Walescast: Recent Episodes
BBC Radio Wales
BBC Wales Politics Editor Felicity Evans and Political Correspondent James Williams present a one-stop shop for Welsh politics.
Fliss and James are joined by three BBC political correspondents from Wales and Westminster. They discuss Burnham's first week as PM, what's been said about Wales and some familiar faces at the heart of his new cabinet. They also discuss an issue with the Welsh Government's Supplementary Budget plans.
The Royal Welsh is back, and James is joined by a variety of guests at the showground to discuss what a Plaid Cymru government means for rural affairs and Welsh farming. The conversation also turns to Westminster, where a new Prime Minister has taken office, and what these political changes could mean for agriculture and Welsh politics.
This episode was recorded on 21 July 2026.
Ken Skates has been confirmed as the new permanent leader of Welsh Labour, inheriting a party facing significant challenges after its disappointing Senedd election performance. As he steps into the role, he'll become the public face of one of Wales's opposition parties, with the task of rebuilding support and restoring confidence in Welsh Labour. Former journalist and ex-Chief of Staff to the Welsh Government, Jo Kiernan, joins us to assess the scale of the challenge ahead and what Skates must do to turn the party's fortunes around. We also hear from our Political Editor Gareth Lewis, who looks ahead to Andy Burnham taking the reins after Keir Starmer's final week as Prime Minister. Can Burnham reset relations between Wales and Westminster, and what might his leadership mean for the future of Welsh politics and for the Labour party here?
Plaid Cymru's plans for additional spending have been voted down in the Senedd after Labour refused to back proposed budget changes. Fliss and James are joined by Dr Ed Poole of the Wales Governance Centre and BBC Wales Political Editor Gareth Lewis to unpack the political fallout and examine the numbers in the budget. They also speak to Luke Sibieta from the Institute for Fiscal Studies about Additional Learning Needs funding, a key issue that contributed to the Welsh Government's defeat.
James speaks to First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth after his government fails to win the vote on their extra spending plans. He also catches up with Welsh Labour leader Ken Skates whose party refused to support changes to the budget. These interviews were on Radio Wales Breakfast on the 15th of July. You can catch up with that and Walescast's analysis on BBC Sounds.
Huw Pill is one of just nine members of the Bank of England's Monetary Policy Committee, the group responsible for setting UK interest rates – decisions that influence everything from mortgage costs to inflation.
Born and raised in Cardiff, Huw is now the Bank of England's Chief Economist and Executive Director for Monetary Analysis and Research. In this episode, Fliss and James speak to him about his Welsh roots, his journey from Cardiff to one of the most influential economic roles in the country, and his views on the challenges and opportunities facing both the UK and Welsh economies.
Nigel Farage has resigned as an MP, triggering a by-election he says he'll contest. Fliss and James are joined by Political Editor Gareth Lewis to unpack the dramatic move, how it came about and the reaction from Reform UK in Wales.
They also discuss plans for a new economic development agency, which the Welsh Government hopes will help boost productivity and drive economic growth. Former minister Andrew Davies explains why he scrapped the previous Welsh Development Agency in 2006 and what lessons can be learned from its demise.
Plus, how should governments tackle complex policy challenges? Andy Regan, Head of Nesta Cymru, joins the podcast to discuss what works best when it comes to delivering ambitious reforms, including in areas such as childcare.
In his first major speech since launching his bid to replace Keir Starmer, Andy Burnham focused on devolving power from Westminster. But what could it all mean for Wales? Greater Manchester, and the transformation Burnham says he's helped deliver there, was a focus of the speech. Fliss and guests examine the key ingredients behind the city's success and ask whether this can be replicated elsewhere in the UK, specifically in Wales.
Felicity Evans and Gareth Lewis speak to the Welsh Government's Finance Minister Elin Jones, and David Phillips from the Institute for Fiscal Studies, about the supplementary budget.
It's been ten years since the United Kingdom voted to leave the EU. James is in Ebbw Vale to reflect on the day. The town is part of the Blaenau Gwent where 62% of the population voted for Brexit, compared to an average of 52.5% across Wales. James talks to people about how they voted at the time and their thoughts on the decision ten years later.
Former First Minister Mark Drakeford joins James Williams and Gareth Lewis to assess Sir Keir Starmer's legacy, and to explain why he's backing Andy Burnham as his successor.
Fliss and James are joined by BBC Wales' Health Correspondent to discuss his interviews with the new Health Minister and whether the extra funding he's announced can cut down waiting lists.
Fliss and James unpack the Senedd row that saw a walkout after a controversial speech in the Siambr by Reform MS Joe Martin. They’re joined by BBC Wales Political Reporter David Deans, who was there at the time, to break down what happened and why. The team also turn their attention to education, analysing the latest announcements from the Welsh Education Minister. They discuss her stance on social media bans, restrictions on mobile phones in schools and the ongoing difficulties around teachers’ pay and PISA with our Correspondent Bethan Lewis.
Childcare returns to the political spotlight in Wales this week. James is joined by Political Editor Gareth Lewis to unpack the Welsh Government’s commitment to the policy, after surviving an important vote in the Senedd. They’re also joined by Steffan Evans from the Bevan Foundation to explore the real-world impact of getting childcare policy right (or wrong). Plus, James takes a closer look at a Welsh Affairs Committee report into prisons, probation and rehabilitation and the ''serious concerns'' it raises. Ella Rabaiotti from the Welsh Centre for Crime and Social Justice breaks down the findings and what it all means for Wales.
Fliss catches up with Dr Jac Larner from the Wales Governance Centre to look back at the polling across the Senedd election. They discuss what it got right and wrong, political trends and how we got to the final result.
Fliss catches up with our political editor following the first FMQ's after Plaid Cymru's Senedd election victory. Rhun ap Iorwerth faced questions from members across the political spectrum covering topics from health to education.
Rhun ap Iorwerth MS sits down with James for his first Walescast since becoming First Minister.
They met at the Urdd Eisteddfod site on Ynys Môn.
You can also watch this episode on BBC iPlayer.
The new Senedd is underway with new parties, new faces and a lot more MSs. How are the opposition navigating this new landscape?We’ll hear from the Welsh leader of Reform and the leader of the Welsh Conservatives. Podcast co-host and former Conservative member and advisor Craig Lawton also joins us in the lounge with Political Correspondent Elliw Gwawr.
James discusses a pivotal moment for the new First Minister, catching up with political editor Gareth Lewis ahead of Plaid Cymru’s first Cabinet meeting in government. He also speaks to the journalist behind the Undercover Voters investigation to reflect on what the series uncovered during the Senedd election.
On this week’s episode, we unpack a historic moment as Plaid Cymru unveils its new Cabinet following their victory in the 2026 Senedd election. Newly appointed Deputy First Minister Sioned Williams MS joins us to discuss the party’s priorities and what this new era of leadership means for Wales.Meanwhile, in Westminster, pressure continues to mount on the Prime Minister as questions swirl around his leadership. Claire Hughes MP throws her support behind Sir Keir Starmer. Political consultant Cathy Owens and BBC Wales Political Editor Daniel Davies break down the key developments and deliberate on what it all means for Wales and Westminster.
Fliss and James are joined by Political Editor Gareth Lewis and Politics Wales Presenter Teleri Glyn Jones after a long day. They came together off the back of presenting BBC Wales coverage of the historic Senedd election results.
With less than 24 hours to go until Wales heads to the polls for the 2026 Senedd election James and Fliss take stock with Political Correspondent Daniel Davies.
The use of AI chatbots for advice is becoming increasingly common. But, could they could be providing misleading information to voters ahead of the Senedd election? Ben Summer, the Journalist running the Undercover Voters investigation, joins James to fill him in on his latest discovery.
Fliss and James catch up with our Health, Education and Environment Correspondent to unpack the policies and issues that have made it big in the Senedd election campaign so far — and those that haven’t.
Guto Ifan of the Wales Governance Centre joins Fliss and James to unpack the key themes emerging from the six main parties’ manifestos and to take a close look at whether the numbers behind their promises add up.
The journalist behind the Undercover Voters project, Ben Summer, is back with a new story from his research. This time, he’s been examining how much political parties have been spending on social media over the Senedd election campaign. To find out more about the project, you can listen to our first interview with Ben ahead of the launch at https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p0n9ns9x.
Walescast has been hitting the road to speak to voters across the country. This week, on his final stop, James is in Newport, which is part of the new Casnewydd Islwyn constituency. He talks to local people about the issues that matter most ahead of the Senedd election — and asks whether they think the result on May 7th will make a difference.
The BBC has a full list of candidates for every constituency in Wales on the BBC news website - where you'll also find everything you need to know ahead of the polling day. We've also got lots more content available on BBC Sounds - just search for Wales Election 2026.
Fliss and James are joined by Dr Jac Larner to dicuss the latest YouGov/ ITV Wales/ Cardiff University poll as well as looking at what the bigger picture looks like. They also discuss the debates that have taken place and the leaders interviews on BBC Radio Walles.
With just over two weeks to go until the Senedd election James and Fliss discuss a busy weekend in Welsh politics. They are joined by Dan Davies to look at new polling, analysis and to discuss the first televised leaders debate from ITV Wales. Ben Summer then joins them to update Walescast on the undercover voters project he's been working on.
Fliss is joined by our Political Editor Gareth Lewis and David Philips from the Institute for Fiscal Studies to discuss the Welsh Liberal Democrats manifesto launch. We have now discussed all of the six main parties manifestos. You can find the rest on BBC Sounds. They also reflect on the details they've digested over the past few weeks.
Walescast hits the road to speak to voters across the country. This week, James is in Bangor, part of the new Bangor Conwy Môn constituency. He talks to local people about the issues that matter most to them ahead of the Senedd election — and asks whether they think the result on May 7th will make a difference.
The BBC have published a full list of candidates for every constituency in Wales on the BBC news website - where you'll also find everything you need to know ahead of the polling day. We've also got lots more content available on BBC Sounds - just search for Wales Election 2026.
Today, Fliss and James are joined by Luke Tryl from More in Common to discuss his recent trip to Wales and what he’s been hearing from voters. The UK Director has been running focus groups across the country, exploring why people are planning to vote the way they are and the issues that matter most to them. We also hear from Ben Summer with the latest update on the Undercover Voters project and what he’s seeing so far across the six voter profiles.
Fliss is joined by our Political Editor Gareth Lewis and David Philips from the Institute for Fiscal Studies to discuss a busy week of manifesto launches from Plaid Cymru and the Wales Green Party.
Walescast hits the road to speak to voters across the country. This week, James is in Cardigan, part of the new Ceredigion Penfro constituency. He talks to local people about the issues that matter most to them ahead of the Senedd election and whether they think the result on May the 7th will make a difference.
The BBC will be publishing a full list of candidates for every constituency in Wales on the BBC news website - where you'll also find everything you need to know ahead of the polling day. We've also got lots more content available on BBC Sounds - just search for Wales Election 2026.
Walescast hits the road to speak to voters across the country. This week, James is in Treorchy, part of the new Afan Ogwr Rhondda constituency. He talks to local people about the issues that matter most ahead of the Senedd election — and asks whether they think the result on May 7th will make a difference.
The BBC will be publishing a full list of candidates for every constituency in Wales on the BBC news website - where you'll also find everything you need to know ahead of the polling day. We've also got lots more content available on BBC Sounds - just search for Wales Election 2026.
Fliss is joined by our Political Editor Gareth Lewis and David Philips from the Institute for Fiscal Studies to discuss the Welsh Labour manifesto launch and to mop up another campaign launch for the Welsh Green party. You can find our other ''The Manifesto Launches'' episodes on BBC Sounds - we will be covering six of the main parties launches.
Until the 7th of May, the BBC will be looking into how the Senedd election is unfolding on social media feeds across Wales.
On this episode of Walescast, Ben Summer from the News Impact Team, joins Fliss and James to explain how.
Using data and analysis from the National Centre for Social Research, he has set up six social media profiles for fictional voters based in different parts of Wales.
Ben is hoping they can give us a glimpse into the type of content people are being shown.
The full series of Undercover Voters will be available online on BBC Wales and Ben will be returning to Walescast weekly to provide updates.
It is based on a project by Marianna Spring who originally came up with this idea and used it in experiments for the Americast podcast and the 2024 UK General Election.
Following the Senedd shutting up shop... Walescast kicks off it's dedicated election coverage with a look back at what's happened over the weekend and what's coming up this week. On this Monday Briefing Fliss and James discuss campaign launches and what happens if no party reaches a majority.
It's the final week for Senedd business ahead of the Welsh election. Fliss and James have set up shop in the new Siambr to talk about polls, policies and what lies ahead for the political parties in May. They are joined by BBC Wales Correspondents, our Political Editor Gareth Lewis and Dr Jac Larner from Wales Governance Centre. You can watch this episode of Walescast on BBC iPlayer.
Following the first in a series of BBC Wales election debates James is joined by Welsh political commentators Will Hayward and Betsan Powys to digest the details. They also speak to the Presenter Nick Servini and Political Editor Gareth Lewis live from Wrexham. You can hear all about the big issues raised on the day in this special episode of Walescast that will also be providing coverage of all the election programmes.
Walescast heads to St John's Church in Canton for the Wales Green's Action Day. James talks to their Welsh leader Anthony Slaughter and the party leader for England and Wales Zack Polanski. He also catches up with other members as they knock doors around the city as well as BBC Wales Political Correspondent Cemlyn Davies.This episode is the final trip Walescast made to the six main parties events, rallies and conferences in the run up to the Senedd election.
Fliss is joined by Nick Servini as campaigns heat up on the road to the 2026 Senedd election. They catch up with Joanna Stallard from Welsh Labour, Jason O'Connell from Reform UK and Rodney Berman from the Welsh Liberal Democrats.
Walescast was joined by Plaid Cymru, the Welsh Conservatives and the Green Party on last week's episode.
We are back on TV for a few weeks and you can watch this episode on BBC1 Wales and iPlayer.
Walescast heads to the Leonardo Hotel in Cardiff for the Welsh Liberal Democrats conference. Fliss talks to their leader Jane Dodds, their MP David Chadwick and other candidates and members. We also catch up with our Political Correspondent Rhodri Lewis to digest the day. This episode makes up one of the many trips Walescast has made to the six main parties events, rallies and conferences over the election period.
Fliss is joined by our Political Editor Gareth Lewis and David Philips from the Institute for Fiscal Studies to discuss a busy week of manifesto launches from the Welsh Conservatives and Reform.
Fliss is joined by Nick Servini as campaigning gets underway for the 2026 Senedd election. They catch up with Sam Rowlands from the Welsh Conservatives, Philip Davies from the Welsh Greens and Plaid Cymru's Llyr Gruffydd about their launches into the election.
We will be joined by Welsh Labour, Reform and the Liberal Democrats on next week's episode.
Walescast is back on TV for four weeks and you can watch this episode on BBC1 Wales and iPlayer.
Walescast heads to Newport Market for Welsh Labour's Campaign Launch. Fliss talks to the First Minister, Labour politicians and candidates about their hopes for May. We also catch up with our Political Editor Gareth Lewis to digest the day. This episode makes up one of the many trips Walescast will make to the main parties events, rallies and conferences over the election period.
Walescast heads to the International Conference Centre in Newport for Plaid Cymru's 2026 conference. James talks to politicians and punters about their hopes for May and catches up with our Political Editor Gareth Lewis to digest the day. This episode makes up one of the many trips Walescast will make to the main parties events, rallies and conferences over the election period.
Fliss and James discuss this week's Senedd vote on assisted dying and they’re joined by David Phillips from the Institute for Fiscal Studies to explore the challenges facing future Welsh Government funding.
The Prime Minister travelled to Taff’s Well to throw his weight behind Transport for Wales’ £14 billion proposals to “transform” the nation’s railways. But what would this actually mean for passengers and communities in Wales? James and Fliss unpack the announcement with our Political Correspondent Cemlyn Davies, following his interview with the Prime Minister and First Minister. They’re also joined by transport expert Professor Mark Barry, who breaks down the practical implications of the proposals — and what the politics behind them might reveal.
Walescast heads to Llandudno's Venue Cymru for the Welsh Conservative's 2026 conference. James speaks to their Leader in the Senedd Darren Millar as well as catching up with some other politicians and members to see what the vibe is ahead of the Senedd election in May. We also catch up with our Political Editor Gareth Lewis and hear about his interview with the Conservative Leader Kemi Badenoch. This episode makes up one of the many trips Walescast will make to the main parties events/ rallies and conferences over the Senedd election period.
Wales' First Minister has given her backing to the Prime Minister following the Peter Mandelson scandal and the former US ambassador's departure from the Labour Party. Following criticism around Eluned Morgan's delayed statement from opposition parties, she says she has full confidence in his leadership. Former Special Advisor to the Welsh Government Cathy Owens and Political Editor Gareth Lewis join the podcast to discuss whether what is happening in Westminster will impact Wales.
James and Fliss are joined by Chris Birt from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation to discuss poverty in Wales and what the charity believes the next Welsh Government need to do to tackle it.
Walescast heads to Newport’s International Conference Centre for Reform’s 2026 election rally, where Nigel Farage unveiled Dan Thomas as the party’s new leader in Wales. The event also brought confirmation that James Evans has defected to Reform, following his departure from the Welsh Conservatives. Fliss and James speak to both men at the rally, exploring their priorities for Wales and the reaction among party members as Reform sets out its stall ahead of the Senedd election. This episode makes up one of the many trips Walescast will make to the main parties events/ rallies and conferences over the election period.
A year after damning reports into workplace culture at two Welsh fire services, their leaders say progress is being made — but acknowledge there is still more to do. Separate reports into North Wales Fire and Rescue Service and Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service highlighted concerns about bullying, and harassment. James catches up with Mid and West Wales Chief Fire Officer Craig Flannery, while Rob Thomas speaks to North Wales Chief Fire Officer Dawn Docx about what has changed — and what challenges remain.
UK Labour proposals for a major overhaul of policing have highlighted the disagreements between the two governments in Wales and Westminster over devolved powers. Fliss and James are joined by BBC Wales political editor Gareth Lewis to unfold the story. They also speak to Labour MS Mick Antoniw and Criminal Barrister Andrew Taylor about the state of policing and the criminal justice system in Wales and how it's run.
James and Fliss on the sacking of MS James Evans and the WRU before MPs at Westminster.
How is the NHS in Wales coping with winter pressures? Betsi Cadwaladr Health Board sorts out its stats but what can be done about their lengthy waiting times? Our Health Correspondent Owain Clarke joins the pod to discuss the latest. Dr Jac Larner then joins Fliss and James to dig into the detail of the surprising results of the latest ITV/YouGov Poll on Senedd voting intentions.
It’s 2026... A big year lies ahead with Wales heading to the polls for the Senedd election in May. And the political year hasn’t exactly started quietly. Fliss is joined by BBC Wales’ Political Editor, the Westminster Correspondent, and WalesOnline’s Ruth Mosalski to unpack the start of 2026 and explore what lies ahead in the world of Welsh politics.
A brand-new Senedd election opinion poll lands just in time for Walescast’s Christmas special! Fliss and James are joined by colleagues from across the BBC Wales newsroom to unpack the numbers and reflect on an eventful year in Welsh politics. Recorded at the Four Elms in Cardiff, the team shares their own insights, with a healthy serving of festive cheer—plus, our guests face a seasonal quiz to round things off.
The Welsh Government’s budget was on a rocky road, with Labour staring down the possibility of defeat when their spending plans went to a vote in January. Behind closed doors, negotiations went on — and now, a deal has been done. Plaid Cymru has stepped in to help pass the budget, securing extra funding for the NHS and local councils in return. But how will it land with voters? James and Fliss unpack the details with Political Reporter David Deans and Wales Online's Ruth Mosalski, who were both at the Senedd when the news broke.
The UK Budget is out – but what does it all mean for Wales? Fliss and James break down the big announcements with a panel of politicians, exploring how the decisions in Westminster will impact people in Wales. Plus, BBC Wales’ Political Correspondent joins the conversation to talk through his whirlwind day and the key takeaways from a dramatic day in politics.
It’s a big week for the NHS in Wales. The Covid inquiry report lands, waiting lists results are published, and health boards are facing tough questions. We’re joined by experts including Professor Jon Barry and Dr Helen Howson to ask: what’s next for the Welsh NHS? Plus, after devastating floods in Monmouthshire, we speak to Dr David Clubb from the National Infrastructure Commission for Wales to discuss what more can be done to protect at risk communities.
From environmental and economic ambitions to nuclear power plans in Anglesey — and Reform’s Senedd member facing suspension — Fliss and James unpack a packed week in Welsh politics. Joining the discussions are Deputy First Minister Huw Irranca-Davies, Samuel Kurtz MS, Liz Saville Roberts MP, Dr Steffan Evans from the Bevan Foundation, and Political Correspondent Teleri Glyn Jones.
Budgets are on the minds of politicians on both ends of the M4 this week. Whether the Welsh Government can pass theirs will come down to striking a deal with opposition members. But what are the offers on the table? James and Fliss are joined by Mabon ap Gwynfor MS, Sam Rowlands MS and Cllr Anthony Hunt to talk through the details. They also get expert analysis from Wales Governance Centre's Guto Ifan and Political Correspondent Elliw Gwawr on what it all means for Wales.
The dust has settled on the Caerphilly by-election, but the campaigning won't stop there. It's not long to go until the parties will face the ultimate challenge at the Senedd election in May. Politicians from Plaid Cymru, Reform and Labour join Fliss and James to talk about look back at what happened in Caerphilly and discuss what’s to come in the next six months. Cardiff University's Dr Jac Larner and Political Correspondent Teleri Glyn Jones also join the programme to look at polls and predictions.
James and Fliss discuss Plaid Cymru's victory over Reform and Labour in the Caerphilly by-election. It's been a whirlwind campaign and a long night for James, Gareth and Teleri who join the pod off the back of BBC Wales' live stream coverage of the results. They discuss the night, the winners and losers and what it could all mean for the Senedd election in May.
Felicity Evans, James Williams and guests are in the spin room in the aftermath of BBC Wales' Caerphilly by-election TV debate. What were the key issues raised by the audience of voters? And how did the panel of six candidates deal with their questions and concerns?
With Plaid Cymru bringing the party conference season to a close, Felicity Evans and James Williams are joined by BBC Wales colleagues Cemlyn Davies and Emilia Belli to look back at the last month of speeches and fringe events and discuss the major talking points from the final round of national get-togethers before next May's elections to the Senedd
Felicity Evans and James Williams pay a visit to the Caerphilly constituency ahead of the approaching Senedd by-election, speaking to voters and to Richard Gurner, editor of the local Caerphilly Observer newspaper, about the issues that are shaping the campaign
James and Fliss are joined by BBC Wales' health correspondent Owain Clarke to talk about Jeremy Miles' decision to stand down at the next Senedd election. That takes the total to 14 Labour MS' who won't be running next year. Aled Eirug also joins the pod to talk about his new book detailing the life of former Plaid Cymru leader Dafydd Elis-Thomas. They talk about his journey into politics, his extensive career and his fondness of Armani suits.
It's been a busy Summer of politics and the pace is not letting up as the Senedd returns from recess. So there's plenty for Felicity Evans to pour over with BBC Wales political editor Gareth Lewis, his Wales Online counterpart Ruth Mosalski, Cardiff University's polls expert Dr Jac Larner and BBC Wales Parliamentary reporter Emilia Belli. Among the topics under discussion are the latest Welsh opinion poll and the up-and-coming Caerphilly Senedd by-election plus the prospects for the Chancellor's budget in November and the Welsh General Election next May.
Over the summer, James and Fliss sit down with politicians across Wales. On this episode of Walescast they are joined by Darren Millar, the Welsh Conservative Leader in the Senedd. They met in the BBC's Cardiff studio and discussed everything from how he became interested in politics to his interest in Astronomy and Sumo Wrestling. He also talked about the Welsh Conservatives hopes with less than a year to go until the Senedd election.
Over the summer, James and Fliss sit down with politicians across Wales. On this episode of Walescast they are joined by Liz Saville-Roberts, Plaid Cymru's leader in Westminster. They met at the Welsh language community centre and pub Saith Seren in Wrexham. They talk about her childhood, political career and hopes for Plaid Cymru with less than a year to go until the Senedd election.
Eluned Morgan joins Felicity Evans and James Williams at the National Eisteddfod to reflect on a year since becoming the First Minister. They discuss what leadership is like, some of the challenges she's faced and the upcoming Senedd election.
A few weeks ago Walescast discussed where Labour was a year on from winning the general election. But, where do the opposition parties stand? And what 's in store as they prepare for the Senedd election. Fliss is joined by the Wales Governance Centre's Jac Larner and WalesOnline's Political Editor Ruth Mosalski.
Walescast comes from the Royal Welsh Show - the biggest agricultural festival in Europe.
James kicked things off with Nigel Farage MP, Reform UK's leader, following the news that Laura Anne Jones MS has defected to his party after more than 30 years with the Welsh Conservatives. They also discuss farming and what's he has in store for the Senedd elections.
James then caught up with Plaid Cymru's Llyr Gruffydd MS and Welsh Conservative Samuel Kurtz MS on all things farming and the latest news. He rounded of the busy day in an interview with Deputy First Minister Huw Irranca-Davies who is also the Minister for Rural Affairs.
It's the last week of the Senedd term and Fliss and Political Correspondent Dan Davies dive into the debate about devolution of justice and whether Westminster will pass over more powers. They are then joined by BBC Wales' Environment Correspondent to discuss the new Sustainable Farming Scheme proposals and whether the Welsh Government has done enough to get farmers and environmentalists both on board.
James is joined by the Cabinet Secretary for Finance Mark Drakeford to discuss taxes on tourism, budgets, taxing the wealthiest and the most recent Senedd polling. BBC Wales' Political Editor, Gareth Lewis, then joins the pod to dig into the detail of their discussion and also mops up another busy week in Welsh politics.
It's been a year since the UK General Election and James and Fliss look back at what's been a busy year in politics. They also talk about the challenges faced by UK Labour over the past week and the impact on the Welsh Government and Senedd election hopes with the latest U-turn on welfare reform. BBC Wales' Political Editor and Westminster Correspondent join the pod to report back on their very busy week.
Felicity is joined by PA's Political Editor David Hughes and BBC Political Correspondent Teleri Glyn Jones to discuss UK Labour's welfare cuts and whether the rebellion from MP's will result in a climbdown from the Prime Minister. Fliss then speaks to a GP from Powys and a palliative care consultant about why they are for and against the assisted dying bill. Professor Emyr Lewis talks through the constitutional challenges and what happens if the Senedd doesn't support the bill.
Fliss is joined by Australia's former Prime Minister, and the only woman who's held that position, Julia Gillard. Born in Barry, they discuss her sense of Welshness, the sexism and misogyny she experienced in politics and the work she does now for gender equality.
James and Fliss went live from Westminster on Wednesday (11/06/25) to discuss the UK Government's Spending Review, what's in it for Wales and what it means for the relationship between the two Welsh Labour Governments. They discussed the details with the Welsh Secretary of State, Jo Stevens MP and the First Minister, Eluned Morgan MS. They also spoke to a panel of opposition politicians - Plaid Cymru's Ben Lake MP, Welsh Conservative Lord Davies of Gower and Welsh Liberal Democrat David Chadwick MP. BBC Wales' Political Editor Gareth Lewis also joined the pod to discuss his main takeaways.
Money, Money, Money... James and Fliss speak to three Senedd politicians and two political editors about the UK government's upcoming Spending Review. And... following an inquiry by the Welsh Affairs Committee - what are the challenges facing Welsh farmers in 2025?
Where will benefits cuts hit hardest? What’s the impact of public sector pay rises in Wales? James and Fliss are joined by Policy in Practice’s Sam Fathers, Welsh Labour’s Mick Antoniw MS, and Nicky Hughes from the Royal College of Nursing to discuss. And, with the Eisteddfod yr Urdd well underway, James and Fliss also catch up with Welsh Language Commissioner, Efa Gruffudd Jones to talk targets.
James and Fliss discuss Britain's Brexit reset following the UK Government's latest deal with the EU. They are joined by Welsh Conservative James Evans MS and Welsh Labour MS Alun Davies to discuss details of the deal and what it all means for Wales. James then catches up with Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Local Government, Jayne Bryant, about the Welsh Government's new bill to tackle homelessness. And... James and Fliss talk to BBC Wales' Education and Health Correspondents about tackling bad behaviour in schools and the latest NHS waiting time figures.
Felicity Evans and guest presenter Elliw Gwawr discuss faith and it's role in politics with Canon Aled Edwards, Senedd Member and Patron of Humanists UK Julie Morgan MS and the FT's Whitehall Editor Lucy Fisher. Our Political Editor Gareth Lewis also joins the pod to discuss the quarter of Welsh Labour MS' who have announced they will stand down at the 2026 Senedd elections. That busy schedule is rounded off with a final farewell to Walescast's Producer Andy Fry who is leaving BBC Wales after three decades.
Fliss and James are joined by Meleri Williams, BBC's Swansea Reporter to discuss the Ammanford school stabbings. She was one of the first reporters on location that day and has followed the events through to trial. They are also joined by Owen Evans, Chief Inspector at Estyn, who discusses what can be done to tackle behaviour issues in school and how to stop the most extreme incidents becoming more frequent.
James Williams explores the implications of potentially 400 academic job losses at Cardiff University for both the wider Welsh higher education sector and economy with BBC Wales education correspondent Bethan Lewis, Nick Hillman, director of the Higher Education Policy Institute and Professor Dylan Jones-Evans of the University of South Wales
Felicity Evans and James Williams hear from the chair of the Senedd's standards committee Hannah Blythyn MS about its recommendations for a recall system that would allow voters to evict politicians who have misbehaved from the Welsh Parliament. Fliss and James also quiz her about the circumstances of her sacking from the Welsh Government last year - when the then-First Minister Vaughan Gething said that media leaks of a ministerial group chat during the pandemic came from her mobile phone.
Felicity Evans and James Williams discuss immigration and what the situation is in Wales. They are joined by Professor Sergei Shubin from Swansea University, Ben Brindle from the Centre for Migration and IPSOS' Gideon Skinner to dig into the numbers and details. Timothy Hornyak, a Journalist in Japan, also joins them to discuss how an ageing and declining Japanese population might tackle their growing problem.
Felicity Evans and James Williams discuss NHS winter pressures with BBC Wales health correspondent Owain Clarke. And former transport minister Lee Waters MS reflects on the lessons he learnt from his time in government - experiences that inform his own podcast, "Y Pumed Llawr - The Fifth Floor". Billed as an "insider guide to politics and government in Wales" the pod draws on a series of in-depth interviews with other politicians, special advisers and civil servants - interviews that have just been published in full by Cardiff University as "Cathays Conversations"
Felicity Evans and James Williams break out the Christmas jumpers to look back at the blockbuster political year that was 2024 with the help of the Labour MP for Cardiff West, Alex Barros-Curtis, the Plaid Cymru MP for Caerfyrddin, Ann Davies and the Conservative's shadow Welsh Secretary, Mims Davies MP. What are their takeaways from a year that has seen three First Ministers and two Prime Ministers? And how will they fare in the traditional Walescast Christmas Quiz?
Felicity Evans and James Williams crunch the numbers and dig into the politics of the Welsh Government's draft budget for the next financial year. First they hear from the finance cabinet secretary Mark Drakeford MS before getting the reaction of the new Senedd leader of the Welsh Conservatives Darren Millar MS, Plaid Cymru's leader Rhun ap Iorweth MS and Dr Ed Poole of Cardiff University's Wales Governance Centre
Felicity Evans, James Williams and guests digest the resignation of the leader of the Conservatives in the Senedd, Andrew RT Davies. BBC Wales political editor Gareth Lewis explains how events unfolded following a vote of no confidence - that Mr Davies narrowly won - and what happens next. Cardiff University's Dr Jac Larner expands on the findings of the latest Welsh opinion poll - which shows the Conservatives trailing in fourth place behind Labour, Plaid Cymru and Reform - and the challenges that presents to Mr Davies' eventual successor
On 1 December 2021 Labour and Plaid Cymru signed a Co-operation Agreement committing the parties to working together on 46 different policies in the Senedd - ranging from Senedd reform to free school meals for all primary school children. Three years on, James Williams looks back at how the agreement came together and what it achieved with two guests who were at the heart of the negotiations that sealed the deal. David Davies was a special advisor to the then First Minister Mark Drakeford. John Osmond was his Plaid counterpart for Adam Price and has turned his experience of being in the room into a new book, "The Politics of Co-Opposition"
Felicity Evans and Elliw Gwawr are joined by Helen Miller of the Institute of Fiscal Studies to dig deep into the changes to inheritance tax for farmers announced in the Budget and attempt to get a number for how many Welsh farms could be affected. And BBC Wales political correspondent Rhodri Lewis looks back at the Welsh Labour party conference in Llandudno - which saw farmers protesting outside and the FM Eluned Morgan DJing inside
In a bonus episode, James Williams and Felicity Evans conduct an exit interview with Ian Price, the recently retired director of the business organisation CBI Wales, to get his views on the state of the Welsh economy and the Welsh Government's policies to drive growth and job creation
Former special adviser Jack Sellers has had a front row seat for the dramas that have engulfed the Conservative Party at Westminster in recent years. In conversation with James Williams and Felicity Evans he relives his time working for Boris Johnson's Welsh Secretary, Simon Hart and also looks back at his time in Number 10 Downing Street working for Rishi Sunak - including the General Election campaign that saw the party swept from power after 14 years
James Williams explores the potential impact on Wales of a second Trump presidency with economic advisor Eurfyl ap Gwilym and the Electoral Reform Society's campaign to convince local authorities to adopt proportional representation ahead of the next council elections with Jess Blair of ERS Cymru
Felicity Evans and James Williams are joined by BBC Wales political editor Gareth Lewis and Dr Ed Poole of Cardiff University's Wales Governance Centre to unpick what Rachel Reeves' first Budget - with its tax rises and extra spending on public services and capital projects - means for Wales and the Welsh Government budget in December
Felicity Evans and James Williams are joined by BBC colleague David Deans to look back at the Senedd debate on assisted dying that ultimately saw MSs vote against the idea. Grassroots Welsh Conservative Huw Davies explains why some in the party - himself included - would like to see the party commit to ending devolution. And the former Treasury special advisor Aled Maclean-Jones lifts the lid on what goes on behind the scenes at the Treasury in the run-up to a Budget
James Williams is joined by BBC Wales political editor Gareth Lewis to discuss the continuing confusion over the increased cross-border NHS co-operation announced by the Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens at the Labour Party conference. Newly-elected Plaid Cymru MP Llinos Medi looks back at her party's annual get together. And on the 60th anniversary of the creation of the role of Welsh Secretary, the former Labour post-holder Ron Davies and Anthony Pickles - advisor to four Conservative Secretaries of State - debate the future of the post.
James Williams convenes Walescast's very own Council of the Nations and Regions to preview the inaugural meeting of the UK government's new vehicle for strengthening its work with the governments of the devolved nations. BBC Scotland's Phil Sim, Jayne McCormack from BBC Northern Ireland and BBC Wales' very own Daniel Davies all squeeze around the table to try and work out what that might mean in practice. Plus Ed Poole of Cardiff University's Wales Governance Centre looks ahead to the Chancellor Rachel Reeves' much-anticipated first Budget at the end of the month
Felicity Evans and James Williams look back at the Conservative Party conference with the former Welsh Secretary Sir Robert Buckland - one of 175 Tory MPs to lose their seat at the General Election. What does he make of the four candidates still in the running to lead his party? And following the end of traditional steel making in Port Talbot, BBC Wales business correspondent Huw Thomas looks ahead to the future of Tata's massive plant in the town
James Williams hears from Claire Hughes - the newly-elected Labour MP for Bangor Aberconwy - about the mood and messages emanating from her party's get-together in Liverpool. Also in conference last weekend was Reform UK. The party's Welsh spokesperson Oliver Lewis gives his take on proceedings at Birmingham's NEC.
Felicity Evans and James Williams look back at the Green Party's recent get together in Manchester with its Welsh leader Anthony Slaughter - and the Liberal Democrats' gathering in Brighton with the party's newly-elected MP for Brecon, Radnor and Cwm Tawe, David Chadwick. With both parties returning record numbers of MPs to Westminster in the General Election the mood at their conferences was celebratory. But already their attention is turning to the Senedd elections in 20 months time.
Felicity Evans, James Williams and guests discuss the new First Minister Eluned Morgan's top priorities - as set out in a speech to the Senedd earlier in the week. Former health board chair professor Marcus Longley explains the challenges in delivering improvements to the NHS in Wales; BBC Wales business correspondent Huw Thomas looks at possible approaches to creating jobs within a greener economy; and BBC Wales education correspondent Bethan Lewis explores what the commitment to driving up standards in schools may involve
Felicity Evans and Elliw Gwawr discuss the small print of the deal between Tata Steel and the UK Government that paves the way for the building of a greener electric arc furnace at the company's Port Talbot plant with the Guardian's Kiran Stacey. Plus who's got what job in the reshuffled cabinet of the new First Minister, Eluned Morgan.
James Williams pores over the proposed new electoral map of Wales for the 2026 Senedd elections with Shereen Williams of the Democracy and Boundary Commission Cymru and discusses the issues preoccupying MPs as they return to Parliament with BBC Wales Westminster reporter Shelley Phelps
It's confirmed. Wales has it's first female First Minister. A whirlwind three weeks for Eluned Morgan which culminated in a seat at the top of Welsh Labour and the Senedd. But, it's not been plain sailing. The third First Minister this year will have a stacked in-tray and a party to pull together. She's already making changes with the return of familiar faces to her Cabinet. Joining James Williams to discuss all of that are Jo Kiernan, a former Senior Special Adviser to the First Minster, and Chris Carter is a Columnist for the Labour List.
Felicity Evans and James Williams review the first month of the new UK Labour government and also assess the state of play of Welsh politics ahead of next week's Senedd vote that is expected to confirm Eluned Morgan as the new First Minister with the help of BBC Wales political editor Gareth Lewis, Westminster reporter Shelley Phelps and Dr Jac Larner of Cardiff University's Welsh Governance Centre
Felicity Evans, James Williams and guests reflect on Eluned Morgan’s appointment as leader of Welsh Labour and First Minister-in-waiting and explore what it means for Welsh politics ahead of Senedd elections in 2026
Felicity Evans and James Williams digest the fallout from Vaughan Gething’s resignation as First Minister in the company of his predecessor as Welsh Labour leader Mark Drakeford, the leader of Plaid Cymru Rhun ap Iorwerth and the Conservative MS for Brecon and Radnorshire James Evans. Former Welsh Government special adviser turned political consultant Jo Kiernan is also on hand to offer her insights into what’s next for Welsh Labour as it starts a fresh search for a new leader
In this additional episode Felicity Evans and James Williams chew over the details of the First Minister's resignation. They are joined by BBC Wales' Welsh Affairs Editor Vaughan Roderick to dissect the decision and discuss what's next for Welsh Labour as the search for a new leader starts again.
Felicity Evans and James Williams analyse the General Election results in Wales with newly-elected Labour MP Kanishka Narayan, returning Plaid Cymru MP Ben Lake and defeated Conservative MP Fay Jones. Ruth Mosalski, WalesOnline's political editor, is also on hand to discuss the fall-out from former minister Hannah Blythyn's personal statement to the Senedd - her first comments since she was sacked by the First Minister Vaughan Gething
Felicity Evans and James Williams offer their snap analysis of the General Election results in Wales
With the finishing line in sight, Felicity Evans and James Williams are joined by BBC Wales political editor Gareth Lewis, BBC Scotland's Phil Sim, Sky News' Darren McCaffrey and Dr Jac Larner of Cardiff University's Wales Governance Centre to look back at the General Election campaign so far and pick out the key battlegrounds and trends to watch out for once the results start to come in on election night.
Felicity Evans and James Williams are joined by Guto Ifan from Cardiff University's Wales Fiscal Analysis programme to dig into what the Labour and Conservative manifesto commitments on tax and spending might mean for Wales in terms of funding and public services. Plus BBC Wales health correspondent Owain Clarke reflects on the role the NHS in Wales has played in the General Election campaign.
With just two weeks to go until polling day, Felicity Evans and Nick Servini are joined by James Griffiths of the British Election Study and BBC Wales Westminster correspondent Shelley Phelps to examine the prospects of the Liberal Democrat and Reform parties in Wales in the General Election. Plus, live TV election debates can make or break a candidate or party. On the eve of the BBC Wales Election Debate, presenter Bethan Rhys Roberts takes a break from preparing to host five party representatives and a 100-strong audience to reveal what goes on behind the scenes.
As a week of manifesto launches draws to a close, Felicity Evans and James Williams are joined by political pundits Lauren McEvatt, Matthew Hexter and Nerys Evans to pick over the different party offerings - and what they mean for Wales
Felicity Evans and James Williams are joined by BBC Wales political editor Gareth Lewis to discuss where the vote of no confidence in the First Minister leaves Vaughan Gething. Polling expert Dr Jac Larner helps crunch the FM's latest numbers and also puts the plethora of recent general election opinion polls in context
It's been a week since the July 4th General Election was called. Fliss and James mop up the details of campaign trails with Political Editor Gareth Lewis in Monmouth following a visit from Keir Starmer. They also catch up with Political Correspondent Cemlyn Davies following Plaid Cymru's campaign launch in Bangor. Also joining them is the Associate Director for the Institute for Fiscal Studies David Phillips who discusses the Shared Prosperity Fund and party policies on taxes and spending.
Following the surprise announcement of a General Election on July 4, James Williams is joined by BBC Wales Westminster reporters Catrin Haf Jones and Shelley Phelps to map out the contours of the campaign that lies ahead.
Felicity Evans and James Williams are joined by colleague Cemlyn Davies to discuss the fall-out from Vaughan Gething's sacking of one of his ministerial team for leaking to the media - an allegation the former minister for social partnership Hannah Blythyn denies. Luke Young of Citizens Advice Cymru laments the decision to delay council tax reforms to 2028. And MSs Jane Dodds and Janet Finch-Saunders make the case for their pets - Wanda and Alfie - to be crowned Senedd Dog of the Year.
At the end of a week that saw both the 25th anniversary of the first elections to Cardiff Bay and legislation passed to reform the Senedd, James Williams and Felicity Evans join the Presiding Officer Elin Jones MS in the Siambr to reflect on the devolution journey to date and what the future holds - for both her and the institution.
James Williams and Daniel Davies digest another week of difficult headlines for the new First Minister
Felicity Evans and James Williams are joined by BBC Wales political editor Gareth Lewis to sweep up as the dust settles on two opposition debates in the Senedd seeking to address the continuing controversy around a £200,000 donation to Vaughan Gething's Labour leadership campaign from a man twice convicted of environmental offences
Felicity Evans and David Deans discuss the latest developments in Tata Steel's plans to close both its blast furnaces at its Port Talbot plant before talking to Andrew Morgan, leader of the Welsh Local Government Association, about how councils view the recently announced changes to the implementation of the Welsh Government's default 20mph policy. The pair also explore the ongoing controversy surrounding a £200,000 donation towards Vaughan Gething's Labour leadership campaign from a man twice convicted of environmental offences.
With the Senedd back in session after the Easter recess, the new First Minister Vaughan Gething can now properly get down to business. Following a debut appearance at FMQs and a statement on "delivering Wales' priorities", Felicity Evans and James Williams explore what the past week in Cardiff Bay reveals about Mr Gething's approach to his new role with BBC Wales political editor Gareth Lewis. And more than a decade in the making, Pembrokeshire-born academic Sam Blaxland discusses his new history, "The Conservative Party in Wales, 1945 - 1997"
Felicity Evans and James Williams examine the news that hospital doctors are pausing strike action for further pay talks with the Welsh Government with BBC Wales health correspondent Owain Clarke. And with three weeks to go until elections for Police and Crime Commissioners to the four Welsh forces, former deputy PCC Sophie Howe explains what the job is all about.
Felicity Evans and James Williams are joined by politicians past and present for a book club special. Labour MP Sir Chris Bryant discusses his latest work of history, "James and John: A True Story of Prejudice and Murder". Plaid Cymru MS Delyth Jewell's pick is the epic historical fantasy "Babel" by R F Kuang. And the former Conservative AM Suzy Davies champions "Pearl", the debut novel of the Welsh poet Siân Hughes
Felicity Evans and James Williams are joined by BBC Wales political editor Gareth Lewis and Jo Kiernan, special adviser to former First Minister Carwyn Jones, to look back at Vaughan Gething's successful campaign to succeed Mark Drakeford and explore what to expect from the new man at the very top of Welsh politics
As its hearings in Cardiff conclude, Felicity Evans takes a deep dive into the evidence presented to the Welsh module of the UK Covid-19 Inquiry in the company of BBC Wales health correspondent Owain Clarke and WalesOnline's Welsh affairs editor Will Hayward
Felicity Evans and James Williams are joined by BBC Wales business correspondent Huw Thomas and Steffan Evans, director of policy at the Bevan Foundation, to sift through the details of the Chancellor's Budget and examine what they mean for Wales
Felicity Evans and James Williams dig into the issues that prompted Welsh farmers to protest outside the Senedd with Dr Hazel Wright of the Farmers' Union of Wales and Andrew Tuddenham of the Soil Association in Wales. And BBC Wales social affairs correspondent India Pollock reflects on the opening week of evidence to the Welsh leg of the UK Covid-19 Inquiry.
Felicity Evans and James Williams look back at the performance of the two men vying to succeed Mark Drakeford in a special BBC Wales Live debate with the programme presenter Bethan Rhys Roberts and fellow BBC Wales political reporter Cemlyn Davies. How did Vaughan Gething and Jeremy Miles come across and where did their pitches differ?
Felicity and James discuss the art of the political interview with the TV journalist Rob Burley, who has distilled his lengthy career making politics programmes into a book about the challenges of trying to get straight answers from ministers and Prime Ministers
Following claims of a stitch-up, James Williams discusses the latest developments in the contest to become the next First Minister and leader of Welsh Labour with fellow podcaster Matt Hexter. And BBC Wales political reporter David Deans explains how nesting ospreys have led to ruffled feathers in the Senedd
Wales' leading trade unionist Mark Serwotka is retiring after more than two decades as general secretary of the Public and Commercial Services Union. Having seen seven Prime Ministers come and go, he talks to Felicity Evans and James Williams about the personal and professional challenges he has faced at the helm of the union that represents nearly 200,000 civil servants - and reflects on his legacy
Felicity Evans and James Williams explore the employment, environmental and political ramifications of Tata's Steel decision to close the two blast furnaces at its Port Talbot plant - and build an electric arc furnace in their place - with BBC Wales business correspondent Huw Thomas and environment correspondent Steffan Messenger
BBC Wales political editor Gareth Lewis takes Felicity Evans and James Williams through the findings of the final report of the Independent Commission on the Constitutional Future of Wales. And health correspondent Owain Clarke reflects on the state of the NHS in Wales as junior doctors end a 72-hour strike and the latest performance statistics are released.
Felicity Evans and James Williams are joined by BBC Wales political editor Gareth Lewis and education and family correspondent Bethan Lewis to look ahead to what's in store in 2024 in the worlds of Welsh politics, education and the economy
Felicity Evans and James Williams sit down for an end-of-year chat with BBC Wales long-serving Welsh Affairs editor Vaughan Roderick. They look back at Vaughan's return to work after a life-changing illness and forward to what promises to be a dramatic year in politics - with a new First Minister due by Easter and a Westminster General Election also looming on the horizon.
Felicity Evans and James Williams are joined by the finance minister Rebecca Evans, the Welsh Conservative's Senedd leader Andrew RT Davies and the leader of Plaid Cymru Rhun ap Iorwerth to analyse the Welsh Government budget, look back at the rest of the political year and look ahead to 2024
The dust has settled somewhat after the surprise announcement that Mark Drakeford is standing down as First Minister and Welsh Labour Leader. Joining Felicity and James to discuss what, why and who's next is Political Lecturer Dr Jac Larner from Cardiff University and BBC Wales' Political Editor Gareth Lewis. They also reflect on the legacy of Mark Drakeford and what the future of Welsh Labour will look like without him at the helm. Julie Morgan, one the FM's Deputy Ministers and long term friends, and Carwyn Jones, former First Minister for Wales, look back at his time in office.
Following the announcement that Mark Drakeford is to stand down as First Minister and leader of Welsh Labour after five years in the job, here's an archive episode of Walescast from April 2021. In the middle of that Spring's Senedd election campaign, Felicity Evans and James Williams caught up with Mr Drakeford in the sunshine of a Cardiff park for a wide-ranging chat which took in his love of cricket, what he grows on his allotment and his memories of the late First Minister Rhodri Morgan
As the dust settles on the surprise announcement that Mark Drakeford is to stand down as First Minister and leader of Welsh Labour by next Easter, Felicity Evans and James Williams are joined by BBC Wales political editor Gareth Lewis for an unscheduled episode to reflect on the timing of the news - and on Mr Drakeford's legacy
Felicity Evans and James Williams are joined by BBC Wales education correspondent Bethan Lewis and Institute of Fiscal Studies research fellow Luke Sibieta to assess the performance of Welsh pupils in the most recent set of Pisa tests - the international maths, reading and science assessments carried out every three years. The latest results from the OECD's Programme for International Student Assessment - and the first since Covid - saw Wales' performance fall to its lowest level ever in all three disciplines, with Wales also scoring the lowest of all the UK nations.
Daniel Davies and Teleri Glyn Jones are joined by Joseph Carter of Healthy Air Cymru to discuss the Air Quality and Soundscapes Bill, which is awaiting Royal Assent after completing its passage through the Senedd. The legislation - described as "world-leading" by ministers - is designed to cut deaths and illness from toxic air. But what it might mean for motorists and solid fuel users, amongst others?
Felicity Evans and James Williams are joined by BBC Wales political editor Gareth Lewis and Guto Ifan of the Wales Governance Centre at Cardiff University to dig into the details of Chancellor Jeremy Hunt's Autumn Statement - and what it means for Wales
Felicity Evans and James Williams are joined by colleague Daniel Davies and David Phillips of the Institute of Fiscal Studies to discuss the Welsh government's plans for council tax reform. Why do ministers think change is necessary? When might it happen? And who will be winners and who will be losers?
Felicity Evans looks back at the Senedd debate on the conflict in Israel and Gaza with BBC Wales political editor Gareth Lewis before Sian Jones - a former special advisor to the Conservative cabinet minister Philip Hammond - helps them put the King's Speech in context
Felicity Evans and James Williams are joined by BBC Wales business correspondent Huw Thomas to discuss the future of Tata Steel's Port Talbot plant after the last-minute cancellation of an expected announcement of the closure of its two blast furnaces with the potential loss of 3,000 jobs.And Martin Blakebrough, head of the substance misuse charity Kaleidoscope, explains how he hopes to push ahead with new services for the most vulnerable drug users in Wales after the UK's first Drug Consumption Room was approved in Scotland.
In the wake of the Welsh Ambulance Service declaring an "extraordinary incident" last weekend, Felicity Evans and James Williams are joined by BBC Wales health correspondent Owain Clarke and senior figures from the service to discuss the challenges it faces as winter looms - and what can be done to ease pressures at the hospital front door.
Felicity Evans and James Williams are joined by BBC Wales political editor Gareth Lewis and Guto Ifan from the Wales Governance Centre at Cardiff University to crunch the numbers following the unveiling of cuts to parts of the Welsh Government's budget which ministers say are needed to balance the books in the face of inflationary pressures and also put more cash into the NHS and Transport for Wales
Two party conference reviews for the price of one. Felicity and James are joined by BBC Wales Westminster correspondent Shelley Phelps and the shadow cabinet member and Torfaen MP Nick Thomas-Symonds to look back at Labour in Liverpool. Plus political correspondent Daniel Davies and Dwyfor Meirionnydd MS Mabon ap Gwynfor on Plaid Cymru's Autumn get-together in Aberystwyth.
Felicity Evans reviews the Conservative Party conference and that HS2 announcement with the Brecon and Radnorshire MP Fay Jones and BBC Wales Westminster correspondent Catrin Haf Jones - who both spent the week in Manchester. Will Rishi Sunak's speech lead to a revival in his party's fortunes? And business correspondent Huw Thomas reflects on the news that a major employer in the south Wales valleys - UK Windows and Doors - is to close, with the loss of 500 jobs.
With the number of signatories to a petition calling on the Welsh Government to rescind its new 20-mph law breaking all records, James Williams and Felicity Evans are joined by the chair of the Senedd's petitions committee, Jack Sargeant MS and Cristina Leston-Bandiera, professor of politics at the University of Leeds, to investigate the value of parliamentary petitions. And fresh from her party conference, the leader of the Liberal Democrats in Wales, Jane Dodds MS, reflects on her party's standing as a General Election looms.
The Minister for the Constitution, Mick Antoniw MS, joins James Williams to discuss the Senedd Reform Bill, which paves the way for the enlargement of the Senedd for 60 to 96 members. BBC Wales environment correspondent Steffan Messenger explains what the changes to to the UK government's approach to achieving net zero by 2050 - announced by the Prime Minister - mean for Wales. And Dr Jac Larner of Cardiff University runs through the results of the most recent Welsh opinion polling.
James Williams speaks to the Deputy Minster of Climate Change in Wales, Lee Waters, about the imminent arrival of the default 20mph speed limit. Also, with the help of BBC Wales' Political Editor Gareth Lewis, he analyses the latest Welsh Government announcement about the multi-million pound overspend by NHS Wales.
Budget cuts, public sector pay and the road to Net Zero. Felicity Evans and James Williams are joined by a trio of Senedd members - Labour’s Hefin David, Conservative Natasha Ashgar and Luke Fletcher of Plaid Cymru - to discuss the big issues facing their parties as the new political term approaches.
The Plaid Cymru leader and Ynys Mon MS joins Felicity Evans and James Williams at the National Eisteddfod to reflect on a career which spans both journalism, politics and a little bit of showbusiness. In a wide-ranging interview he discusses growing up as the son of a musical collaborator with Dafydd Iwan, the four big decisions he's had to make in his political career - and the records he would take to a desert island.
From Ystalyfera comprehensive school to Wales’ education minister via Oxford and the law – the Labour MS for Neath, Jeremy Miles, has an impressive c.v. and skills set. But when Felicity Evans and James Williams met him at the Gnoll Country Park in the heart of his constituency for a wide-ranging interview covering the experiences that have shaped his politics, they discovered how he met his match - in the shape of a former attorney and First Lady, diplomat and US presidential candidate turned relationships counsellor.
The Conservative MP for Brecon and Radnorshire joins Felicity Evans and James Williams at the Royal Welsh Show to reflect on her political career. In a wide-ranging interview she discusses growing up as the daughter of an MP and government minister, why she is confident of retaining her seat at the next General Election and how she approaches representing Wales's largest constituency
Felicity Evans and David Deans look forward to Westminster after the summer break and a general election looming. They are joined by former director of strategy and chief speechwriter to Theresa May, Chris Wilkins and Jim Pickard the deputy political editor at the Financial Times. Felicity and David also speak to BBC Wales environment correspondent Steffan Messenger, who is at the Royal Welsh Agricultural Show, where a row over the number of trees farmers will need to plant to access future subsidies has dominated proceedings.
James Williams analyses the results of the week's three Parliamentary by-elections with the help of the former Welsh Conservative chief of staff, Anthony Pickles and Tom Hamilton, a former head of research for the UK Labour Party. James is also joined by BBC Wales education and family correspondent Bethan Lewis and Laura Doel, director of the National Association of Head Teachers in Wales, to look back at the academic year.
As the Senedd heads into its Summer recess, James Williams and Huw Thomas are joined by political commentator Martin Shipton for an end-of-term report on the parties and their leaders. Harry Thompson of Cynnal Cymru gives his take on the latest Welsh unemployment figures, And the editor of the Caerphilly Observer, Richard Gurner, explains why he will soon be employing a journalist - paid for by public money - to report on the Senedd
James Williams and BBC Wales health correspondent Jenny Rees examine the vital signs of the National Health Service as it turns 75 with the help of former health board chair Professor Marcus Longley and junior doctor representative Dr Georgie Budd. Also, following the evidence given to the UK Covid-19 inquiry by Welsh Government ministers and officials, how prepared is the health service for another pandemic?
Felicity Evans, James Williams and guests work through the highlights of the Welsh Government's list of eight new laws it plans to bring forward in the next 12 months. Adam Keen of Adventure Travel explains what the promised bus bill might mean for both industry and passengers while Luke Young of Citizens Advice Cymru explores the implications of council tax reforms for households. Auriol Miller of the Institute of Welsh Affairs also joins the conversation to discuss the plans for Senedd enlargement and gender equality. Fliss and James then hear from Shereen Williams of the Boundary Commission for Wales which has just completed the process of re-drawing the map of Parliamentary constituencies as the number of MPs Wales returns to Westminster falls from 40 to 32 at the next General Election.
Felicity Evans and James Williams discuss how the new leader of Plaid Cymru, Rhun ap Iorwerth MS, will approach the challenges facing his party with Plaid MP Ben Lake and former Plaid MP and family friend Elfyn Llwyd. Fliss and James also discuss the latest inflation figures and what they may mean for interest rates ahead of the monthly meeting of the Bank of England's Monetary Policy Committee
James Williams hears from Anna-Louise Marsh-Rees of Covid-19 Bereaved Families for Justice Cymru following the opening statements to the UK Covid-19 Inquiry. Jessica Hooper of RenewableUK Cymru gives her reaction to the publication of Welsh Government's Infrastructure Bill, which ministers describe as an important step towards delivering on renewable energy targets. Plus BBC Wales business correspondent Huw Thomas on calls from the chairman of Tata Steel UK, Henrik Adam, for a "level playing field" as it seeks UK government subsidies to decarbonise its Port Talbot steelworks.
Felicity Evans learns the lessons of Henry Engelhardt's 40-year career in business which saw him build Cardiff-based Admiral Insurance - Wales' only FTSE 100-listed company - into a global concern worth £9 billion. What's the secret of being a good boss? How to succeed at interview. And why a 10-year plan is the secret to a good retirement.
Felicity Evans and Cemlyn Davies discuss the policy of housing asylum seekers in hotels with the former Commissioner for Racial Equality for Wales, the Rev Aled Edwards. Environment correspondent Steffan Messenger explores what achieving Net Zero could mean for Welsh farms and those who work on them. And social affairs correspondent India Pollock reflects on a major piece of work by Senedd members into children in care.
Felicity Evans and James Williams explore the political fallout from the unrest in Ely with the local MP, Cardiff West's Kevin Brennan, while Professor Howard Williamson brings his 50 years of experience of the community to the questions of why it happened and how further repeats can be avoided. And Dr James Griffiths of the Wales Governance Centre at Cardiff University runs through the findings of the latest YouGov opinion polling in Wales.
With the latest job figures showing that nearly one in four of the working age population in Wales are economically inactive, Felicity Evans and James Williams explore the causes and effects of this long-term feature of the Welsh economy with the help of Joshua Miles, the Welsh director of the Work and Learning Institute and the occupational health expert and Bevan Commissioner Professor Ewan Macdonald. The pair also take a trip through the looking glass into the topsy-turvy world of VAT on food to discover why the Chancellor of the Exchequer would prefer us to eat chocolate digestives and potato crisps over plain biscuits and tortilla chips.
Felicity Evans and James Williams are joined by Cardiff University's Professor Richard Wyn Jones as the dust begins to settle on Adam Price's resignation as the leader of Plaid Cymru following a critical report into the culture of the party. What's changed in the week since that report was published? What legacy does Adam Price leave behind? And where now for Plaid?
Felicity Evans and Daniel Davies look back at the Welsh Conservative's Spring conference in the company of the Tory MS for Clwyd West Darren Millar and WalesOnline's Welsh Affairs editor Will Hayward
Felicity Evans and James Williams ask if the First Minister has successfully drawn the line under a row over whether the Senedd was misled over the decision-making process that saw the north Wales health board Betsi Cadwaladr taken out of special measures in 2020. And Environment Correspondent Steffan Messenger charts the end of the line for opencast mining in Wales, following a council decision not to grant an extension to the gigantic Ffos-y-Fran site in Merthyr Tydfil.
With food price inflation at a 45-year high, Felicity Evans and James Williams explore the implications for food producers with Welsh farmer Llyr Jones - and for hard-pressed households with James Smith of the Resolution Foundation. In the wake of the announcement that Cardiff Council is to explore introducing a "road user payment" scheme to cut congestion and improve air quality, Silviyia Barrett of the Campaign for Better Transport outlines the impact similar schemes have had on cities across the UK. And Fliss and James also unpack the latest developments in the row over whether the First Minister misled the Senedd over the decision-making process that saw the north Wales health board Betsi Cadwaladr taken out of special measures in 2020.
As junior doctors strike in England, James Williams meets Dr Iona Collins, the chair of the Wales council of the British Medical Association. Here in Wales junior doctors aren't on strike, they're in work. Why is that? Pay negotiations start with the Welsh government next week, but if Westminster doesn't settle with the English doctors, where will the money come from for a separate settlement in Wales? Plus… a big shift in the UK class system that most people are unaware of. Sociologist Dan Evans joins James to talk about the new Petite Bourgeoisie. Who are they? What do they want? And how can Porthcawl help us to understand them?
Welsh Water released sewage into rivers, lakes and the sea around Wales for almost 600,000 hours last year, according to the latest data. The worst hit rivers in 2022 were the Garw, Tawe, Teifi, Usk, Rhymney and Taff. To find out why, Fliss and James talk to Welsh Water's CEO Peter Perry and Gail Davies-Walsh from Afonydd Cymru.
As the first new trains for the South Wales Metro are officially rolled out, James Williams and Daniel Davies quiz the head of Transport for Wales, James Price, on that project's timetables and increasing costs as well as TfW's plans for the rest of the country and the future for bus services. Plus Huw Irranca-Davies MS, chair of the Senedd's Legislation, Justice and Constitution committee, on concerns that UK government legislation to scrap EU-era rules and regulations could undermine devolution.
Following the announcement that two freeports are to be created in Wales - one in Anglesey and the other centred around Milford Haven and Port Talbot - Cemlyn Davies works through what it all means for the two areas, and the wider Welsh economy, with BBC Wales business correspondent Huw Thomas. Senedd watcher David Deans looks back at the vote of No Confidence in the health minister Eluned Morgan. And political correspondent Daniel Davies explores the content of the Welsh government's long-awaited clean air bill.
Felicity Evans and James Williams run through the numbers in Chancellor Jeremy Hunt's Budget with BBC Wales business correspondent Huw Thomas before being joined by Labour MS Jack Sargeant and WalesOnline's Welsh Affairs Editor Will Hayward to look back at Welsh Labour's Spring conference in Llandudno
Felicity Evans and James Williams are joined by Siân Gwenllian MS and WalesOnline's Welsh Affairs Editor Will Hayward to look back at Plaid Cymru's Spring conference at Llanelli's Ffwrnes Theatre.
Felicity Evans and James Williams diagnose the problems that have seen the north Wales health board Betsi Cadwaladr put into special measures for a second time with the help of BBC Wales health correspondent Owain Clarke and former health board chair Professor Marcus Longley. And logistics expert Professor Andrew Potter explains what the Windsor Framework - the deal with the EU that aims to fix post-Brexit trade problems in Northern Ireland - means for Welsh ferry ports and businesses trading across the Irish Sea.
Transport minister Lee Waters joins James Williams to explain the workings of the Welsh government's roads review and to answer some of the criticism that has come his way in the wake of the announcement that many schemes that were in the pipeline won't now go ahead. And ITV Wales' political editor Adrian Masters is also on hand, to dive into the detail of the latest data from its regular barometer opinion poll.
Senedd members have had their chance to discuss the Welsh Government's draft budget. Now it's the turn of James Williams and BBC Wales colleague Daniel Davies to run the numbers and to explore what the plans being put forward mean for local councils and the people they serve. They are joined by the leader of Torfaen County Borough Council, Anthony Hunt - who explains the pressures his authority is operating under - and by Steffan Evans of the Bevan Foundation - who draws on its research into the levels of poverty in Wales. Plus David Evans, Welsh secretary of the National Education Union explains why it has paused school strikes to allow its members to consider an improved pay offer from Welsh ministers.
Felicity Evans and James Williams speak to Senedd culture and sports committee member Hefin David MS following the appearance of the Welsh Rugby Union's leadership to answer questions about claims of sexism and misogyny. Plaid Cymru MS Mabon ap Gwynfor explains why his party is seeking to amend the Welsh Government's budget plans for next year to increase income tax to pay for wage rises for health and social care workers, And the out-going Future Generations Commissioner for Wales, Sophie Howe, reflects on a trail-blazing seven years in post.
Felicity Evans and James Williams discuss the political fall out from accusations of misogyny and racism at the Welsh Rugby Union with Wyre Davies, the BBC Wales journalist that broke the story, and the Conservative MS and member of the Senedd's culture and sport committee Tom Giffard
With industrial action set to hit schools across Wales, Felicity Evans and James Williams dig into roots of the latest public sector dispute with BBC Wales education correspondent Bethan Lewis and Mairead Canavan of NEU Cymru and NASUWT Cymru's Sion Amlyn.
Felicity Evans takes the pulse of the NHS in Wales as it experiences unprecedented winter pressures and a wave of industrial action with BBC Wales health correspondent Owain Clarke and Westminster correspondent Shelley Phelps
Felicity Evans and James Williams are joined in studio by Cefin Campbell MS, Sarah Murphy MS and Sam Rowlands MS to reflect on a turbulent 12 months in politics and to look ahead to what 2023 may bring
Felicity Evans and James Williams run the Welsh Government's budget numbers with the finance minster Rebecca Evans and Guto Ifan of the Wales Governance Centre at Cardiff University
Felicity Evans and James Williams hear from Professor Laura McAllister, co-chair of the Independent Commission on the Constitutional Future of Wales, about its interim report and future direction of travel. Labour MS Hefin David gives his reaction to that report and to the findings of the Gordon Brown-led Commission on the UK's Future. And BBC colleague Phil Sim provides a view from Scotland.
One year on, Felicity Evans and James Williams take stock of the Senedd co-operation agreement between Labour and Plaid Cymru
Felicity Evans and James Williams hear from David Collins, the Sunday Times journalist who has helped reveal allegations of misogyny, racism and homophobia at Gwent Police. And business correspondent Huw Thomas and Chris Cash of the China Research Group unpack why the UK Government has ordered the unwinding of the purchase of the Newport Wafer Fab semiconductor plant on national security grounds.
Felicity Evans and James Williams run the rule over the Chancellor's Autumn statement - and what it means for Wales - in the company of BBC Wales economics correspondent Sarah Dickins and Guto Ifan of Cardiff University's Wales Governance Centre
One hundred years ago Labour emerged from the General Election of 1922 as the majority party in Wales - a position that it has maintained through a further 27 General Elections and six elections to the Senedd. It's an unparalleled period of electoral dominance that makes Welsh Labour the most successful political party in democratic history. How has that been achieved? And what are the implications for Welsh politics? These are questions that Felicity Evans and James Williams discuss with Labour MS Eluned Morgan, the former Plaid Cymru AM Nerys Evans, the former Welsh Conservative staffer Anthony Pickles and Professor Richard Wyn Jones of the Wales Governance Centre.
James Williams and Daniel Davies discuss COP27 - the UN climate change conference underway in Egypt - with Dr Jen Allan of Cardiff University. What might emerge from this latest global gathering and what could it mean for Wales? Elsewhere in the Middle East, Qatar is making its final preparations ahead of the kick-off of the football World Cup. Author Richard King and football magazine founder Ryan March join the squad to reflect on the political significance of Wales' first appearance at the tournament for 64 years and what the Red Wall says about modern day Wales.
Daniel Davies and Teleri Glyn Jones take the Walescast mikes to review new Welsh Secretary David TC Davies' first appearance before the backbench MPs of the Welsh Affairs Select Committee with Westminster correspondent Shelley Phelps. Social affairs correspondent India Pollock shines a light on the plight of unpaid carers. And Robat Idris, the new chair of the campaign group Cymdeithas yr Iaith Gymraeg, outlines his priorities for the Welsh language.
Felicity Evans and James Williams talk to the incoming Welsh Secretary David TC Davies MP about his, at times colourful, political career and his ambitions in his new Cabinet role. Following heated exchanges in the Senedd over ambulance waiting times, health correspondent Owain Clarke helps take the temperature of the NHS in Wales as it heads into the winter. And Daniel Davies reflects on Adam Price's leader's speech to the Plaid Cymru conference.
With the fallout from the Chancellor's mini-budget still being felt across the financial markets, Felicity Evans and James Williams take the temperature at Westminster with Parliamentary correspondent Catrin Haf Jones. As MPs return to the Commons after the party conference season, will the Prime Minister and Chancellor stick to their course? Or will they be forced into further changes of tack? And Harry Thompson of the Institute of Welsh Affairs lays out why the think tank believes that reforming the Welsh Government’s borrowing powers is key to transformative policy making in Wales.
Felicity Evans and James Williams are joined by the former Welsh Conservative chief of staff Anthony Pickles to look back at a difficult conference week for the party in Birmingham. Former stockbroker and "City Boy" Geraint Anderson assesses the state of relations between the UK Government and the City following the adverse reaction to the Chancellor's mini-budget. And Plaid Cymru's MS for Ynys Mon, Rhun ap Iorwerth, explains why he has decided to stand for election as the island's MP at the next Westminster General Election.
Health correspondent Jenny Rees is back at the Walescast microphone for the second of two episodes with a special focus on women’s health. Together with molecular microbiologist Dr Emma Hayhurst of the University of South Wales and Prof Jacky Boivin, a health psychologist at Cardiff University, she explores the world of research and development. With half of all women likely to contract a Urinary Tract Infection and conditions like endometriosis as common as diabetes, what work is underway - and what work still needs to be done - to relieve the suffering and symptoms of so many women?
Health correspondent Jenny Rees takes over the Walescast microphone for the first of two episodes with a special focus on women’s health. Together with Dee Montague-Coast of Fair Treatment for the Women of Wales, Dr Amara Naseem of Muslim Doctors Cymru and colorectal surgeon Julie Cornish, she explores the inequalities women face when seeking treatment, their root causes and impacts and some of the solutions.
Felicity Evans and James Williams discuss the political implications of the turmoil in the financial markets that has followed the Chancellor's recent mini-budget with BBC Wales' economics correspondent Sarah Dickins. And the Labour MP for Torfaen, Nick Thomas-Symonds, reflects on the mood in his party in the wake of its annual conference in Liverpool.
Felicity Evans and James Williams pick through the headlines of the UK Government's plans to help businesses with their rocketing energy bills before discussing the Welsh Government's proposals for a visitor levy - or tourism tax - with Dyfrig Siencyn, leader of Gwynedd County Council. Dr Jac Larner of Cardiff University then takes a deep dive into into the latest opinion polling for the Wales Governance Centre and what it says about attitudes to the new Prime Minister and to devolution - 25 years on from the knife-edge referendum result that paved the way for today's Senedd.
BBC Wales Politics Editor Felicity Evans and Political Correspondent James Williams are joined by Conservative MS Samuel Kurtz, Labour’s shadow Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens MP and Professor Richard Wyn Jones from Cardiff University to analyse the first days of Liz Truss's premiership and explore what the new tenant of 10 Downing Street could mean for Welsh and UK politics
Felicity Evans and James Williams are joined by Labour MP Stephen Kinnock, Welsh Conservative MS Peter Fox, and Plaid Cymru MS Heledd Fychan to discuss the energy price cap announcement and what can be done to alleviate high energy bills. They also look ahead to the appointment of the new Prime Minister.
The Welsh Government’s economy minister joins Felicity Evans and James Williams in the pavilion of Lisvane Cricket Club to talk about his love of the game, his time as health minister during the Covid pandemic and the cost of living crisis. Questions about his future ambitions are met with a defensive, straight bat but he does open up on his go to karaoke tune.
This episode includes a personal account of discrimination, with graphic racist language, which listeners could find upsetting.
The Conservative MP for Ynys Mon Virginia Crosbie joins Felicity Evans and James Williams at the Anglesey Show to reflect on her late-blooming political career. In a wide-ranging interview she discusses how her approach to life has been shaped by personal trauma and her priorities for her island constituency.
The former Plaid Cymru leader Dafydd Wigley joins Felicity Evans and James Williams at the National Slate Museum in Llanberis to reflect on half a century in frontline politics. Now in the House of Lords, he looks back at the highs and lows of his political career, from the dying days of James Callaghan’s Labour government in 1979, through to the high drama of the devolution referendum of 1997 and beyond. And then there's his connection to a 1930s Chicago gangster and Public Enemy Number 1.
Felicity Evans and James Williams reflect on the Welsh hustings in the contest to succeed Boris Johnson as leader of both the Conservative Party and the country. Conservative MP Fay Jones helps them assess how the pitches from Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak went down with the rank and file party members who will decide their fate. And Labour’s Tonia Antoniazzi provides a perspective from outside the tent.
Felicity Evans and James Williams reflect on the Welsh husting in the contest to succeed Boris Johnson as leader of both the Conservative Party and the country. Conservative MP Fay Jones helps them assess how the pitches from Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak went down with the rank and file party members who will decide their fate. And Labour’s Tonia Antoniazzi provides a perspective from outside the tent.
Felicity Evans and James Williams get out the abacus and crunch the numbers on the public sector pay awards with Laura Doel of the school leaders’ union NAHT Cymru and Harry Thompson of the Institute of Welsh Affairs. With its offer falling far short of the current rate of inflation, how did the Welsh Government arrive at the figures it did? And where do staff and unions go from here? Plus, Céad Míle Fáilte - a hundred thousand welcomes to Denise Hanrahan, the Irish Consul General to Wales.
Felicity Evans and James Williams assess the form of the final candidates for the Conservative Party leadership with BBC Wales Westminster correspondent Gareth Lewis. Who of Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak is best placed to triumph in the two-horse race that will now run over the Summer? Luke Sibieta of the Education Policy Institute offers an end of term report on the performance of the Welsh education system. And environment correspondent Steffan Messenger reports back on the agricultural issues exercising farmers at the Royal Welsh Show
Felicity Evans and James Williams are joined by Luke Young of Citizens Advice Cymru and Cardiff University's Guto Ifan to discuss the Welsh Government's proposals for Council Tax reform. And Lauren McEvatt - a former special adviser to David Jones MP when he was Welsh Secretary in David Cameron's government - helps run the rule over the tax plans of the candidates hoping to succeed Boris Johnson as Prime Minister and leader of the Tory Party.
Following Boris Johnson's announcement that he is standing down as Prime Minister, James Williams and Daniel Davies are joined by Theresa May's former director of strategy, Chris Wilkins, to review an extraordinary week of drama in Downing Street and explore its implications, for both the country and the Conservative Party
James Williams speaks to Andrew R T Davies, the leader of the Conservatives in the Senedd, as his Prime Minister and party grapple with the fall-out from the resignations of both the Chancellor and Health Secretary and a procession of more junior Government ministers. Plaid Cymru MS Luke Fletcher explains his party's evolving position on relationships with the European Union. And Labour councillor Rachel Garrioch gives an insight into what it was like to be in the room during her party's special conference that approved plans for Senedd enlargement.
Felicity Evans and James Williams are joined by BBC Wales colleague Catrin Haf Jones and Jacob Ellis from the office of the Future Generations Commissioner to delve into the workings of the Welsh Government's pioneering basic income pilot for care leavers. Education correspondent Bethan Lewis marks the end of the National School Categorisation System. And Aled Eirug explains the genesis of a new collection of essays he has helped to edit on on the impact of devolution in Wales.
In the midst of the biggest rail strike in 30 years, Felicity Evans and James Williams discuss the prospects for further industrial action in the weeks ahead with Shavanah Taj, general secretary of the Wales TUC, the Press Association's long-serving industrial correspondent Alan Jones and Tony Wilson, director of the Institute for Employment Studies. Does a summer of discontent lie ahead? And Jac Larner of Cardiff University shares insights from the latest Barn Cymru opinion poll. Which three words do Welsh voters think best describe both the Prime Minister and the First Minister?
James Williams and David Deans unpack delays to the implementation of the Renting Homes Act with Katie Dalton of the umbrella housing organisation Cymorth Cymru. And BBC Wales colleague Paul Martin provides an update on the efforts to make safe high-rise apartment blocks, five years on from the Grenfell Tower disaster.
Felicity Evans and James Williams are joined by BBC Wales Parliamentary correspondent Gareth Lewis and David Williamson, political editor of the Sunday Express, to consider the fall-out from the unsuccessful vote of no confidence in the Prime Minister. With four in 10 of his MPs voting against him, what are the long-term prospects for Boris Johnson's premiership? And health correspondent Owain Clarke reflects on another difficult week for health chiefs in north Wales after parts of Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board are subjected to "targeted interventions" by the Welsh Government.
Felicity Evans and James Williams talk zipping, closed lists and the d'Hondt method with Huw Irranca-Davies MS, chair of the special purpose committee on Senedd Reform following the conclusion of its inquiry into how best to increase the number of MSs in Cardiff Bay. And Professor Richard Wyn Jones of Cardiff University crunches the numbers from a new survey of Welsh attitudes towards the Royal family. 55 per cent support the Crown now. But how many believe that there will still be a monarch in 50 or 100 years?
As the dust begins to settle following the publication of Sue Gray's final report into lockdown breaches of Covid regulations in Downing Street and Whitehall, Felicity Evans and BBC Wales Parliamentary correspondent Gareth Lewis assess the impact of "Partygate" and explore what might happen next. Boris Johnson appears safe in Downing Street for now. But there may still be problems ahead for the Prime Minister.
After a weekend covering the Welsh Conservative's annual conference in Newtown, Felicity Evans and Catrin Haf Jones reflect on what they learnt about the mood of party activists following their losses in the recent local elections. Labour peer Baroness Debbie Wilcox - formerly the leader of Newport City Council - joins them to take stock of her party's performance at council level. And Walescast's review of those results is rounded off by Lauren James - one of eight Green Party candidates to be elected to councils up and down the country.
As the UK Government lays out plans to unilaterally modify the Northern Ireland protocol, Felicity Evans and James Williams are guided through what that agreement with the European Union means for Wales by the former Welsh Government special adviser Gareth Williams. Wrexham Plaid Cymru councillor Carrie Harper explains the factors behind her party's success there in the recent local elections and explores the wider lessons for the party as it seeks to build out from its west Wales heartlands. And the analysis of those elections continues with James Gibson-Watt, who leads the Liberal Democrats in Powys and is now favourite to become council leader after his party became the largest group on the county council.
Felicity Evans and James Williams are joined by Professor Laura McAllister of the Wales Governance Centre at Cardiff University to comb through the small print of the agreement struck by Labour and Plaid Cymru to increase the size of the Senedd to 96 members in time for the next Welsh general election in 2026. BBC Wales Parliamentary correspondent Elliw Gwawr works through what was included - and also what wasn't - in the Queen's Speech. And with the dust still settling on last week's council elections - which saw the Welsh Conservatives lose almost 44 per cent of their councillors and control of the one council they led - Fliss and James are joined by the former leader of that authority, Monmouthshire county councillor Richard John, to reflect on what went wrong for his party.
As the dust settles on the council elections, Felicity Evans and James Williams give a snap assessment. Who’s in – and on the up? Who is down and out? And what do these local contests tell us about the bigger Welsh political picture?
Felicity Evans and James Williams are joined by BBC Wales colleague Rhys Evans to talk about his research for the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism into the challenges of making news for a multinational state. How do public service broadcasters in particular set about serving the different audiences and requirements of the four constituent parts of the nation alongside that of the UK as a whole? And as the last of the Covid restrictions are lifted in Welsh schools, Gareth Evans - director of education policy at the University of Wales Trinity St David - assesses the scale of the challenge facing pupils, teachers and policymakers as they look to balance recovery with education reforms.
Felicity Evans and James Williams are joined by political watchers Cathy Owens, Nerys Evans and Sam Blaxland to look ahead to the local elections in Wales. Where are the key battlegrounds and what will be a good – or bad - result for the main parties? With NHS waiting lists at record lengths, BBC Wales’ health correspondent Owain Clarke reviews the Welsh Government’s plans to bring down waits to below a year for most treatments by 2025. And Fliss and James also unpick the implications of the finding that health minister Eluned Morgan broke the Senedd code of conduct in picking up a driving ban following four speeding offences.
Owain Clarke and Catrin Haf Jones have a consultation with Wales' Chief Medical Officer, Dr Sir Frank Atherton. He's become a familiar figure over the last two years, regularly fronting press conferences in his role as the country's top doctor. With Coronavirus restrictions largely a thing of the past, now seems a good time to take stock. What advice to ministers would he re-visit knowing what we now know about Covid-19? How do we begin to address the deep-seated health inequalities that have been thrown into stark relief by the pandemic? And where would he recommend for a restorative walk in the Welsh countryside?
Felicity Evans and James Williams sit down with Professor Laura McAllister and the former Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams for a deep dive into their work as co-chairs of the independent commission established by the Welsh Government to consider Wales' future relationship with the rest of the United Kingdom. How are they interpreting their brief to "develop options for fundamental reform of the constitutional structures of the UK"? Why is that conversation important? And how do the people of Wales have their say?
Daniel Davies and Gareth Lewis take the Walescast helm. They're joined by Will Henson of the Institute of Welsh Affairs to power through the UK government's energy security strategy - and what it means for Wales. And Jess Blair of the Electoral Reform Society in Wales reveals the number of councillors up for election next month who will be returned unopposed - leaving more than 100,000 voters without a say in who represents them in county hall
A first for Walescast as the pod streams live - and in vision - on Facebook. Felicity Evans and James Williams are joined in BBC Wales' HQ by three MSs. Labour's Hefin David, the Conservative Sam Kurtz and Plaid Cymru's Heledd Fychan reflect on a Covid-disrupted year in Cardiff Bay and also tackle constitutional change and Senedd enlargement. Plus, which MS is the species champion for the Fen Raft Spider?
Felicity Evans and James Williams are joined by Ruth Mosalski from WalesOnline to run the rule over the Welsh Labour Spring conference in Llandudno. How did Keir Starmer's first leader's speech in person go down with those in the hall? What's the view on how best to elect members to an enlarged Senedd? And do the Welsh political press corps prefer curry or fish and chips on the promenade? All will be revealed. Plus Welsh singer-songwriter Al Lewis gives Walescast a sneak preview of his latest release, inspired by the rising tide of second home ownership in his childhood home of Abersoch on the Llŷn peninsula.
Felicity Evans and James Williams hear from an armed forces veteran just back from delivering medical supplies to the border of Ukraine and Poland, which has received more than a million refugees since the Russian invasion. Closer to home, BBC Wales Parliamentary correspondent Gareth Lewis runs the rule over the Home Office's response to the unfolding refugee crisis while Andy Regan of Nesta Cymru discusses the impact of the conflict on domestic energy bills - and policy. And Dr Jac Larner of the Wales Governance Centre joins Fliss and James to unpack the findings of the latest Welsh opinion poll from Barn Cymru.
Welsh Government minister Mick Antoniw, recently back from a trip to Ukraine, tells James Williams and Daniel Davies what his contacts in the country are reporting to him as Russia's assault continues. The chief executive of the Football Association of Wales, Noel Mooney, reveals the decision-making that led the FAW to announce that its teams won't play against Russia while its troops are in Ukraine. And BBC Wales colleagues Gareth Lewis and Rhodri Llywelyn report from Westminster and from Poland - where as many as 100,000 refugees a day have been seeking sanctuary from the conflict. James and Daniel also look ahead to the up-coming Welsh Government review of Covid restrictions, when decisions on mask-wearing, self-isolation and mass testing are all expected.
Louise Magee became general secretary of the Welsh Labour Party in April 2017 and went on to guide it through two General Elections and a Covid-affected Senedd election. She has now stood down and joins Fliss and James for an extended interview to reflect on the highs and lows of her time at the helm, the secrets of Labour's continued electoral success in Wales and also what the future may hold for her successor with Senedd enlargement and another General Election both on the horizon.
BBC Wales economics correspondent Sarah Dickins joins Felicity Evans and James Williams to run the rule over the differing packages of help on offer from the governments in Wales and Westminster for people struggling with the rising cost of living. A basic income pilot scheme for care leavers and the announcement that primary school children in Wales will now be offered Covid vaccinations also provide food for thought. And ITV Wales sports reporter Beth Fisher reveals her role in economy minister Vaughan Gething's gate-crashing of a press conference with Wales' rugby captain Dan Biggar.
Felicity Evans and James Williams are joined by Jacob Morris of the Welsh language website Golwg 360 to hear how he scooped the rest of the British media with a headline-grabbing interview with Boris Johnson's newly appointed director of communications, Guto Harri. Colleague Daniel Davies shines a light on the ten-year saga of a botched insulation scheme in the county of Bridgend that has blighted homes and is set to cost the taxpayer millions of pounds to put right. And BBC Wales' health correspondent Owain Clarke looks ahead to the latest Welsh Government review of Covid regulations.
Felicity Evans and James Williams are joined by the deputy political editor of the Sunday Express, David Williamson, to assess where Boris Johnson's premiership stands in the wake of the initial report by Sue Gray into lockdown parties in Downing Street. Fliss and James also try to unpack what the UK government's strategy for levelling up - closing the gap between rich and poor parts of the country by 2030 - might mean for Wales. And BBC Wales colleague Catrin Haf Jones drops in to discuss concerns that a growing acreage of Welsh farmland is being bought up by investors to plant trees as part of schemes to off-set carbon emissions.
Fliss and Walescast debutant David Deans are joined by BBC Wales' Parliamentary correspondent Elliw Gwawr to discuss the latest from Westminster as the Prime Minister awaits the report of top civil servant Sue Gray into parties at Downing Street during lockdown. Education and family correspondent Bethan Lewis also drops in to explore what life in schools may look like after half-term, as Wales prepares to loosen Covid restrictions further and move fully to Alert Level Zero.
Fliss and James are joined by BBC Wales' Parliamentary correspondent Elliw Gwawr to discuss the latest from Westminster as the Prime Minister battles to head off a vote of no confidence from his backbenchers. Phil Sim, of BBC Scotland's Podlitical podcast, drops in to explore how Boris Johnson's difficulties are playing out north of the border in a different way to Wales with Conservative politicians. And it's back! The Welsh Grand Committee sat this week for the first time in three years. Adam Evans, clerk to the Welsh Affairs Committee, explains the history of this constitutional oddity.
With inflation already on the up and more price rises on the horizon are Welsh households facing a looming cost of living crisis in 2022? Helping Fliss and James to pick through the figures and pick over the options for politicians are the economist Gerry Holtham and BBC Wales' economics correspondent Sarah Dickins. They’re also joined by Parliamentary correspondent Elliw Gwawr to discuss how the latest revelations relating to parties in Downing Street during lockdown are playing with Boris Johnson's backbenchers.
Felicity Evans and James Williams are joined by health correspondent Owain Clarke to talk about the ‘oscillating plateau’ of Covid cases. They also discuss the impacts of the rising cost of living, and a (non)update on the Labour-Plaid Cymru deal.
Cat and Fliss are joined by BBC Wales Environment Correspondent Steffan Messenger who gives his take on the latest from COP26 in Glasgow.
And Deputy Climate Change Minister, Lee Waters chats to the team about the plans to make Wales greener.
Political Editor Felicity Evans, Economic Correspondent Sarah Dickins and Westminster Correspondent, Gareth Lewis take a look at the Chancellor's budget and assess what it means for Wales.
James and Fliss explore the details of the new independent constitutional commission, led by Prof Laura McAllister and ex-Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams.
They also discuss the latest on the possible deal between Plaid and Labour in the Senedd and where talks are at.
And Westminster Correspondent, Elliw Gwawr joins them to talk about where Wales fits into the UK Covid inquiry, and how the meeting went between the PM and the FM on Monday.
They also discuss the response from Welsh MPs to the death of Sir David Amess.
Felicity Evans and Catrin Haf Jones take a look into the MPs’ report into the UK’s early response to Covid and how the Welsh Government responded. They also speak to Westminster Correspondent Gareth Lewis about rising energy prices and chat to Alyn & Deeside MS Jack Sargeant about mental health.
If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this edition of the podcast, for support visit: https://www.bbc.co.uk/actionline
As the Conservative party conference ends, James catches up with two Welsh MPs Craig Williams and Virginia Crosbie to get their thoughts on the Prime Minister's speech.
Fellow Politics Correspondent Dan Davies drops in to talk about how the Covid Passes debate unfolded in the Senedd on Tuesday, and how tech issues caused havoc for one MS.
And they also reflect on a speech made by Labour MS and Deputy Climate Change Minister Lee Waters on his party’s future.
James catches up with our Westminster Correspondent, Elliw Gwawr, to chat about the Labour Conference and he’s also joined by Ogmore MP Chris Elmore and Newport West MP Ruth Jones who give their take on how it all went.
And, Fliss chats about the Betty Campbell statue which has been unveiled in Cardiff.
The First Minister has announced Covid Passes will be made compulsory in Wales for nightclubs and large-scale events, but concerns have been raised over whether the Welsh Government has been clear enough on its definition of a nightclub, Fliss and James look at the details.
And with talks continuing between Plaid Cymru and Welsh Labour over a deal to work together in the Senedd - could council tax reform be part of that agreement? The team speak to David Phillips from the Institute for Fiscal Studies about what the future of council tax could look like in Wales.
Plus Fliss chats about her interview with the leader of the Liberal Democrats, Sir Ed Davey.
With a possible co-operation deal between Plaid and Labour on the cards in the Senedd, Fliss and James look at details and discuss what's in it for both parties, and which areas of policy they might work together on. They’re also joined by Health Correspondent, Owain Clarke who talks about jabs for 12-15 year olds, boosters and whether we could see vaccine passports in Wales.
It’s back to the studio for James Williams and Catrin Haf Jones who talk about the rise of Covid cases and a change in tone from the Welsh Government on vaccine passports, PCR tests and a Wales-specific inquiry. They also chat to Westminster correspondent Ione Wells on concerns about the end of the Universal Credit uplift.
Welsh Secretary and MP for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire, Simon Hart joins Felicity Evans and Dan Davies at a static caravan in Pendine Sands Holiday Park to talk about his day job as a minister, what's next for the future of the Union and why bird enthusiasts from across the UK flocked to his garden.
He also recalls how he and other senior politicians feared for the PM's life after he was admitted to intensive care with Covid, during the height of the pandemic.
Producer: Emilia Davies
Fliss and James catch up with former Plaid Cymru leader Leanne Wood who reflects on her time with the party, how she first got involved in politics and what she plans on doing next.
She also recalls what happened in the green room moments before her and other party leaders appeared on a televised debate during the 2015 general election.
Producer: Emilia Davies
Felicity Evans and James Williams join former education minister and Welsh Liberal Democrat Kirsty Williams on her farm in Brecon to chat about her life in politics, why she became an MS and what it was like to hold such a prominent position in the Welsh Government during the pandemic.
She tells the team what she plans on doing next and recalls a memorable moment meeting the former US President Barack Obama.
Producer: Emilia Davies
Wales' Climate Change minister, Julie James joins Fliss and James in a sunny park in Swansea to talk about her new role in government, her globe-trotting childhood and what it’s like to have a famous brother.
She also tells them how one tragedy changed her life forever.
Producer: Emilia Davies