The Business Breakfast: Recent Episodes
The Business Breakfast
The Business Breakfast team bring you the latest news, in-depth interviews and investigations from the world of business and finance.
With just weeks to go until Christmas, there’s still uncertainty about how to see friends and family safely while minimising the risk of catching or passing on coronavirus. Downing Street and the devolved governments have agreed relaxed rules for the 23rd to the 27th of December, allowing a Christmas bubble of three households to meet together in private homes, gardens and places of worship. Nick Howard and Professor Linda Bauld, public health and epidemiology expert at the University of Edinburgh, go through the best options for staying safe, the latest scientific research on the virus, and the possible ramifications for January.
First broadcast as part of the Jazz FM Business Breakfast, Monday 7th Dec 2020
With unemployment at multiyear highs, and heavy job losses expected at the end of the month, jobs minister Mims Davies gives an outspoken interview on winning "hearts and minds" on career switches and workers doing jobs "they might not like".
Speaking to Nick Howard on the Jazz FM Business Breakfast
First broadcast 14th October 2020
Ahead of the Prime minister's expected "back to the office" announcement, and after job losses of 650,000 during the pandemic, Nick Howard speaks to employment minister Mims Davies about how the government's tackling the issue.
First broadcast 17th July 2020
Parliamentary Under-Secretary for Employment Mims Davies speaks to Nick Howard on why Andrew Sabisky was right to resign. The Downing Street aide has quit after comments apparently made online on eugenics, race, and sex came to light.
Dr Julien LeCourt is Head of Viticulture and Wine R&D at NIAB EMR, the UK farming industry's research centre in the heart of Kent. He's bringing a new grape from Switzerland to the English countryside in the hopes of unlocking a world class red wine.
Nick Howard finds out more.
First broadcast 25th October 2019
Campaigners against the rising state pension age for women are regrouping after a defeat at the High Court. Judges ruled against the Back to 60 group and its allies, saying the increase in the retirement age couldn’t be stopped, and that the changes had been communicated adequately. The rise in the state pension age for women in line with that of men, was triggered by MPs in 1995, and has accelerated since then, with the government arguing a move away from manual work, and an older population living longer, make the changes essential. Nick Howard speaks to Joanne Welch from the Back to 60 campaign.
First broadcast 7th October 2019
Bills on divorce, animal welfare, domestic abuse and more were passing through parliament when it was suspended, and will now have to go back to the start of the process.
It's a reminder that Brexit isn't the only topic in politics, but another casualty of it. We don’t know yet whether the potential new laws will reappear in the next Queens Speech. To discuss just one of those bills, covering domestic violence, Nick Howard spoke with Director of Policy at the charity Refuge, Ellie Butt.
First broadcast 11th September 2019
Parliament's back this week, with No Deal fears running high. Nick Howard discusses food shortage threats, attacks on experts and forecasts, and Brexit Party hopes for a General Election with Ben Habib MEP.
First broadcast 2nd September 2019
The UK’s rail operators announced this week we’re leaving the Europe wide Interrail scheme, which offers unlimited train travel in 31 countries. It’s not a Brexit consequence, as it’s not an EU programme, and instead the train firms say they wanted to focus on promoting the country-wide Britrail pass. But after a backlash, they’ve reversed course saying the “strong reaction” forced them to renew talks. Why do feelings run so high for a travel option most will never use? Nick Howard speaks to travel journalist and broadcaster Simon Calder.
First broadcast 9th August 2019
50 years ago the Apollo 11 mission was on its final approach to the moon. But since 1972, just three years later, we haven’t been back, staying in low earth orbit and with government bodies like NASA increasingly overshadowed by private enterprise in space. And though the likes of Richard Branson’s Virgin Galactic have yet to launch, firms like Iridium have been successful in space - they launched the first satellite phone system in the 90s, and which seemed miraculous at the time. They’ve recently completed their second satellite constellation in orbit, and Nick Howard asked CEO Matt Desch if the Apollo mission had an impact on him growing up.
Extended Interview - part broadcast first 19th July 2019
Eight months on from the violent killing of Saudi Arabian journalist Jamal Khashoggi at the embassy in Istanbul, a UN investigator is calling for international authorities to take over the inquiry. Agnes Callamard says the role of the country’s defacto ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, in his death should be looked at. But the case has largely disappeared from the headlines, with US disputes with regional rival Iran taking precedence. Nick Howard spoke with Owen Wilson, who’s the author of ‘Khashoggi and the Crown Prince’, and says the killing shouldn’t be brushed under the carpet.
First broadcast 27th June 2019
The UK’s local airports are booming, with 2 out of 5 of us saying we prefer using them to the big city hubs.
Smaller airports like Bradford, Leeds and Inverness all saw passenger growth of at least 10 percent last year, while Southend tops the table with almost 50 percent more passengers.
Michael Wilson speaks with Paul Nelson from World Travel Market.
Despite most political bandwidth being taken up by the Tory leadership race, the Alternative Arrangements Commission has been examining the problem of the Irish border. Theresa May’s withdrawal deal largely failed in parliament because of fear of an indefinite backstop trapping the UK in Europe, as alternative methods to keep the border open after Brexit haven’t been developed. Now the Commission, led by Conservative MPs Greg Hands and Nicky Morgan, has completed their interim report. Nick Howard speaks first to Mr Hands, who’s confident they’re approaching a solution.
First broadcast 25th June 2019
Five years ago George Osborne launched the Northern Powerhouse in a speech in Manchester. But as the strategy blows out its candles, what’s really been achieved? And with the future of Northern England a missing topic in the Tory leadership debates, will our next prime minister make a difference? Nick Howards speak to the Northern Powerhouse Partnership director, Henri Murison.
First broadcast 21st June 2019
Only 12 percent of the UK’s engineers are female, despite a study suggesting two third of young women are considering it as a career path. The survey by the Institution of Engineering and Technology also raises the interesting stat – 9 out of 10 Brits don’t think that gender imbalance is worth addressing. Ahead of “International Women in Engineering Day”, Nick Howard examines whether that holds up with Sophie Harper, Aerodynamics & Performance Engineer at BAE Systems and 2018 Young Woman Engineer of the Year.
First broadcast 21st June 2019
Two more contenders for Theresa May’s job will be eliminated from the race today. MPs axed Rory Stewart from the contest yesterday, leaving Boris Johnson, Jeremy Hunt, Michael Gove and Sajid Javid in the running. Nick Howard has more.
First broadcast 20th June 2019
Almost 1 in 5 people in working households are living in relative poverty. That’s according to the Institute for Fiscal Studies, which says the number has risen 40 percent over the 25 years between 1994 and 2017. There are many factors behind it, including a rise in employment and what counts as relative poverty, but also more expensive housing and living costs. Michael Wilson speaks to Senior Research Economist at the IFS, Jonathan Cribb, who first explains 'relative poverty'.
First broadcast 19th June 2019
More detail on Facebook’s cryptocurrency, known as Global Coin, is expected today. More than 2 billion people log on to one of the social media giant’s apps, like Instagram or Whatsapp, every day, and it’s been interested in expanding into fintech since at least 2017. But Global Coin’s expected to be very different to cryptocurrencies that have dominated the headlines before, like bitcoin. Michael Wilson speaks with cryptocurrency expert Iqbal Gandham, MD of trading platform eToro.
First broadcast 18th June 2019
Renting, lending and borrowing have been cornerstones of the economy since ownership began, but since the financial crisis, businesses using technology to flatten the process have emerged. Think the difference between renting a house and Airbnb, or hitchhiking and a ride share app like Blablahcar. It’s Global Sharing Week, 7 days of events celebrating these projects and businesses – and there’s plenty more, doing a lot more, thank you might think. Nick Howard speaks to sharing economy expert Benita Matofska, author of Generation Share, focusing on these ideas around the world.
First broadcast 17th June 2019
Boris Johnson is leading the race to replace Theresa May, with six rivals trailing behind. Each says they’re keen for a Brexit agreement, but many including Mr Johnson have backed a No Deal exit rather than further delay. The party has one eye on Jeremy Corbyn, but another on Nigel Farage, whose Brexit Party has proved more adept at sapping grassroots support. Nick Howard speaks to Brexit Party London MEP, Ben Habib.
Whether you’re the boss of a startup coffee shop, or President Donald Trump, there’s at least one problem you have in common.
How do you trust the things your advisers and employees are telling you?
You control whether your staff keep their jobs – what if they’re just saying what they think you want to hear?
We can all think of examples of when the top floor office loses sight of what’s going at ground level – and a new company, Truthsayers, have developed an online tool which they say helps bosses avoid that, by peering directly into what their employees are really thinking.
Nick Howard speaks to Truthsayers co-founder Tim Evans.
First broadcast 12th June 2019
What's your passion? What would you spend money to absolutely own?
A major sale of film and rock and roll memorabilia is taking place at Bonham's auction house this week - including a never before sold George Harrison guitar
Nick Howard speaks to Claire Tole-Moir, the specialist in charge of the sale (sadly she doesn't let him play it).
First broadcast on Jazz FM, 11th June 2019
Ahead of the European Parliament Elections on 23 May 2019, Nick Howard speaks with representatives of all the major, national parties in this election.
Labour and the Conservatives both declined to take part despite being offered the opportunity.
This is the Liberal Democrat candidate for South East England, Catherine Bearder, explaining her priorities if she returns to Brussels.
First broadcast in two parts on Wednesday 22nd May 2019
Ahead of the European Parliament Elections on 23 May 2019, Nick Howard speaks with representatives of all the major, national parties in this election.
Labour and the Conservatives both declined to take part despite being offered the opportunity.
This is The Brexit Party candidate for London, Ben Habib, describing his aims in this election.
_First broadcast in two parts on Tuesday 21st May 2019_
Ahead of the European Parliament Elections on 23 May 2019, Nick Howard speaks with representatives of all the major, national parties in this election.
Labour and the Conservatives both declined to take part despite being offered the opportunity.
This is Green Party candidate for the South East, Alexandra Phillips, describing what she’d want to focus on in Brussels.
_First broadcast in two parts on Monday 20th May 2019_
Nick Howard speaks with the education secretary Damian Hinds on the prime minister's request for Brexit extension, whether she should resign, and what her next steps will be.
With a third 'meaningful' vote on Theresa May's deal looming, Aodhan Connolly of the NI Retail Consortium describes the mood in Northern Ireland, why a No Deal or long Brexit extension worry him, and why he hopes the DUP, who can't support the backstop, will "climb down off the ledge".
First broadcast 15th March 2019
More than three years on from the Dieselgate scandal, new independent emission tests suggest cars are still putting out more pollution than the manufacturers claim.
A global network of scientists calling themselves AIR are launching a publicly accessible index of car emissions, based on road tests in towns and cities.
It shows that a range of vehicles which have passed the stringent Euro 6 pollution standard are none the less pumping out a lot more nitrogen oxide into the air we breathe.
Speaking to Michael Wilson is AIR’s CEO, data expert Nick Molden.
MPs are finally getting to vote on Theresa May's Brexit deal - Nick Howard and Nigel Williams have the full details and the exasperated guide to what happens next.
_First broadcast Jazz FM Breakfast 15th January 2019_
The Japanese prime minister is holding talks with Theresa May later.
Shinzo Abe is in the UK to discuss arrangements for the Rugby World Cup in Tokyo this year, but he’s also suggested he’ll be raising Brexit with the prime minister, and the importance of avoiding a No Deal outcome.
Ahead of the visit, Nick Howard speaks to Shinichi Eeda, minister of public diplomacy at the Embassy of Japan.
_First broadcast 10th January 2019_
UK businesses are likely to struggle in 2019, with some going into so-called Pre-Pack administration in an attempt to keep them trading. These arrangement mean they emerge anew, often sold back to their own directors without liabilities like tax bills, debts and pensions - but they're the subject of criticism by the likes of Frank Field MP for the perception of allowing bosses to ditch responsibilities. Stuart Hopewell, co-director of the independent panel which judges these pre-packs defends the principle, but admits the Pre Pack Pool is often ignored, if it's consulted at all. Who do they benefit, and are they being abused?
_First broadcast 3rd January 2019_
A price cap for energy customers on what are often the most expensive tariffs is now in force.
The limit on so-called “standard variable tariffs”, which are the default for providers, is now £1,137.
The regulator says it’ll save 11 million people an average of £76 a year, but energy firms say its restrictive, and consumer groups are warning better deals for switchers are already disappearing as costs are expected to rise.
Joining Nick Howard is energy expert Rik Smith from Uswitch.
Shop prices will go up under new immigration rules as companies face rising hiring costs, according to the British Retail Consortium.
The industry group says the government’s post-Brexit migration plan contains some positive steps, but lower paid and lower skilled workers will be limited to 12 month visas.
It echoes similar comments from the hospitality and social care sectors, but to explain retailers’ concerns and what could be done, Michael Wilson speaks to the BRC’s employment and skills policy lead, Fionnuala Horrocks-Burns.
_First broadcast 20th December 2018_
The Big Four audit firms are facing more accountability and even being split up after a series of high profile disasters.
Between them they review the accounts of 97 percent of the UK’s FTSE 350 firms, but from the collapse of Carillion to the pension scandal at BHS, and even forecasts for railway franchises and projects like HS2, their rubber stamp is being called into question.
Journalist Richard Brooks, author of Bean Counters, which examines the industry and why it needs to change, explains why these plans aren't enough
Food and drink is perhaps the most vital industry in the world, yet it’s often overlooked, marred by low pay and buffeted by political choices.
A sector report’s warning our food supply is threatened by climate change, over-farming the soil, and shifts in our eating habits.
It also says that although Brexit is a major challenge for firms, with uncertainty and higher prices, it’s also a distraction from global issues.
The research is from Prestige Purchasing, and Nick Howard speaks to chairman David Read.
Members of OPEC are gathering in Austria this morning in troubling times for the oil producers’ cartel.
Crude prices dropped 22 percent last month – the worst fall since the financial crisis, and long term member Qatar is signalling it’s leaving the club.
So, is OPEC over a barrel?
Nick Howard asks Independent Oil Market Analyst and Forbes contributor, Gaurav Sharma.
Weekly pay and public investment is falling in the North of England, while household wealth and life expectancy are far behind the rest of the country.
That’s according to the centre-left thinktank, the Institute for Public Policy Research, which is arguing the so-called Northern Powerhouse needs to move on from its initial focus on productivity and transport, investing in job creation and social structure.
The next phase must be “of the North, by the North, for the North” according to the report’s author Luke Raikes.
Dinner with the two most powerful men in the world has ended with a handshake.
US President Trump and Chinese President Xi are in the middle of escalating trade tariffs and a battle of words, but their meeting at the G20 in Argentina’s closed with a 90 day truce.
To explain the significance, and how markets are reacting to the agreement, Michael Wilson speaks to Oanda’s Head of Trading Asia Steve Innes, live from Singapore.
_First broadcast 3rd December 2018_
More than 2-and-a-half-thousand electric vehicle chargers are to be installed in Tesco car parks.
Volkswagen is backing the scheme as it tries to clean up its image after its diesel emissions scandal.
Within three years, drivers will be able to use 7-kilowatt chargers for free, or pay for a rapid charge.
Nick Howard speak with Volkswagen UK board member Mike Orford.
_First broadcast 30th November 2018_
In 2022 the UK will see more internet traffic than in the whole of the last 32 years – that is, since the birth of the web.
This is according to tech giant Cisco’s annual Visual Networking Index which is predicting an explosion of online streaming, connected services and new virtual and augmented reality technology, all of which will gobble up enormous amounts of data.
But what does it mean for the UK – can our infrastructure handle it, and are our businesses ready to adapt?
Nick Howard spoke to Cisco UK’s chief technology officer, Chintan Patel, who says we’ll have to prepare.
_First broadcast 27th November 2018_
Brussels is waking up to a Brexit deal signed by all EU leaders, who are firm that Theresa May’s agreement is the "best and only deal possible".
Nick Howard speaks to Sam Wilkin, editor at MLEX., live in the Belgian capital.
_First broadcast 26th November 2018_
Labour says Theresa May's deal will fail in Parliament, and that they should take over negotiations.
But legal experts say getting more time from the EU will likely need another election or a referendum.
Nick Howard asks Shadow Business Minister Bill Esterson to respond.
First Broadcast 16th November 2018
Theresa May is struggling to find supporters for her Brexit deal in the UK just as it seems to be coming together in Brussels.
Cabinet ministers and backbenchers are voicing their concerns, and after a letter was leaked last week suggesting an Irish customs union would be in the divorce deal, the DUP are also threatening to vote down the prime minister’s deal.
Our Westminster correspondent Georgie Prodromou spoke to the DUP’s deputy leader and head of the Parliamentary Party, Nigel Dodds.
He says the DUP’s made their feeling clear.
_First broadcast 12th November 2018_
It’s been a tough year for UK restaurants, with high profile brands like Jamie’s Italian and Carluccio’s shutting outlets.
London’s seeing its worst year for closures in 28 years.
But a new report says that beneath the headlines, the eating out sector is in good health, with 56 billion pounds spent in the year to June.
According to NPD Group and Springboard UK, firms catering for quick service, and breakfasts in particular, are apparently behind the growth – Springboard’s Diane Wehrle joins Michael Wilson to explain what’s happening.
The Democrats are on track for control of the House of Representatives in the US midterm elections.
Although the Republicans have held onto a majority in the Senate - It could make things tougher for President Trump to pass laws
_First broadcast 7th November 2018_
Polls in the US are opening in the next few hours for the Midterms.
Voters will be choosing senators and Representatives, as well as local officials, which could have big consequences for Donald Trump’s ability to get laws passed.
After weeks of volatility in US markets, the results are being closely watched by investors too.
But is the importance of the midterms being over stated?
Nick Howard asked New York-based Wall Street Journal reporter Akane Otani.
_First broadcast 6th November 2018_
US voters are heading to the polls this week for mid term elections.
They’ll be choosing state level and federal officials, including the whole house of Representatives and about a third of senators.
These Congressional posts could make things tough for President Trump if they swing to the Democrats, as it’ll make it tougher to pass new laws.
But is that what Americans want?
International marketing expert Allyson Stewart-Allen is an expert on US-UK business relations and the co-author of Working With Americans. Nick Howard speaks to her live in New York, where she says voters are keen to make their voices heard.
_First broadcast 5th November 2018_
When we talk about the UK’s soft power, we’re usually thinking of cinema blockbusters or television dramas.
But Britain’s a long standing force to be reckoned with in the games industry, worth over 5 billion pounds.
But is that under threat from world economic uncertainty and Brexit?
Arthur Parsons is Head of Design at TT Games, which produces the long standing Lego series.
The prime minister and the Chancellor are promising an end to austerity, and a deal on Brexit.
But consumer confidence has fallen, according to GfK’s monthly tracker, with our optimism for the next twelve months of our own finances and that of the country taking a tumble.
That’s bad news for retailers as we head towards Christmas – as it looks like we’re not buying what politicians are selling.
Is price-fixing costing us all money?
And with the Competition watchdog issuing over 150 million pounds of fines in the last 3 years, is it possible the rules just aren’t understood properly?
Josie Cox and Nick Howard speak to Competition and Markets Authority director Christiane Kent.
_First broadcast 26th October 2018_
Big tech firms are taking a beating after some disappointing earnings.
Social media platforms like Twitter and Snap shed millions of users, while Amazon and Alphabet, Google’s parent company, missed expectations.
Nick Howard and Josie Coxus speak to James Erskine, director of social media influencer agency Social Circle, to explain the reality behind the numbers
_First broadcast 26th October 2018_
The National Audit Office says the UK border won’t be ready by next March in case of a No Deal Brexit.
Nick Howard quizzes Shadow Business Minister Bill Esterson on the Opposition response.
The independent government watchdog’s warning the UK border won’t be ready in time for leaving the EU next March.
The National Audit Office has found political uncertainty and poor planning means infrastructure, border staff and business systems aren’t going to be in place.
No government minister would come on the programme to discuss the report or take responsibility, and a statement just says they have “robust plans” to deal with the border.
Nick Howard speaks to Rod McKenzie, policy director at the Road Haulage Association, which deals with reality at the border every day.
Tobacco giant Philip Morris is under fire for anti-smoking ads as it’s promoting e-cigarettes and other new technologies.
Health charities like Cancer Research UK are accusing the firm of “staggering hypocrisy” as 87% of their business still comes from standard cigarettes.
Nick Howard speak to Mark MacGregor, corporate affairs director at Philip Morris, about why the firm's still selling cigarettes, and why it's getting in front of its competitors on new technologies.
_First broadcast 23rd October 2018_
This week Canada became only the second country (after Uraguay) in the world to legalise cannabis.
Europe and the UK are lagging behind, despite a small majority favouring legalisation according to Yougov.
But other products using cannabis oil, or CBD, are already making their way on to shop shelves, perhaps paving the way for future liberalisation.
Nick Howard spoke to Hannah Hooton, who’s product manager at Cannaquix, asking what CBD is, and whether it’s really legal.
College bosses are pessimistic about getting more cash in the “end of austerity” Budget this month. Most education funding has been protected over the last ten years, but colleges – which teach 16-18 year olds as well as post-school courses like vocational qualifications and evening classes – have seen a 30% drop.
Thousands of students marched on Parliament yesterday to protest this, joined by Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn and Shadow Education Secretary Angela Rayner and Lib Dem education spokesperson Layla Moran. David Hughes, chief executive of the Association of Colleges, who appeared on yesterday’s Business Breakfast, says it was “fantastic”, and is pleased about reports that MPs on both sides of the house will be raising the issue. But he’s holding out for next year’s government spending review for revised funding from the Chancellor.
Theresa May’s been speaking to EU leaders in Brussels at a Brexit summit.
But talks seem to be at an impasse, with no new ideas, and no sign of more compromises as the clock runs out.
However the prime minister has signalled she could be open to extending the transition period, currently from next March to the end of 2020.
Joining Nick Howard from Brussels is Brexit expert Matthew Holehouse from MLex.
Theresa May is heading to Brussels for a summit with EU leaders, but talks appear to have stalled over plans for the Irish border.
Negotiations are far behind schedule, but both sides are unable to agree on how to keep the land border between Northern Ireland and the Republic frictionless if other solutions fail.
Roger Pollen from the Federation of Small Businesses, which represents more than 95% of all firms there, explains the mood in Northern Ireland
Seven months on from the first gender pay gap reports, the prime minister’s proposing more transparency over businesses’ pay gap for ethnic minority workers. This is after the government’s race disparity audit found big differences in how Brits were treated in health, education and the justice system depending on ethnicity, and in employment, Theresa May says minority workers often feel like they’re “hitting a brick wall”. Hephzi Pemberton, founder of the Equality Group says firms should go further, while David D’Souza, director of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development explains what we can learn from reporting the gender pay gap.
_First broadcast 15th October 2018_
Do you have the right to ask a business to do anything, even if it goes against a worker’s deeply held beliefs?
Or on some occasions, is the customer in fact wrong?
That’s the question the UK Supreme Court has had to decide.
It’s made its ruling – and Nick Howard gets the details from human rights barrister Adam Wagner, founder of Rights Info.
What makes a big company into a brand? And is it worth the effort?
Social media and marketing are bringing us closer to big firms than ever before, and the strength of a brand can be enough to future proof a business. The 2018 Futurebrand index shows which of the world’s most valuable companies are seen as the best brands. To find out what it tells us, Nick Howard speaks to Futurebrand’s global strategy director John Tipple, first asking how the index is built.
The Japanese prime minister says the UK would be welcomed with “open arms” into the Trans Pacific Partnership.
That’s despite Japanese manufacturers pushing for frictionless EU trade after Brexit, and experts warning the 11 country trade pact would only replicate existing EU trade deals.
But Shinzo Abe’s invitation is only one strand of an ongoing charm offensive by Japan, ahead of Brexit and events like the Rugby World Cup next and the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
Nick Howard visited Japan House, the country’s new cultural embassy in West London.
Traders are anticipating more volatility in markets this week.
A booming US economy, and concerns over global growth are forcing money into America at the expense of everywhere else, pushing down share prices.
The money’s drying up, making things tougher for businesses and for governments themselves, at a time when the market is increasingly unstable – and analysts are worried about what could happen next.
Helen Thomas, financial market expert and Blonde Money founder, tells Michael Wilson why a booming US isn't helping the rest of the world this time around.
There’s positive news on Brexit this morning, as Theresa May’s Irish border solution appears to be finding favour in Brussels.
The prime minister’s backing a UK wide customs union, and some single market rules for Northern Ireland, as a backstop option.
Irish leader Leo Varadkar’s been meeting with EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier.
Brexit expert Simon Taylor explains to Nick Howard, live from Brussels.
Financial literacy levels in the UK are far lower than in other developed countries, with one in three adults unable to work out basic change or price discounts.
But the younger generation could be better off, with education charities like MyBank working with kids to improve financial skills from an early age.
It comes as a new report from Axa Investment shows children as young as eight are already saving, with a third under 15 earning money from a job or chores.
Nick Howard speaks to Mybank’s head of education, Sharan Jaswal about the charity’s work.
_First broadcast 4th October 2018_
Theresa May could be preparing to compromise on Northern Ireland’s regulations after Brexit in an attempt to break the impasse in negotiations.
A new plan could see the region retaining limited single market membership, putting extra checks on the Irish sea border.
But DUP leader Arlene Foster is already going on the offensive, warning the prime minister she won’t accept extra regulations for Northern Ireland the rest of the UK isn’t subject to.
Nick Howard asks trade expert Sam Lowe from the Centre for European Reform if the proposals change anything.
Is Britain lagging behind on positive impact investing? UBS’s Investor Watch Report suggests only 20% of UK portfolios focus on sustainable investing, compared with more than 50% in developing markets.
Nick Howard speaks to Nick Tucker, Head of UK Domestic at UBS Wealth Management
_First broadcast 1st October 2018_
Nick Howard quizzes Shadow Business Minister Bill Esterson on Labour's offer to businesses, intentions ahead of the key Brexit vote, what Jeremy Corbyn and Michel Barnier talked about, and hopes for the Conservative Party Conference.
_First broadcast 28th September 2018_
Theresa May’s in New York, telling business leaders there that the UK is committed to free trade after Brexit, with lower corporation tax and “intelligent regulation”.
But as her government distributes more “No Deal Brexit” advice, and supply chain chiefs warn 10% of businesses could go bankrupt if borders are disrupted – more UK firms are apparently opening bases abroad since the Brexit vote.
Galvin International advises companies on expanding overseas - Nick Howard speaks to founder John Galvin, who says it wasn’t the only change after the referendum
_First broadcast 27th Sept 2018_
Do men and women make different kinds of leaders?
And are we better suited to different roles?
The prime minister may reckon there are “girl jobs and boy jobs”, but new research suggests there’s no actual difference in how men and women rank in competitiveness, risk-taking, relationship management and more workplace skills.
But if that’s the case – why do the myths persist, and how can we beat them?
Michael Wilson speaks to the study’s lead psychologist, Jayson Darby, from Thomas International.
Nick Howard reports back from the launch of the Institute of Economic Affair’s Brexit ‘Plan A+’.
_First broadcast 25th September 2018_
The question of foreign aid – how to spend it, who to spend it on, and whether it should be spent in the first place – has always been divisive.
But most would agree that when money is being spent on developing nations, it should be doing the most good, with as little waste as possible.
A new report from development network EURODAD shows that despite 17 years of recommendations, countries including the UK are still linking almost half their aid budgets to projects benefiting their own firms – so called Tied Aid – even if it means developing economies get a worse deal.
In 2016 that’s thought to have cost them between 2 and 5.5 billion dollars.
Nick Howard speaks to me the report’s author, Polly Meeks, live from Brussels
The long running tussle for ownership of Sky ends in a three round auction between US telecoms giant Comcast and 21st Century Fox. It’s good news for shareholders, as big wads of cash are going to put down (the last Comcast bid was £26bn), and will have big implications for the future of UK media.
Nick Howard gets the detail from media analyst Alex deGroote.
_First broadcast 21st September 2018_
Theresa May’s got just four weeks to come up with a new solution to the Irish border issue after EU leaders rejected her Chequers Brexit plan.
At a meeting in Salzburg the European Council president Donald Tusk claimed it “risks undermining the single market”.
To discuss what happens next, Nick Howard speaks to Brexit expert Simon Taylor.
_First broadcast 21st September 2018_
One in three of us suffers from anxiety or depression, and the root causes are still far from understood.
It can have debilitating effects not just on our own lives, but on those around us – and although research shows as much as 40 percent could be genetic, the link isn’t clear.
A new study is bringing together tens of thousands of volunteers dealing with anxiety and depression to examine the connections in DNA.
Nick Howard speaks to former Tony Blair aide Alastair Campbell, who’s part of the campaign, about the impact on family and work colleagues, as well as Brexit, Trump, and the rise of fake news.
_First broadcast 20th September 2018_
From chocolate and coffee to bananas and wine, fairtrade growers supply over 4,500 products in the UK.
But without clarity on what a Brexit deal will mean for market access, and concern over whether a No Deal outcome is possible, they’re worrying about losing one of their biggest buyers.
A report from the Fair Trade Foundation shows the fear over rising tariff levels and more customs bureaucracy, as well as general uncertainty from buyers eating into growers’ revenue.
Michael Wilson speaks to the report’s author, Helen Dennis.
_First broadcast 19th September 2018_
Halting pollution is on the agenda for politicians and businesses in a big way, as voters and consumers worry about their impact on the planet.
Environment secretary Michael Gove’s found cross-party support for banning disposable coffee cups and supporting bottle return schemes, and the Liberal Democrats are pledging to oppose all single use plastic.
But with 280 million tonnes of plastic already in the ocean, even if stopping all new waste was feasible, cleaning what we’ve already put in is in an enormous task.
CEO of the The Yacht Market Richard Roberts is launching his own vision of a craft to clean the water of plastic - Nick Howard speaks to him at the Southampton boat show about the idea behind the Ocean Saviour project
_First broadcast 18th September 2018_
Despite research and anti-smoking campaigns, the UK won’t stop until after 2050, according to new analysis.
But the report from tobacco giant Philip Morris shows some parts will quit long before then, with Bristol, Wokingham and York all having their last smoke in the 2020s.
Levels of deprivation and access to NHS support are apparently major factors.
It’s a long-fought success for anti-smoking campaigners, but cigarette companies are already preparing for how to stay in business.
Nick Howard speaks to Philip Morris director Mark MacGregor, who says the writing is on the wall.
Companies based in properties owned by Network Rail are protesting the sale of them to the private sector for 1.5 billion pounds.
The public rail body is the country’s biggest small business landlord, with 7 thousand 500 tenants, but it says the deal is raising money for upgrades.
One railway arch holds Clapham North MOT, a garage set up by former D Day soldier, cabbie and racing car champion Ronnie Grant in 1960
His son George now runs the firm, and is part of the Guardians of the Arches opposing the sale – he speaks to Michael Wilson.
NB: The buyer, Blackstone, declined our invitation for an interview, as did the Department for Transport, which provided a statement saying the new owners are committed to work with the tenants.
Are criminals winning the cybersecurity war?
Police are still investigating the British Airways data breach, and the prime minister’s vowed to go on the offensive against Russia’s hacking capabilities.
And now leading cybersecurity firm Carbon Black says criminals are getting ahead of businesses by outspending them – putting ten times as much cash towards cyberattacks as companies are spending on defence.
This week experts are gathering in London for the world’s largest cybersecurity expo – Carbon Black security strategist Rick McElroy speaks to Michael Wilson.
It’s tough to calculate exactly but there are about 2 million freelancers in the UK, and it’s expected by 2020 that will grow to half the workforce.
But new research from Epson suggests there’s a psychological toll to this kind of work.
Blogger Vicki Psarias, also known as Honest Mum, and author of Mum Boss explains.
Volkswagen’s defending itself from consumer lawsuits after it admitted cheating emissions tests with its cars.
In the US, consumers received about 25 billion dollars in total – but here in the UK, the case is still getting started.
13 law firms are involved - one of them is the US law giant, Sanders Phillips Grossman, which is opening a UK office today.
Nick Howard speaks to founding partner Tom Goodhead about the VW case, changes to UK consumer law, and how big claims are now big business.
_First broadcast 7th September 2018_
The UK Brexit negotiators say Theresa May’s Chequers plan is still the best solution, despite criticism from MPs.
There are only seven months left to agree a deal and ratify it across Europe – meaning exiting with an agreement is a real possibility if talks fail.
A new report from The UK in a Changing Europe explores the impact of a No Deal Brexit.
Nick Howard speaks to Dr Jonathan Portes from the thinktank, who says the option shouldn’t even be considered.
Small firms are the backbone of the UK economy, but their margins are always slim even without economic and political uncertainty making things tougher.
The government-backed British Business Bank says the five most common reasons SMEs close down are all linked to financial advice and access to funding.
Michael Wilson finds out more from British Business Bank advisor and former Dragon, Piers Linney.
Theresa May’s Brexit plan is facing assault from all sides, as hardline Brexit MPs like Jacob Rees Mogg and Remainer Justine Greening say it’s “more unpopular than the poll tax”
With only seven months to go until the Brexit deadline, it’s raising fears there’s little time to negotiate another deal.
But does that mean No Deal is the likely outcome – and where might that send investors?
Michael Wilson speaks to financial market expert, and founder of Blonde Money, Helen Thomas.
We’re two weeks on from results day for GCSE and A Level students, with the government pushing vocational qualifications harder than ever.
But although it’ll be some time before we know where school leavers end up, there’s a warning sign from one key industry.
A survey from the Institute of the Motor Industry shows two thirds of parents would discourage their children from apprenticeships.
And it climbs as high as 80 percent for the motor industry itself.
The Institute’s CEO, Steve Nash, says the findings aren’t a surprise.
The prime minister’s in Kenya on the third day of her visit to Africa, visiting British troops and a business school in Nairobi.
Theresa May's spent time in South Africa and Nigeria alongside a delegation of British businesses, including Lisa Ashford, who’s the CEO of positive investment platform Ethex, and managing director of Energise Africa, a startup lending to firms providing solar panel systems in Sub Saharan Africa.
Nick Howard spoke to her just after she landed in Lagos, business capital of Nigeria, and asked how she’s getting on.
The prime minister says she’s “unashamed” about wanting foreign aid to benefit British firms as she continues her first trip to Sub Saharan Africa.
Theresa May’s promising 4 billion pounds of aid, to be matched by the private sector, with the focus expected to move from reducing poverty to focus on job creation and security.
It would mean a change to UK laws, put in place after the Thatcher era aid for arms scandal, when taxpayer cash was wasted on white elephant projects abroad.
Nick Howard spoke to Polly Meeks, senior policy officer at the development network EURODAD, who’s uneasy about the announcement.
If you’re driving to work this morning – do you own your car, or are you paying it off on finance?
Nearly 9 million of us have car finance deals, but more than quarter feel trapped.
A new online service is planning to rethink our relationship with our motors – but would you pay a monthly car subscription?
That’s what Drover offers - Nick Howard asks the founder, Felix Leuschner, who it’s aimed at.
_First broadcast 28th August 2018_
GCSE pass rates are a little bit higher this year, despite education officials working to make exams tougher.
Just under 70 percent of pupils got Cs in Wales and Northern Ireland, and grade 4 in England, where a new numerical system’s been rolled out.
The system of grade 9 being the best and grade 1 being the lowest is confusing employers, with a quarter thinking smaller numbers are better.
Nick Howard asks Sophie Graham from the National Careers Service whether there is any benefit to the new system.
Schoolchildren across England, Wales and Northern Ireland are picking up their GCSE results this morning.
After that, they’ll be planning their next steps – 40 percent of students take A levels, while the majority will be heading on to vocational courses, apprenticeships, and in to the world of work.
There are big changes this year for those picking up their results – the traditional A* to G grades are gone, replaced with numbers 9 to 1, and the National Careers Service is taking over the advice helpline.
Nick Howard asks career advisor Sophie Graham: why the change.
Currency exchanges are apparently running out of Turkish lira as holidaymakers move to snap up a bargain.
With a couple of years of weak pounds pushing up travel costs, we're spotting a chance for a cheap break - at the start of August one pound bought nearly 6 and a half lira, while earlier this week is would get you closer to 9 (it's fallen back a bit since).
But the slumping lira is only a symptom of wider problems in Turkey - and could those interfere with your holiday?
Travel journalist and expert Simon Calder joins Nick Howard to give his advice.
Barry Clark of Swansea University, Lee Lucas, principal of the Fashion & Retail Academy, and Andy Hart of Arch Apprentices.
Lord Blunkett explains to Jazz FM's Business Breakfast why Brexit makes ID cards inevitable.
_First broadcast 3rd July 2017_
There are signs EU leaders are preparing to make a major concession to Theresa May on Brexit, granting the single market access on goods.
But in exchange they want the UK to stick with Europe on standards on safety and customs.
It’s a sign of the compromises possible ahead of talks restarting, but hardline Brexit supporters are indicating they wouldn’t support it – highlighting again the difficult trip any deal will have to make through Parliament, and risking a No Deal cliff edge on World Trade Organisation rules.
Peter Ungpakorn is a trade writer and journalist who worked at the WTO secretariat for nearly 20 years. Speaking from Switzerland, he explains what that would really mean.
It’s a bit too early for a drink this morning, but over the summer, British pubs have been doing a fantastic trade.
The hot weather and sport have seen us head to our locals in droves, with pub trade on the night of the World Cup semi final up nearly 75 percent.
This week the Great British Beer Festival is taking place in west London, giving brewers and the public a chance to enjoy a few drinks, and to get a snapshot of a changing industry.
Nick Howard reports.
_First broadcast 9th July 2018_
Storm warnings are bringing a temporary halt to the summer heatwave in what could be good news for farmers and bad sleepers.
High temperatures mean short tempers, unfortunately - not helped when you're not feeling well rested.
Michael Wilson gets some tips for staying cool when you're trying to sleep from expert Jessica Alexander from the Sleep Council
_First broadcast 8th August 2018_
Seven years ago, claims for PPI compensation began, and since then about 31 billion pounds has been paid out.
But that’s only a third of the estimated 100 billion pounds out there for the missold payment protection insurance on customer’s bank accounts.
The Financial Conduct Authority’s looking to draw a line under the claims, so in a year’s time that compensation will disappear – despite only half of us being aware there’s a deadline at all.
And a new ruling could mean there's more compensation and more claims on the way - NICK BAXTER, Independent Chairman of the
PROFESSIONAL FINANCIAL CLAIMS ASSOCIATION explains.
_First broadcast 6th August 2018_
Ahead of a possible Bank of England interest rate hike, personal finance expert Laura Rettie from Money.co.uk explains what it means for you and me
_First broadcast 2nd August 2018_
With so many people away on holiday, what's most important to you in a destination?
Seeing new places, perhaps, or guaranteeing the sunshine? Well, for three fifths of us it's the food which makes our vacations worthwhile - a new wave of gastro tourists is spreading across the globe, trying and combining local cuisines and bringing them home.
Chef Masaharu Morimoto’s been developing Japanese fusion meals across the world for decades, including in top Michelin star restaurants like Nobu, and on television's Iron Chef series
He's now setting up a new eatery in Last Vegas, but Nick Howard spoke to him about how things are changing.
Is the golden age of employee expenses behind us?
And what does it tell us about the changing world of work?
Right now the average worker claims around 900 pounds a year in expenses, but in the 1960s it was more than £2,300.
50 years on from the launch of the first corporate credit card – have we become less wasteful, or are we just subsidising our employers on our own pay cheque?
Speaking to Michael Wilson is financial expert Annie Shaw.
Theresa May’s Chequers plan has been punctured again – this time by the EU.
Chief negotiator Michel Barnier is warning the customs deal is unworkable, although he suggested some progress was being made.
It comes as the negotiations pause for a couple of weeks of holiday.
To take stock of what happens next, Nick Howard speaks to Sam Wilkin, editor at MLex , live from Brussels
_First broadcast 27th July 2018_
There’s warnings that UK temperatures could be the highest every recorded this week as the longest heatwave in 200 years continues.
With much of England experiencing highs of 37 degrees, the Met Office predicts it could break the 2003 record of 38 and half degrees (101 degrees fahrenheit).
After a long cold winter, it’s hitting farmers across the country particularly hard.
Michael Wilson speaks to Essex farmer and deputy president of the National Farmers’ Union, Guy Smith.
_First broadcast 26th July 2018_
Despite record employment, wages are still stagnating and new research suggests workers are happy to up-sticks if it means finding a better job.
According to totaljobs, half of us are willing to relocate within the country, while two thirds are keen to move abroad.
And it seems big cities have the most pulling power for wandering workers, with London, Manchester and Edinburgh the top places to live.
But Mike Booker, Totaljobs’ director, says there’s also a sign Britain looks a less attractive place to the rest of the world
_First broadcast 25th July 2018_
More warnings about No Deal Brexit have come from the aviation industry, with manufacturers worried about their Just In Time supply chains, and travel companies concerned over flying rights.
Downing Street says fears over planes being grounded if access to the EU is lost are unfounded, thanks to other international agreements, but there are concerns about putting that to the test.
Nick Howard asks aviation and EU lawyer Philip Ruttley from Keystone Law what's at stake in the negotiations.
_First broadcast 23rd July 2018_
Theresa May’s visiting the Irish border for the first time since the EU referendum today, reassuring businesses there that her Brexit White Paper plan works for them.
She’s also issuing a warning to European negotiators that a customs border between Great Britain and Northern Ireland – touted as the Backstop solution right now – is something she can “never accept”.
Roger Pollen from the Federation of Small Businesses is meeting with Mrs May at the border this morning.
_First broadcast 20th July 2018_
Can investors change the world?
Dame Helena Morrissey, head of personal investing at Legal and General, is an outspoken advocate for putting your money where your mouth is on global issues.
Whether it’s gender equality or climate change, she’s starting funds which favour firms with good policies.
She’s also a rare City advocate for Brexit, and met President Trump at Blenheim Palace during his UK visit.
Nick Howard had plenty of questions, but he first asked Dame Helena if investors can really make an impact.
Extended interview first broadcast 19th July 2018
Google is expecting a record fine from the EU later over its operating system Android.
The software comes pre-installed on phones and tablets from companies like Samsung, and is thought to account for as many as 90% of market share worldwide.
But the European Commission’s accused Google of harming competition with its market dominance, and could change the nature of the business with its judgement today.
To explain, Michael Wilson speaks to Mlex anti trust expert Matthew Newman, live from Brussels.
The next move in the battle for Sky is with Fox, after Comcast upped its bid to 26 billion pounds, or 14 pounds 75 a share.
The takeover fight isn’t expected to end any time soon, as big media players look for advantage in an increasingly ruthless industry.
And this is only the UK front in an international war, as US regulators give the go ahead for massive takeovers of Twentieth Century Fox.
To explain how the pieces fit together, and what it tells us about the media landscape, Nick Howard speaks to anti trust expert Simon Zekaria from Mlex.
First broadcast 16th July 2018
The long awaited Brexit White Paper’s published today, setting out Theresa May’s plans for the UK’s relationship with Europe.
The proposals, finalised at Chequers on the weekend, have already forced several MPs to quit, including David Davis and Boris Johnson.
Despite compromising several red lines, including on customs and financial services, will the EU agree to the deal?
Matt Bevington from the Uk in a Changing Europe thinktank speaks to Michael Wilson.
First broadcast 12th July 2018
Wells Fargo is the latest US bank to snub London for its European base.
It comes after Blackrock and Citi announced Paris as their new European base earlier this week.
In the wake of Brexit, cities across Europe including Dublin and Frankfurt are looking to grow their financial centre’s at London’s expense
Paris Euro Place (PRON: Plass) is an organisation set up to develop the French capital as a finance hub.
Nick Howard spoke to managing director Arnaud de Bresson, who says President Macron’s reforms are proving attractive .
First broadcast on 11th July 2018
Crunch time is coming for the prime minister as she tries to persuade her top ministers to back her Brexit customs compromise
With only weeks of negotiation left as MPs and MEPs leave for summer recess, there’s less and less time to finalise a deal.
Brexit expert and Editor of Politics.co.uk, Ian Dunt and Nick Howard discuss whether Theresa May's hopes for the Chequers cabinet retreat will bear fruit.
The UK’s food and drink industry is in the grip of a carbon dioxide shortage, threatening products from beer and soft drinks to meat and even crumpets.
As we head to the pubs in the sunshine, and with the World Cup pushing more people to order drinks, it’s been described as “the perfect storm”.
So if you’re heading out to see England versus Colombia this evening, are you still going to have a gas, or will things fall flat?
Chief Executive of the British Beer and Pub Association Brigid Simmonds explains what's going on.
Rupert Murdoch’s News empire is undergoing huge transformations, with 21st Century Fox and Sky entertaining big bids from the likes of Disney and US telecoms giant Comcast, potentially changing the media landscape forever.
One man who saw some of News International’s changes up close, and worked side by side with Murdoch through his biggest controversies, was Les Hinton, former executive chairman, who later became CEO of Dow Jones when Murdoch bought that.
He’s published an extraordinary memoir – Bootle Boy, an Untidy Life In News – charting his life from wartime Bootle, just north of Liverpool, to Australia, then Fleet Street and Wapping, and on to the US.
Full Interview here:
https://audioboom.com/posts/6906486-ex-murdoch-right-hand-man-les-hinton-on-the-boss-scandals-and-the-future-of-news-full-interview-jazz-fm-business-breakfast
Rupert Murdoch’s News empire is undergoing huge transformations, with 21st Century Fox and Sky entertaining big bids from the likes of Disney and US telecoms giant Comcast, potentially changing the media landscape forever.
One man who saw some of News International’s changes up close, and worked side by side with Murdoch through his biggest controversies, was Les Hinton, former executive chairman, who later became CEO of Dow Jones when Murdoch bought that.
He’s published an extraordinary memoir – Bootle Boy, an Untidy Life In News – charting his life from wartime Bootle, just north of Liverpool, to Australia, then Fleet Street and Wapping, and on to the US.
It feels like every week there’s a new cybersecurity story – whether a major hack, or warnings about new viruses and risks.
For business, GDPR makes things even tougher – with new rules on disclosing breaches that threaten our data.
A new book Cyber Wars, by former Guardian Tech Editor CHARLES ARTHUR, explains what happened in the biggest hacks, and what lessons we can learn from them
Theresa May’s promising 20 billion pounds a year extra for the NHS thanks to a “Brexit dividend”. But the government’s own figures suggest the UK economy will be weaker once we leave – Simon French, chief economist at Panmure Gordon demolishes the PM's claims.
First broadcast 18th June 2018
This week the Brexit agenda’s been focused on Westminster, where MPs have been debating the EU Withdrawal Bill.
This controversial legislation’s intended to copy 40 years of EU rules in British legislation, has seen multiple House of Lords amendments designed to bring debate on topics from customs union membership to the very date of Brexit.
The government’s beaten those challenges for now.
But at the International Business festival in Liverpool, speakers from around the world are still uncertain what Brexit means for them.
First broadcast 15th June 2018
Theresa May's got tough choices to make as her EU Withdrawal Bill goes back to the Commons for votes. Even if she wins, with all amendments being voted down, she'll be left with a Brexit which the EU's already rejected. And what then?
First broadcast 11 June 2018
If you're a football fan planning to watch all the premier league games, next year, there's another subscription service you'll be forking out for.
Shopping and tech giant Amazon's won the rights to put 20 games on its Prime service.
Sports broadcaster Iain Macintosh from the Totally Football Show, explains not many firms are big enough to afford them.
Negotiations with the EU are approaching crunch time, but it sometimes seems like it’s even less clear what’s going on.
Gone are the days when saying “Brexit means Brexit” would do – and despite a third of us saying we have no idea what’s happening with negotiations, that doesn’t stop us talking about it.
Fortunately, a new book, the ‘Bluffer’s Guide to Brexit” is being published to help us do just that
First broadcast 7th June 2018
Entrepreneurs, corporate giants and politicians from around Britain and the world are heading to Liverpool for the International Business Festival.
Now in its fourth year, it's an opportunity for startups and established firms to make connections and do deals.
The festival’s chair, Max Steinberg, has been touring the world to promote the event.
First broadcast 6th June 2018
Negotiations with the EU are approaching crunch time, but it sometimes seems like it’s even less clear what’s going on.
Gone are the days when saying “Brexit means Brexit” would do – and despite a third of us saying we have no idea what’s happening with negotiations, that doesn’t stop us talking about it.
Fortunately, a new book, the ‘Bluffer’s Guide to Brexit” is being published to help us do just that - author Boris Starling tells us more.
First broadcast 7th June 2018
After weeks of rail chaos in the North of England there are calls for more local decision making.
Northern Rail’s running an “interim timetable” with a fifth of trains missing, after multiple cancellations and delays – but they blame the infrastructure manager Network Rail.
On Jazz FM’s Business Breakfast at 6, Northern Powerhouse Partnership director Henry Murison says they have a point.
First broadcast 06/06/2018
Michael Wilson tests Panmure Gordon chief economist Simon French's Humberside credentials as they discuss Aunt Bessie's takeover by Birdseye owner Nomad Foods.
Shadow Rail Minister Rachael Maskell says Labour would bring Northern Rail into public hands.
First broadcast 4th June 2018
There are fears of a global trade war as Donald Trump's threat to protect US jobs with big tariffs becomes a reality.
The European Union, Mexico and Canada now have to pay huge taxes when importing steel and aluminium into America, potentially pushing up prices for business and shoppers as well as hitting the global economy
The UK says the tariffs are absurd - and Shadow International Trade Secretary Barry Gardiner says they amount to bullying by Trump.
More than seven thousand lorries a day pass through the Port of Dover, with thousands more arriving and departing around the country.
With 85 percent of Britain’s goods travelling by road, the government’s pushing ahead with updating trailer registration systems despite the legislation not being passed, to be ready for Brexit.
It's also proposing an update to Operation Stack, intended to keep Kent's roads clear in case of "cross channel disruption", although it's been criticised for not mentioning the EU exit.
Rod McKenzie, the Road Haulage Association’s director of policy, is concerned any border delay will quickly build into massive problems.
Ex WPP boss Sir Martin Sorrell is reportedly launching a new “next generation” ad agency later.
It’s just weeks after leaving his former firm amid claims of misconduct, although he denied wrongdoing.
It’s understood he’ll take charge of a listed shell company, Derriston Capital, with 53 million pounds of investors’ cash and his own capital.
Nick Howard spoke to Jemima Bird, who’s launched her own ad superagency, Hello Finch, after 20 years in the industry, and who says Sir Martin is heading into a changing landscape .
Meanwhile Julian Chillingworth, chief investment officer at Rathbones, is watching for which other industry figures Sorrell can attract.
Do scientists make good CEOs?
The world of business is often borrowing from science to give weight to management theories – whether it’s evolution, sociology, or even quantum mechanics.
And many industries – especially food and cosmetics – are awash with technical jargon.
But what is it like running a company with that expertise?
Hear the full interview here:
https://audioboom.com/posts/6871311-jazz-fm-business-breakfast-gdpr-regulator-apologises-for-helpline-downtime-and-threatens-tech-giants-full-live-interview
New data protection law comes into force this morning, after weeks of emails from companies demanding consent in the name of GDPR.
The EU regulation’s meant to give us more control over our data, but the real test will be whether companies comply, and whether member states can hold them to account.
In the UK, that job is done by the Information Commissioner’s Office, - Nick Howard quizzes their head of communications, Robert Parker.
First broadcast on Jazz FM Business Breakfast 25th May 2018
On 25th May, new data protection legislation takes effect across the EU, including in Britain. Right now, GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) seems to just be filling up your inbox with annoying emails - but behind the scenes, businesses are concerned and other groups like charities are panicking.
Nick Howard speaks to experts and key figures to examine what will really change come the deadline, whether the fears are justified - and whether the regulators themselves are ready for the changes.
First broadcast 11th May 2018 on Jazz FM
Two thirds of single adults use dating apps in the UK.
It’s a fundamental change in how we’re meeting people, with apps ranging from the general to the very specific – if you’ve only ever wanted to meet people who love pets, beards, or glasses – there’s an app for that.
But is it positive for everyone?
_First broadcast on 14.02.2018 Jazz FM Business Breakfast_
Should wealthy pensioners receive state aid?
Right now the state pension's given to anyone who's paid enough national insurance, but the OECD's suggesting Britain should save money on the rich, to boost pensions for the poor. Is this the future of retirement?
Gren Manuel speaks to former pensions minister, Sir Steve Webb, now Head of Policy at pension and insurance firm Royal London.
Matthew Holehouse, Brexit expert at Mlex, discusses the UK Supreme Court hearing on Brexit with Nick Howard for the Business Breakfast.
First broadcast 9th December 2017
The last two weeks has seen the price of bonds around the world sinking. Last week saw them lose a trillion pounds in value. But it's a sometimes impenetrable part of the financial markets, so what's really going on – and does it have any impact on you and me?
This was first broadcast on Jazz FM's Business Breakfast on 16/11/2016.
Are investment funds broken? Daniel Godfrey, former head of the Investment Association, believes so. He's just started crowdfunding for what he thinks is the future of funds - what he's calling the People's Trust. Nick Howard sits down with Daniel to ask him about his problems with the industry, what makes the People’s Trust different, and just how he’s going to prevent us all from making irrational decisions with our money.
First broadcast on Jazz FM's Business Breakfast, 25/10/2016
How much time do you spend on social networks like Facebook or Twitter? If you're anything like me, perhaps a bit too much. But is there a gap for something new? Nick Howard speaks to Tom Hurley, the founder of a new network, Social Superstore which taps in to the so-called influence economy.
First broadcast on Jazz FM's Business Breakfast, 20/10/2016