighbourhoods this week. Could this variant stunt the UK's vaccine rollout? Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
A civil servant advised Greensill Capital while still working in government, it emerged yesterday evening. Is the scandal hurting Boris Johnson, or just damaging an old rival? Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and the New Statesman's political editor Stephen Bush.
Boris Johnson today said that the fall in coronavirus hospitalisations and deaths 'has not been achieved by the vaccination programme'. After pubs, restaurants and shops reopened yesterday, why is the PM talking down vaccines? Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
David Cameron finally issued a statement over the weekend on the ongoing Greensill scandal. Gordon Brown also waded in this morning, telling the Today programme that there should be a five-year cooling-off period before former PMs can lobby. Will this but the issue to bed? Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman.
The government's vaccination plan is clearly to achieve herd immunity. So why won't anyone say that? Katy Balls talks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth about the disparity between the strategy and the messaging on the government's current Covid strategy.
The Treasury has released text messages that the Chancellor sent to David Cameron, in response to the latter's repeated lobbying. While Labour is trying to land a blow on Rishi Sunak as a result of this, can they succeed? Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and James Kirkup, Spectator contributor and Director of the Social Markets Foundation.
Last night violence in Belfast escalated - petrol bombs were thrown, a bus was hijacked and children as young as 13 were reportedly getting involved. Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls about why Northern Ireland is experiencing this renewed wave of violence.
Under-30s should be offered an alternative to the Oxford/AstraZeneca jab, the UK's vaccine regulator said this afternoon. What does this mean for the UK's roadmap? Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Kate Andrews.
The government needs to be 'honest' about vaccine passports, Labour's shadow health minister Jonathan Ashworth said today. Boris Johnson yesterday said the 'certificates' would not be needed for pubs or shops, but a recent paper from the government said venues could scrap social distancing rules if they're used. Cindy Yu speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls about the proposals.
The next stage of lockdown easing is going as planned, but some caveats around international travel and vaccine passports are being floated for further down the line. What did the government's announcements today clear up? Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Brits will be offered two lateral flow tests a week, it was announced last night. The expansion of testing, the government say, will allow those who haven't been vaccinated to continue life as normal. But is it really necessary? Cindy Yu speaks to Fraser Nelson and Kate Andrews.
Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls about London's upcoming mayoral election.
Keir Starmer said that needing a vaccine passport to go to the pub would go against 'British instinct', in an interview today. But is he really against the proposals? Katy Balls speaks to Kate Andrews and James Forsyth.
Today's report from the Commission on Race and Ethnic Disparities has made waves for its rejection of the existence of 'structural racism' in the UK, and recommendation to stop using the label 'BAME' when it comes to describing minority experiences and ethnic relations. Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Cindy Yu about what it gets right.
A report on the Met Police's handling of Sarah Everard's vigil has concluded that the force 'acted appropriately'. Was the conclusion a surprise, and has the new Policing Bill given them too much power? Isabel Hardman speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Alex Salmond has been building his new Alba Party over the weekend. Two SNP MPs have defected to the former party leader's side - is he helping further the cause of Scottish independence? Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Katy Balls rounds up the highlights from Sunday's political programmes. Highlights today come from Oliver Dowden, Mark Drakeford, Nick Thomas-Symonds, Nusrat Ghani, Kenny MacAskill and Lorna Slater.
After ruling out vaccine passports for most of this year, the government seems to be moving the goalposts with little discussion. Fraser Nelson writes in his Telegraph column this week that Britain could be moving to a bio-security state - and discusses with James Forsyth and Katy Balls on this episode.
China has sanctioned nine Brits and four British entities in retaliation to sanctions imposed by the West earlier this week. What should the government do about this? Katy Balls talks to Cindy Yu and James Forsyth about the next moves.
Today Matt Hancock refused to rule out not bringing the government's Covid emergency powers back for another renewal vote in September, while the Prime Minister has been firefighting his comments from yesterday about pubs and vaccine passports. What kind of normality can we actually expect this summer? Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
What's the point of vaccinating the population, if fear of new strains will prevent a return to normality when it comes to air travel? That's the question the government is facing this week, after comments by Professor Neil Ferguson suggested that foreign travel may still be forbidden this summer. Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson about what the future holds.
Nicola Sturgeon today survived a confidence vote brought forward by the Scottish Conservatives. Newly elected Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar said Scots deserved a 'better government' and a 'better opposition'. Could he stop the SNP winning a majority in May's elections? Katy Balls talks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Overnight the European Commission's rhetoric on vaccine export bans hotted up. In the run up to Thursday's meeting between European leaders to discuss its vaccines options, what will the UK government do? Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls about Boris's options.
Isabel Hardman rounds up the highlights from Sunday's interview shows, with clips from Steve Baker, Ben Wallace, Mairead McGuinness, Lisa Nandy and Jonathan Ashworth.
America has belatedly joined the vaccine diplomacy arena, the progress of which by Russia and China has been covered by The Spectator. On this episode of Saturday's Coffee House Shots, Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls, James Forsyth, Kate Andrews and Fraser Nelson about the latest developments in the race and whether Britain should be altogether more noble in its vaccines distribution.
Nicola Sturgeon misled the Scottish Parliament, a special Holyrood committee concluded yesterday. In a defiant response, the First Minister said that 'opposition members... made their minds up before I uttered a single word of evidence.' Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth about the fallout.
The European Medicines Agency has announced that the Oxford-Astrazeneca jab is safe after all. In light of this, will the European Commission go through with its threat of banning vaccines from leaving the bloc? Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Ursula von der Leyen today said that the EU could block vaccine shipments to the UK if it doesn't export AstraZeneca jabs to the bloc. The Commission's head is under pressure to fix a rollout programme that continues to flounder - just 12 per cent of EU citizens have received a dose compared to 39 per cent in the UK. But why does the continent want vaccines it won't approve? Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Starting 'a new Cold War on China' would be 'a mistake', Boris Johnson said today as he set out the government's integrated defence review. The military reassessment - the biggest in decades - also outlined plans to lift the UK's cap on the number of nuclear warheads from 180 to 260. Why does the review matter, and is the PM being too soft on China? Isabel Hardman speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Metropolitan Police commissioner Cressida Dick is facing calls to resign after women were forcibly removed from Saturday's vigil for Sarah Everard. It comes as a bill that gives police more powers to crack down on protests will soon come before Parliament. How big will the backbench rebellion be? Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Isabel Hardman hosts the highlights from Sunday's political shows, with Victoria Atkins, Jess Phillips, Diane Abbott and Sir Ian Diamond.
The Lobby refers to the group of political journalists with access to the Palace of Westminster. On this episode, three former Lobby hacks - Fraser Nelson, James Kirkup (of the Social Mobility Foundation) and Francis Elliott (retiring political editor of the Times) - discuss their rehabilitation from the job, the old days of boozing lunches and the impact of social media on the job today, and much more.
Britain's exports to the EU fell by 40 per cent in January 2021, new figures from the ONS show. Are the numbers a real reflection of post-Brexit trade, or should they be treated with caution? Cindy Yu speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
A number of polls in recent days have shown a majority support for Scotland staying in the UK. Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls about how Scottish independence is not inevitable.
Keir Starmer pushed the PM on the 1 per cent pay rise for nurses at PMQS today. Did shorter, snappier questions bring results for the Labour leader? Isabel Hardman speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
NHS chief Simon Stevens today confirmed that the health service budgeted for a 2.1 per cent pay rise this year (rather than the 1 per cent being recommended by the government), putting pressure on the Treasury to stump up more cash. What are their options, how are Tory backbenchers reacting, and can Starmer turn the issue into an effective political attack? Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
The government has so far kept quiet about Harry and Meghan's shocking interview with Oprah, in which - among other revelations - the couple claimed that a member of the royal family made racist comments about their son Archie's skin colour. But with Boris Johnson set to host a government press conference at 4pm today, will he respond? Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Isabel Hardman rounds up the best bits from Sunday's interview shows, with Gavin Williamson, Jonathan Ashworth, Lisa Nandy and Dr Susan Hopkins.
With economic growth of over seven percent forecast for 2022, could 2023 be an election year? Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth about the next poll's likely date.
Unions are threatening strike action after the government recommended a one per cent pay increase for nurses in England. Will the backlash force a U-turn, and what will the public make of it? Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson.
Day Two is sometimes when the budgets come unravelled. But Rishi Sunak's Budget seems to have survived the scrutiny of the polls, pundits and papers. Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Chancellor Rishi Sunak pledged a further £65bn in today's budget, bringing the government's total spending during coronavirus to more than £400bn. But aside from splurges on extending furlough and the Universal Credit uplift, and new 'restart grants' offered to ailing businesses, the first belt-tightening measures were announced. Income tax thresholds will be frozen, and cooperation tax on profitable companies will rise from 19 to 25 per cent in 2023. Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson, James Forsyth and Kate Andrews about what it all means.
Rishi Sunak has been a popular Chancellor, mainly because he's responsible for pandemic giveaway after giveaway. But with tomorrow's Budget, the tone will begin to change. Can he get through it unscathed? Katy Balls talks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.
Contact tracers are trying to find a person infected with the Brazilian variant of coronavirus, after they incorrectly returned their testing form. How serious is the new strain's arrival, and could it have been stopped with a stricter quarantine policy? Isabel Hardman speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Isabel Hardman rounds up the best bits from Sunday's interviews shows, with highlights coming from Rishi Sunak, Anneliese Dodds and Anas Sarwar.
Katy Balls, James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson discuss Alex Salmond's appearance before the Holyrood inquiry into how the Scottish government handled complaints of sexual misconduct made against him.
The Chancellor is expected to announce tax hikes in next week's budget as he looks to bolster the public purse and reassure markets. With capital gains and cooperation tax in his sights, how will the decision go down with Tory MPs? Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Kate Andrews.
Teachers will assess pupil's grades next year, the Education Secretary said today. Has the decision come too late, and will it disadvantage students? Cindy Yu speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Michael Gove will lead a government review into immunity passports. Does his appointment make IDs a foregone conclusion, what will they look like, and when can we expect to see their domestic rollout? Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Alex Salmond has pulled out from his appearance in front of the harassment complaints committee, where he was expected to give evidence about an alleged breach of the ministerial code by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon. Fraser Nelson speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls about the SNP implosion.
Boris Johnson has finally set out his roadmap for easing lockdown. On the episode, Katy Balls talks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth about what to expect over the next few months.
Yet more personnel changes have happened in Downing Street, with Oliver Lewis the latest to depart. The weekend papers were full of briefings that Carrie Symonds is the reason for the latest strife. Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson about how much truth there is in that.
Isabel Hardman rounds up the highlights from Sunday's interview shows. Featured today are Matt Hancock, Sir Keir Starmer, John McDonnell, The Most Reverend Justin Welby and Jo Whiley.
While coronavirus has dominated the last year in politics, domestic issues are creeping back onto the agenda. Near the top of the list is reaching Net Zero by 2050 - not least because climate-conscious Joe Biden is now in the White House. Can Britain hit its target? Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Sam Lowe, senior research fellow at the Centre for European Reform.
Emmanuel Macron has said wealthy nations should begin donating up to five per cent of their vaccines to Africa. It comes as Boris Johnson hosts a virtual G7 today - Joe Biden's first multilateral meeting. Has the French president stolen Boris's thunder? Cindy Yu speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Today's speech from the Labour leader was billed to be 'Beveridge-style'. On the podcast, Kate Andrews tells Katy Balls and James Forsyth why it was nothing of the sort, and they strategise what Starmer should have said.
It's not the Forsyth Spit Bucket, but it may help us ease lockdown. Cindy Yu talks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls about why the government is banking so much on rapid tests, given that vaccination was meant to be the route out.
Nadhim Zahawi this morning said that scientists are working on rapid Covid tests to reopen large events. The vaccine deployment minister said that 'new technologies' are being trialled at the Porton Down laboratories, and ruled out the government introducing vaccine passports. Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Despite the UK hitting its target of giving 15 million people their first vaccine dose by 15 February, Boris Johnson said the path to reopening will be 'cautious but irreversible'. What does this approach mean for the return to normal life? Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Isabel Hardman hosts the highlights from Sunday's political programmes. Today's interviews featured Dominic Raab, Professor John Watson, Mark Drakeford, Bridget Phillipson and Professor Tim Spector.
With the government facing a backbench revolt over how to fix the pressing issue of unsafe cladding on high rise buildings, Katy Balls asks Conservative MP Bob Blackman and the Spectator's assistant editor Emma Byrne about the government's response so far.
Despite the GDP figures from the ONS today, the Bank of England's chief economist Andy Haldane has written an optimistic commentary today, arguing why he thinks the British economy will bounce back after Covid restrictions end. Katy Balls talks to Kate Andrews, the Spectator's Economics Correspondent, and James Forsyth about that possibility.
After a brief winter hibernation, it seems that the lockdown-sceptic wing of the Conservative party is returning in force. Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth about the increasing clamour to reopen society and whether the government really has shifted the goalposts for easing lockdown.
At PMQs today, Boris Johnson said the public would need to 'get used to the idea of vaccinating and then revaccinating in the autumn, as we come to face these new variants.' The government's contract with the Wrexham factory that helps make the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine has been extended to August 2022 at the earliest, so will repeat inoculations be the way forward? Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.
The government has managed to delay a backbench rebellion on the so-called 'genocide amendment' today, using what Iain Duncan Smith called 'arcane procedural games'. The Trade Bill amendment, which would have seen courts given the power to designate abuses as a genocide, was expected to have a significant number of Tory backers. Katy Balls discusses with James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Latest research from the University of Oxford shows that their vaccine has 'minimal protection' against the South African variant of the coronavirus. Should the government be doing more to protect UK borders? Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.
Isabel Hardman rounds up the highlights from Sunday's political programmes. Today's contributions come from Nadhim Zadhawi, Ed Miliband, Andy Burnham and Professor Sarah Gilbert.
Sensing an opportunity after the EU triggered Article 16 of the Northern Ireland Protocol, the British government is in talks with the EU over compromises to the agreement. Will this gamble pay off, or could it backfire to stoke tensions on the island of Ireland? Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Denis Staunton, London Editor of the Irish Times.
Some Sage scientists have broken rank to suggest that the falling infection rates mean that schools in England should go back at the end of this month, like in Scotland. Will the government cave from their March 8th promise? Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
It's been weeks since the idea of a quarantine system was floated, yet nothing has been forthcoming on that front. Isabel Hardman asks James Forsyth and Katy Balls - what's the hold up in government?
At PMQs today, Keir Starmer denied Boris Johnson's claims that he wanted the UK to remain in the EU's vaccine procurement scheme. Could a successful domestic rollout, away from the bloc's programme, be seen by the public as an upside of Brexit and cause the opposition problems? Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.
Another day, another dig from across the channel on the UK's vaccine reliability. Isabel Hardman talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls about how this rhetoric could backfire.
Joanna Cherry was sacked from the SNP's Westminster frontbench today. The former justice spokesperson, who is an ally of Alex Salmond, was dropped as the party continues to row over transgender rights. Has the move strengthened leader Nicola Sturgeon's position? Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Stephen Daisley.
The EU's row with AstraZeneca came to a head on Friday, with the bloc publishing its contract with the pharmaceutical giant and introducing vaccine export controls. With the UK's rollout continuing at pace, where will the vaccine debate go next? Isabel Hardman speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Isabel Hardman rounds up the best of Sunday's political shows, with today's podcast featuring and Liz Truss, Micheál Martin, Rachel Reeves and Tony Blair.
Katy Balls and the New Statesman's Stephen Bush discuss how much of a splash Keir Starmer has made over the past 9 months. Hosted by Cindy Yu.
Novavax's vaccine has shown 89 per cent efficacy in UK trials. The government has bought 60 million doses of the jab, and it's expected that production will begin in Teesside later this year. But, as the EU's rollout languishes and their row with AstraZeneca escalates, should Britain consider giving away its vaccines? Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson.
Boris Johnson visits Scotland today. To nobody's surprise, Nicola Sturgeon has criticised the visit coming at this moment in the pandemic; while Keir Starmer has defended the PM's right to do so as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth about the visit and whether or not it will backfire.
In his statement to the Commons today, Boris Johnson suggested March 8 as a date for schools to return. This is earlier than some predictions but certainly later than many were expecting when schools were shut earlier this month. Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman about what this tells us about when a more general lockdown easing may happen.
In the last 24 hours, the EU has threatened to place export controls on vaccines manufactured in the EU; while a German paper has been corrected by Berlin for misreporting that the German government thought the Oxford-Astrazeneca jab was only eight per cent effective in over-65s. Isabel Hardman talks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth about what's going on and whether it could impact Britain's supply.
The government's Covid-O group will be making a decision on the UK's border restrictions imminently. On the podcast, Isabel Hardman talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls about what is being considered and why now.
Cindy Yu presents the highlights from Sunday's interview shows. With clips from Nicola Sturgeon, Matt Hancock, Nick Thomas-Symonds and Arlene Foster.
In his upcoming book, the historian Robert Tombs writes that Brexit may not be the historically significant event we think it is. On the podcast, Katy Balls speaks to him and James Forsyth about just how history will remember Brexit, and what are the future events that can still change our memory of it.
The Guardian reported today that the Department of Health is considering offering a £500 isolation fee to encourage more people with symptoms to get tested. But the Treasury hit back fast saying that they had not seen these proposals and that the idea was 'bonkers'. Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson about what the row says about the conversations behind the scenes.
No 10 refused to rule out the possibility today, and the Health Secretary has also refused to be drawn on whether or not the vaccinating the most vulnerable would provide the roadmap out of lockdown. Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls about the possibility that England's lockdown will last past Easter.
Timed with the inauguration of Joe Biden, Theresa May has written an op-ed in the Daily Mail criticising her successor for his 'abandon of our global moral leadership'. Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson about what this former prime minister will do from the backbenches.
Today the Commons debates the 'genocide amendment' to the Trade Bill, which would allow judges to restrict the government's ability to sign trade deals with countries deemed guilty of genocide. It's a clear swipe at China and its treatment of the Uyghur minority, and on the podcast, Katy Balls discusses with James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman what this means for the Conservative party's new stance on China.
The Commons will today see a debate over extending the universal credit uplift. While Thérèse Coffey, the work and pensions secretary, wants the weekly increase to remain, Rishi Sunak wants to replace it with a one-off £500 payment. Isabel Hardman talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls about the Tory split.
Isabel Hardman presents the highlights from the Sunday interview shows. Today's podcast features Dominic Raab, Sir Simon Stevens, James Comey, Jonathan Reynolds and Sir Ed Davey.
The new chairman of the BBC has been announced. It's not Charles Moore, or Paul Dacre, but a low-profile former banker called Richard Sharp. On the podcast, Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls about what Sharp's appointment reflects about the government's war on the BBC.
A leaked Scottish government document suggested that all over-50s could be vaccinated by the end of March, and that UK has capacity to deliver 3.8 million jabs next week. Has the government been underselling its efforts? Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Steve Baker, deputy chairman of the backbench Covid Recovery Group, has warned that Boris Johnson's leadership will be 'on the table' unless he gives a path out of lockdown. But is the PM really under threat? Cindy Yu speaks to James Forysth and Katy Balls.
Gavin Williamson, the education secretary, has said today that a national voucher scheme for free school meals would return on Monday, after pictures of the food packages being given to children were widely circulated online. Footballer Marcus Rashford said the Prime Minister promised 'that he is committed to correcting the issue'. Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Boris Johnson has been criticised for taking a bike ride in the Olympic Park, seven miles away from Downing Street. Should the government make the Covid rules clearer? Isabel Hardman speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Chris Whitty said that hospitals will face 'the worst weeks of this pandemic' in a broadcast round this morning, as he implored Brits to keep social contact 'to an absolute minimum'. It comes as the government is considering even stricter restrictions to improve compliance. Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.
Isabel Hardman rounds up the best of Sunday's interviews with highlights from Sir Keir Starmer, Matt Hancock, Tracy Nicholls and Peter Horby.
Brexit is done, but Nigel Farage may well remain an influential force in British politics. With his rebranding of the Brexit Party to 'Reform UK' approved this week, Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Patrick O'Flynn, former Ukip MEP, about whether or not Sinoscepticism and lockdown-scepticism are enough for Farage to build a new movement.
Simon Stevens, NHS chief executive, said yesterday that 800 new patients are admitted to London hospitals with Covid-19 every day. Could pressure on the health service force them to delay the vaccine distribution? Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Last night's events in Washington DC has sent shockwaves around the world. Trump's obvious disregard for democracy was on show, leading to a normally diplomatic British government to condemn the President in strong language. Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth about how the government sees its past and future relationship with Trump and Trumpism.
The government has announced that 23 per cent of over 80s in England have now received their first dose of the Covid vaccine. With Boris Johnson and Matt Hancock aiming to give 13.5 million people the jab before the middle of February, will that be enough to end lockdown restrictions? Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Following the announcement of a third lockdown, a testing regime for arrivals could be put in place. It comes as Michael Gove said there would be announcements in the coming days about 'how we will make sure that our ports and airports are safe', and Nicola Sturgeon said 'urgent' discussions were underway. Isabel Hardman talks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
This evening the Prime Minister announced a return to the lockdown system for England, coming after Nicola Sturgeon announced similar measures earlier in the day. Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman about what the measures mean for students, vulnerable groups and more.
Boris Johnson today said there was 'no question' that the government would announce tighter coronavirus restrictions, as case numbers continue to surge. It came after health secretary Matt Hancock said this morning that the existing tier system is 'no longer strong enough'. What will further restrictions look like? Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Isabel Hardman rounds up Sunday's political interview highlights, with clips coming from Boris Johnson, Sir Mark Walport, Arlene Foster, Tony Blair and Liz Truss.
After four and a half years, Brexit has finally happened with a free trade deal passed. But with Scottish independence hotting up and the pandemic not yet finished, the government faces more challenges in the very short term. Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth about what's coming next.
A Brexit deal has been reached. Negotiations over fisheries continued into the early hours of Christmas Eve, and Boris Johnson finalised the agreement with Ursula von der Leyen at 1:44pm. The PM said the treaty resolves a 'question that has bedevilled politics for decades', while the EU Commission President said it was 'time to leave Brexit behind'. Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth about the details.
Another day, another press conference. In today's, Matt Hancock announced more regions to enter Tier 4 restrictions come Boxing Day, as well as another new, highly transmissible, strain of the virus. Cindy Yu talks to Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls about the latest updates, as well as signs of potential white smoke on the Brexit negotiations.
At yesterday's press conference, Boris Johnson said there were just 170 lorries queuing in Kent to cross the Channel. Today, there are expected to be around 1,500. The government is continuing discussions with France to get freight moving again, but will Boris be blamed for the hold-up? Isabel Hardman speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Speaking alongside Patrick Vallance and Grant Shapps, Boris Johnson said we could expect 'a very, very different world for this country from Easter onwards'. But will the new Covid strain derail the easing of restrictions? Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth.
Isabel Hardman hosts the last Sunday Roundup of the year, with highlights coming from Matt Hancock, Sir Keir Starmer, Lisa Nandy and Sadiq Khan.
Christmas has been cancelled, after all. In London and parts of the South East, new Tier 4 restrictions mean that households will not be able to mix indoors; whereas in the rest of the country families can only get together on Christmas day. Does this government suffer from consistently over-promising? Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
This week Liz Truss promised to shake up the equalities brief, opting for 'facts not fashion' in the fight against inequality that looks at regions and class, not just gender and race. What can we learn about the government's future direction from this speech? Cindy Yu talks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen spoke last night in another attempt to push the Brexit discussions forward. Statements released after call made clear that fishing rights remain the last serious hurdle - but will negotiators let it sink a deal? James Forsyth discusses with Katy Balls.
As parliament breaks up for recess, the government likely dodged a Tory rebellion by allowing Christmas to go ahead. Katy Balls and James Forsyth chew over what's next for MPs on Brexit and Covid.
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While the government wrangles with Christmas coronavirus rules, negotiations in Brussels are continuing. Boris Johnson seemed more upbeat about the prospect of a deal at PMQs today, telling SNP leader Ian Blackford that that there was 'every opportunity, every hope' of a deal. Is the PM bracing for an agreement? Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.
The government is coming under pressure to reverse the Christmas relaxation of Covid rules, with two of the country's leading health journals - the Health Service Journal and the British Medical Journal - jointly calling for a rethink. Keir Starmer, meanwhile, has called on Boris Johnson to hold an emergency COBRA meeting to review the plans. Will the government cancel Christmas? Isabel Hardman speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
London is set to enter the highest set of coronavirus restrictions. Normally this would see restaurants, pubs and indoor entertainment venues forced to close, but could the capital see the introduction even tighter rules? John Connolly speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Isabel Hardman presents the highlights from Sunday's political shows, with clips from Dominic Raab, Ursula von der Leyen, Ed Miliband and Arancha González Laya.
Boris Johnson and Ursula von der Leyen have decided to continue Brexit negotiations, it was announced today. A deal between the two sides seemed distant after the pair met for dinner last week, and they decided to take stock over the following days. Does the announcement mean real progress is now being made? Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth.
Katy Balls, James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson look back on Boris Johnson's first year of leading a majority government.
While Brexit negotiations rumble on, important decisions about Covid still have to be made. Next week, the government will review the tier system and decide whether the localised restrictions need to be eased or tightened. Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth about what might change.
A Brexit breakthrough seemed possible when Boris Johnson met European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen for dinner last night. This evening, however, the PM has warned that there was a 'strong possibility' of no-deal. What's changed, and is no-deal now the most likely outcome? James Forsyth speaks to Katy Balls.