Coffee House Shots

Starmer's Streeting problem Nov 21, 2024

A vote on assisted dying was supposed to be one of the easiest reforms for Keir Starmer’s government. To many, including the Prime Minister himself, a law allowing terminally ill patients to choose to die would be a self-evidently progressive and historically significant change. But he has faced unexpected pushback from his Health Secretary, the very cabinet member who would have to enforce the legislation. Streeting has not only said that he will be voting against but that he is doing so because he fears the bill could harm existing health services. Where does Starmer go from here? Could we be looking at a reshuffle?
Also today we had the news of the sad passing of John Prescott, a titan of the Labour movement. How will he be remembered?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Paul Goodman, senior fellow at Policy Exchange.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Is Rachel Reeves running out of luck? Nov 20, 2024

An unexpected rise in inflation today takes the rate to higher than the Bank of England's target, and adds to Rachel Reeves's worries. James Heale talks to Katy Balls and The Spectator's data editor Michael Simmons about the latest figures, and they also discuss the shadow minister Alex Burghart's performance at Prime Minister's Questions.
Produced by Cindy Yu.

Farmers won't be quick to forgive Labour Nov 19, 2024

Thousands of farmers descended on Westminster today to protest the inheritance tax changes proposed in Labour’s Budget. Amidst a sea of tweed and wellington boots, speeches and support came from the likes of Kemi Badenoch, Ed Davey, Nigel Farage and Jeremy Clarkson. To what extent is this just a fringe issue that the government will be able to brush off? Or has the issue exposed a rural blind spot for Labour? And how lasting could the damage be? Katy Balls and Spectator editor Michael Gove discuss with James Heale.
But first, William Moore has been out and about getting the views of farmers directly from the protest...
Produced by Patrick Gibbons, Cindy Yu and Megan McElroy.

Labour's Trump-Xi balancing act Nov 18, 2024

Keir Starmer today will become the first British leader to meet China's Xi Jinping since 2018. The two leaders will meet on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Brazil, and under the shadow of a looming second Trump presidency. Can Starmer strike the right balance? James Heale talks to Cindy Yu and Katy Balls.
Produced by Cindy Yu.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 17/11/2024 Nov 17, 2024

Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows.
Transport Secretary Louise Haigh’s defends the government’s new increased bus fare cap, and Labour’s (lack of) plans for social care. Ed Davey explains his opposition to the upcoming assisted dying bill. Meanwhile, farmers are in revolt over the changes to inheritance tax, the Bishop of Newcastle says there is a ‘culture of silence and fear’ in the Church of England, and Ukraine’s environment minister speaks about the strategic importance of COP29.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.

Taxes, tariffs and Trump: What lies ahead for Labour? Nov 16, 2024

The Spectator's Michael Gove, Katy Balls, and Kate Andrews are joined by Paul Abberley, Chief Executive of Charles Stanley, to discuss and unpack Labour's first budget in 14 years. Now the dust has settled from the policies, key questions continue to arise. Can Labour create the growth it desperately needs? Why are farmers so upset with the budget? And can they define a working person yet?

Making sense of non-crime hate incidents Nov 15, 2024

The government has announced a review into how to properly police non-crime hate incidents (NCHIs). This follows the experience of Allison Pearson who, on Remembrance Day morning, was doorstepped by Essex Police demanding an interview about a long-forgotten tweet. Reports of NCHIs have dramatically increased in the last year, with 13,200 recorded in the 12 months to June (around 36 a day). What qualifies as an NCHI and how can the police be expected to enforce them? Is this police overreach or a necessary measure to tackle the rise in instances of anti-Semitism and Islamophobia?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Danny Shaw, former adviser to Yvette Cooper.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Will Reeves's pensions shake-up really boost growth? Nov 14, 2024

The Chancellor is giving her first Mansion House address tonight, and she will be majoring on pensions, suggesting that public sector pension funds need to be expanded. But is this the road to growth? James Heale talks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Cindy Yu.

Labour vs Elon Musk Nov 13, 2024

As Trump announces the appointment of Elon Musk to tackle US government efficiency, James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and editor Michael Gove about the dynamics of Labour's relationship with the tech billionaire. Musk had a public spat with Labour figures over the UK summer riots, the Center for Countering Digital Hate - co-founded by Starmer's Chief of Staff Morgan McSweeney - is facing a congressional investigation, and some Labour figures are even calling on the party to quit X/Twitter. Should Musk's closeness to president-elect Trump worry the Labour government?
But first, the team discuss Health Secretary Wes Streeting's proposed NHS changes, and Liberal Democrat attacks on Labour's National Insurance employer increase.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.

Justin Welby quits as Archbishop of Canterbury Nov 12, 2024

Justin Welby has announced he is resigning as Archbishop of Canterbury over his handling of serial child abuser John Smyth. In a statement, he said ‘it is very clear that I must take personal and institutional responsibility for the long and retraumatising period between 2013 and 2024’. He says he believes stepping aside ‘is in the best interests of the Church of England’. Did he have to go? And who might replace him?
Also on the podcast, the assisted dying bill was published last night, 38 pages long, and will be debated in just under three weeks’ time. Keir Starmer admitted that he hasn't decided yet which way way he will vote, so is Kim leadbeater's bill enough to sway the floating voters?
Katy Balls speaks to James Heale and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Cindy Yu.

Will Trump push the UK closer to the EU? Nov 11, 2024

Keir Starmer is in France today to hold talks with Emmanuel Macron where they will discuss the impact of a Trump second term, and what it will mean for Ukraine. The Prime Minister marked Armistice Day at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier under the Arc de Triomphe – the first time since 1944 that a British Prime Minister has been in France for the ceremony. What will come from this bilateral meeting? How does a Trump victory bring the UK and the EU closer?
Elsewhere, a minor row broke out over the weekend around the UK’s Remembrance Day commemorations, with Reform UK leader Nigel Farage not being allowed to lay a wreath despite his party having five sitting MPs. Does he have a point?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Can Labour work with Trump? Nov 09, 2024

It’s happened. The scenario Labour politicians hoped would not come to pass is now a reality: Donald Trump is heading back to the White House. The official line from Labour is that everything is fine – they will work with whoever holds the office of president. However, privately there have long been nerves and concerns as to what a Trump comeback would mean for the Starmer government. Where are the fault lines likely to appear? And what does a second Trump term mean for foreign secretary David Lammy, considering his previous comments about the Donald?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and John McTernan.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

How does Starmer solve a problem like Farage? Nov 08, 2024

Nigel Farage could well be the big winner in the UK from Donald Trump’s victory across the pond, with the MP for Clacton having a direct line to the most powerful office in the West. But, as Katy Balls argues on Coffee House this morning, he poses a greater threat to Labour than simply his proximity to Donald Trump.
Reform UK are beginning the process of building power bases across the UK – starting this weekend in Wales – and the party believes it can take voters from Labour. Meanwhile, the US election has proven the salience of the economy and immigration as election-deciding issues: areas where Reform UK cut through. How can Labour combat an insurgent Reform party? What lessons should Starmer take from the result in the US?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Scarlett Maguire, director at JL Partners.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

US election: how did the polls get it so wrong? Nov 07, 2024

The post–mortem has begun on the US election with the Democrats desperately trying to figure out what just happened. To make sense of the result, Katy Balls is joined by Kate Andrews and James Kanagasooriam, chief research officer at Focaldata. On the podcast they discuss: how an election that seemed to be on a knife–edge ended in a landslide; how the Democrats misjudged the issues that matter to their core voter coalition; how global election trends and the ‘incumbency problem’ played a part; and how the term ‘asymmetric realignment’ can describe the voting patterns we saw yesterday.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Badenoch’s Trump card Nov 06, 2024

It’s happened. The scenario Labour politicians hoped would not come to pass is now a reality: Donald Trump is heading back to the White House. The official line from Labour is that everything is fine – they will work with whoever hold the office of president. That was the message from Keir Starmer at Prime Minister’s Questions as he congratulated president-elect Trump, and made a point of mentioning they had recently had dinner together.
However – Kemi Badenoch focused on David Lammy’s past criticisms of Trump at PMQs. Is this a unique tension for the Labour government? James Heale discusses with Michael Gove and Katy Balls.

Has Kemi Badenoch formed a unity cabinet? Nov 05, 2024

Kemi Badenoch's shadow cabinet continues to take shape: Chris Philp has been appointed shadow Home Secretary, with the biggest news being Robert Jenrick's decision to accept the position of shadow Justice Secretary. Jenrick's proposal to leave the ECHR was one policy disagreement with Badenoch, could this cause the Conservatives problems in the future? And what do her appointments say more broadly about her programme: has she put party unity above policy?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and the FT's Stephen Bush.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Oscar Edmondson.

Who will make up Kemi's shadow cabinet? Nov 04, 2024

Kemi Badenoch is the new leader of the opposition, and we have an early indication of who will make up her shadow cabinet. She has already chosen her chief whip in loyalist Rebecca Harris; Nigel Huddleston and Dominic Johnson will be party chairman; Laura Trott will be shadow education secretary; Neil O’Brien will be shadow minister for education – crucially, a Jenrick backer. Is she going for party unity? Who will take the top jobs in team Badenoch?
Also on the podcast, it’s anything-but-the-budget-week for Labour, who are trying to move the agenda along from last week’s fiscal event with a raft of announcements. Today, the prime minister unveiled his plan to ‘smash the gangs’ and announced that university tuition fees would rise. But can they justify the increase to students?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 03/11/2024 Nov 03, 2024

Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
New eras begin for both major parties, as Rachel Reeves' budget becomes reality, and Kemi Badenoch sets our her vision as Tory leader.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.

Badenoch wins: what next? Nov 02, 2024

Kemi Badenoch has won the Tory leadership election. She beat Robert Jenrick in a tight race, winning 53,806 votes against his 41,318. What will a Badenoch opposition look like? What are her strengths? Her weaknesses?
Cindy Yu speaks to Michael Gove and Katy Balls.

Can Labour save its Budget? Nov 01, 2024

The fallout from Labour's Budget continues. On the media round this morning, Darren Jones, Chief Secretary to the Treasury, admitted that it will hit working people, and the cost of government borrowing has only risen since Rachel Reeves delivered her speech to Parliament. Katy Balls, Kate Andrews and James Heale take us through the reaction from various groups, including small business owners, farmers and the markets. Is the Budget unravelling?
Also on the podcast, they look ahead to tomorrow's Tory leadership result; could low turnout make a difference?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.

Reeves's Budget: the morning after the night before Oct 31, 2024

Kate Andrews is joined by Katy Balls and the OBR's Prof David Miles to discuss the day two reactions to Rachel Reeves's Budget. Who were the losers, and is it too early to say who the winners are?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Cindy Yu.

Labour's low growth Budget Oct 30, 2024

Rachel Reeves has announced that taxes will rise by £40 billion in Labour’s first Budget for 14 years. The headlines include: an increase in employers’ National Insurance contributions from April to 15 per cent, raising £25 billion; that the freeze on income tax and National Insurance thresholds will not be extended past 2028; that the lower rate of capital gains tax will be raised from 10 per cent to 18 per cent, and the higher rate from 20 per cent to 24 per cent; that fuel duty will remain frozen for the next two years; and the introduction of VAT on private school fees from January.
The Chancellor didn’t want to surprise anyone with this Budget. She didn’t want to shock the markets, nor did she want any accusation that she had played fast and loose with the public finances. Still, that won’t make today’s fiscal event any less memorable – or painful. Will these measures lead to any meaningful growth?
Katy Balls speaks to Kate Andrews and Michael Gove.
Produced by Megan McElroy and Oscar Edmondson.

The problem with Labour's 'sticking plaster politics' Oct 29, 2024

Wes Streeting has been out on the airwaves this morning, giving us a better idea of what will be in the Budget when it comes to the NHS. In an attempt to resuscitate a ‘broken but not beaten’ NHS, he has announced a cash injection reported to be up to £7 billion – including £1.57 billion for new surgical hubs, scanners, and radiotherapy machines. The Health Secretary did stress, however, that this will not be enough to save the NHS from a winter crisis. How far will this money go?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Budget week: Labour braced for backlash Oct 28, 2024

It's Budget week (finally)! How this week goes will set the tone for Labour’s first year in office. It’s fair to say that expectations are relatively low – with the Prime Minister himself warning of ‘painful decisions’ ahead. We know a lot of what will likely be included and Treasury sources are keen to play down talk of any Budget rabbits – suggesting a mix of the measures currently being discussed in the media. So what should we expect? And can Labour ride out the week unscathed?
Also on the podcast, Labour have suspended the whip for Mike Amesbury, MP for Runcorn and Helsby, after he appeared to threaten a man who has been knocked onto the road in Frodsham, Cheshire. Labour look like they will be facing their first by-election. Could Reform make an unlikely gain in this Labour safe seat?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Should Britain pay reparations to Commonwealth countries? Oct 26, 2024

This week, Keir Starmer has been in Samoa for a summit with delegations of the 56 nations which make up the Commonwealth. Between having to answer questions on Donald Trump and the budget, he has also been pressed on the issue of slavery reparations, with the leaders of some Caribbean countries insisting it is ‘only a matter of time’ until Britain bows to demands of handing over billions of pounds in compensation.
Speaking today, Starmer addressed the issue. He said, ‘I understand the strength of feeling’ but insisted that he would be ‘looking forward, not back’. So what are the arguments for and against reparations? And why is this debate relevant now, in 2024?
James Heale speaks to historian Robert Tombs.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Labour's 'working people' muddle Oct 25, 2024

Who exactly are 'working people'? The Labour party's use of this phrase during the election raised questions over who they will really be levying taxes upon. With less than a week to go until the Budget, Labour in government is still struggling to give a clear answer as to who they mean. James Heale talks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Cindy Yu.

How many Tories will defect to Reform? Oct 24, 2024

After Nigel Farage's overture to Tory councillors to 'defect', one already has. Farage has also been on manoeuvres, piling on the criticism against Labour for its volunteers campaigning for the Democrats in the US. James Heale talks to Katy Balls and Freddy Gray about the latest.
Tickets are still available to join Freddy Gray and Nigel Farage on Thursday 24 October for their analysis on the US election. Get your tickets here.
Produced by Cindy Yu.

Trump's crusade against Labour Oct 23, 2024

Donald Trump has made the extraordinary move to file an official complaint against the British Labour party for their volunteers campaigning for the Democrats. On this episode, James Heale talks to Katy Balls and the Financial Times's Stephen Bush about what's behind the Labour tradition of sending volunteers to other democracies, and why a second Trump presidency might be the defining theme of this Labour government.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Cindy Yu.

Michael Gove on prisons: Starmer is in the position of Bane Oct 22, 2024

Another 1100 prisoners have been released today through the early-release scheme. How has this measure landed? With the news that former Conservative minister David Gauke will lead a review of prison sentencing, new Spectator editor Michael Gove joins Natasha Feroze and Katy Balls to discuss Labour's long term strategy. Can Labour learn lessons from America?
Produced by Megan McElroy and Patrick Gibbons.
Join The Spectator's Deputy Editor Freddy Gray for a special live recording of Americano on Thursday 24 October. You can buy tickets at www.spectator.co.uk/electionspecial.

Does Streeting’s NHS plan amount to anything? Oct 21, 2024

This morning, Health Secretary Wes Streeting launched the ‘biggest consultation in NHS history’ in a bid to get public input into how to save the UK’s flailing health service. The British public and clinicians are being asked to share their experiences and ideas to help 'fix our NHS'. After years of discussion and reviews, how likely is it that Labour delivers the urgent reform that the NHS needs?
Elsewhere, there have been more signs of what might be in the budget at the end of the month. Who might the big winners and losers be? James Heale discusses with Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Join Freddy Gray a special live recording of Americano on Thursday 24 October. You can buy tickets at www.spectator.co.uk/electionspecial.

Labour budget: are we heading for austerity? Oct 20, 2024

Labour’s first Budget in 14 years will be delivered at the end of the month. The Prime Minister and Chancellor have already been warning that the public isn’t going to like what’s in it. But how will the Budget affect people? Will Labour break its manifesto commitment not to tax working people? And is it really true that things have to get worse before they get better?
Kate Andrews is joined by Paul Mason, journalist at The New European.
Produced by Megan McElroy.

Should bishops be booted out of the Lords? Oct 19, 2024

The House of Lords contains 26 Church of England archbishops and bishops who possess an automatic right to sit and vote in the House, as established by ancient usage and by statute. But for how much longer?
Labour have big plans for the Lords and have been pushing ahead with their crackdown on hereditary peers. But this week we learnt that Tory MP Gavin Williamson will table an amendment calling for them to reconsider the role of bishops as well. Gavin says that a clergy-free Lords would be more representative of modern Britain and is expecting to gain cross-party support, including from the likes of Jeremy Corbyn. The Spectator’s features editor William Moore thinks this is ‘institutional vandalism’ and opens the door to the removal of faith from parliament.
Gavin and William join The Spectator’s political editor Katy Balls to debate.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.

Tory leadership debate: who came out on top? Oct 18, 2024

Robert Jenrick and Kemi Badenoch, the final two candidates for the Tory leadership, went up against each other on a special GB News show last night. Kemi came out swinging in defence of her ‘culture warrior’ tag, but many wanted some more meat on the bones when it comes to her stance on policy. Meanwhile, Jenrick clearly had a message to land – but will the membership see through his plea to ‘end the drama’? And did either of them manage to change any minds?
Katy Balls speaks to Lucy Dunn and Giles Dilnot, editor of Conservative Home.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.

Did Labour make its own Budget trap? Oct 17, 2024

A scoop from Bloomberg has revealed that a number of Cabinet ministers have written formally to the Prime Minister to complain about the budgetary decisions they are being asked to make in their respective departments. Rachel Reeves seems to have an impossible task ahead of the Budget – but was this a trap of Labour's own making? Oscar Edmondson talks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Cindy Yu.

Starmer denies being soft on China Oct 16, 2024

Starmer and Sunak debated Labour's position on China at today's PMQs, with Starmer denying going soft on the Asian superpower. Did Sunak draw inspiration from Katy Balls's cover article in last week's Spectator? Katy and Isabel Hardman speak to Oscar Edmondson about the party dynamics behind the debate; how much pressure is each party under from their own China hawks?
Isabel also gives an overview of the debate around the Assisted Dying Bill, which was introduced to Parliament today.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Oscar Edmondson.

National Insurance: Starmer’s first big U-turn? Oct 15, 2024

The Budget is not due for a fortnight, yet with every day that passes its contents seem to become clearer. This morning Keir Starmer gave an interview to the BBC where he twice refused to rule out a rise in employer’s national insurance contributions in the Budget. Instead, he repeatedly stressed that Labour’s manifesto promise was specifically that it would 'not raise taxes on working people'. Can Rachel Reeves afford a national insurance hike?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Michael Gove.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Is Labour's investment summit back on track? Oct 14, 2024

This morning is the government's big investment summit. They pledged to have the summit within their first 100 days in an attempt to hit the ground running and show the UK as a sensible place to do business. The timing – two weeks before the budget – is interesting, and so is the U-turn from P&O, who will attend the summit despite comments last week by Transport Secretary Louise Haigh (she described the ferry company as a ‘rogue operator’). P&O's reported £1 billion worth of investment is back up for grabs. Is it time to invest in Britain? What is Labour's big pitch to business?
Also on the podcast, over the weekend we had the sad news that former First Minister of Scotland Alex Salmond passed away. What will be his legacy?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 13/10/2024 Oct 13, 2024

Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning’s politics shows.
Jonathan Reynolds says Transport Secretary Louise Haigh’s comments are ‘not the government’s position’, and hints at possible employer national insurance tax rises. Robert Jenrick is asked about his previous anti-Brexit views. John Swinney pays tribute to Alex Salmond, after the death of the former Scottish first minister. And Lloyds bank CEO speaks about the issue of online fraud.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.

100 Days of Starmer: the verdict Oct 12, 2024

Today marks Labour’s 100th day in office. But they are unlikely to be popping champagne corks in Downing Street – even if Lord Alli offered to pay for the Dom Pérignon. This has been a disheartening time for the government and those who wished it well. The promise of dramatic change has been overshadowed by a series of errors, misjudgments and scandals that one would associate more with an administration in its dying days than a government enjoying a fresh mandate, a massive majority and an absent opposition.
Former shadow culture secretary Thangam Debbonaire and former deputy prime minister Thérèse Coffey join The Spectator's Katy Balls to discuss what went wrong and – if we think hard enough – what went right?
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.

Is Keir Starmer the new Harold Wilson? Oct 11, 2024

It's another busy few days for the Prime Minister as he chairs the inaugural meeting of the Council of Nations and Regions today, marks 100 days in office, and hosts an investment summit on Monday. With the absence of Sue Gray looming large, James Heale unpicks the politics behind these milestones with Katy Balls and the Financial Times's Stephen Bush. They share some lessons from history and the welcome, or perhaps unwelcome, comparison with former Labour Prime Minister Harold Wilson.
Also on the podcast, they discuss the merits and pitfalls of potential Conservative Party rule changes. Could their era of rapid defenestration soon come to an end?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.

The ‘Green Budget’ could leave Rachel Reeves red-faced Oct 10, 2024

The Institute for Fiscal Studies has published its yearly Green Budget, weeks ahead of Chancellor Rachel Reeves’s first fiscal event. It’s grim reading, for both the government and the public. For Labour to make good on its promise to avoid ‘austerity’, taxes are going to need to go up significantly: by £25 billion, the IFS’s reports, and that’s just to ‘keep spending rising with national income.’ Can Reeves square the circle?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Tory leadership: what on earth just happened? Oct 09, 2024

Westminster is reeling from the shock result that James Cleverly has been knocked out of the Conservative Party leadership race, only a day after coming first in the previous round. Kemi Badenoch topped the poll, with Robert Jenrick second and only one vote behind her; Cleverly lost two votes. What on earth happened?
To try and make sense of it all, Cindy Yu is joined by Katy Balls and new Spectator editor Michael Gove. Having worked with them all, what's his assessment of the candidates?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Megan McElroy.

The final three: Cleverly storms ahead Oct 08, 2024

The Conservative party has narrowed down the leadership candidates to the final three, with James Cleverly taking a surprise lead over both of his more right wing rivals. With Cleverly all but confirmed to get into the members' round, which of Kemi Badenoch and Robert Jenrick will join him? Cindy Yu talks to James Heale and Paul Goodman.
Produced by Cindy Yu.

Will Starmer’s No.10 reset work? Oct 07, 2024

Who’s in charge in Downing Street? Until recently, the answer to that question would tend to reveal whether you were a Sue Gray or Morgan McSweeney supporter. Keir Starmer’s two most senior aides were viewed to be in a power struggle over the direction of the government. But with Gray's resignation this weekend, it is McSweeney who is running the show. What direction will he take No.10?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and John McTernan, former political secretary to Tony Blair.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 06/10/2024 Oct 06, 2024

Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows.
Conflict in the Middle East reaches a new crisis point as Israel bombs Lebanon and prepares to retaliate against Iran. We hear contrasting viewpoints from Israel, Iran, and the UK. Plus, Science Secretary Peter Kyle praises the government’s Chagos Islands deal, and Boris Johnson praises himself.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.

Sue Gray out, Morgan McSweeney in Oct 06, 2024

Keir Starmer has not yet reached the 100 day mark but already he has lost his Chief of Staff. This afternoon, Downing Street has confirmed that Sue Gray is leaving her No. 10 role. Instead, she will be taking on an ‘advisory’ role as the Prime Minister’s envoy for nations and regions. In a statement announcing her departure, Gray referenced the media attention she had received as one of the reasons behind her decision to quit.
Morgan McSweeney will take over from Gray in a move will be popular with parts of the Labour party and brings to a close the Gray vs McSweeney psychodrama. Will this steady the Labour ship?
Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman discuss.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Where is the Brexit dividend? Live at Conservative conference Oct 05, 2024

In this special Saturday shots we hear from a panel discussion on Brexit, originally recorded at Conservative Party conference.
Four years on there are successes to point to, namely eliminating the cost of membership, new trade deals and the speed of the vaccine rollout. Yet the prevailing sense is that the full potential of Brexit has not been realised. Where do we go from here?
The Spectator's James Heale speaks to former MEP Lord Hannan, Telegraph columnist Sherelle Jacobs, Ian Duncan Smith MP and Tom Lubbock, co-founder of JL Partners.

Assisted dying and Chagos row overshadow Starmer’s carbon capture pledge Oct 04, 2024

What Keir Starmer wants to be talking about today is his landmark £22 billion investment into carbon capture. Flanked by Ed Miliband and Rachel Reeves, his speech was an unusually personal one where he spoke about the impacts of deindustrialisation. But how new is this policy? And what does this huge investment mean for the £20 billion black hole?
What Westminster seems more interested in talking about is the news that assisted dying is back on the agenda and the fallout of the deal to give the Chagos Islands to Mauritius. Is there a degree of inevitability about these two stories resurfacing?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Should we be optimistic about the next ten years? Oct 03, 2024

Loyal listeners will know that as well as our concise daily political analysis, Coffee House Shots often delves deeper into the issues of the day. We don’t shy away from fierce debates on controversial issues. The most legendary of these debates have been between our former editor Fraser Nelson and economics editor Kate Andrews.
As a parting gift to listeners before Fraser passes on the editors pen, Cindy Yu hosts a final contest between these two worthy debaters on whether we should be optimistic about the next ten years.
Has there ever been a better time to be alive, as Fraser argues? Or should we be concerned about the growing threat to civil liberties, volatile markets and foreign policies, the failure to grapple with migration and the looming birth rate crisis?
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.

Who was the winner from today’s Tory leadership speeches? Oct 02, 2024

The final day of the party conference saw all four candidates take to the stage in a bid to have a David Cameron moment. Back in 2005, Cameron managed to gain momentum at the party conference with an assured speech (no notes) and get one over on his main rival – the then frontrunner – David Davis. So, did anyone managed a similar feat in Birmingham?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Coffee House Shots live: the struggle for the future of conservatism Oct 01, 2024

The mood at Conservative conference has been surprisingly jubilant considering the turmoil that the party finds itself in. Labour's misfortunes may have contributed to this, but there seems to be a genuine optimism around the four candidates vying for the leadership of the party. What's the latest? Have Kemi Badenoch's comments on maternity pay impacted her position with the members?
Also on the podcast, this evening will see the Vance vs Walz vice presidential debate. They go head to head in an increasingly tight election. What does Trump vs Harris say about the state of American politics? And can any of these candidates – on either side of the pond – expect to be fighting future elections for their parties?
The Spectator's Fraser Nelson speaks to Katy Balls, Kate Andrews and Sarah Elliott from Republicans Overseas UK.

Have the Tory leadership candidates got a Truss problem? Sep 30, 2024

Jeremy Hunt is one of the few Tories at Conservative Party Conference willing to take the fight to Labour. In the second day, he sat down for an on-stage interview where the former Chancellor spoke about the winter fuel allowance, freebies, but also made some polite suggestions about where the Conservative party should go, and dropped a few hints about the former Prime Minister, Liz Truss. Natasha Feroze speaks to Kate Andrews and Isabel Hardman about Hunt's speech and some of the best bits from Liz Truss's own interview at conference.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 29/09/2024 Sep 29, 2024

Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows.
Tory leadership candidates set out their visions for the party at the Conservative Party Conference. Badenoch says ‘not call cultures are equally valid’, and congratulates Netanyahu. Jenrick suggests immigration doesn’t make the country richer, and defends a £75,000 donation from a mysterious company. Rosie Duffield resigns from Labour, attacking Starmer on the way out. And Pat McFadden defends the prime minister, saying there is no equivalence between Labour controversy and the behaviour of the Tory government.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.

Did Kemi Badenoch really call maternity pay ‘excessive’? Sep 29, 2024

The final four leadership candidates have arrived at Conservative Party Conference to make their final pitches. However, day one and Kemi Badenoch has found herself in an online row over comments made about maternity pay. Katy Balls, Kate Andrews and Fraser Nelson take a look at what was really said, and whether there is a clear frontrunner to lead the Tory party at conference.

Is Labour's 2030 clean power target achievable? Live at Labour conference Sep 28, 2024

Decarbonising power by 2030 is one of the flagship policies for Keir Starmer’s government. Whether this is achievable and how we go about the green transition will impact ten of thousands of jobs and everybody's energy bills.
So just how do they plan on reaching this ambitious target? Gary Smith, general secretary of the GMB, argues that there is a fundamental dishonesty about the route to net zero, with communities being hollowed out and the working class left behind. All of this has resulted in fertile ground for the far right.
The Spectator's editor Fraser Nelson sat down with Gary Smith at Labour conference last week, to give an alternative take on the net zero debate.

Inside Starmer's dinner with Donald Trump Sep 27, 2024

The political equivalent of the Rumble in the Jungle happened last night when Starmer sat down for a two-hour dinner with Donald Trump, following the Prime Minister’s speech at the UN General Assembly. Details of what Trump and Starmer talked about are scant: the official read-out merely says they discussed the ‘longstanding friendship’ between Britain and America. Is this good politics from the prime minister?
Elsewhere, the Tory party conference kicks off in Birmingham this weekend and with it the beauty contest for the next Conservative leader. What should listeners expect?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Are we on the brink of ‘all out war’ in the Middle East? Sep 26, 2024

Events have moved on fast since Labour conference with the mounting prospect of ‘all out war’ in the Middle East. This comes after reports that Israel are preparing a ground invasion of Lebanon to push back Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah. What levers are at the disposal of the international community to de-escalate this very volatile situation?
Also today, Keir Starmer’s impressive performance on the international stage risks being undermined by the freebies story which continues to rumble on. What’s the latest?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Michael Stephens, senior fellow at RUSI.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Michael Gove is the new editor of The Spectator Sep 25, 2024

We've had quite the day at 22 Old Queen Street. All Westminster politics seem small in comparison to the news that Fraser Nelson will step down as editor of this publication, with Michael Gove taking charge on October 8th. Hear Fraser's thoughts on what this new chapter will mean for The Spectator, on the podcast.
Elsewhere, Labour conference has wrapped up in Liverpool and this has coincided with an update on growth from the OECD. Having predicted in May that the economy would grow by 0.4 per cent this year, the policy organisation now expects the economy to grow by 1.1 per cent. This lifts the UK from the bottom of the pack of advanced economies and ties it in second place – alongside France and Canada – for the fastest growth in the G7. Britain is growing. Can Rachel Reeves start spending?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
And if you would like to submit a topic for Kate and Fraser to debate, please email: podcast@spectator.co.uk

What did we learn from Keir Starmer's speech? Sep 24, 2024

Sir Keir Starmer has declared 'change has begun' in Liverpool. He defended the cuts to the winter fuel payments, announced a Hillsborough Law, and saw off a heckler. But did we learn anything from the speech in terms of policy? Is he leaving conference in a better or worse position than he entered? Isabel Hardman is joined by James Heale and Katy Balls.

Who was the real audience for Rachel Reeves’s speech? Sep 23, 2024

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has just finished her speech at Labour conference. After a brief interruption by hecklers, she addressed austerity, the pandemic, and winter fuel payments. How was the speech received, and who does it really speak to?
Elsewhere, Sue Gray's lack of appearance in Liverpool hasn't done anything to slow down discussion of recent controversy. James Heale is joined by Katy Balls and John McTernan, formerly Tony Blair's Political Secretary.

Is Labour going through its own Partygate? Sep 23, 2024

Labour's first party conference since entering government has opened under the shadow of the 'Frockgate' scandal. James Heale and Katy Balls report from Liverpool on what the mood is like – and the big topics for the party this week.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Cindy Yu.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 22/09/2024 Sep 22, 2024

Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows.
The Labour conference begins with the party’s honeymoon period seemingly over. Angela Rayner says Labour are being transparent and aren’t breaking rules over donations. Shadow House of Commons Leader Chris Philp disagrees. Meanwhile Keir Starmer is facing conflict with the unions as Sharon Graham calls the winter fuel allowance decision ‘cruel’. And Israeli President Herzog claims Israel do not want war with Lebanon.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.

Will Starmer clash with the unions? Sep 21, 2024

It's easy enough to keep both business and the unions on side when you are vague about your policies – and when your opponent is messing up so badly. That was Labour's position going into the election. But now that it's in government, can it keep that balancing act up? Next week's Labour party conference will be the government's first real test. James Heale talks to Kate Andrews and Paul Nowak, general secretary of the Trades Union Congress.
Produced by Cindy Yu.

Farage's next move Sep 20, 2024

Party conference season continues as Reform UK’s kicks off today in Birmingham. Katy Balls has been at the NEC hearing from Richard Tice, Lee Anderson and leader Nigel Farage, amongst others. What’s been the mood? And, after a remarkable few months, what could be next for the party? With Labour conference starting at the weekend, how worried will Starmer be about Farage? Also, what's been the latest on the PM's 'donations for clothes' row?
Patrick Gibbons speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.

What the Sue Gray row is really about Sep 19, 2024

It's been a sticky week for Labour. Whilst they will have hoped to spend the run up to this weekend's conference talking about the policy wins of their first 100 days in power, Labour MPs are instead having to defend the Prime Minister for accepting freebies and talk down speculation of a rift at the heart of government. Is there a power struggle in Number 10?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and John McTernan, former political secretary to tony Blair.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Should Labour ditch the ‘doom and gloom’ narrative? Sep 18, 2024

We have some new inflation figures today. Inflation rose 2.2 per cent in the 12 months to August. This is pretty much in line with the Bank of England's target and should be good news for Labour, so why do they persist with this doom and gloom narrative?
Elsewhere, Labour's awkward week has got more awkward with the news that Sue Gray, Keir Starmer's chief of staff, is paid more than him. Surely they could have seen this news story coming?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Kate Andrews and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Where do the Lib Dems go next? Sep 17, 2024

Liberal Democrat Conference wraps up today in Brighton. It could well be the happiest conference we visit this season with the party riding high after winning 72 seats at the election.
The challenge that they face now is improving on that number, providing some opposition to the Labour party and protecting their new Surrey MPs once the new Tory leader is decided. We have heard Ed Davey speak passionately on social care, but can they carve a distinct position on other big policy issues, such as Europe? Or the NHS?
Katy Balls speaks to James Heale and Stephen Bush, associate editor of the Financial Times.

Do the Starmers need a personal shopper? Sep 16, 2024

This weekend we had another twist in the story involving Labour donor Lord Alli, who was caught up in a 'cash for access' scandal a couple of weeks back. It now seems he has forked out the thick end of 20k on clothes and glasses for Keir Starmer and his wife. Foreign sec David Lammy was on the Sunday media round and gave a less than convincing defence of the prime minister and Lady Victoria. Has the PM broken the rules already?
Also today, Keir Starmer is in Rome meeting Italian prime minister Giorgia Meloni today where they will be discussing boat crossings and Italy's deal with Albania. It’s a timely first engagement for Starmer’s new border security commander Martin Hewitt. Will he succeed in 'smashing the gangs'?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 15/09/2024 Sep 15, 2024

Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows.
The foreign secretary talks up support for Ukraine, but won’t comment on whether they will be granted long-range missiles. David Lammy and James Cleverly disagree over the severity of Keir Starmer’s potential rule breaking. Cleverly calls Labour ‘arrogant and inexperienced’. And Ed Davey defends his party’s ability to effectively criticise the government.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.

Is Gordon Brown back? Sep 14, 2024

Last week, there was a surprise visitor to the Treasury: Gordon Brown. The former prime minister and chancellor secretly returned to his old digs for the first time since he left office 14 years ago. According to onlookers, Brown visited his old office as he caught up with the new chancellor – and his friend – Rachel Reeves. What was discussed? Many have speculated that among the topics on the agenda was the winter fuel allowance, a policy ushered in by Brown and now amended by Reeves.
Elsewhere, Tony Blair has been doing the media rounds promoting his new book and giving his thoughts on leadership. Should Keir be listening? Are interjections from former prime ministers ever helpful?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Patrick Maguire.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Will Starmer call Putin’s bluff? Sep 13, 2024

Keir Starmer and David Lammy are in the Washington for a planned foreign policy summit with Joe Biden. They will principally be talking about a new deal regarding the use of UK long range missiles in Russia, a move which Putin has warned would constitute an escalation of the war and the formalisation of NATO's involvement.
Also up for discussion is support for Israel after the foreign secretary announced a partial embargo on arms. Is the UK diverging from the US on foreign policy?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Keir Giles, fellow at Chatham House and author of Who Will Defend Europe?
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Keir Starmer: the NHS will get 'no more money without reform' Sep 12, 2024

The Prime Minister has described the NHS as in 'critical condition' in a speech this morning after the release of Lord Darzi's damning independent report.
Lord Darzi had only nine weeks to conduct his investigation into –and assessment of – the National Health Service. But this truncated timeline does not appear to have led to any watering down of his verdict. The independent peer has delivered a damning diagnosis of the state of the NHS, which is described as failing both its staff and its patients. The NHS clearly needs serious intervention, but are Labour the ones to do it?
James Heale speaks to Kate Andrews and Isabel Hardman, author of Fighting for Life: The Twelve Battles that Made Our NHS, and the Struggle for Its Future.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Trump vs Harris debate: who won? Sep 11, 2024

Last night saw the first Trump vs Harris debate and the consensus seems to be that Harris came out on top. She managed to avoid sticky issues about her political past and goaded Trump into some rambling and – at times – outrageous remarks. What did we learn?
Also today, we have had new figures on the economy with GDP flatlining for the second month in a row. Does this vindicate Rachel Reeves' tough decision on the winter fuel allowance?
Katy Balls speaks to Kate Andrews and John McTernan.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Tory leadership latest: 'Melmentum' runs out Sep 10, 2024

It's been a busy day in Westminster today. Labour avoided a large scale rebellion on the winter fuel allowance and Mel Stride was eliminated from the Tory leadership race – not to mention the sale of a certain weekly politics magazine. Oscar Edmondson discusses with Katy Balls and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Will Rachel Reeves soften the winter fuel cut? Sep 09, 2024

Tomorrow MPs will vote on Rachel Reeves’ decision to cut winter fuel payments for pensioners who aren’t eligible for pension benefits. We spoke on this podcast on Friday about the pressure that Labour is under from all sides on this, but the temperature has increased over the weekend with the trade unions getting involved. What's the latest?
Also on the podcast, there have been some allegations of 'dark arts' during the first round of voting in the tory leadership contest, and possible vote sharing. Is there any truth to these rumours?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 08/09/2024 Sep 08, 2024

Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows.
Keir Starmer says his government will ‘have to be unpopular’ and take tough decisions. He also denies there is any anger from the US at the UK’s decision to suspend some arms exports to Israel. Health Secretary Streeting sets out Labour’s ambitions for improving the NHS. And the Tory leadership race heats up.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.

Coffee House Shots live: the Starmer supremacy Sep 07, 2024

Join Fraser Nelson, Katy Balls and Kate Andrews, along with special guest Jonathan Ashworth, for a live edition of Coffee House Shots recorded earlier this week. They dissect the first few weeks of the new Labour government and look ahead to the policies autumn, and the budget, might bring. Having surprisingly lost his seat at the election, how blunt will Ashworth be?
The team also answer a range of audience questions, including: how big of a welfare crisis is the government facing? Would – and should – they reform the NHS? And could the challenge Reform UK poses to traditional parties continue to grow?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Megan McElroy.

Does Rachel Reeves need an 'escape route' on winter fuel? Sep 06, 2024

Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls join James Heale to look ahead to a crucial week for Labour. On Tuesday, Parliament will hold a binding vote on the changes to winter fuel allowance - how are Labour expected to deal with this? Former shadow chancellor Ed Balls, and husband of the current home secretary Yvette Cooper, has argued that Labour need an 'escape route' from the policy. What can we read from this intervention? And how influenced are the government by the spectres of George Osborne and Liz Truss?
Also on the podcast, Fraser talks about both the problems facing Germany, and the surprisingly successful measure that Sweden has introduced, to deal with net migration.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons

Tory leadership race latest: Priti out Sep 04, 2024

The first round of the Conservative leadership race has seen Dame Priti Patel eliminated with the fewest votes. Robert Jenrick came out on top but, with a second vote taking place on Tuesday, where could Patel's supporters go? Who could get eliminated next? Will 'Melmentum' build?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Oscar Edmondson.

Grenfell report: why did it take so long? Sep 04, 2024

Seven years after the tragedy, the inquiry into the Grenfell fire has published its report. What did we learn from it and who bears responsibility? And, with thousands of buildings still believed to contain flammable cladding, what should happen next? With such important lessons to be learnt, why do British inquiries take so long? Also on the podcast, a look at the first PMQs following summer recess and the Tory leadership election.
James Heale speaks to Isabel Hardman and Liam Halligan, Telegraph columnist and author of Home Truths.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.

Is the UK still a 'staunch ally' of Israel? Sep 03, 2024

The fallout continues from the UK's decision to suspend some arms sale licenses to Israel. Defence Secretary John Healey insists the UK remains a 'staunch ally' of Israel, yet the decision has been criticised by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as 'shameful'. What has the domestic reaction been to the government's decision, and who is it designed to please?
Patrick Gibbons speaks to Katy Balls and Michael Stephens, associate fellow at RUSI.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.

Is Keir right to scrap one-word Ofsted verdicts? Sep 02, 2024

It’s back to school day for kids up and down the country, and also back to school for our politicians who have returned from summer recess. To celebrate, Keir Starmer has announced that one-word Ofsted classifications will be scrapped with immediate effect. Is this the right move?
Also on the podcast, we have had the official launches of several Tory leadership campaigns in the last few days. What's the latest?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Which Conservative leader could be a problem for Keir Starmer? Aug 31, 2024

The Tory leadership contest is still rumbling on, and we're lucky enough to still have weeks to go! In this Saturday episode, we assess which of the candidates would create the biggest problem for Keir Starmer. Who would be most frustrating at the dispatch box, and whose politics would be the most difficult for him? Who might be a slightly easier opponent? Megan McElroy speaks to Katy Balls and John McTernan, political strategist and former political secretary to Tony Blair.

Why has Starmer taken down a portrait of Thatcher? Aug 30, 2024

Keir Starmer's biographer Tom Baldwin has revealed that the PM has removed a portrait of Margaret Thatcher from No 10. The portrait was originally commissioned by Gordon Brown. Why has he bothered to get rid of it?
Elsewhere, the government has more plans for health, and select committees have some surprising new candidates. Megan McElroy speaks to Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls.

How far will Starmer’s smoking ban go? Aug 29, 2024

Keir Starmer has confirmed that the government is looking at plans to revive Sunak's smoking ban legislation. They may go even further - reports suggest they will seek to extend the current indoor ban for hospitality venues, to outdoor places such as pub gardens. What's the rationale behind this, and where could it lead? How popular is the measure with the public? And, following Starmer's speech on Tuesday about the economic problems the nation faces, is this another thing for business to worry about?
Patrick Gibbons speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.

What's behind Starmer's 'reset' with Europe? Aug 28, 2024

Keir Starmer has been in Germany today visiting Chancellor Olaf Scholz, before heading to Paris to meet President Macron. This is part of his plan to 'reset' relations with Europe - but how close does he want to get to the EU? And, given Brexit wounds are still raw, what's achievable?
James Heale is joined by Katy Balls and Sophia Gaston, head of the foreign policy unit at Policy Exchange to discuss.
Produced by Megan McElroy and Patrick Gibbons.

Just how ‘painful’ will Starmer’s October Budget be? Aug 27, 2024

Winter is coming. That’s the message from Keir Starmer’s set-piece speech this morning from the No. 10 rose garden. After a tricky few weeks for the new Prime Minister on cronyism claims and anxiety about cuts to the winter fuel allowance, Starmer and his team attempted seize the agenda with a speech looking ahead to the months to come. However, anyone hoping for optimism will be disappointed, with Starmer warning things can only get worse. How bad can they be?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.

What could a Kamala Harris presidency mean for the UK? Aug 24, 2024

As the Democratic National Convention draws to a close in Chicago this week, Patrick Gibbons is joined by James Heale and Gerry Baker, editor at large of the Wall Street Journal to try to make sense of what a Harris presidency could mean for the UK. Is she continuity Biden? Do we really know what she stands for?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Cindy Yu.

Is the energy price cap hike bad news for Labour? Aug 23, 2024

Ofgem, the energy regulator, has announced that the price cap will rise by 10% in October. Is this bad news for Labour, or will they be successful in framing it as part of their economic inheritance from the Conservatives? And could this strengthen opposition to the proposed change to winter fuel allowance? Patrick Gibbons speaks to James Heale and John McTernan, former political secretary to Tony Blair.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Cindy Yu.

Can Labour crack apprenticeships? Aug 22, 2024

Today's GCSE results show an exams system that has largely returned to pre-Covid norms. It has also given the government a chance to talk about skills and apprenticeships – something that Bridget Phillipson's predecessor as education secretary was also keen on. Cindy Yu talks to James Heale and Amanda Spielman, former chair of Ofqual and Ofsted, about the state of the British education system.
Produced by Cindy Yu.

Labour cronyism claims continue Aug 21, 2024

The government seems to have appointed another party-political advisor to the civil service – this time Labour Together's Jess Sargeant to the role of deputy director at the Cabinet Office’s Propriety and Constitution Group. Is the Labour party just as prone to a bit of cronyism as they accuse the Tories of having been? Cindy Yu talks to James Heale and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Cindy Yu.

Can Starmer reinvigorate Welsh Labour? Aug 20, 2024

Keir Starmer has been meeting the new First Minister Eluned Morgan as part of a two day trip to Wales. While the trip included a visit to a wind farm, Starmer quickly faced questions about the fate of steel workers in Port Talbot. What does this challenge tell us about Starmer's Industrial Strategy and his relationship with the devolved nations? Could Welsh Labour soon face the same anti-incumbency threat that the Conservatives and the SNP faced?
James Heale is joined by Tom Baldwin, Starmer's biographer, and Ruth Mosalski, political editor at WalesOnline.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.

Prison overcrowding triggers emergency measures Aug 19, 2024

The fallout from the riots continues as the numbers being processed by the justice system have led to emergency measures being triggered by the government. What does this mean and, given the prison system was at breaking point even before the riots, what happens next?
Also on the podcast, the six Tory leadership contenders have found something they all agree on: opposition to Labour's proposed change to winter fuel allowance. What does this tell us about future political battles?
James Heale and Isabel Hardman join Cindy Yu to discuss. As Cindy mentions in the episode, the journalist Chris Atkins - who was jailed for five years for tax offences - appeared on The Spectator's food and drink podcast Table Talk to talk about his experience.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Cindy Yu.

What are Sue Gray's plans for the civil service? Aug 17, 2024

Labour is planning to reform the civil service into five 'missions' that will lead the agenda, moving away from the purely departmental way of arranging priorities at the moment. Cindy Yu talks to James Heale and Jill Rutter from the Institute for Government and UK In a Changing Europe (and a former civil servant) about what these plans really mean.
Produced by Cindy Yu.

Can Labour really tame the unions? Aug 16, 2024

Less than 48 hours after Transport Secretary Louise Haigh hailed a new deal with train drivers... the rail union Aslef announced further strike action. So what happened to Labour's 'relationship reset' with the unions? And with recent pay deals, what incentive is there for workers to compromise with the government?
Fraser Nelson and Isabel Hardman join James Heale to discuss.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.

Has GDP growth come at the wrong time for Labour? Aug 15, 2024

The broader story this morning paints a positive picture for the UK economy. While growth in June took a pause, growth in Q2 for this year is estimated to be 0.6 per cent, roughly in line with what markets were predicting, as forecasts for UK growth have been repeatedly revised upwards since the start of the year. Growth was 0.8 per cent in the three months to May, indicating the positive upward trend only paused at the start of the summer. This sounds like great news, but has it come at the right time for Labour?
Today we have also had A Level results and top marks have risen despite a return to pre-pandemic levels. What do the numbers say?
James Heale speaks to Farser Nelson and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Why has the inflation rate gone up again? Aug 14, 2024

We've got some news today on the inflation rate, which rose to 2.2 per cent in July, slightly up from the Bank of England’s target of 2 per cent, where the rate sat in May and June. It’s the first rate uptick this year – and though widely expected, it will be used to explain why the Bank’s continued hawkish stance, despite starting its rate-cutting process earlier this month. Is this a sign of economic conditions improving? Could it lead the way to interest rate cuts later this year?
Also today, the Treasury its under scrutiny after a Labour donor received a top civil service job. Do we need more transparency when it comes to political appointments?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Kate Andrews and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Keir Starmer’s first foreign policy tests Aug 13, 2024

After successful showings at NATO and Blenheim Palace Keir Starmer is facing his first foreign policy tests, with big developments in Ukraine and in the Middle East. On the one hand, Ukrainian troops are continuing push into the Kursk region of Russia and on the other it looked last night that Iran had ramped up preparations for a possible invasion of Israel. Keir Starmer made a phone call last night to Tehran urging them to 'refrain from attacking Israel', warning against a 'serious miscalculation'.
Also today, Tory leadership hopeful Tom Tugendhat gave a press conference and took the opportunity to criticise the government response to the riots. Is he the law and order leadership candidate?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Sophia Gaston, head of foreign policy at Policy Exchange.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
Photo Credit: Simon Dawson/ No.10 Downing Street

Labour goes to war with the Nimbys Aug 12, 2024

Over the weekend we have had some news on Labour’s housing policy. The Times have splashed on the news that in order to meet their pledge to build 1.5 million houses by 2030, councils will be given the power to buy up green belt land. Will this actually get Britain building?
Elsewhere, the Tory leadership race continues to trundle along with Kemi Badenoch giving her first interview. Is she the candidate that Labour fear most?
James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and Liam Halligan.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

The politics of prime ministerial holidays Aug 10, 2024

Should Keir Starmer go on holiday whilst the country is still grappling with violent disorder? In a YouGov poll on Thursday 71% of those surveyed said he shouldn’t. The PM is meant to be heading off on a summer break on Monday but that is looking increasingly unlikely. We still haven’t got the final word from No.10 but we we thought it was a good opportunity to take a look at the politics of prime ministerial holidays.
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Jon Rentoul, chief political commentator at the Independent.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Keir vs Elon: round II Aug 09, 2024

Elon Musk has it in for the Labour government, his latest tweet screenshotting a racist comment Labour MP Lauren Edwards made over a decade ago. On this episode, Lucy Dunn talks to Katy Balls and John McTernan about whether Big Tech can be regulated, and how DSIT Secretary Peter Kyle thinks the government should treat tech tycoons.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Cindy Yu.

How the Tory candidates have responded to the riots Aug 08, 2024

The last week has been dominated by rioting, and last night was expected to be a particularly explosive night. How did it measure up against expectations?
Meanwhile, the Tory leadership race continues to chug along, with each of the six candidates providing their own take on Keir Starmer's response to the violent disorder. Rishi Sunak has been surprisingly absent. How do you provide effective opposition during a time of civil disobedience?
Lucy Dunn speaks to Katy Balls and Paul Goodman, former editor of Conservative Home.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.

Will Starmer crack down on social media? Aug 07, 2024

Courts have started giving out severe sentences to those involved in the riots today, but there is a continued clamouring for Keir Starmer to do more. The next step seems to be cracking down on discussions online, where social media platforms such as X and Telegram could be inflaming the riots. Could the government give in to this pressure, and what do we, as a society, lose if so? Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and non-affiliated peer Claire Fox.
Produced by Cindy Yu.

Keir Starmer slaps down Elon Musk over ‘civil war’ comment Aug 06, 2024

The Prime Minister has clashed with billionaire owner of ‘X’ Elon Musk over comments that Musk made claiming that – in light of the violent disorder across the country – the UK is heading for civil war. How long will this spat go on? And is this the start of Starmer being tough on the tech giants?
Elsewhere, Rachel Reeves has been in North America this week attempting to bang the drum for Britain as 'a stable place to do business' … stable all expect for some significant market turmoil. What's the update?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Can our prisons take these 'thugs'? Aug 05, 2024

Keir Starmer will be chairing his first Cobra meeting, as the government continues to grapple with the rioting that has broken out across the country. The weekend saw numerous examples of violence, including at hotels thought to be hosting asylum seekers.
We had a statement from the prime minister condemning the ‘right wing thuggery’, but do we need a more complete approach to extremism? And will our prisons and our courts be able to accommodate the huge influx of offenders?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Ian Acheson, senior advisor to the Counter Extremism Project.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Is Starmer’s response to the riots enough? Aug 02, 2024

Police are bracing themselves for more violent disorder this weekend. This is in the aftermath of the tragic stabbings in Southport and unrest in London, Hartlepool and Southport. Keir Starmer made a statement yesterday condemning the protests and the involvement of far right actors for stoking up the violence and spreading disinformation online. Is there a double standard in government’s response to these latest protests?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Brendan O’Neill and John Woodcock, who advised government on political violence & disruption.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.

Could Robert Jenrick overtake Kemi Badenoch? Aug 02, 2024

Kemi Badenoch is the favourite in the Tory leadership race at the moment, which is partly why she's been subject to a fair amount of scrutiny and some mud-slinging this week. But could Robert Jenrick actually overtake her as the frontrunner on the right of the Conservative party? Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Cindy Yu.

Sunak's gift to Labour Aug 01, 2024

Today the Bank of England has cut rates for the first time in four years, bringing more good economic news to the Labour government. On the episode, Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews about how this raises the question – again – of why Rishi Sunak called an election before he could reap a summer's worth of economic good news.
Produced by Cindy Yu.

How should Starmer respond to the Southport riots? Jul 31, 2024

Rioters in Southport have clashed with police after three young girls were fatally stabbed outside a Taylor Swift themed dance class on Monday. The crowd was heard chanting ‘English til I die’ in the violence, which took place outside a mosque. The police have confirmed a 17 year old was arrested over the attack, and he was born in Wales.
Is this quickly becoming a major test for the new Prime Minister? What sort of political tensions are becoming apparent following the incident? What role has social media played in spreading disinformation?
Megan McElroy speaks to Katy Balls and Paul Brand, UK Editor of ITV News, who has been reporting from Southport.

Winter for boomers Jul 30, 2024

Rachel Reeves wakes to mixed headlines today after she announced a range of spending cuts to part fill a £22 billion ‘shortfall’ in public spending for this year alone.
The most controversial move by Reeves on Monday was her decision to axe the winter fuel benefit for pensioners not eligible for benefits. That saves £1.5 billion but has already been blasted by Martin Lewis and Age UK as a blunt measure that will hurt those on modest pensions who struggle to make ends meet.
Is there more hard medicine to come? Katy Balls speaks to Kate Andrews and John McTernan, former political secretary to Tony Blair.

How will Labour fill the surprise £20bn ‘black hole’? Jul 29, 2024

The Chancellor Rachel Reeves has today been providing covering fire for a raft of unpopular policies, including changes to the winter fuel allowance and cancellations to various building projects. She gave a damning statement in the Commons earlier this afternoon about the economic situation that Labour have inherited from the Tories.
We now know that the first budget will come at the end of October. Is she laying the foundations for more unpopular decisions? Is the Starmer honeymoon over?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

What's next for Suella Braverman? Jul 29, 2024

It's a busy day in Westminster as we await the new Chancellor's ‘spending audit’ of the financial challenges Labour has ‘discovered’ on entering government. But in the meantime there has been some movement in the Tory leadership race, with the deadline for applicants later this afternoon.
Kemi Badenoch is the latest to declare, whilst Suella Braverman – the onetime standard-bearer of the Brexiteer right – has penned a piece for Monday’s Telegraph, declaring that she will not throw her hat in the ring. What's next for her?
Patrick Gibbons speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Patrick Gibbons.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 28/07/2024 Jul 28, 2024

Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning’s politics shows.
Tax rises might be on the horizon, as Labour prepare to reveal a £20bn hole in the finances they blame on a Tory cover up. John Glen says Labour are disingenuous and are already breaking promises. Meanwhile, the environment secretary says water company bosses could face criminal charges in the future, Andy Burnham urges calm over violent Manchester police incident, and Husam Zomlot blames Netanyahu for the delay in achieving a hostage deal.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.

Who might replace Simon Case as Cabinet Secretary? Jul 27, 2024

The rumour swirling around Westminster is that there will soon be a new Cabinet Secretary, the most senior civil servant position. Politico reported that current Cab-Sec Simon Case is being advised to step down for health reasons at the end of the year, providing an opportunity for Keir Starmer to fill the position with his person. But who might that be? Who are the runners and riders to become one of the most powerful people in government?
Katy Balls speaks to Henry Newman, former advisor to Boris Johnson and editor of the Whitehall Project substack.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Labour's '£20 billion black hole' strategy Jul 26, 2024

The Chancellor Rachel Reeves is expected to give a statement to Parliament on Monday outlining the state of public finances, including a '£20 billion black hole'. James Heale talks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews about the strategy behind this: will this speech lay the ground work for the Autumn budget? How new are these economic issues? And, with the Conservatives embarking on a long leadership election, will Labour have a free rein for their plans?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.

Tory leadership race latest: who's declared? Jul 25, 2024

As more Conservative MPs declare their intentions to run for the Tory leadership, James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Conservative peer Paul Goodman about the runners and riders. What can they learn from previous leadership elections? Who will play well with the members and the public at large? And what will the dividing lines be between the candidates?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.

Starmer’s plan to deal with Labour’s hard left Jul 24, 2024

Three weeks in for the new government and we have had our first Labour rebellion. In a vote last night on an SNP amendments to axe the two child benefit cap, seven Labour MPs revolted and have subsequently lost the Labour whip.
Parliament’s new awkward squad includes some familiar faces of the Labour left, such as John McDonnell and Zarah Sultana. The cast list is such that it’s unlikely Keir Starmer’s inner circle will lose much sleep about these MPs being without the whip for six months. The bigger question is, will they actually get it back?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Are we in for a 'dirty' Tory leadership contest? Jul 23, 2024

At last there is white smoke in the negotiations over the rules for the Tory leadership contest. On Monday, the 1922 committee met and agreed a timetable for the contest to succeed Rishi Sunak as Conservative party leader. The plan is for a new leader to be unveiled 2 November with eligible candidates to throw their name into the ring before the summer recess. It's going to be a long process, but will they be able to keep it civil? Will this be a beauty contest or a Tory Wacky Races?
Fraser Nelson speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Labour's Kamala Harris problem Jul 22, 2024

Last night we had the news that President Biden will not contest the election, announcing in a separate statement that he will support his vice president Kamala Harris for the nomination. As endorsements pour in from other notable democrats and donors it looks like it might be nailed-on for her. But what would a Kamala Harris candidacy mean for Labour unity?
Meanwhile, the row over the two child benefit cap continues to swirl. What should we expect this week?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 21/07/2024 Jul 21, 2024

Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning’s politics shows.
Chancellor Reeves is in the spotlight. She maintains Labour will be strict with their fiscal rules, and blames the Conservatives for the ‘mess’ she inherited. Jeremy Hunt accuses her of laying the ground for tax rises. Elsewhere, Tory mayor Ben Houchen is positive about working with Starmer, and violinist Nicola Benedetti advocates for the arts in education.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.

What is going on with Joe Biden? Jul 20, 2024

This week, Joe Biden has faced further calls to step down from some of the most senior characters in the Democratic party. The President is currently isolating having tested positive for Covid, but remains resolute that he has no intention of giving up yet. Natasha Feroze speaks to Kate Andrews and Freddy Gray about whether the party can get rid of Biden, and discuss what the JD Vance-Trump economic policies could look like.

Tory leadership race latest: what's going on? Jul 19, 2024

The Conservatives need to choose a new leader, but first they need to agree on the process... Easier said than done. Lucy Dunn talks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls about the latest on the upcoming leadership race: what will the race look like, who are the the runners and riders, and how do they rate Rishi Sunak's performance as leader of the opposition?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.

Keir Starmer: 'We want to reset relationships with EU' Jul 18, 2024

Keir Starmer is at Blenheim Palace today for the gathering of the European Political Community, the forum created by Emmanuel Macron in the wake of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. While the new Prime Minister met with many world leaders last week in Washington for the Nato summit, this is his first time he has played host since entering 10 Downing Street. And he used his opening address to call for a 'reset' of relations with the EU, but what will that look like?
Oscar Edmondson speaks with Katy Balls and Charles Grant, director at the Centre for European Reform.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

What was missing from the King's Speech? Jul 17, 2024

Labour has set out its ambitious missions in the King's Speech to open a new parliament today. On the podcast, Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and former Labour advisor John McTernan about what was expected – and what was missing – from the legislative agenda.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Cindy Yu.

Two-child benefit cap row – Starmer’s first big test? Jul 16, 2024

Keir Starmer is coming under pressure to commit to scrapping the two-child benefit cap, introduced in 2017 by the Conservatives. Plaid Cymru, the Greens, Nigel Farage, the SNP, and now some Labour backbenchers are all calling for its removal. Can Starmer hold the line?
Elsewhere: in Wales, First Minister Vaughan Gething has resigned after four months in the job, and in the US, Donald Trump has chosen the junior senator from Ohio J.D. Vance as his nominee for Vice-President. What could these developments mean for Labour?
Lucy Dunn speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Oscar Edmondson.

How Westminster reacted to the Trump assassination attempt Jul 15, 2024

It’s two days after the failed assassination attempt on Donald Trump and we thought we would use this podcast to discuss some of the reaction from Westminster and look at how this latest example of political violence will impact our own politics here in the UK.
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Kate Andrews and James Heale, who joins us from Milwaukee where he is reporting on the Republican National Convention.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 14/07/2024 Jul 14, 2024

Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
Donald Trump has narrowly escaped with his life after an attempted assassination attempt. The UK government condemn the violent act, Nigel Farage say liberal media narratives are to blame, pollster Frank Luntz says the moment may be decisive in the US election, and former Tory adviser Samuel Kasumu says the US needs to think about gun control.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.

Coffee House Shots live: election aftermath Jul 14, 2024

Join Fraser Nelson, Katy Balls and Kate Andrews, along with special guest Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg, for a live edition of Coffee House Shots recorded earlier this week. A week on from Sir Jacob losing his seat, he declares 'I can speak freely now'. So, why does he think the Conservatives lost the election?
The team also answer a range of audience questions, including: how will the Conservatives win voters back? Is Nigel Farage here to stay? And what's their verdict on Labour's first week?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Megan McElroy.

Welcome to Whitehall Watch Jul 13, 2024

What happens to staff in Whitehall when a government changes? In this Saturday edition of the podcast, Katy Balls is joined by Henry Newman, former adviser to Michael Gove. He now runs Whitehall Watch, a project exploring who’s up, who’s out, who’s in and what’s going down across Whitehall, the corridors of power and the Civil Service.

Can Labour solve our prisons crisis? Jul 12, 2024

Justice secretary Shabana Mahmood has acknowledged that ‘our prisons are on the point of collapse’. She has announced that, from September, most prisoners serving sentences of less than four years will be released 40 per cent of the way through their sentences instead of the halfway point, which is currently the case.
The policy will ease pressure on prisons, but the question remains; could this backfire? Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and Professor Ian Acheson, former prison governor and former Director of Community Safety at the Home Office.
You can listen to Shabana Mahmood on Women With Balls here.

Has Nato been a success for Starmer? Jul 11, 2024

Keir Starmer is on his first big diplomatic trip to Washington, attending the Nato summit. He has called on member countries to increase defence spending, had a meeting with Volodymyr Zelensky, and enjoyed a dinner with Joe Biden - all in his first week of the job. How is the trip going, are there any tensions arising, and has it been a success for the new PM?
Oscar Edmondson discusses with James Heale and Sophia Gaston, head of foreign policy at Policy Exchange.

Who will lead the Tories in opposition? Jul 10, 2024

It's been a big 24 hours in Tory-world as the party tries to pick itself up after last week's defeat. We have had the first shadow cabinet meeting and the 1922 committee chairman election. Where do they go from here? And who could lead them?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Can Wes Streeting end the NHS strikes? Jul 09, 2024

Health Secretary Wes Streeting declared the NHS 'broken' over the weekend. With a creaking in-tray of issues, he opened up negotiations with the BMA today to try and solve one: the pay dispute with junior doctors. With ambitious reforms planned, and a workforce with low morale, how successful will Labour be?
Isabel Hardman and James Heale join Cindy Yu to discuss.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Cindy Yu.

Can Labour deliver economic growth? Jul 08, 2024

This morning, Rachel Reeves made her first speech as chancellor. She announced mandatory housing targets, promising 1.5 million homes over the next five years, as well as an end to the onshore wind ban. What else does she have in store, and can Labour deliver the growth the country needs?
James Heale discusses with Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 07/07/2024 Jul 07, 2024

Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's politics shows.
Labour win with a landslide, but their relatively small share of the vote makes this a significantly distorted election. Newly appointed Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds defends his party's performance, and says smaller parties don't receive enough scrutiny. The Tory inquest begins, while Lib Dems say they will be constructive opposition, and Reform claim they are the 'real' opposition.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.

The surprises in Starmer's cabinet Jul 06, 2024

In his first 24 hours as Prime Minister, Keir Starmer has appointed his cabinet and held a cabinet meeting. Most of his frontbench have carried over their shadow briefs, but there were a few surprise appointments too. Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and Times columnist Patrick Maguire.
Produced by Cindy Yu.

Labour wins by a landslide Jul 05, 2024

Where to start with an historic election night. Keir Starmer has got his 1997 moment, winning an enormous majority.
Elsewhere, eleven cabinet ministers have lost their seats, including: Grant Shapps, Gillian Keegan and Penny Mordaunt. Former prime minister Liz Truss has lost her seat, as have senior Tories Jacob Rees-Mogg and Miriam Cates. The Lib Dems have made massive gains, the SNP were decimated in Scotland and Nigel Farage is the MP for Clacton.
But it's not a clean sweep for Labour. Two Labour frontbenchers have lost their seats and Starmer will enter government on a vote share of 35 per cent, the lowest of any postwar governing party. Will this hinder him in government? And is this landslide down to the Farage effect?
James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.

Exit poll predicts Labour landslide Jul 04, 2024

The polls have closed and the exit poll is in. The BBC exit poll projects that Labour will win a landslide of 410 MPs and the Conservatives will be left with 131 seats. Meanwhile the Liberal Democrats will win 61 seats, the SNP ten seats and Reform 13 seats. This would mean a Labour majority of 170 – and would be the Tories’ worst ever result.
Megan McElroy speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.

Will there be an election upset on Thursday? Jul 03, 2024

Tomorrow, voters will head to the polling booth to cast their vote in the 2024 general election. Will there be any surprises in store? So far, there has been little movement when it comes to the gap in vote share between Labour and the Tories. However, there's still plenty of uncertainty across the parties as to what the exit poll will say at 10 p.m. on Thursday night.
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and James Kanagasooriam, chief research officer at Focaldata.

Has Reform peaked too soon? Jul 02, 2024

The election campaign was going well for Nigel Farage's Reform... until it wasn't. A series of controversies have been difficult for the party to shake off. Will the distractions cost them votes and MPs? How will it affect their momentum - and who's to blame? Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Heale.

Starmer's Europe dilemma Jul 01, 2024

As Europe comes to terms with the fallout from Marine Le Pen's victory in the first round of their parliamentary elections, Cindy Yu talks to Freddy Gray and Katy Balls about what it all means for Keir Starmer. If he does win the UK's own election on Thursday, he faces a European landscape that could be harder to navigate. What do the results mean for the UK and what reaction has there been?
Produced by Cindy Yu and Patrick Gibbons.

Coffee House Shots live: election special Jun 30, 2024

Join Fraser Nelson, Katy Balls and Kate Andrews for this special edition of Coffee House Shots, recorded live ahead of the general election. As election day draws closer, Fraser talks through some myth-busting statistics and the team answer questions from the audience. Could this election increase support for proportional representation? What policy does the panel think has been the most interesting? And was there ever a probable path to victory for Rishi Sunak?
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Patrick Gibbons.
Check out The Spectator's data hub for more graphs and statistics, updated daily.

Labour's women problem Jun 29, 2024

The gender debate has become increasingly difficult for the Labour Party as the election campaign has rumbled on. JK Rowling has now agreed to meet with Labour to discuss gender transition policy, after writing in The Times that she'd struggle to vote for the party after feeling dismissed by them. After the election, will gender become an increasingly difficult issue for Keir Starmer? Megan McElroy speaks to Katy Balls and Sonia Sodha, chief leader writer and columnist at the Observer

Will Biden survive his debate implosion? Jun 28, 2024

The Democrats wanted and needed a compelling performance from Joe Biden last night: a rebuttal to the concerns about his age and ability. Instead, his performance was disastrous. Is there any way he can survive this performance? Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and Sarah Elliott, director of the UK-US special relationship unit at the Legatum Institute.

Should we ban polls? Jun 27, 2024

Some countries, like Canada and France, have bans on polling close to the election. Many figures on both sides of the campaign have been frustrated at how the media is consuming polling. What is a polling blackout, and why do some people want one? Megan McElroy speaks to Katy Balls and Chris Hopkins, polling expert and political research director at Savanta.
Elsewhere, David Tennant has taken aim at Kemi Badenoch. She has, to little surprise, responded. With one week to go, does the electorate have any appetite for a culture war?

Sunak vs Starmer round two - who won? Jun 26, 2024

Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls speak to Patrick Gibbons following the second, and final, debate between Keir Starmer and Rishi Sunak. With a week to go until the general election, who came out on top and did we learn anything?

Has 'gamblegate' become ridiculous? Jun 26, 2024

We are now two weeks into the political betting saga. Since our last episode, Keir Starmer has suspended a Labour candidate who bet on himself losing. How damaging is 'gamblegate' - and has it gone too far?
Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and Stephen Bush, columnist and associate editor at the Financial Times.

Who will survive? Jun 25, 2024

It's another bad day for the Conservatives. Rishi Sunak has withdrawn support for the Tory candidates involved in the general election betting scandal. What has led to the timing of this decision?
Also on the podcast, James Kanagasooriam, Chief Research Officer of Focaldata, explains their latest poll that suggests a 250-seat Labour majority. He joins Katy Balls and James Heale.

Is Nigel Farage drawing from the Trump playbook? Jun 24, 2024

In a speech this afternoon, Nigel Farage doubled down on controversial comments he made about the West provoking the war in Ukraine. Is the Reform leader taking inspiration from Trump? And could this be a small win for the Tories who are seeking to claw back Reform votes? Also on the podcast, James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson about the latest in the election date betting scandal.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 23/06/24 Jun 23, 2024

Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows.
The election date betting scandal engulfs the Conservatives, while James Cleverly also has to contend with a Tory aide calling the Rwanda policy ‘crap’. There's controversy also in the Scottish National Party, with allegations that staff may have used public money on the election campaign. Bridget Phillipson is asked to clarify Labour’s position on gender identity in schools, and Unite’s Sharon Graham suggests Labour voters might move to Reform if workers aren’t supported.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.

Is Brexit safe under Labour? Jun 22, 2024

Writer, trade unionist and Labour Brexiteer Paul Embery joins James Heale on Spectator TV to discuss Labour's plans for the EU should they get into government. Paul highlights the need for Labour to deliver on its promises and avoid alienating working-class voters. Will Rachel Reeves appease the Red Wall? And how tough will Labour be on immigration?

Question Time special – who came out on top? Jun 21, 2024

Last nights election Question Time programme was probably the best of the campaign in that it gave space for proper discussion while making all the leaders uncomfortable.
None of the four men questioned over the two hour programme – Rishi Sunak, Keir Starmer, Ed Davey and John Swinney – did badly. There were some good revelatory comments, but Fiona Bruce's questioning exposed each leaders key weakness. Did anyone manage to shift the dial?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Sunak's campaign derailed by betting claims — again Jun 20, 2024

Another allegation over betting with insider knowledge has transpired today, this time involving the Conservative candidate Laura Sanders, who is married to the party's director of campaigns, Tony Lee. Lee has now taken a leave of absence as the Gambling Commission carries out an investigation. On the episode, Cindy Yu talks to Kate Andrews and James Heale about how this derails an already wobbly campaign.
Produced by Cindy Yu.

Have the Tories given up on the Red Wall? Jun 19, 2024

Yet another three MRP polls landed today – and none of them look pretty for the Conservative party. This comes as Boris Johnson rules out helping on the campaign trail as reports say that the party has given up on the Red Wall. On the episode, James Heale talks to Katy Balls and conservative commentator Paul Goodman about why the Tories will continue to struggle to close the poll gap given the roles played by the Liberal Democrats and Reform.
Produced by Cindy Yu.

Is Boris back to save the day? Jun 18, 2024

If you're a Twitter user, you might have seen more of Boris Johnson than usual. He's been making videos to endorse selected candidates from his holiday in Sardinia. Might he make a bigger return to the election campaign? Is he the man that could save the Tories from Farage - and does he want to?
James Heale speaks to Isabel Hardman and Fraser Nelson.

Does Nigel Farage have the cure for Britain? Jun 17, 2024

Nigel Farage has unveiled Reform UK's manifesto. Except, it's not a manifesto, because he says the word is synonymous in voters’ minds with ‘lies’. It promises a freeze on non-essential immigration, a patriotic curriculum, leaving the European Court on Human Rights, and cutting taxes by £88 billion.
Is this contract more of a wish list? How much damage can Nigel Farage do to the Conservatives? Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Heale.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 16/06/24 Jun 16, 2024

Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning’s politics shows.
Election campaigns are ramping up, and we hear from the Conservatives, the Liberal Democrats, Labour, and Plaid Cymru. Mark Harper is asked why some Tory candidates are avoiding official Conservative branding, and Wes Streeting is asked whether Labour’s manifesto amounts to real change.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.

What could Starmer's first year in power look like? Jun 15, 2024

Picture the scene: it's July 5th and a triumphant Keir Starmer arrives at Downing Street after achieving a supermajority and the Tories have only narrowly prevented the Lib Dems becoming official party of opposition. Whilst this may sound far fetched, it is the likely result when you take an average of the last week's polls. What would those first 100 days of Labour look like?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and John McTernan, former political secretary to Tony Blair.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
The Spectator will be hosting a special Live edition of Coffee House Shots in the aftermath of the election. Taking place on Thursday the 11th July - a week after the election - at 7pm here in Westminster, you can join Fraser Nelson, Katy Balls and Kate Andrews as they try to dissect the election results, a new government, and what comes next.

Tickets are £35, or £25 for subscribers. If you’re interested, you can book online at spectator.co.uk/shotslive

Who is the real opposition to Labour? Jun 14, 2024

Nigel Farage tried to claim at the start of Thursday’s TV debate that Reform was the real threat to Keir Starmer, given it has just passed the Conservatives in the polls (more on that here). Are they the new party of opposition? And what sort of tactics will the Tories use to try and claw back voters they are haemorrhaging to Reform?
Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and Chris Hopkins, director of Savanta.

What wasn't included in Labour's manifesto Jun 13, 2024

Keir Starmer launched Labour's manifesto today, but how much did we actually learn about their plans for government? And with no rabbits pulled out of the proverbial hat, how do they plan to achieve growth? Kate Andrews and Starmer's biographer Tom Baldwin joined Katy Balls to discuss. Tom also provided some insight into Angela Rayner's election bus, including a surprising admission about a lettuce...
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
Join the Coffee House Shots team for a post-election live recording and debrief on Thursday 11 July. Get tickets at spectator.co.uk/live

Sunak vs Starmer – who came out on top? Jun 12, 2024

Katy Balls and Kate Andrews speak to Natasha Feroze after the Battle for No.10 leadership interviews. The two leaders gave their pitch to a live audience and viewers at home. But who came out on top?

Why are Tories talking about a Labour Super Majority? Jun 12, 2024

Grant Shapps has been speaking to media this morning and warning that a Labour landslide would be 'very bad news' for the country. Is the acknowledgement that Labour could seriously damage the Tories a slip of the tongue, or a new strategy for the Tories?
Elsewhere, the interview that Rishi Sunak left D Day commemorations for is airing tonight. In a controversial moment, when asked what he had to go without as a child, he says Sky TV...
Megan McElroy speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Join the Coffee House Shots team for a live recording on Thursday 11 July. Get tickets at spectator.co.uk/live.

Is Sunak's cautious manifesto a mistake? Jun 11, 2024

Conservatives hoping to turn their fortunes around with the publication of the party's manifesto have been disappointed. The document contained little by way of surprises or rabbits, and despite Sunak's pledge that the Conservatives are the party of tax cutting, the new costings show that the tax burden will continue to rise. Katy Balls talks to James Heale and Kate Andrews.
Join the Coffee House Shots team for a live recording on Thursday 11 July. Get tickets at spectator.co.uk/live.
Produced by Cindy Yu.

Why has Douglas Ross resigned as Scottish Tory leader? Jun 10, 2024

Just when you thought this election campaign couldn’t get any more tumultuous, Douglas Ross has announced he will resign as Scottish Conservative leader. He had lost the support of his colleagues – particularly those in Holyrood – following his decision to effectively take over a Westminster colleague’s constituency when that MP was seriously ill in hospital. Why now?
Michael Simmons speaks to Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls.
The Spectator will be hosting a special Live edition of Coffee House Shots in the aftermath of the election. Taking place on Thursday the 11th July - a week after the election - at 7pm here in Westminster, you can join Fraser Nelson, Katy Balls and Kate Andrews as they try to dissect the election results, a new government, and what comes next.
Tickets are £35, or £25 for subscribers. If you’re interested, you can book online at spectator.co.uk/shotslive

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 09/06/2024 Jun 09, 2024

Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
Mel Stride defends the prime minister after his D-Day gaffe. Farage criticises Sunak, and Amber Rudd criticises Farage. Meanwhile, Labour's Shabana Mahmood and the SNP's Stephen Flynn speak about their own parties' priorities.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.

Nigel Farage's Conservative manifesto Jun 08, 2024

Last night, leaders and senior representatives from seven political parties went head to head in the latest TV debate. But who came out on top? Katy Balls speaks to James Heale and Fraser Nelson.

Will Labour's manifesto contain a surprise? Jun 07, 2024

Overnight, details of Labour's manifesto were leaked. There are several new policies, but how surprising are they, and how will they land with voters?
Elsewhere, Rishi Sunak has denied he planned to skip D Day events altogether since our episode this morning. Can the row get any worse?
James Heale speaks to Isabel Hardman and John McTernan, former political secretary to Tony Blair.

Why did Sunak leave the D-Day commemorations early? Jun 07, 2024

It's yet another gaffe for Rishi Sunak. At yesterday’s D Day anniversary celebrations when it came time for official photographs with Joe Biden, Olaf Scholz and Emmanuel Macron, it was Lord Cameron, not Rishi Sunak, who did the honours for Britain. With the prime minister reportedly leaving early to do a pre-recorded political interview with ITV. He has since apologised, but can he bounce back from this one?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Has there been a CCHQ candidates stitch up? Jun 06, 2024

Conservative grassroots are up in arms over the installment of Tory party chairman, Richard Holden, as the candidate for Basildon and Billericay, a safe seat. The local association was given a shortlist of one by CCHQ. Katy Balls talks to James Heale and commentator and Conservative peer, Paul Goodman.
Produced by Cindy Yu.

Who won the first leaders' debate? Jun 05, 2024

Last night, Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer went head-to-head in the first TV debate of the campaign. They clashed on a variety of topics, including housing, the NHS, and immigration. But who came out on top? Katy Balls speaks to Kate Andrews and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Megan McElroy.

What would it take for Sunak to have a breakthrough? Jun 04, 2024

Some Conservatives have put their hopes on tonight's TV debate as a breakthrough moment for the lacklustre and disorganised Tory campaign, but will it really be a gamechanger? James Heale talks to Isabel Hardman about why she's sceptical, and to the pollster Chris Hopkins at Savanta about why the Tories just aren't closing that poll gap.
Produced by Megan McElroy and Cindy Yu.

Could Farage crush the Tories? Jun 03, 2024

This afternoon a wildcard was thrown into the election – the return of Nigel Farage. He will be standing for the Reform party at Clacton, the one parliamentary seat that Ukip had held. What will this mean for the Conservatives? James Heale talks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Cindy Yu.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 02/06/2024 Jun 02, 2024

Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
Division in the Labour Party as Keir Starmer belatedly approves Diane Abbott as a candidate, while others in Labour claim they were offered seats in the House of Lords to stand aside for different candidates. Meanwhile, Victoria Atkins talks up her Pharmacy First initiative, Yvette Cooper wants migration to come down (we're not sure by how much), Green co-leader Adrian Ramsay is asked about meat rationing, and Trump's lawyer thinks his trial is the work of a corrupt, fascist state.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.

Can Keir handle Trump? Jun 01, 2024

The news that Donald Trump has been convicted of 34 felonies meant that the Labour leader faced questions about the former president on Friday morning, rather than the Diane Abbott selection storm. On his visit to Scotland, Starmer told the BBC that a Labour government would be willing to work with ‘whoever’ was elected in November’s presidential contest. But how would Starmer deal with Trump?
James Heale speaks to Kate Andrews and Freddy Gray.

Can Keir Starmer control the Labour left? May 31, 2024

Keir Starmer has began a purge of pre-existing candidates and MPs who risk frustrating their election campaign. There is an ongoing row about whether Diane Abbott, the former shadow home secretary, will be barred from standing. Angela Rayner has now weighed in saying she 'sees no reason why Diane Abbott can't stand for Labour'. Could this become a problem for Keir Starmer?
James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and Paul Goodman.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.

Starmer purges the Corbynites May 30, 2024

Keir Starmer is now putting the final touches to this with a last minute purge of pre-existing candidates and MPs who risk frustrating their election campaign. There is an ongoing row about whether Diane Abbott, the former shadow home secretary, will be barred from standing, but who else might join her?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Is Diane Abbott in or out? May 29, 2024

The drama in Westminster never seems to end. Last night the Times reported that the Labour party would not allow veteran MP Diane Abbott to represent the party at the upcoming general election. Abbott has reportedly been given the Labour whip back as a middle way, causing something of a backlash. Seeking to clarify the situation, Keir Starmer has today insisted that, 'no decision has been taken to bar Diane Abbot' and that 'she is a member of the parliamentary Labour party.' What's going on? Will she be standing?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and John McTernan, former political secretary to Tony Blair.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Who's winning the TikTok election battle? May 28, 2024

Days into the election campaign and parties are scrambling to get their message out on social media. With both Labour and the Conservatives joining TikTok, who has a stronger message? Katy Balls speaks to Sean Topham, co-founder of Topham Guerin who ran the Conservative's 2019 social media campaign.

The Dunkirk Strategy May 28, 2024

The Conservatives have unveiled a new pensions policy: the 'Triple Lock Plus'. What does it mean and what's the thinking behind it? Will it help shore up the Tories' core vote?
Katy Balls and Focaldata's James Kanagasooriam join Natasha Feroze to discuss.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Patrick Gibbons.

Does Keir Starmer have enough to say? May 27, 2024

Keir Starmer set out his first major speech to kick of Labour's general election campaign. The Labour leader prioritised national security, a strong economy and the borders. But with a 'policy light' campaign – has he done enough? Kate Andrews speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.

Sunak: let’s bring back national service May 26, 2024

The first big new policy announcement of the election campaign is in from the Tories, and it’s likely to be a talker. Where Keir Starmer appears to be opting for a ‘ming vase’ strategy – trying not to rock the boat ahead of polling day – the Tories are leaning towards the opposite. At 20 points behind in the polls, aides believe they need headline-grabbing, bold policies in order to get the public’s attention. The first of which is the return of mandatory national service. What's the thinking behind this one?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

What does a July election mean for the SNP? May 25, 2024

We have spoken a lot on the podcast this week about how a July election could be disastrous for the Conservatives, but what about the SNP? With arrests, investigations, resignations and a recent leadership change, it looks as though a snap election couldn't come at a worse time for the Scottish nationalists.
Katy Balls speaks to Lucy Dunn and Fergus Mutch, former head of communications for the SNP.

What‘s behind the Tory exodus? May 25, 2024

It's day four of the election campaign, and Michael Gove has joined the growing Tory exodus and announced he's standing down at the election. What's behind his decision, and how will it affect Rishi Sunak?
Megan McElroy speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Produced by Megan McElroy.

Is the Labour lead as big as it seems? May 24, 2024

Both major party leaders are hitting the road today and campaigning in Scotland, which will be a major battleground in the coming election. Labour looks comfortably in the lead, but is that number accurate to what's happening on the ground? Cindy Yu and Katy Balls talk to Focaldata's James Kanagasooriam about their latest analysis.
Produced by Cindy Yu.

Why has the election been called now? May 23, 2024

Less than 24 hours after Rishi Sunak's surprise election announcement, we look ahead to the parties' campaigns. What has been the fall out? How have Labour responded to the shock news? And why didn't Rishi have an umbrella?
James Heale is joined by Isabel Hardman and former Labour adviser John McTernan to discuss.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.

Sunak's biggest gamble yet: a July election May 22, 2024

Rishi Sunak has called a general election on July 4. A new parliament will be summoned on 9 July and the state opening will be on 17 July. Is a summer election a wise decision? Katy Balls and James Heale discuss from parliament.
Produced by Natasha Feroze.

Is an election about to be called? May 22, 2024

Westminster is awash with rumours today that the Prime Minister is about to call an election. On this episode, Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson about where this speculation is coming from and how seriously to take them.
Produced by Cindy Yu.

Is there finally good news for the government? May 21, 2024

The IMF has upgraded the 2024 economic forecast for the UK. What does this mean for the government and could more good news follow this week? And, with speeches on tax, benefit crackdowns and tackling anti-semitism, what should we make of all this political activity? Will we see the return of 'the hot lectern guy'?
Kate Andrews and James Heale join Katy Balls to discuss.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons

Infected blood scandal was ‘no accident’, says report May 20, 2024

The Infected Blood Inquiry has finally concluded after a five-year investigation. This lunchtime, the inquiry’s chair Sir Brian Langstaff said thousands of deaths could have been prevented and the ‘worst ever’ NHS scandal, which saw thousands of Britons between 1970 and 1998 become infected by contaminated blood, could ‘largely, though not entirely, have been avoided’. Will the NHS change after change after this latest scandal?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 19/05/2024 May 19, 2024

Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
Grant Shapps talks about defence spending and the infected blood scandal. Wes Streeting is asked about Starmer's new pledges. And Piers Morgan denies knowing anything about phone hacking.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.

The whips' office and their woes May 18, 2024

There have been two recent defections from the Conservatives to Labour. There's lots of chatter in parliament about a potential third defector. In this Saturday edition of Coffee House Shots, Katy Balls and James Heale hear from Gyles Brandreth, former MP and broadcaster. He takes us back to what it was like working in the whips' office in the 1990s, and ask if he thinks there are more defections to come.
You can read Gyles' diary in The Spectator here: https://www.spectator.co.uk/article/the-day-keir-starmer-cried-on-me-about-his-childhood/
Produced by Megan McElroy.

Can Hunt answer the Reagan question? May 17, 2024

Ronald Reagan famously asked voters: 'are you better off than you were four years ago?' At the next election, the Tories face a public thinking over the last fourteen years. Chancellor Jeremy Hunt gave a speech today defending the UK's record tax levels and attacking Labour's economic plans. But who should we trust more on tax?
Fraser Nelson and James Heale join Katy Balls to discuss.
Produced by Megan McElroy and Patrick Gibbons.

Has Starmer scaled down his pledges? May 16, 2024

Keir Starmer has unveiled his six election pledges. In a nod to Tony Blair's 1997 election card, the Labour leader has announced key promises to the public should they win the election. How are the commitments being received, and what will the impact of his speech be?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Stephen Bush, Associate Editor at the Financial Times.

Starmer fluffs his lines at PMQs May 15, 2024

There were no defections today at Prime Minister’s Questions, which probably put Keir Starmer in a slightly stronger position, ironically, given the fuss about Natalie Elphicke crossing the floor last week. The focus was on justice and both the PM and Starmer came up with some new attack lines, but the delivery was – in parts – decidedly lacking. Who came out on top?
Cindy Yu speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Heale.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.

Is Natalie Elphicke an unlikely hero? May 14, 2024

Lucy Dunn speaks to Katy Balls and former Blair advisor John McTernan about the one vote that won plans to exclude MPs from parliament arrested on suspicion of serious sexual offence. After Keir Starmer faced criticism for allowing her into the party, could some of her greatest critics now see the perks? Also is Labour about the water down the plans for workers' rights?

Will Sunak's fighting talk work? May 13, 2024

Rishi Sunak delivered a pre-election speech this morning setting out the dividing lines at the next election: security with the Tories or risk with Labour. Will it be enough to shift the dial? And is the Natalie Elphicke defection still haunting Keir Starmer? Natasha Feroze speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 12/05/24 May 12, 2024

Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
Natalie Elphicke's defection to Labour is another blow to the Tories, but could she prove more trouble than she's worth for Starmer? David Cameron says the UK will continue to provide arms to Israel, but Labour disagrees. And as Russian attacks gather pace in Ukraine, Cameron says Ukraine's allies will prevail if they work together.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.

Can John Swinney turn it around for the SNP? May 11, 2024

John Swinney, newly inaugurated First Minister of Scotland and Leader of the SNP, has been in the job for a week. What have we learnt since he took up the job, and can he turn things around for the party in time for a general election?
James Heale speaks to Lucy Dunn and Fergus Mutch, former SNP adviser.
Produced by Megan McElroy.

The UK leaves recession – but is it too late for the Tories? May 10, 2024

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) confirmed this morning that the UK confined its technical recession to 2023. The economy grew by 0.6 per cent in the first three months of the year, thanks in large part to stronger-than-expected growth in March, which reached 0.4 per cent. But is the plan really working?
Also on the podcast, Keir Starmer gave a speech in Dover this morning on Labour's plans to stop the boats. He also took the opportunity to unveil new Labour MP Natalie Elphicke. Is there any clear blue water between Labour and the Tories when it comes to migration?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Kate Andrews and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Can Lammy charm Trump? May 09, 2024

This week, shadow foreign secretary David Lammy is stateside, meeting with senior advisors to Donald Trump and hoping to charm them. Meanwhile, David Cameron gives his first set-piece policy speech. Who is the more credible statesman? Cindy Yu talks to James Heale and Charles Grant, director of the Centre for European Reform.
Produced by Cindy Yu.

Why does Labour want Natalie Elphicke? May 08, 2024

The MP for Dover, Natalie Elphicke, has shocked MPs and pundits across the political spectrum by defecting to the Labour party today. In her resignation letter, she accused the Conservative party for having 'abandoned' the 'centre ground'. But for someone who has vocally criticised Labour in the past, how helpful is Elphicke's defection? Oscar Edmondson talks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Cindy Yu.

Will there really be a hung parliament? May 07, 2024

It's the first day back after the local elections. Following Thursday's results, some polling suggests that if the votes were replicated in a general election, there might be a hung parliament. Could this be a reality?
The Spectator's James Heale and Katy Balls are joined by Chris Hopkins, Political Research Director at Savanta.
Produced by Megan McElroy.

What does Andy Street's defeat mean for Rishi Sunak? May 05, 2024

The local elections results are in, and the Conservatives have lost more than 450 council seats. After a full recount, Labour’s Richard Parker beat Andy Street to become West Midlands mayor, with only around 1500 votes in it. What does his loss mean for Rishi Sunak, and where do the overall results leave him? Katy Balls and James Heale speak to Megan McElroy.
Produced by Megan McElroy.

Have the Tories avoided a local election catastrophe? May 03, 2024

Rishi Sunak can breathe a (small) sigh of relief. Ben Houchen, the so-called ‘patron saint of the red wall’, has won a third term as Tees Valley mayor. Houchen secured 53.6 per cent of the vote with Labour in second place with 41.3 per cent, despite some polls in advance suggesting it was neck-and-neck between the Tories and Labour. The Conservatives have undeniably had one of their worst nights for a generation, but are there some silver linings?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.

Labour triumphs in Blackpool as Tories suffer heavy losses May 03, 2024

It's looking like the worst night for the Conservatives in 40 years. The prediction – that the Tories will lose about half of the council seats they are defending – looks on track so far. Labour comfortably won the Blackpool South by-election with a 26 per cent swing and it has also taken several key councils, including Rushmoor which has been Tory-run for the last 24 years. A Gaza backlash has seen Labour lose Oldham while the Conservatives have suffered a string of council losses, coming within 120 votes being beaten by Reform in Blackpool.
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Can Ben Houchen save Rishi Sunak? May 01, 2024

Tomorrow, voters go to the polls for the last set of local elections in this parliament, alongside 11 mayoral elections in England, 37 police and crime commissioner elections in England and Wales plus the London Assembly elections. Could Ben Houchen, Tees Valley Mayor, help turn Rishi Sunak's fortunes around?
You can read James Heale's assessment of the key battlegrounds here.
Also on the podcast, a look at rumours that Labour are in talks to water down their employment policies.
Lucy Dunn speaks to James Heale and John McTernan, former adviser to Tony Blair.

Will the Tories' mental health focus backfire? Apr 30, 2024

As figures now show there are 2.8 million people claiming out-of-work benefits, Rishi Sunak gave a speech looking at welfare reform. But with more and more people off work for mental health related issues, could the Tories’ focus backfire if the public think they’re trivialising mental health? Also on the podcast, a look ahead to the mayoral elections.
James Heale discusses with Isabel Hardman and Luke Tryl, UK Director at More in Common.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons.

Humza Yousaf quits – what next? Apr 29, 2024

Scotland's First Minister Humza Yousaf has just announced his intention to resign. Lucy Dunn speaks to Katy Balls and Spectator contributor Iain Macwhirter about how the past few weeks have led to this point and what to expect from an SNP leadership contest.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 28/04/2024 Apr 28, 2024

Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
The prime minister is in a frustrated mood as he bats away questions about the general election. Dan Poulter has defected to Labour, and Wes Streeting says more disaffected Tories are welcome. Humza Yousaf is walking a tightrope as he faces two votes of no-confidence. And Streeting defends Labour's decision to keep the pensions triple lock.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.

Can Starmer do patriotism? Apr 27, 2024

It was St George's Day this week, and Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said he has 'no time' for those who 'flinch' at the St George's flag. But how authentic is his patriotism?
Katy Balls speaks to Tom Baldwin, former Labour Party adviser and author of new book England: Seven Myths That Changed a Country – and How to Set Them Straight.
Produced by Megan McElroy.

Can Humza Yousaf hang on? Apr 26, 2024

Humza Yousaf faces the biggest crisis of his leadership to date – with his fate in the hands of former SNP leadership rival Ash Regan. Will Humza step down before he is pushed? Or is there a narrow gap through which the First Minister can fight on?
Lucy Dunn speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.

Is this the beginning of the end for Humza Yousaf? Apr 25, 2024

After two and a half years in government together, Humza Yousaf has terminated the SNP’s governing pact with the Scottish Greens. The decision was rubber stamped at a hastily arranged meeting of the Scottish cabinet on Thursday morning. It preempts a vote by rank-and-file Green members on whether to walk away from Yousaf’s government after he ditched a key climate target.
In response, The Scottish Conservatives have tabled a vote of no confidence vote. And the Yousaf might very well lose it, now the Greens are out of the government. What will this mean for the first minister?
Katy Balls speaks to Lucy Dunn, Iain Macwhirter and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Has Angela Rayner redeemed herself? Apr 24, 2024

With Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer away, Oliver Dowden and Angela Rayner stepped in for PMQs today. Questions quickly turned to the long running row about Rayner's tax affairs. Did she redeem herself?
Also, the prime minister has announced further UK military spending, confirming it will rise to 2.5% of national income by 2030. Does the move cause problems for Keir Starmer?
Katy Balls speaks to James Heale and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Megan McElroy.

Sunak’s Rwanda Bill finally passes parliament Apr 23, 2024

After eight hours of debate on the Rwanda Bill, peers finally threw in the towel shortly after midnight. And with that, the Rwanda Bill became law, pending Royal Assent from the King. The two chambers have been engaged in a mammoth game of ping-pong for the past week, culminating in yesterday’s showdown on two final amendments. What comes next?
Kate Andrews speaks to James Heale and Katy Balls.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Will there be a summer election? Apr 22, 2024

This morning Rishi Sunak delivered a press conference making the case that the Rwanda Bill should become law today – and the government is ready for when it does. James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson about what could be an all-night parliamentary showdown on the Rwanda vote, and whether an early summer election is on the cards.
Produced by Natasha Feroze.

Can things get worse for the SNP? Apr 20, 2024

It's been quite the week for the SNP. Questions remain over the future of the Sandyford gender clinic, 'the tartan Tavistock'; the Scottish government ditched its flagship climate change target; and former party chief executive, and husband of Nicola Sturgeon, Peter Murrell was rearrested on embezzlement charges.
What does this all mean for the SNP? Lucy Dunn speaks to Iain Macwhirter, columnist at The Times, and Shona Craven, columnist at The National.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Patrick Gibbons

Sunak declares a crackdown on Britain’s ‘sick note culture’ Apr 19, 2024

Rishi Sunak has returned to one of his pet bugbears: getting the unemployed back into work. His speech to the Centre for Social Justice this morning was peppered with his favourite facts about the post-pandemic welfare crisis embroiling Britain. Lucy Dunn speaks to James Heale and Michael Simmons.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Is it smart to ban phones for teens? Apr 18, 2024

Sunak's top team is considering another ban: smartphones for teens. A consultation is due to begin this month that will question whether children need a smartphone, and if social media should require age verification. Could the debate bring the party together?
Also, there's another suspension in Westminster. Mark Menzies has been suspended after claims he made a late night call to ask for money to pay off 'bad people'. He strongly disputes the claims.
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
Produced by Megan McElroy.

Sunak's Truss problem Apr 17, 2024

The day after her book was published, Rishi Sunak faced down questions from Keir Starmer and Labour members at PMQs about Liz Truss. While he had his replies at the ready, the questions underscored the main issue for Sunak: how should he deal with his predecessor?
Also on the podcast, there is more inflation news for the Government, and how will Starmer deal with internal party discipline?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

How many MPs will reject Sunak’s smoking ban? Apr 16, 2024

It’s not just Britain that has a growth problem. Today’s release of the IMF’s April 2024 World Economic Outlook report argues that the global economy is following the lacklustre trend. Within this bleak picture, how does the UK look compared to its counterparts?
Also on the podcast, MPs are set to vote this evening on the government's generational smoking ban. Is Rishi Sunak a 'finger wagging control freak' as Liz Truss claims? How many could rebel?
James Heale speaks Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Oscar Edmondson.

Liz Truss returns - again Apr 15, 2024

It's 18 months since Liz Truss left Downing Street and her new memoir, Ten Years to Save the West, is out. She gave her first interview to Fraser Nelson on Spectator TV, covering why she wants to abolish the Supreme Court, Donald Trump, her husband's warning that her leadership bid would end in tears, and so much more.
You can listen to the full interview on Spectator TV – don't forget to subscribe:
https://youtu.be/fPwqsrI0L8Y?si=pguuktDZ5UB7zFCD
We also cover Iran's missile attack on Israel, and what might come next.
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Megan McElroy.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 14/04/24 Apr 14, 2024

Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows.
After Iran’s first direct attack on Israel, conflict in the Middle East has reached a dangerous new phase. Health Secretary Victoria Atkins confirms British military planes are in action in the region. Yvette Cooper says the focus must be on de-escalation. Green co-leader Carla Denyer says the Israeli strike against an Iranian consulate in Damascus broke international law, but Israeli government spokesperson Avi Hyman claims that the consulate was actually being used by Iranian military. And Atkins defends her party’s Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which will ban smoking for anyone born after 2009 if it goes through this week.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.

Harold Wilson's secret Downing Street affair Apr 13, 2024

On this special Saturday edition of Coffee House Shots we discuss Patrick Maguire's scoop this week about former Labour leader Harold Wilson's secret affair with his deputy press secretary. Where does this rank in the history of parliamentary affairs? And – on a more serious note – are there any lessons that Keir Starmer can learn from Harold Wilson?
Katy Balls speaks to Patrick Maguire and James Heale.

Is Angela Rayner unsackable? Apr 12, 2024

The row over Angela Rayner's tax affairs has deepened today. This morning, Greater Manchester police have announced that – following a reassessment of the case – they will open a formal investigation into Angela Rayner. What does this mean for Keir Starmer? And why would it be so difficult for him to sack her?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Has Rishi Sunak failed on the NHS? Apr 11, 2024

One of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's five promises is to cut NHS waiting lists. However, even he's admitted progress is slow, with new data showing key targets on waiting lists have been missed. Can Sunak ever solve the NHS problem?
Elsewhere, Lee Anderson has been telling us about the price of friendship, revealing he won't be campaigning in certain constituencies where his old Conservative pals are running...
Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Megan McElroy.

What are the conclusions of the Cass Review? Apr 10, 2024

Today we have had the Cass Review, a landmark report into gender services for children in England, authored by paediatrician Hilary Cass. She concludes that medical interventions were being made on the basis of 'remarkably weak' evidence and that there is a lack of a holistic approach to those questioning their gender. How big of an issue will gender politics be at the next election?
Also on the podcast, after William Wragg gave up the whip last night will his decision to voluntarily resign call into question Rishi Sunak's authority?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Will David Cameron win over Republicans? Apr 09, 2024

David Cameron is stateside meeting Republicans and Democrats as the Foreign Secretary tries to muster up support for the US to send aid to Ukraine. Before that he stopped by Mar-a-Lago to meet Donald Trump – the two haven't seen eye-to-eye in the past. Will the Republicans warm to Cameron? Katy Balls speaks to Freddy Gray and Lucy Fisher, Whitehall editor at the Financial Times.

How much trouble is Angela Rayner in? Apr 08, 2024

Angela Rayner has faced fresh allegations related to her taxes. Keir Starmer and other MPs in the shadow cabinet have come to her defence. Could these accusations jeopardise her position as shadow deputy Prime Minister? Also on the podcast, what are Richard Tice's plans for Reform? Natasha Feroze speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 07/04/2024 Apr 07, 2024

Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows.
Israel is under increasing pressure to stop its military action, after an IDF strike hit an aid convoy, killing seven aid workers. Oliver Dowden and David Lammy are asked whether the UK should suspend arms sales to Israel. Meanwhile, multiple MPs are attacked by ‘honeytrap’ stings on dating apps, David Lammy says Angela Rayner has done nothing wrong over her tax affairs, and NATO chief Stoltenberg says we are in an era of global conflict and instability.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.

J.K. Rowling vs Scotland's hate monster Apr 06, 2024

J.K. Rowling has been at the centre of a Twitter backlash against Scotland's new hate crime laws which came into effect on April 1st. How has the first week of this controversial legislation gone for First Minister Humza Yousaf? And is political support for the policy dwindling? Natasha Feroze speaks to Lucy Dunn and Isabel Hardman.

Is William Wragg a victim? Apr 05, 2024

On Thursday night, Conservative MP William Wragg admitted that he handed over the phone numbers of MPs, aides and a journalist to a man he met on a dating app. William Wragg will retain the whip after apologising for his actions. Meanwhile, Rishi Sunak is eager to talk about the National Insurance cut that comes into place tomorrow – has this given him political credibility? Cindy Yu speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Heale.

Should Britain end arms sales to Israel? Apr 04, 2024

The row over arms sales to Israel continues today, as over 600 high profile figures in the legal profession, including former Supreme Court Justice Jonathan Sumption, sign a petition arguing they believe Israel has breached international law, and more Conservative politicians say, on the record, that they believe the UK must respond with an arms sale ban. Cindy Yu talks to James Heale and Isabel Hardman about where this row could go next.
Produced by Megan McElroy and Cindy Yu.

Has Israel lost British support? Apr 03, 2024

The killings of three British aid workers in Gaza has caused fury across the board in Westminster, with Rishi Sunak conducting a candid phone call with Benyamin Netanyahu last night. Today, the question is over whether the UK should ban arms sales to Israel in a bid to influence Jerusalem's hardline approach to Gaza. Has Israel lost the support of the UK, and western countries more widely? James Heale talks to Isabel Hardman and Sophia Gaston, head of foreign policy at the think tank, Policy Exchange.
Produced by Cindy Yu.

Could Scotland's new Hate Crime Act overwhelm the police? Apr 02, 2024

The SNP's new Hate Crime Act came into effect yesterday, but already it has been met with backlash. On the episode, James Heale talks to Isabel Hardman and Lucy Dunn on why Humza Yousaf insisted on this law and whether it could overwhelm the police.
Produced by Cindy Yu.

Will Sue Gray be running Keir Starmer’s government? Mar 29, 2024

There is anxiety in parts of Starmer’s circle about Sue Gray appointing jobs in a Starmer-led Downing Street. When she’s in No.10 she’ll ‘be in her natural territory and running rings around everyone’, a former colleague told Katy Balls in her profile of 'the Gray lady' for The Spectator this week. How is Sue Gray shaking things up as Keir Starmer’s chief of staff?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Jill Rutter, former senior civil servant.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Labour's pledge to 'take back control' Mar 28, 2024

Labour kicked off their local elections campaign today with a joint op-ed from Keir Starmer and Angela Rayner in the Times promising to empower localities and put an end to the regional divide. This is all encompassed in their Take Back Control Act … where have we heard that before?
Rather than a seamless launch, the Labour leader has been met with difficult questions over Angela Rayner's tax affairs and the suggestion that the shadow education secretary could scrap the £4 billion expansion of free childcare.
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Could Jonathan Gullis be another Lee Anderson? Mar 27, 2024

After the resignations of two ministers last night, No. 10 carried out a mini reshuffle, which included some controversial decisions. In particular, the appointment of the outspoken Red Wall MP Jonathan Gullis had some questioning whether Rishi Sunak was making another Lee Anderson-style mistake. James Heale talks to Katy Balls and former editor of Conservative Home, Paul Goodman.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Patrick Gibbons.

What happened at Sunak’s Liaison Committee meeting? Mar 26, 2024

Rishi Sunak appeared in front of the House of Commons Liaison Committee today. What happened?
Katy Balls speaks to James Heale and Isabel Hardman.

Scott Benton triggers another by-election Mar 25, 2024

Former Conservative MP Scott Benton has resigned, triggering a by-election in Blackpool South. The outgoing MP had the Tory whip removed after suggesting to undercover reporters that he would be willing to break lobbying rules for money. Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Katy Balls about the likelihood of another Tory election defeat in Blackpool South, plus whether the Conservatives are pivoting on their China stance following an alleged cybersecurity threat.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 24/03/2024 Mar 24, 2024

Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
Chancellor Jeremy Hunt does the rounds this week, saying the Russian government is creating a smokescreen of propaganda out of the Moscow terrorist attack. Hunt also guarantees the continuation of the pension 'triple lock', but not compensation for the WASPI women. Labour Party Chair Anneliese Dodds is asked about Labour's approach to zero hour contracts, and the former communications secretary to Prince William says last week's social media storm was the worst he's seen.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.

What is Labour’s economic plan? Mar 23, 2024

In her Mais lecture in the City of London this week, Rachel Reeves set out her plan for Britain’s economy: securonomics. What does securonomics mean? Can it deliver wealth? Will it work in a high-immigration economy?
Freddy Gray speaks to Kate Andrews and the author and journalist Paul Mason.

Should the 'Waspi women' be compensated? Mar 22, 2024

The Parliamentary Ombudsman's report on raising women's state pension age in line with men's has been published. It details that women born in the 1950s hit by the state pension age change are owed compensation and has advised that the government should 'do the right thing'. Will the 'Waspi women' end up disappointed?
Michael Simmons speaks to Isabel Hardman and Louise Perry, host of the Maiden Mother Matriarch podcast.

Will Fine Gael call an election? Mar 22, 2024

Leo Varadkar resigned as Ireland’s Taoiseach this week, and as Fine Gael leader. ‘Personal and political reasons’ informed his decision, he said. Will his party now call an election?
Katy Balls speaks to Ben Scallen, from Dublin’s Gript Media.

Will Reform overtake the Tories? Mar 21, 2024

A new YouGov poll has Reform just four points behind the Conservatives. Richard Tice’s party is on 15 per cent, and Rishi Sunak’s party is on 19 per cent. What is driving the Tory decline?
Max Jeffery speaks to Katy Balls and to James Johnson of JL Partners.

Did Jeremy Hunt reduce inflation? Mar 20, 2024

Inflation has fallen to 3.4 per cent, it was announced this morning. Jeremy Hunt said it was a sign that the government’s economic plan is working. Is he right?
Max Jeffery speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.

What should Labour do about the Rwanda bill? Mar 19, 2024

All ten of the amendments to the Rwanda bill, put in by the House of Lords, were rejected by the House of Commons last night. The bill will head back to the Lords tomorrow, where they will decide whether to continue the process of 'ping pong' (putting more amendments in and sending the bill back to the Commons). Should Labour peers worry about being portrayed as foiling the Rwanda asylum plan? Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and Spectator contributor Patrick O'Flynn.
Produced by Cindy Yu.

Will Penny Mordaunt be the next prime minister? Mar 18, 2024

Over the weekend, speculation about a plot to oust Rishi Sunak and replace him with Penny Mordaunt circulated the papers. It came after one of the worst weeks of the Prime Minister’s premiership and the looming May elections. This morning, key Cabinet ministers including Kemi Badenoch and Ben Wallace have come out in support of ’sticking to the plan’. Can Rishi Sunak keep the party calm ahead of a gruelling month? And what's the strategy behind opting for an autumn election? Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.

Nigel Farage on Reform, the Red Wall and 14 years of Tory failure Mar 16, 2024

On this special edition of Coffee House Shots, Kate Andrews interviews broadcaster, and honorary president of the Reform Party, Nigel Farage. They discuss Lee Anderson's defection to the Reform party, how Nigel won the Red Wall for Boris Johnson, and whether he will return to front line politics.
This was taken from The Week in 60 minutes on SpectatorTV. For the full episode, and more, click here.

Rishi Sunak rules out general election in May Mar 15, 2024

Rishi Sunak has finally confirmed what most MPs already knew: there won’t be a May general election. Speaking to ITV News West Country on Thursday night, the Prime Minister was asked if there would be a general election at the same time as the local elections on 2 May. He replied: ‘There won’t be a general election on that day but when there is a general election, what matters is the choice.’ So, when will it be?
Also on the podcast, after James Heappey became the latest MP to announce he will step down at the next election, can the Tories stop the exodus?
Natasha Feroze speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.

Will Gove’s extremism definition worsen Tory divides? Mar 14, 2024

Michael Gove has unveiled the government’s new legal definition of extremism, which will decide whether organisations can receive government money. Conservative MPs, and three former Conservative home secretaries, have said doing would be a mistake. Is Gove doing more harm than good?
Max Jeffery speaks to Katy Balls and Paul Goodman, former editor of Conservative Home.

Will the Tories return Hester’s £10 million? Mar 13, 2024

At Prime Minister’s Questions today Rishi Sunak refused to commit to returning the £10 million donor Frank Hester gave to the Conservative party. Hester allegedly said that Diane Abbott made him ‘hate all black women.’ Sunak now says that Hester’s alleged comments were ‘racist’ and ‘wrong’, after a spokesperson initially only described them as ‘unacceptable’. Will the Tory position change again?
Max Jeffery speaks to Katy Balls and the Financial Times’s Stephen Bush.

What does Boris want? Mar 12, 2024

Newspapers today reported that Boris Johnson is going to campaign for the Conservatives in Red Wall seats. Responding, Nadine Dorries wrote on Twitter: ‘There’s no thawing of relations, no plans to campaign. Sunak not spoken to Johnson for over a year.’ So are the stories true? What does Boris want?
Max Jeffery speaks to Kate Andrews and Isabel Hardman.

Lee Anderson defects: what next? Mar 11, 2024

Lee Anderson has defected from the Tory party to Reform. In a press conference this morning, Anderson said ‘I want my country back’ and said that his parents had urged him to change party allegiance. How much of a headache is Anderson’s defection for Rishi Sunak, and will more Tory MPs quit the party?
Max Jeffery speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 10/03/2024 Mar 10, 2024

Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
Rachel Reeves says everything in Labour's manifesto will be properly funded, but it isn't clear where that money will come from. The health secretary defends the government's new definition of extremism, and says the NHS needs to be more efficient. But chef Fearnley-Whittingstall says the government is doing nothing to tackle the NHS's biggest problem: obesity. And the director of the IFS says big cuts to public services are coming, no matter who is elected.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.

Does Britain need new laws to tackle extremism? Mar 09, 2024

Michael Gove is expected to announce a tougher definition of extremism in response to a rise in radical ideology, since the Israel-Gaza war. Are new laws really needed? Or could the current laws, if enforced properly, be the best way to tackle a decline in social cohesion? Natasha Feroze speaks to David Shipley, a film producer and writer and Professor Jonathan Githens-Mazer from the University of Exeter who specialises in counter-terrorism and extremism.

Why is Theresa May standing down? Mar 08, 2024

Theresa May has announced that she will not seek re-election this year. The former prime minister said that launching her global commission on modern slavery and human trafficking meant she would not be able to spend as much time as she would like on constituency matters.
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman about the news.

Are Scottish Tories causing trouble for Rishi Sunak? Mar 07, 2024

Lucy Dunn speaks to James Heale and Katy Balls about the slightly muted reaction to the budget. Labour has compared the announcements to Liz Truss's unfunded tax cuts and Scottish Tories have criticised the chancellor’s decision to extend the windfall tax on the profits of North Sea oil. But is this really the pre-election budget?

Jeremy Hunt’s low-key Budget Mar 06, 2024

Jeremy Hunt said the government would cut National Insurance by 2 per cent, would abolish the non-dom tax status and would raise the threshold for child benefits in his Budget today. To discuss the new measures, Katy Balls speaks to Kate Andrews and David Miles, from the Office for Budget Responsibility.

What tax cut will Hunt deliver tomorrow? Mar 05, 2024

Kate Andrews speaks to James Heale and Isabel Hardman as the speculation grows over what taxes Jeremy Hunt will cut in tomorrow's budget. National Insurance is looking most likely – it's a giveaway but does it go far enough?

Sunak and Hunt face a Budget dilemma Mar 04, 2024

Budget day is approaching and the government has hinted that their plans for tax cutting 'giveaways' are now less likely. James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews about what to and what not to expect for Wednesday's Spring Budget.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 03/03/2024 Mar 03, 2024

Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
The Budget announcement is imminent, and Jeremy Hunt says there will be no 'gimmicks'. He might be stealing Labour's non-dom tax policy though. The government's free childcare programme might be in trouble, do Labour have any better ideas? George Galloway wins the Rochdale by-election, and Rishi Sunak warns against the threat of extremism.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.

Is the Home Office broken? Mar 02, 2024

In this special Saturday edition of Coffee House Shots, Cindy Yu is joined by The Spectator's political correspondent, James Heale, and Director of Kraken Strategy Ltd, and former Special Adviser, Salma Shah, to discuss the state of the Home Office.
At the end of a tricky week of headlines for the department we ask: is the Home Office broken?
Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Cindy Yu.

Labour nightmare as George Galloway wins Rochdale by-election Mar 01, 2024

George Galloway has won a resounding victory in Rochdale, after a chaotic and messy by-election in which Labour was forced to disown its own candidate after he claimed Israel had allowed Hamas to attack on October 7th. Former Labour MP Galloway – standing for the Workers Party of Britain – won on a single issue campaign, criticising the Israel-Gaza war and in particular the response of Keir Starmer and Rishi Sunak to the conflict. How bad is the result for Labour?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Why wasn't Wayne Couzens stopped? Feb 29, 2024

Today, the long-awaited Home Office-commissioned Angiolini Inquiry into Wayne Couzens has been published. Couzens had kidnapped, raped and murdered 33-year-old Sarah Everard three years ago. The findings were chilling, revealing that numerous opportunities to stop Couzens throughout his policing career were missed. Katy Balls talks to James Heale and Isabel Hardman about where politicians failed Sarah Everard.
Produced by Cindy Yu.

We need to talk about Truss Feb 28, 2024

Liz Truss continues to haunt Rishi Sunak. Labour leader Keir Starmer took aim at her recent exploits at CPAC in the US during prime minister's questions today. Starmer called on the prime minister to remove the whip after Truss claimed that her premiership was sabotaged by the 'deep state'. What's Truss up to this time?
Also on the podcast, chancellor Jeremy Hunt will deliver his budget next week. We expect that he will have made his final decision on the March 6th budget by the end of the week. What do we know so far?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

David Neal vs the Home Office Feb 27, 2024

Until recently the government's independent chief inspector of borders and immigration, David Neal has been in front of the Home Affairs select committee today to hit out at his erstwhile employers. Cindy Yu talks to Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls on the episode about Neal's abrupt sacking and just how 'independent' an independent inspector can be.
Produced by Cindy Yu.

Have the Tories got 'Islamophobic tendencies'? Feb 26, 2024

Conservatives are divided over Lee Anderson's suspension, with some believing that if he apologises for comments made about Sadiq Khan, he should be allowed to return. This has sparked new concerns about the Tory party having a problem with islamophobia, worsened by Liz Truss appearing at an event with Steve Bannon who has also been accused of making Islamophobic comments. How can Rishi Sunak squash these accusations? Should Truss also lose the whip? Cindy Yu speaks to James Heale and Katy Balls.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 25/02/24 Feb 25, 2024

Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
Oliver Dowden is asked to comment on provocative remarks made by multiple Tory MPs about 'Islamists'. Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham says the Tory Party is ambivalent about Islamophobia. Lisa Nandy claims no-one from Labour threatened Speaker Lindsay Hoyle over Gaza ceasefire vote. Ed Davey says he has high hopes for Lib Dem chances in the next election. And Estonia's PM is 'honoured' to be on Putin's most wanted list.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.

Lee Anderson suspended: what now? Feb 24, 2024

Lee Anderson has been suspended from the Conservative party this afternoon after saying on GB News that Islamists controlled Sadiq Khan. Will Rishi Sunak miss having the Ashfield MP in his party? Will Anderson join reform?
Max Jeffery speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.

Tom Baldwin: 'There is no such thing as Starmerism' Feb 24, 2024

In this special Saturday edition of Coffee House Shots, Katy Balls is joined by Tom Baldwin, author of a new authorised biography of Labour leader Keir Starmer. Tom tells Katy why Starmer is such a complex character, his struggle to get the leader of the opposition to open up – particularly about his relationship with his father – and why he is not a politician, in the usual sense.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.

Commons chaos revealed the threat to MPs’ safety Feb 23, 2024

As MPs return to their constituencies, the drama from Wednesday's parliamentary debate is still fresh in Westminster. James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and Isabel Hardman about whether MPs' safety concerns are influencing democracy, and why the outcome of the debate could mean lessons are learned for the future.

What happened in the Commons chaos last night? Feb 22, 2024

The Commons descended into farce and chaos last night. The SNP were not able to vote on their own motion on their own Opposition Day debate; the Conservatives walked out of the chamber in protest; and Lindsay Hoyle seemed tearful as he seemed to apologise for how the Gaza debate went down. On the episode, Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and Chris Ward, director at Hanbury Strategy and former deputy chief of staff to Keir Starmer.
Produced by Cindy Yu.

Has Lindsay Hoyle overstepped? Feb 21, 2024

Sir Keir Starmer can breathe a sigh of relief this afternoon, thanks to Lindsay Hoyle. The Speaker has selected Labour’s amendment on a Gaza ceasefire, which means that a likely mass rebellion from Labour MPs will be averted. SNP and Tory MPs are furious at Hoyle, and say that he has tried to rewrite the rules. What's going on? Katy Balls speaks to James Heale and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Cindy Yu.

Starmer moves to quell ceasefire rebellion Feb 20, 2024

Today Keir Starmer has moved his party’s position on a ceasefire in Gaza as he seeks to quell what could the biggest rebellion of his leadership. MPs will vote on an immediate ceasefire in Gaza with Labour set to add its own amendment to the SNP motion tomorrow. For the first time, Labour is calling for an ‘immediate humanitarian ceasefire’, but is this really such a big change in Labour's position?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.

Are citizens' assemblies the future? Feb 19, 2024

In the Times today is the latest instalment of Tom Baldwin's authorised biography of Keir Starmer. It includes reports that Labour chief of staff Sue Gray has been drawing up plans for so-called citizens' assemblies. Are citizens' juries the future of democracy? Or is this simply a way for Starmer to avoid making policy decisions?
Elsewhere there is some interesting polling out from the think tank Labour Together, warning that Labour should not get complacent despite their huge poll lead and recent by-election success. This is due to the large 'don't know' vote share and the possibility that the Reform vote could be squeezed at a general election. What would happen if the Reform vote collapses?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 18/02/24 Feb 18, 2024

Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
Alexei Navalny is dead, and our government says Putin is responsible. The Tories lose again in by-elections, and Michael Tomlinson says a vote for Reform is a vote for Labour. Meanwhile, Labour themselves are split again, with Scottish Labour backing a motion calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.

Do accents still matter in politics? Feb 17, 2024

The new MP for Kingswood has been under fire for apparently changing his accent over the course of his political career. Does this matter? And if so, what does this tell us about British politics today? Cindy Yu talks to James Heale and author and former cabinet minister, Nadine Dorries.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Patrick Gibbons.

Labour triumphs in by-election brace Feb 16, 2024

Labour has the won two by-elections in Wellingborough and Kingswood, overturning big Conservative majorities in the process. Party chairman Richard Holden has brushed the results off as typical midterm by-elections where voters what to give the government a kicking. Does this argument stack up? And what can Reform take from the results? Isabel Hardman speaks to James Heale and pollster John Curtice.

UK tips into recession – what's left of Sunak's priorities? Feb 15, 2024

This morning's figures show that the UK went into a technical recession last year. Forecasts suggest it will be a short and shallow recession, but how badly does this reflect on the government's priorities to increase growth and lower inflation? Also, will this make Rishi Sunak think again about his plan to meet as many rattled voters as possible on the campaign trail? Natasha Feroze speaks to Kate Andrews and James Heale.

Have the Tories given up on Wellingborough & Kingswood? Feb 14, 2024

Inflation figures released this morning have remained at 4 per cent – a worry for Rishi Sunak's five pledges. There are several hurdles are still to come for the Prime Minister this week, including growth figures tomorrow and two by-elections on Friday. Why are the Tories keeping things low-key on the campaign trail? James Heale is joined by Kate Andrews and Lucy Fisher, Whitehall editor of the Financial Times.

Can Labour learn from its mistakes? Feb 13, 2024

Keir Starmer has rolled back on his support for the Rochdale by-election candidate, Azhar Ali over further comments made about on Israel-Palestine. John McTernan and James Heale speak to Natasha Feroze about the lessons Labour can learn, and whether antisemitism could topple Starmer. Also on the podcast, Rishi Sunak has been taking advantage of Labour's U-turns, and Michael Gove has laid out his new house building plan.

Can Starmer stamp out Labour's antisemitism? Feb 12, 2024

Labour faces another antisemitism battle as their candidate for the Rochdale by-election said that Israel allowed the October 7th attacks as a pretext to invade Gaza. Azhar Ali has since apologised for his comments and Labour has allowed him remain the candidate for Rochdale. Natasha Feroze speaks to James Heale and Isabel Hardman about Keir Starmer's challenge to stamp out antisemitism and take a look ahead at another challenging week for Rishi Sunak.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 11/02/24 Feb 11, 2024

Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
Michael Gove thinks problems with the housing market could drive young people away from democracy. Who caused these problems? Gove is also questioned over the PM's transphobic joke, and Israel's imminent Rafah offensive. Meanwhile Labour have officially U-turned on their green pledge. And Joe Biden is defending his memory, with little success.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.

Is the Labour party already fractured? Feb 10, 2024

Having ditched the green investment pledge, Keir Starmer faces questions over what the Labour party actually stands for. And without a clear vision, how can the Labour leader hold together a divided party? Cindy Yu speaks to Fraser Nelson and former Labour advisor Ayesha Hazarika.

Boris Johnson accused of sabotaging Ukraine peace talks Feb 09, 2024

Tucker Carlson released his highly anticipated interview with Russia's leader Vladimir Putin last night. The two-hour long discussion was dominated by Putin who gave history lessons, blamed the Nord Stream 2 explosion on the CIA, and accused Boris Johnson of sabotaging the peace talks 18 months ago. Natasha Feroze speaks to James Heale and Freddy Gray about the highlights of the interview, and whether Boris Johnson's role in the talks was as influential as Putin suggests.

Is Starmer right to ditch his £28 billion green pledge? Feb 08, 2024

Later today Keir Starmer is expected to officially kill off Labour's £28 billion green investment pledge. With the centrepiece of their public policy now scrapped, what will Labour's promise be at the next election?
James Heale speaks to Kate Andrews and John McTernan, former No. 10 political secretary.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.

Is the prime minister gaffe-prone? Feb 07, 2024

It has been a gaffe-filled week for Rishi Sunak. At PMQs today the prime minister was chastised by his opposite number for an ill-judged comment about transgender people with the mother of murdered teenager Brianna Ghey in parliament. This comes after being pictured embracing Sinn Fein leader Michelle O'Neill and then making a wager with Piers Morgan over his pledge to stop the boats. Is this a prime minister ready to fight a general election?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Stephen Bush, associate editor of the Financial Times.

Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.

What Liz Truss's PopCon launch was really about Feb 06, 2024

Liz Truss is back! This time with a conference called 'Popular Conservatism', bringing together voices in the Conservative party and aiming to 'deliver popular conservative policies'. But what does the event really tells us about the state of right wing political thought in the UK today, and why were some of Truss's key allies not there? Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Cindy Yu.

Rishi Sunak admits to failing on NHS waitlists Feb 05, 2024

Rishi Sunak is in Belfast to mark the return of Stormont after a two-year deadlock. With Sinn Fein now the leading party, can the government pitch this as a win? Also on the podcast, the Prime Minister admitted he's failed to meet the NHS waitlist targets from his five pledges last year. James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 04/02/2024 Feb 04, 2024

Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
Michelle O'Neill becomes the first nationalist first minister of Northern Ireland. Education Secretary Gillian Keegan is questioned over her childcare pledges and the government's record on protecting children from online harms. Chris Bryant defends Labour against more accusations of changing their minds. And when does UK military action end if the Houthis remain undeterred?
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.

Arlene Foster: 'a united Ireland is not around the corner' Feb 03, 2024

This week in Westminster has been dominated by the news that we can expect to see power sharing restored at Stormont in the near future. James Heale gets the reaction of former DUP first minister Baroness Arlene Foster.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.

Should ex-MPs stop shilling for foreign rulers? Feb 02, 2024

In his Telegraph column, Fraser Nelson makes the case that it's time to ban former politicians accepting jobs from foreign rulers. The likes of Tony Blair, George Osborne and David Cameron have all made money from government's abroad. But is this becoming more of a problem? And are their critics simply a product of their success? Natasha Feroze speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Heale.

Is Labour the party of business? Feb 01, 2024

At the 'Labour Business Conference 2024', shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves wooed business with a pledge that Labour would not raise corporation tax in their first term. Instead, she told the audience of FTSE 100 chief execs that a Labour government would keep the current cap at 25 per cent. How convincing is Reeves' big pitch to business?
Also on the podcast, the big news this week has been the Northern Ireland negotiations. What's happened in parliament today?
Natasha Feroze speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.

Sturgeon paints herself as perfect at Covid Inquiry Jan 31, 2024

Nicola Sturgeon was emotional whilst giving evidence at the Covid inquiry today – a highly anticipated part of the inquiry given the issue of deleted Whatsapp messages. How did the former first minister come across today? And what else can the evidence tell us about how the Scottish government operated? Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and Michael Simmons.

What could still scupper Northern Ireland's power-sharing plan? Jan 30, 2024

After hours of late night negotiations, power sharing looks like it's back on in Stormont – or is it? James Heale talks to Katy Balls and TalkTV's Peter Cardwell about the latest political developments in Northern Ireland.
Produced by Cindy Yu.

Why Sunak wants to ban vapes Jan 29, 2024

Rishi Sunak has outlined plans to ban disposable vapes, and is hoping to change vape packaging to make it less appealing to children. Why?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 28/01/24 Jan 28, 2024

Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows.
Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch says she wants no part in Tory plotting. UN aid workers are accused of participating in Hamas attacks. The Post Office fallout continues. Jonathan Reynolds says Labour don’t want to make false promises. And the US Navy chief says Donald Trump is a danger to the world.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.

Would Trump and Starmer get on? Jan 27, 2024

Donald Trump seems to have the Republican primaries wrapped up. He’ll almost certainly be up against Joe Biden on 5 November in the general election. If Trump wins, and in Britain’s own elections in the second half of 2024, Starmer wins, the two will make an odd pair. Will they get on?
Max Jeffery speaks to Katy Balls and Freddy Gray, The Spectator’s deputy editor and host of the Americano podcast.

Fraser Nelson: governments should never own our press Jan 26, 2024

NHS consultants have (narrowly) rejected another pay increase offered to them by the government. They will not immediately go back on strike, and will instead negotiate further with the government. Kate Andrews takes us through the details.
Also on the podcast, Fraser Nelson responds to Spectator chairman Andrew Neil's comments on BBC's Newsnight last night, on the potential sale of our magazine to UAE-backed RedBird IMI.
Produced and presented by Max Jeffery.

The Plot: part II Jan 25, 2024

Rishi Sunak seems to be facing his own 'plot'. But unlike in Nadine Dorries' now infamous book, it's not a secret cabal orchestrated by Dougie Smith hoping to depose him, but a mysterious rebel group, backed by Tory donors, who have been funding the polling we've seen in the Telegraph recently. The news today is that they have added Will Dry – Rishi Sunak's former pollster – to their ranks. Is this plot a serious and organised threat to Rishi's premiership?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Paul Goodman, editor of Conservative Home.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Does Simon Clarke’s intervention matter? Jan 24, 2024

Tory MP Simon Clarke called for Rishi Sunak to resign last night. In a piece in the Telegraph, he wrote that the Prime Minister was ‘uninspiring’ and ‘does not get what Britain needs.’ Will other Conservative MPs also demand Sunak resign, or will they unify around their leader?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.

Are the Houthi strikes working? Jan 23, 2024

The UK launched a new set of strikes on eight Houthi targets last night. Typoon jets dropped £30,000 Paveway bombs on an underground storage site and surveillance and missile capabilities controlled by the Yemeni rebel group. But are the strikes working? The Houthis have continued to attack ships in the Red Sea, and a row has also started about whether government properly briefed Keir Starmer and Sir Lindsay Hoyle.
Max Jeffery speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.

How far will Hunt cut taxes? Jan 22, 2024

Jeremy Hunt said he would look to cut taxes in the March budget. In the Mail on Sunday, he said he would look to emulate the late Nigel Lawson, who as Margaret Thatcher’s chancellor slashed rates. But Hunt has been promising tax cuts, and hardly delivering, for a while. Will this time be any different?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 21/01/24 Jan 21, 2024

Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday's political shows.
Grant Shapps calls Netanyahu's rejection of a two-state solution 'disappointing', and talks UK defence spending. Yvette Cooper is vague on immigration policy. Humza Yousaf accuses politicians of lacking moral courage. And John Bolton thinks the West should attack Iran directly.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.

How is Cameron's comeback coming along? Jan 20, 2024

As problems in the Middle East and war on the continent dominate the headlines, David Cameron has been front and centre in his new role as foreign secretary. Is his experience coming in handy? Is he Rishi's 'prime minister abroad'?
Katy Balls speaks to Craig Oliver, director of communications at No. 10 during the Cameron era, and Sophia Gaston, head of foreign policy at Policy Exchange.
Produced by Max Jeffery and Oscar Edmondson.

Why won't the Tories back Birbalsingh? Jan 19, 2024

Katharine Birbalsingh, headteacher at the Michaela community school in Brent, is being challenged in the High Court over a policy which allegedly bans students from praying. Ms Birbalsingh has defended the policy, arguing that it is vital to 'maintain a successful learning environment where children of all races and religion can thrive.' Should the Tories step in?
Max Jeffery speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Heale.
Produced by Max Jeffery and Oscar Edmondson.

Is the ERG a spent force? Jan 18, 2024

After much back and forth, the Rwanda Bill passed last night with only 11 votes against while other critics, such as Lee Anderson who resigned his party role, abstained. Rishi Sunak can celebrate a small victory as it appears that the Brexit 'Spartans' of yesteryear are something of a spent force today. Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Cindy Yu.

Why Lee Anderson's exit is a problem Jan 17, 2024

Last night Rishi Sunak faced the largest rebellion of his premiership over amendments to the Rwanda bill. There were also three resignations – deputy chairs Lee Anderson and Brendan Clarke-Smith as well as PPS to Kemi Badenoch, Jane Stevenson. How much damage could do to his already divided party? Today, MPs will debate for a second time on the government's flagship immigration policy. It is likely the bill will pass through Parliament but that won't mean the Prime Minister is out of the woods yet. How could today play out? Natasha Feroze speaks to James Heale and Katy Balls.
The Spectator is hiring! We are looking for a new producer to join our broadcast team working across our suite of podcasts – including this one – as well as our YouTube channel Spectator TV. Follow the link to read the full job listing: https://www.spectator.co.uk/article/wanted-a-broadcast-producer-for-the-spectator-2/

Isaac Levido’s warning to the Tory party Jan 16, 2024

With the Tories reeling from yesterday's poll in the Telegraph, it is interesting that the party’s official election strategist Isaac Levido was already scheduled to address Tory MPs last night. Levido ran the 2019 election campaign and holds clout with Conservative MPs. What did he have to say? Is the Tory strategy evolving?
Also on the podcast, Rallings & Thrasher have put out polling today which demonstrates how difficult it will be for Labour to achieve a majority considering the new boundaries. They will need a national swing of 12.7 per cent – higher than in 1997 and 1945. Are voters enthusiastic enough about Labour to provide such a huge swing?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
The Spectator is hiring! We are looking for a new producer to join our broadcast team working across our suite of podcasts – including this one – as well as our YouTube channel Spectator TV. Follow the link to read the full job listing: https://www.spectator.co.uk/article/wanted-a-broadcast-producer-for-the-spectator-2/

Is there a plot to oust Sunak? Jan 15, 2024

Polling published in the Telegraph has ruffled more than a few feathers in Westminster today. The YouGov survey shows that the Tories are on course to lose half of their MPs – including eleven members of the cabinet – at the next election. Are the Tories heading for another 1997 moment? What should we read into the timing of the poll?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Paul Goodman, editor of Conservative Home.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
The Spectator is hiring! We are looking for a new producer to join our broadcast team working across our suite of podcasts – including this one – as well as our YouTube channel Spectator TV. Follow the link to read the full job listing: https://www.spectator.co.uk/article/wanted-a-broadcast-producer-for-the-spectator-2/

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 14/01/2024 Jan 14, 2024

Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday’s political shows.
Conflict in the Middle East is escalating, as the UK and US launch retaliatory strikes against the Houthi rebels in Yemen. David Cameron says the lights are flashing red on the global dashboard, but South Africa’s genocide case against Israel is ‘nonsense’. Starmer supports the government’s military action, but is again proving tricky to pin down on his own policies. And as more migrants die crossing the channel, Cameron says it reinforces the need for the government’s Rwanda plan.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill

Why few voters like Sunak Jan 13, 2024

New polling from JL Partners shows how Rishi Sunak has changed, in the eyes of the public. They found that while Sunak was initially seen as a direct ‘breath of fresh air’, he is now frequently described as ‘out of touch’, ‘spineless’ and ‘false’.
To discuss what went wrong for the PM, James Heale and Katy Balls are joined by James Johnson, the co-founder of JL Partners.

Britain and US launch airstrikes against Houthis Jan 12, 2024

Last night the US and the UK launched airstrikes against Houthi rebels in Yemen whose continued attacks are disrupting trade in the Red Sea. The decision to sanction military action has been broadly welcomed in Westminster, but some have urged the PM to hold a retrospective vote on airstrikes amid fears that the UK risks being sucked into a tinder-box region. Will these airstrikes increase tensions in the Middle East? What impact will they have on the economy?
Meanwhile, Rishi Sunak is in Kyiv where he has announced a landmark new package of support for Ukraine totalling £2.5 billion.
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Simon Mayall, former British Army officer and Middle East advisor at the MoD.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Max Jeffery.

Can the economy win Tory votes? Jan 11, 2024

James Heale speaks to Kate Andrews and Katy Balls about Rishi Sunak's new strategy to focus more on the economy as the election year kicks off. Can Rishi Sunak convince the public that he is the best man for the job? And how much control does the government really have when it comes tackling the economy?

Post Office scandal: government to exonerate victims Jan 10, 2024

At PMQs today Rishi Sunak took the opportunity to announce that the government will be introducing legislation to 'swiftly' exonerate the victims of the Post Office scandal. Keir Starmer chose not to probe, instead grilling Rishi on his commitment to curbing migration. With the Safety of Rwanda Bill returning to the Commons next week, will the prime minister be able to juggle demands from the left and the right of his party and avoid a rebellion?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
The Spectator is hiring! We are looking for a new producer to join our broadcast team working across our suite of podcasts – including this one – as well as our YouTube channel Spectator TV. Follow the link to read the full job listing: https://www.spectator.co.uk/article/wanted-a-broadcast-producer-for-the-spectator-2/

Paula Vennells hands back her CBE Jan 09, 2024

Paula Vennells, the former head of the Post Office, has handed back her CBE. Will her decision put more pressure on politicians like Ed Davey, the Liberal Democrat leader who has so far refused to resign?
Max Jeffery speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.

The problem with Chris Skidmore's resignation Jan 08, 2024

Chris Skidmore has formally announced his resignation today, triggering another by-election in the process. His departure from the Commons is in protest against the government's bill on new oil and gas licenses, which is set to be debated later this evening. What's the reaction been in Westminster?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
The Spectator is hiring! We are looking for a new producer to join our broadcast team working across our suite of podcasts – including this one – as well as our YouTube channel Spectator TV. Follow the link to read the full job listing: https://www.spectator.co.uk/article/wanted-a-broadcast-producer-for-the-spectator-2/

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 07/01/2024 Jan 07, 2024

The election year is here, and Sunak is still under pressure. Do leaked documents suggest he doubts the efficacy of the Rwanda scheme? Starmer wants 'hope and change', but what does that look like? The Post Office scandal is back in the news, and Sunak says the government is doing everything it can, but hundreds of victims are yet to receive compensation. Mike Pence hopes for fresh leadership in the American elections. And Shadow Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson says irresponsible parents are to blame for persistent absenteeism in schools.

How will Sunak and Starmer run their election campaigns? Jan 06, 2024

Rishi Sunak has all but confirmed that this year’s general election will take place in autumn. How will the Prime Minister, and Keir Starmer, run their campaigns?
James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katie Perrior, former director of communications for Theresa May, and now a director at iNHouse Communications.

Why aren't the Lib Dems doing better? Jan 05, 2024

The Liberal Democrats began their 2024 campaigning this week by unveiling a huge poster branding them as ‘Ed Davey’s Tory Removal Service’, but they will have to be more than just the 'none of the above party' if they hope to make a difference come the election. What do the Lib Dems stand for? And can they turn by-election success into election success?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Nick Tyrone, author of the This Week in Brexitland substack.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
The Spectator is hiring! We are looking for a new producer to join our broadcast team working across our suite of podcasts – including this one – as well as our YouTube channel Spectator TV. Follow the link to read the full job listing: https://www.spectator.co.uk/article/wanted-a-broadcast-producer-for-the-spectator-2/

Did Sunak steal Starmer's thunder? Jan 04, 2024

Keir Starmer delivered his new year's speech, promising 'Project Hope' ahead of the general election. Critics claimed the speech was rhetoric heavy, low on policy. Having attacked the Prime Minister for dithering over the May general election, Rishi Sunak later announced it was his 'working assumption' to hold the general election in autumn 2024. Was this a communications win for No.10? And can Starmer still garner support by playing it safe? Natasha Feroze speaks to James Heale and former Labour advisor John McTernan.
The Spectator is hiring! We are looking for a new producer to join our broadcast team working across our suite of podcasts – including this one – as well as our YouTube channel Spectator TV. Follow the link to read the full job listing: https://www.spectator.co.uk/article/wanted-a-broadcast-producer-for-the-spectator-2/

Would strike talks be different under Labour? Jan 03, 2024

As junior doctors begin the longest strike in history, Lucy Dunn speaks to Isabel Hardman and Kate Andrews about whether public support for industrial action is starting to wane, and how talks might be different under Labour.
The Spectator is hiring! We are looking for a new producer to join our broadcast team working across our suite of podcasts – including this one – as well as our YouTube channel Spectator TV. Follow the link to read the full job listing: https://www.spectator.co.uk/article/wanted-a-broadcast-producer-for-the-spectator-2/

Is Rishi fishy on the asylum backlog? Jan 02, 2024

Rishi Sunak has claimed that the Conservatives have cleared the 92,000 asylum claims, despite figures showing the backlog still stands at tens of thousands of applicants, with several thousand missing. Natasha Feroze speaks to James Heale and Fraser Nelson about the figures, and whether blags like these are a gift to The Reform party.
The Spectator is hiring! We are looking for a new producer to join our broadcast team working across our suite of podcasts – including this one – as well as our YouTube channel Spectator TV. Follow the link to read the full job listing: https://www.spectator.co.uk/article/wanted-a-broadcast-producer-for-the-spectator-2/

2023: The year in review Dec 21, 2023

How well did Rishi Sunak do on his five pledges? Are we any clearer on what Keir Starmer stands for? Is the SNP done for in Scotland? On this episode, Cindy Yu, Katy Balls, James Heale and Coffee House Shots regular Stephen Bush look back on the past year in British politics.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Joe Bedell-Brill.

Sunak gets tetchy during Rwanda and Israel grilling Dec 19, 2023

Rishi Sunak appeared in front of the Liaison Committee this afternoon. In an interview with The Spectator last week, the PM said that he was enjoying the job. So why did he seem so agitated at the grilling today?
Max Jeffery speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Heale.

Is British support for Israel wavering? Dec 18, 2023

Foreign Secretary David Cameron and Defence Secretary Grant Shapps have signalled a shift in the British position towards the Israel-Gaza conflict, suggesting that British support for Israel's actions may be time-limited. James Heale talks to Katy Balls and Stephen Bush.
Produced by Cindy Yu.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 17/12/2023 Dec 17, 2023

Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday’s political shows.
Baroness Michelle Mone admits she lied about her involvement in PPE deal but also claims she and her husband have done nothing wrong. Oliver Dowden rejects accusations of cronyism in government, but Wes Streeting says Labour would investigate pandemic corruption. Streeting also says the NHS needs reform not more money. And Rishi Sunak thinks Rwanda legislation is the ‘best thing we can get’.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.

Will we avoid recession in 2024? Dec 15, 2023

The big economic news of the week was that the Bank of England has held interest rates at 5.25 per cent for the third consecutive time. This was the expected outcome of the Monetary Policy Committee’s latest vote, but it wasn’t unanimous. There were six MPC votes to hold rates but three to raise it to 5.5 per cent. Should we expect a rate cut any time soon?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Another by-election looms for Rishi Dec 14, 2023

The big political news today is the Standards Committee recommendation against Scott Benton, meaning a likely by-election in Blackpool South. He was the MP caught on camera by the Times in April, allegedly boasting about lobbying ministers for cash to a gambling firm. When will Rishi catch a break?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Paul Goodman, editor of Conservative Home.

Who are the ‘five families’ of Tory rebels? Dec 13, 2023

The Tories are reeling from a week of painful infighting over Rwanda. Who are the ‘five families’ of Conservative dissenters?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.

Sunak wins the Rwanda vote – but the battle is far from over Dec 12, 2023

The government has won this evening’s vote on the ‘safety of Rwanda’ bill comfortably at 313 votes to 269 against. This means Rishi Sunak has managed to pass his bill at second reading after a day of negotiations with the various Tory tribes. Not a single Tory MP voted against the bill but 38 conservative MPs abstained. Katy Balls and James Heale discuss what comes next.

What if Rishi Sunak loses his crunch Rwanda vote? Dec 12, 2023

Rishi Sunak faces the first major test of his premiership today over the second reading of the Rwanda bill. How could the day play out? And what will happen if the Prime Minister loses the vote? Natasha Feroze speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale

What Sunak really said about lockdown Dec 11, 2023

It was Rishi Sunak's turn at the Covid Inquiry today. The Prime Minister faced questions on Eat Out to Help Out, his relationship with No.10, tiers and PPE procurement. How did the former Chancellor come across? And how has his tone changed because he is now Prime Minister? Natasha Feroze speaks to Fraser Nelson and Kate Andrews.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 10/12/2023 Dec 10, 2023

Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday's political shows.
On Wednesday Robert Jenrick resigned over the government's Rwanda legislation, so the focus this morning was on immigration. Jenrick says Sunak's bill is weak, Michael Gove says it's robust, and Liz Kendall says Labour have a better plan to cut legal immigration. Plus, Ukrainian First Lady Olena Zelenska makes a plea for continued support.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.

Do the Tories have a death wish? Dec 09, 2023

Nick Robinson asked Suella Braverman on the Today programme this week whether the Tories had a death wish. She said no. But why is the party, when it's doing so badly in the polls, fighting among itself?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls ands Craig Oliver, former director of communications in No. 10.

Is Rishi's Rwanda Bill doomed? Dec 08, 2023

Rishi Sunak is stuck in a migration quagmire and will be spending the weekend drumming up support from MPs ahead of the vote on his amended Rwanda bill on Tuesday. He will be hoping for a Christmas miracle in the form of support from both One Nation MPs and those on the right of the party. Will Tuesday's vote be a de facto confidence vote in the prime minister?
Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.

What Jenrick’s resignation means for Sunak’s premiership Dec 07, 2023

Kate Andrews speaks to James Heale and Katy Balls about Robert Jenrick's resignation last night and whether this is another sign of Tory party implosion.

Boris faces the music at the Covid inquiry Dec 06, 2023

It was a big day in the Covid inquiry as Boris Johnson gave evidence for the first time. Just as Johnson launched into an apology during his opening statement, protestors off-camera made their presence known. There were also revelations concerning the attention he paid to Sage minutes and Cobra meetings and the former prime minister defended his decision not to lock down sooner. What else did we learn? Was this a turning point in the perception of the inquiry?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Michael Simmons.

Are the Tories too little to late on migration? Dec 05, 2023

As James Cleverly meets leaders in Rwanda to sign a new asylum treaty, the government has laid out a series of plans to bring down legal migration. Some Tories on the right would like the measures to go further, but are these policies too little too late? James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Spectator writer, Patrick O'Flynn.

Was Starmer right to praise Thatcher? Dec 04, 2023

This weekend Keir Starmer's team took the opportunity to discuss Margaret Thatcher in an op-ed for the Sunday Telegraph. Whilst Starmer also praised other former prime ministers – such as Tony Blair and Clement Attlee – his admission that ‘Margaret Thatcher sought to drag Britain out of its stupor by setting loose our natural entrepreneurialism', has ruffled a few feathers in the Labour party. Could this be a genius piece of politics to reach out to those on the right? Or is it a misfire?
Also on the podcast, Rishi Sunak has started the week with the news that he has recorded his lowest rating ever in the latest ConservativeHome league table, racking up a dire -25.4 among card-carrying Conservatives. Can he turn it around?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 03/12/2023 Dec 03, 2023

Isabel Hardman presents highlights from today's political shows.
Winter means incoming trouble for the NHS. The health secretary blames industrial action for long hospital waiting lists, despite waiting times rising continually since 2010. Meanwhile, Starmer is praising Margaret Thatcher, Ndileka Mandela talks about 'climate apartheid', and the truce ends in Gaza as Mark Regev defends the IDF's actions in the face of rising civilian fatalities.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.

The memory and legacy of Alistair Darling Dec 02, 2023

Former chancellor Alistair Darling passed away this week, aged 70. To discuss his career, life and legacy, Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and Catherine MacLeod, former political editor of the Herald, and later a special adviser to Darling.

Will Boris surprise at the Covid inquiry? Dec 01, 2023

As Matt Hancock appears before the Covid inquiry for a second day, we take a look at the revelations from the former health secretary, including the allegation that involving the Prime Minister and former prime minister, Boris Johnson. Both are due to be up at the Covid inquiry in the coming weeks. Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
Produced by Cindy Yu.

Is Labour being ‘fundamentally dishonest’? Nov 30, 2023

Jeremy Hunt said last night that Labour’s economic plans are ‘fundamentally dishonest’. Is he right, and are the Tories really just as bad?
Natasha Feroze speaks to Katy Balls and the FT’s Stephen Bush.

Has Robert Jenrick gone rogue? Nov 29, 2023

Immigration Minister Robert Jenrick, long thought of as one of Rishi Sunak's closest allies in Parliament, hinted yesterday at a row with the Prime Minister. He had a plan to reduce immigration ready ‘last Christmas’, he said. Why didn’t Sunak take it anywhere?
Max Jeffery speaks to Katy Balls and Paul Goodman.

Has No.10 lost its marbles? Nov 28, 2023

An extraordinary row has broken out between the British and Greek governments over the future of the Parthenon Marbles. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis was due to meet Rishi Sunak in London today, but No. 10 cancelled the meeting at the last minute over comments that Mitsotakis made on the Laura Kuenssberg show. Is this whole row all part of a high-culture war, to win back the Red Wall? Or has No.10 lost its marbles?
Natasha Feroze speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.

Sunak under pressure to curb legal migration Nov 27, 2023

Rishi Sunak is on the defensive over legal migration. After figures late last week revealed net migration hit a record 750,000 in the year to December 2022, the Prime Minister is under pressure from his own side to act. This afternoon James Cleverly will address the House and is expected to lay out a series of proposals the government is considering. Can they shift the dial?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Should Sunak reduce immigration? Nov 25, 2023

Figures out this week put net migration at 672,000 in the year to June 2023. Should the government cut the number of work visas, to immediately reduce this figure, or should it accept that high levels of immigration are needed to sustain the economy?
Natasha Feroze speaks to Fraser Nelson and Kate Andrews.

What happened in Dublin? Nov 24, 2023

There were riots in Dublin last night. Looters smashed shops, and burnt police cars in a night of unrest in the capital of Ireland. What provoked the angry crowd, and should the police have done a better job at stopping them?
Max Jeffery speaks to Katy Balls and Pat Leahy, political editor of the Irish Times.

Have we seen peak migration? Nov 23, 2023

After much Whitehall spin, the official figures are now in. Net migration in the year to June hit 672,000, down from 745,000 in 2022. A total of 1.2 million people arrived to live in the UK, whilst 508,000 moved overseas. The ONS says it's too early to call this a downward trend, but has migration to the UK peaked?
Katy Balls speaks to James Heale and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

The truth about Hunt’s ‘tax cutting’ Autumn Statement Nov 22, 2023

The Chancellor today delivered his fiscal update, branding it as an ‘Autumn Statement for Growth’. In it, he announced a series of tax cuts for both businesses and workers including the decision to make 'full expensing' permanent and a surprise announcement on National Insurance, which has been cut by two percentage points for workers and simplified for the self-employed. Fraser Nelson, Kate Andrews and Katy Balls unpack the details of Jeremy Hunt's Autumn Statement.

Did Covid expose a 'failure of imagination'? Nov 21, 2023

This week it is the scientists’ turn to appear before the Covid Inquiry with Sir Chris Whitty, the Chief Medical Officer and Sir Patrick Vallance. James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and The Spectator's data editor, Michael Simmons to discuss the findings this week.

Why has Rishi Sunak made five more pledges? Nov 20, 2023

James Heale, Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson look ahead to the Autumn Statement this week. Will Rishi Sunak commit to cutting taxes? And with barely a year to go before the election, would implementing any policies now be felt in time?

Katy Balls' Sunday Roundup - 19/11/2023 Nov 19, 2023

Katy Balls presents highlights from this week's political shows.
It's an economy special, as Jeremy Hunt prepares to deliver his autumn statement next week. With tax at an all time high, which tax cuts will the government make, if any? Changes to benefits may see many lose out if they don't find jobs. Labour's Rachel Reeves says fixing the NHS is the way to get people back to work, and isn't impressed with potential inheritance tax cuts. And the government is desperate to make their Rwanda plan work - will it be possible?
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.

What will fix Britain’s prisons? Nov 18, 2023

HMP Bedford was issued with an urgent notification yesterday, meaning it must immediately make reforms to improve. It’s the fifth prison to receive such a notification this year. What’s going wrong in Britain’s prisons, and what will fix them?
Max Jeffery speaks to former prison governor Ian Acheson and former prisoner David Shipley.

Can Sunak shift the dial? Nov 17, 2023

The chancellor Jeremy Hunt will deliver his autumn statement next week and Rishi Sunak will be hoping to stamp his authority onto a fracturing party after a difficult few days. There are lots of rumours swirling around about what might be included, such as cuts to inheritance tax and to taxes for small businesses. What should we expect?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Should Starmer worry about the ceasefire rebellion? Nov 16, 2023

Fifty-six Labour MPs rebelled last night and voted for an SNP amendment calling for a ceasefire in Israel and Gaza. Keir Starmer had ordered his party to abstain on the vote, and said afterwards that Israel had suffered ‘its worst terrorist attack in a single day’ on 7 October, and that ‘no government would allow the capability and intent to repeat such an attack to go unchallenged’. Is Starmer’s authority now under threat?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.

Supreme Court rules Rwanda scheme unlawful Nov 15, 2023

The Supreme Court has ruled that the government scheme to deport illegal migrants to Rwanda is unlawful. Why? And how will Rishi Sunak respond? Will he try to take Britain out of the European Convention on Human Rights?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.

Suella tells Rishi: 'You have repeatedly failed to deliver' Nov 14, 2023

When Suella Braverman was sacked on Monday she warned that she would have more to say in due course, and has just released her resignation letter. It is predictably punchy, accusing the prime minister of backtracking on policy promises he made her and especially on his commitment to stop the boats. Will Sunak come to regret casting Suella Braverman aside? Is this the start of a leadership bid?
Cindy You speaks to Katy Balls and Paul Goodman.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.

Will the Tory right be happy with Sunak's reshuffle? Nov 13, 2023

Rishi Sunak has spent today selecting new people for his Cabinet. With MP's to the right such as Suella Braverman removed from office, has Rishi Sunak's bold reshuffle made deeper divides in his party?

Sunak’s reshuffle: refresh or rewind? Nov 13, 2023

It’s reshuffle day in Westminster. Suella Braverman is out as Home Secretary, replaced by James Cleverly, with former prime minister David Cameron making a shock return to parliament in the vacant Foreign Secretary slot. It’s the first time since 1974 that a former PM has been appointed to the cabinet. Can Rishi Sunak really still claim to be the candidate to end the ‘thirty year status quo’? Will he regret bringing Cameron back?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 12/11/2023 Nov 12, 2023

Isabel Hardman presents highlights from this week's political shows.
The Palestine march on Saturday was accompanied by violence after far-right groups converged on the Cenotaph. Did the Home Secretary's controversial Times article undermine the police and inflame tensions? Grant Shapps won't criticise Suella Braverman, but Yvette Cooper certainly does. Labour division continues with an upcoming vote on a motion calling for immediate ceasefire. And President Isaac Herzog claims Israel have been going out of their way to protect civilians in Gaza.

Has Nadine Dorries lost the plot? Nov 11, 2023

This week Nadine Dorries’s new book The Plot: The Political Assassination of Boris Johnson has been published, and it has ruffled some feathers in Westminster. In it, she claims there was a plot orchestrated by a secret cabal of back room advisors, politicians and individuals in the media to overthrow Boris Johnson. Just what is ‘the movement’?
James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and Christopher Howse, assistant editor at the Telegraph.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Is Suella Braverman safe for now? Nov 10, 2023

Despite mounting pressure from Conservative MPs to remove Suella Braverman, no announcement has been made yet. How much pressure is Rishi Sunak facing over the Home Secretary's stand-off with the Met Police? Also on the podcast, Natasha Feroze speaks to James Heale and Isabel Harman about the Conservative Home Cabinet league table ahead of a possible reshuffle.

What is Suella Braverman up to? Nov 09, 2023

Suella Braverman has again dominated conversation with her controversial rhetoric, this time comparing the pro-Palestinian marches to the Orange Marches of Northern Ireland in a punchy op-ed for the Times. Has she finally gone too far for this government? Max Jeffery talks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
Produced by Max Jeffery and Cindy Yu.

Will Mark Rowley ban the pro-Palestine protests? Nov 08, 2023

Rishi Sunak met with Met Commissioner Mark Rowley today to discuss the pro-Palestine protests planned for the Remembrance weekend. Sunak has called the marches ‘disrespectful’, and said he would hold Rowley ‘accountable’ for not banning them. Will the Commissioner change his mind?
Isabel Hardman speaks to Katy Balls and Danny Shaw, former home affairs correspondent for the BBC.

What did King Charles say? Nov 07, 2023

It was the King’s speech today. King Charles announced that the government would introduce new laws to, among other things, force criminals to attend their sentencing hearings, scrap most jail sentences of less than a year, and sell all new houses as freehold properties. Is it enough for the Tories to turn around their deficit in the polls?
Katy Balls speaks to James Heale and Isabel Hardman.

Is Suella Braverman in trouble over rough sleepers? Nov 06, 2023

The Home Secretary sparked fury over the weekend for her comments on homelessness, suggesting that rough sleepers using tents is a 'lifestyle choice'. Senior cabinet members including the Rishi Sunak didn't jump to her defence from the comments. What was behind her decision to take such a firm line? Also on the podcast, Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and Isabel Hardman about the serial rapist cover-up allegations levelled at the Tory party.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 05/11/2023 Nov 05, 2023

Isabel Hardman presents highlights from this week's political shows.
The Israel-Palestine conflict is creating division in the UK, with pro-Palestine rallies being labelled as 'hate marches' by Suella Braverman, and Keir Starmer continuing to reject calls for a ceasefire from members of his party. Hossam Zaki warns that a political solution is the only way forward. Plus, Oliver Dowden reacts to explosive testimony in the Covid inquiry this week, and Succession star Sarah Snook talks about the dangerous potential of deepfakes in the entertainment industry.

Has WhatsApp ruined government? Nov 04, 2023

WhatsApps between officials in Boris Johnson’s government have been centre-stage at the Covid inquiry this week. Is the app encouraging on-the-hoof policymaking and nasty briefing?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Guido Fawkes chief Paul Staines.

Was Rishi Sunak's AI summit a success? Nov 03, 2023

This week the prime minister hosted his landmark AI summit at Bletchley Park which wrapped up with an interview with Elon Musk, who warned that AI will one day render all jobs obsolete. The who's who of AI were in attendance over the two days as well the likes of Kamala Harris and Ursula von der Leyen, but what was actually achieved?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Madhumita Murgia, AI editor at the Financial Times.

Has the Bank of England done enough to stave off recession? Nov 02, 2023

The Bank of England has once again taken the decision to hold interest rates at their 15-year high. There is growing market consensus that this second pause is a sign that interest rates have peaked, or nearly reached their peak. Will the Bank be able to tread the thin line between tackling inflation but also keeping the country out of recession? Will Rishi Sunak hit his target to 'halve inflation'?
Natasha Feroze speaks to Kate Andrews and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.

Did Boris's No. 10 have a women problem? Nov 01, 2023

Today the Covid inquiry heard from Helen McNamara, former deputy cabinet secretary (who infamously supplied a karaoke machine for one of the government's lockdown parties). Her evidence suggested that the government's pandemic response had a women problem – from not properly understanding lockdown's impact on domestic abuse to not considering that PPE is designed for male bodies, not female. Is that fair? Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Cindy Yu.

Did anything new come from the Covid inquiry? Oct 31, 2023

Fraser Nelson speaks to Michael Simmons about the second phase of the Covid inquiry, looking at political governance. Attending the inquiry today was former No.10 aids Dominic Cummings and Lee Cain.

What’s the point of the Covid inquiry? Oct 30, 2023

The Covid inquiry enters its most dramatic week, questioning Martin Reynolds (a.k.a. 'Party Marty'), as well as former No. 10 advisors Lee Cain and Dominic Cummings. But it seems that the inquiry has gone down more the route of interpersonal drama rather than lessons learnt for government decisionmaking. So what's the point of it? Katy Balls talks to Isabel Hardman and James Heale.
Produced by Cindy Yu.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 29/10/23 Oct 29, 2023

Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
Israel's ground invasion has begun. We hear the latest response from the government and Labour, as calls grow for a humanitarian pause to the offensive. MP Layla Moran speaks of the desperation of her family, who are unable to move from the north of Gaza. And the head of the tech company Palantir says patient data will be safe, as his company attempt to get a massive deal with the NHS over the line.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill

Can Conservatism fix its pathway of decline? Oct 28, 2023

As the government faces a general election defeat, is there a home for traditionally conservative thinkers? An international branch of new right Conservatives will join together on Monday for the Alliance of Responsible Citizenships (ARC) designed to share ideas and debate policy. But why won't many call themselves 'Conservatives'? And can ARC bring anything to the future of the party?

Will Starmer cave in to calls for a Gaza ceasefire? Oct 27, 2023

Keir Starmer is under mounting pressure from his party to back a call for a ceasefire in the Israel-Palestine conflict. The week began with the Labour leader correcting comments he made on LBC that Israel had a right to defend itself. But now, politicians to the left of his party are campaigning for a ceasefire. Is this something Starmer can support? Also on the podcast, James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson about more 'pestminster' scandals and Liz Truss on AI and China.

Can Starmer change the subject? Oct 26, 2023

Keir Starmer has had a difficult week, trying to keep his party on message over the war in Israel and Gaza. The official position is that Israel has a right to respond to Hamas’s attacks on 7 October, but a number of Labour MPs are now calling for a ceasefire. Could Starmer have better handled the situation?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and John McTernan.

Keir Starmer’s Israel problem is growing Oct 25, 2023

Today, Keir Starmer held a long meeting with some Muslim Labour MPs over their concern on his stance on the Israel-Hamas conflict, first ignited by comments he made on LBC which seemed to justify Israel's electricity and water blockade of Gaza. The Labour leader has made huge progress to move his party on from the reputation of anti-Semitism forged during the Corbyn era – but can he find a middle way to please all wings of his party on this deeply emotive issue? Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Cindy Yu.

Labour's foreign policy problem Oct 24, 2023

Natasha Feroze speaks to Stephen Bush and Katy Balls about some of the geopolitical problems that lie ahead for Labour. Will David Lammy have to roll back on his views on Trump? Will Keir Starmer appeal to his muslim voter base whilst taking the standard Biden line on Israel/ Palestine? What about the Indian general election in November?

One year on: does Sunak have anything to celebrate? Oct 23, 2023

This week marks one year since Rishi Sunak entered No.10. Faced with the weekend's double by-election defeat, Labour's lead in the polls and another by-election coming soon, what can Rishi Sunak still do to turn things around? Natasha Feroze speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday roundup - 22/10/2023 Oct 23, 2023

Isabel Hardman presents highlights from this week's political shows.
Some aid has been allowed into Gaza, but the situation is still dire. We hear from immigration minister Robert Jenrick on what the UK is doing to help. Naftali Bennett says Israel are not responsible for Gaza, Hanan Ashrawi gives us the Palestinian point of view, and Labour clarifies their own position. Plus the Tory slide continues as they lose another two seats in the by-elections.

What can we hope to learn from the Covid inquiry? Oct 21, 2023

This week there have been some interesting developments in the public Covid-19 inquiry where scientists and mathematical modellers have been giving testimony on how prepared the government was to tackle the pandemic and how they used expert advise.
Within the sessions, WhatsApp messages revealed that Dame Angela McLean – who at the time was chief scientific advisor to Ministry of Defence – sent a secret message referring to Rishi Sunak as 'Dr Death the chancellor' in reference to the public health impacts of the 'eat out to help out' scheme. What were some of the other revelations? Did we get any clarity on how these mathematical models were produced and implemented? And what can we hope to learn from what promises to be a long and protracted inquiry?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Kate Andrews and Michael Simmons.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Are the Tories facing a 97’ style defeat? Oct 20, 2023

Labour has overturned the Tamworth and and Mid Bedfordshire by-election results, overturning the biggest majority in by-election history. Is there anymore road for Rishi Sunak? Isabel Hardman speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.

Sunak tells Israel: ‘We want you to win’ Oct 19, 2023

Today Rishi Sunak joined Benjamin Netanyahu for a joint press conference in which he pledged support to Israel. Netanyahu thanked him for his, ‘strong statement of support’ and grounded Israel’s fight in the context of Britain’s own history. ‘You fought the Nazis 80 years ago,’ he said, ‘Hamas are the new Nazis'.
Also on the podcast, the polls have opened for by elections in Tamworth and Mid Bedfordshire. What should we expect?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Photo credit: Simon Walker/No. 10 Downing Street

Has inflation stuck? Oct 18, 2023

September's inflation data was released today, and showed that it was at the same level as August. Is inflation getting stuck a problem? Cindy Yu talks to Kate Andrews and Katy Balls. Also on the podcast: Labour's Israel headaches and a look ahead to tomorrow's by-elections.
Produced by Cindy Yu.

Has Humza Yousaf turned things around? Oct 17, 2023

At his first speech as SNP leader at the party's conference, Humza Yousaf gave a policy-filled address. He hasn't had an easy start to his leadership, but can he turn things around? Katy Balls talks to Lucy Dunn and Iain Macwhirter.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Cindy Yu.

How long can the cross-party consensus on Israel hold? Oct 17, 2023

So far, both major parties in the UK have aligned on their approach to the Israel-Gaza conflict, but can the Labour party really hold their position, considering how much of the party's grassroots support come from Muslim backgrounds? James Heale talks to Katy Balls and Conservative Home's editor, Paul Goodman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Cindy Yu.

What does the government mean by 'Texas-style justice'? Oct 16, 2023

Justice Secretary Alex Chalk has been talking about bringing 'Texas-style justice' to the UK in his latest proposals for reform of the prisons system. What does it really mean? James Heale talks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Cindy Yu.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 15/10/23 Oct 15, 2023

Isabel Hardman presents highlights from today's political shows.
This week it's all about the Israel-Palestine conflict. An Israeli government adviser says Israel is following international law, but the Head of the Palestinian Mission to the UK refutes this, and describes horror and carnage in Gaza. James Cleverly says the UK stands with Israel, but both he and his Labour counterpart urge restraint. And the First Minister of Scotland fears for family members trapped in Gaza.

What is Israel's army capable of? Oct 14, 2023

James Heale speaks to foreign policy expert Sophia Gaston and defence correspondent Sean Rayment about what could be Israel's next steps, the strength of their military and how much political backing they have worldwide.

The winners and losers of this year’s conference season Oct 13, 2023

Conference season is over, so we thought that we’d run through this year’s winners and losers. Did Rishi Sunak manage to present himself as the Action Man who can end the ‘thirty year consensus’ in British politics? Did Keir Starmer finally answer the question: if not them, why us? Did anyone surprise us? Or was it all for nothing, as new YouGov polling might suggest.
Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Why did Lisa Cameron defect to the Tories? Oct 12, 2023

Lisa Cameron MP has quit the SNP to join the Conservative party, just days before the SNP holds its party conference in Aberdeen. What does this say about the state of the Scottish National Party under Humza Yousaf? James Heale talks to Isabel Hardman and Lucy Dunn.
Produced by Max Jeffery and Cindy Yu.

Can Labour really overhaul the NHS? Oct 11, 2023

Wes Streeting, the shadow health secretary, said in a speech today that this NHS must ‘modernise or die’. But will a Labour government under Keir Starmer have the cash to really reform?
Max Jeffery speaks to James Heale and Isabel Hardman.

If not the Tories, why Labour? Oct 10, 2023

Keir Starmer's leadership speech today in Liverpool didn't get off to the best start after a protestor ran onto the stage and dumped glitter all over him. But after dusting himself down and rolling up his sleeves, the leader of the opposition set about addressing the question that many prospective voters have wanted answering: If not them, why us?
He made big promises on the NHS and pledged to 'bulldoze through' the obstacles to growth caused by the planning system, including with a new generation of new towns. It was one of his best speeches yet, but can they deliver?
Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman discuss.

Rachel Reeves goes for growth Oct 09, 2023

It was Rachel Reeves's moment on day two of Labour party conference. Addressing the hall she detailed her ambitious plans for growth and vowed to stick to 'iron-clad fiscal rules' if in power. She also received a surprise endorsement from former governor of the Bank of England Mark Carney. Once branded 'boring snoring' by a BBC editor, Reeves doesn't look boring anymore. Will she be the first female chancellor of the exchequer?
Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.

How's the mood at Labour conference? Oct 08, 2023

It's the first day of Labour party conference and whilst the mood is buoyant the story that has dominated the weekend is of course the Hamas attack on Israel. Former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn has refused to condemn the attack, will he be a thorn in Keir Starmer's side this week? And will Starmer finally be able to answer the question: If not the Tories, why us?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.

Is Rishi Sunak right about Rwanda? Oct 08, 2023

Cindy Yu is joined by immigration minister Robert Jenrick, Fraser Nelson and Kate Andrews to discuss the Rwanda plan and whether it can truly stop the boats.

Has Brexit Failed? Oct 07, 2023

Seven years after the Brexit vote, Katy Balls is joined for a fringe panel from the Conservative Party Conference to discuss if voting to leave the EU was worth it, where the wins are and if opportunities are being missed.
Katy Balls in conversation with John Redwood MP, Theresa Villiers MP, Camilla Cavendish, Charles Grant and Vote Leave founder Matthew Elliott.

Scottish Labour moves right – and wins Oct 06, 2023

Labour has secured a resounding win against the SNP in the Rutherglen and Hamilton West by-election with a swing of 20.4%. Fraser Nelson speaks to Katy Balls and Iain Macwhirter about whether this the end of the Scotland hegemony of the SNP, and if Labour have drifted closer to the right.

What's behind the PM's plan to axe A-levels? Oct 05, 2023

One of the announcements made in Rishi Sunak's conference speech was to scrap A-levels in favour of a qualification which includes compulsory English and Maths. With several problems in the education system, and years of disruption for students, what was behind the PM's decision to radically overhaul the system? James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and David Laws, former education minister who now chairs the Education Policy Institute.

Rishi Sunak's conference speech gamble Oct 04, 2023

After spending most of his conference refusing to say much at all, Rishi Sunak used his speech to make three big policy announcements on HS2, smoking and A-levels. Will these gambles pay off?
Fraser Nelson speaks to Katy Balls, Isabel Hardman, Kate Andrews and John Connolly.

What's going on with HS2? Oct 03, 2023

It's day three at Tory conference and the story that won't go away is HS2. Rishi Sunak insisted in his media round this morning that a decision has not been made, meanwhile Downing Street sources are reporting that a decision has been made. Standing outside the Midland hotel, Mayor of the West Midlands Andy Street urged the prime minister not to abandon HS2. Can we expect an announcement in Rishi's speech tomorrow?
Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Heale.

Are the Tories preparing for opposition? Oct 02, 2023

Isabel Hardman and James Heale discuss day two of the Conservative party Conference. From Jeremy Hunt's speech, to Mark Harper's Hs2 dodge and a swelling support for Kemi Badenoch.

Coffee House Shots Live: Who would vote Tory? Oct 02, 2023

The Spectator’s Fraser Nelson, Katy Balls and Kate Andrews are joined by special guest Frank Luntz for a live recording of Coffee House Shots from Tory party conference. It was at this event two years ago that Frank first declared Liz Truss to be the next Tory leader. Who might succeed Rishi Sunak? And is a Labour 2024 victory certain?

How's the mood at Tory conference? Oct 02, 2023

It's day two at Tory conference and the mood seems muted and lacking in energy. This is in direct contrast to Rishi Sunak who appeared to have fire in his belly in a tetchy interview over the weekend with Laura Kuenssberg. He will be hoping to use this conference as his reset moment, but will he be undermined by those in the cabinet with an eye on the leadership?
In Manchester, Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman discuss.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 01/10/23 Oct 01, 2023

Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows.
Rishi Sunak is in the limelight as the Conservative party conference begins. The polls don't look good for him, but he comes out fighting, claiming he's 'going to do things differently'. The public associate him with personal wealth, does he think that makes him look out of touch? Sunak claims his values are clear, and contrasts himself with the 'hiding' Starmer. Meanwhile, Gove wants tax cuts before the next election, unlike the chancellor and prime minister. Priti Patel isn't impressed with the Home Secretary's comments on multicultralism. And Wes Streeting defends Labour's shifting policies.
Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill

When conferences go wrong Sep 30, 2023

The Conservative party conference begins in Manchester this weekend. Where have conferences gone wrong for previous Tory party leaders, and what will Rishi Sunak want to get out of this one?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Craig Oliver, dormer director of communications in No. 10 under David Cameron.

Is the UK doomed to be a high tax country? Sep 29, 2023

Tax levels in the UK are at their highest since records began 70 years ago and are unlikely to come down, or so says the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) in their report today. How has the tax burden increased over the four years of this parliament? What's driving up taxes?
Also on the podcast, there are reports today that Rishi Sunak will stop councils imposing 20 mph zones, is Rishi on the side of motorists?
Katy Balls speaks to James Heale and Fraser Nelson.
Keep up to date with The Spectator's data hub: https://data.spectator.co.uk/
Produced by Max Jeffery and Oscar Edmondson.

What’s behind Labour’s private school U-turn? Sep 28, 2023

Another day, another U-turn. But this time it's Labour, who have changed tack on their plans to end charitable status for private schools. Labour leader Keir Starmer previously declared that the charitable status for private schools could not be justified, so what’s behind the move?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and John McTernan, former political secretary to Tony Blair.

Would Labour grant more oil licences? Sep 27, 2023

The UK's largest untapped oil and gas field has been given the green light in a move that has been criticised by Labour, although Keir Starmer has said he will honour the Tories' approval of the controversial Rosebank site should Labour enter government next year. Has the language changed around net zero?
Also on the podcast, new polling suggests that Sadiq Khan holds only a slender lead ahead of Susan Hall in the London mayoral race, should he be worried?
Max Jeffery speaks to James Heale and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Max Jeffery and Oscar Edmondson.

Is Suella after the Tory leadership? Sep 26, 2023

Suella Braverman is in Washington today, giving a speech to a think tank on illegal migration in which she will argue that seeking asylum and seeking better economic prospects are two different things. It's a punchy line she's taking, should Rishi be taking note? Or is this a thinly veiled bid for the Conservative leadership?
Also on the podcast, as Ed Davey wraps up this year's Liberal Democrat conference in Bournemouth, is there optimism in Lib Dem HQ as we look towards the next election?
Cindy Yu speaks to Patrick O'Flynn and James Heale.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.

Is Sunak helping Starmer on HS2? Sep 25, 2023

Rishi Sunak is on his tour of hard truths, saying the unsayable on areas of policy where he believes his predecessors didn't want to be honest with the public. First we had the net zero pivot – scaling back the government's environmental commitments – and over the weekend there has been speculation that HS2 could be the next victim of tough talking Rishi Sunak. What's the latest? Is Rishi gifting Starmer an easy ride by clearing the weeds on this controversial project?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Is it time to take the Lib Dems seriously again? Sep 24, 2023

Conference season has kicked off this weekend with the Liberal Democrat conference in Bournemouth. Buoyed by their success in the recent by-elections, could the Lib Dems be the kingmakers at the next election?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Stephen Bush, associate editor at the Financial Times.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

What’s next for the Murdoch empire? Sep 23, 2023

Rupert Murdoch stepped down as chairman of News Corp and Fox News this week. But is this really the end of Murdoch’s career? ‘I can guarantee you that I will be involved every day in the contest of ideas’, he wrote in a statement. And what will the media tycoon’s legacy be?
James Heale speaks to Andrew Neil, chairman of The Spectator, and former editor of the Murdoch-owned Sunday Times.

Why can’t Hunt cut taxes? Sep 22, 2023

Jeremy Hunt said yesterday that it would be ‘virtually impossible’ to cut taxes in 2023. James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews about why the government has decided to spent more, rather than cut levies, and about whether Hunt and Sunak’s economic plan will come under criticism from Tory MPs at the Conservative party conference in a few weeks.

What is Sunakism? Sep 21, 2023

Rishi Sunak is being attacked by Conservative and Labour politicians for choosing to delay some of Britain’s climate commitments. But is his new approach to policy really a welcome one?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and Rupert Darwall, a senior fellow at RealClearFoundation.

Why Sunak wants to dilute net zero Sep 20, 2023

Rishi Sunak is set to give a speech this week outlining changes to the government's environmental policies. The plans to phase out new petrol and diesel cars, and gas boilers, will likely be delayed. What does the Prime Minister stand to gain?
James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.

Will Starmer soften Brexit? Sep 19, 2023

Keir Starmer is in Paris today. It's a bid to 'look statesman-like', Katy Balls says, but also underlines where a Labour government would take British relations with the EU. Oscar Edmondson talks to Katy and Charles Grant, director of the Centre for European Reform.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Cindy Yu.

What Liz Truss’s big speech was really about Sep 18, 2023

Liz Truss took the stage this morning for her first major intervention on the economy since leaving No. 10. Her speech at the Institute for Government comes almost a year to the day since her mini-Budget saw the markets panic and her premiership come to an abrupt end not long after. What did she have to say?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson, Kate Andrews and James Heale.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 17/09/23 Sep 17, 2023

Isabel Hardman hosts highlights from Sunday morning's political shows. Electoral campaigns are soon to begin in earnest, and Labour is talking tough on immigration. But this week policy is overshadowed by criminal allegations against Russell Brand, devastating floods in Libya, and the researcher accused of being a Chinese spy. Ian Russell also talks about the dangers of the internet and the importance of the Online Safety Bill.

How America’s 2024 election will affect Britain’s Sep 16, 2023

For the first time since 1992 the US and the UK will have elections in the same year, and – for the first time since 1964 – there is a real chance that those campaigns could overlap. How will they impact each other?
Kate Andrews speaks to Katy Balls and Freddy Gray.

Is it right to cut back HS2? Sep 15, 2023

The government is reportedly looking into whether it should cut the second phase of HS2. But with so much money having already been pumped into the project, should they just see it through to the end?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and Kate Andrews.

What is Starmer’s small boats plan? Sep 14, 2023

Keir Starmer today unveiled Labour’s plan to stop illegal migration. Trying to deport migrants to Rwanda is a waste of money, he said – the millions would be better spent on a ‘new security agreement’ with Europe. But what does that mean?
Max Jeffery speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.

Is Labour the party of the pensioner? Sep 13, 2023

At PMQs, neither Labour nor the Tories wanted to commit to keeping the state pension triple lock. Have the two parties, awkwardly and unofficially, reached a consensus on dropping the promise?
Max Jeffery speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Heale.

Will Rishi axe the pensions triple lock? Sep 12, 2023

Rishi Sunak has refused to commit to keeping the pensions triple lock in the next Conservative manifesto. What’s behind his equivocation? And, if the triple lock is ditched, will Labour follow suit?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.

'Chinese spy' arrest – what we know so far Sep 11, 2023

Over the weekend, it was reported that a parliamentary researcher was arrested on suspicion of spying for China. The accused has released a statement this morning claiming he is 'completely innocent'. Katy Balls speaks to Cindy Yu and James Heale about the arrest and what this could mean for Britain's relationship with China.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 10/09/23 Sep 10, 2023

Isabel Hardman hosts highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows. After Daniel Khalife's escape from HMP Wandsworth this week, the focus is on prisons. Did overcrowding and staff shortages contribute to the escape? What can the government do about rising prisoner numbers? Would Labour increase funding? There's also talk about the parliamentary researcher accused of spying for China, and military chiefs comment on the situation in Ukraine.
Produced Joe Bedell-Brill.

Is Humza Yousaf a people-pleaser? Sep 09, 2023

James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Lucy Dunn for the latest update on Scottish politics. Humza Yousaf has been on a 'reset'. But critics claim the Scottish First Minister is simply rehashing Nicola Stugeon's policies. Also on the podcast, will Labour take the Scotland by-election from the SNP? And what happened at the Holyrood Magazine awards?

India trade deal: is this what Brexit was for? Sep 08, 2023

Rishi Sunak has landed in Delhi ahead of the G20 summit this weekend. He will be hoping to smooth the way for a new free trade deal with India. What does a good result look like for the prime minister? Will the new deal result in increased immigration?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Heale.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.

Tories face ninth by-election – are they ruined? Sep 07, 2023

The Conservative MP Chris Pincher has resigned following the Commons decision to refuse his suspension appeal. Follow Nadine Dorries's most recent resignation, this means the government faces their 9th by-election since Rishi Sunak became Prime Minister – can they come back from this? Also on the podcast, Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Isabel Hardman about Rishi Sunak's move to rejoin the EU Horizon Project and the latest on the UK-India trade deal.

Was Truss doomed to fail? Sep 06, 2023

It was the first PMQs since the summer recess today and Labour were on the attack, comparing the Tory government to 'cowboy builders' over the ongoing school concrete debate. Rishi Sunak replied by calling out the leader of the opposition as 'captain hindsight'. Who came out on top?
Also on the podcast, it's a year since Liz Truss's doomed premiership. How should we reflect on her time as PM?
Max Jeffery speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.

Who’s to blame for the concrete crisis? Sep 05, 2023

The government is struggling to change the story. After Gillian Keegan yesterday said, about the concrete crisis, that ‘everyone else has sat on their arse and done nothing’, the story has continued to dominate the news. How can the government recover? Who should take the blame?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Conservative Home’s Paul Goodman.

Who's in and who's out as Keir reshuffles his shadow cabinet? Sep 04, 2023

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has reshuffled his shadow cabinet but just who has made it in and who has been moved aside?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and John McTernan.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Linden Kemkaran.

How did the Tories not see the school concrete crisis coming? Sep 04, 2023

Parliament is back from recess and the row which will be dominating MPs inboxes is the school concrete crisis, which has disrupted the start of term for over 100 schools. Why didn't the government act sooner?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

What does Theresa May want? Sep 02, 2023

Theresa May's new book, Abuse of Power, will not be a gossip-fuelled account of her time in No. 10. Instead, it'll be an account of how powerful people make mistakes, and how institutions corrupt. What's the point of the book, and has the former Prime Minister landed on a real, punishing problem in British politics?
Kate Andrews speaks to Fraser Nelson and Gavin Barwell, Theresa May's former chief of staff.

Who is Claire Coutinho? Aug 31, 2023

Rishi Sunak may have shelved his plan for a big reshuffle but we have had some cabinet changes today. Grant Shapps has taken his fifth cabinet position in one year, replacing Ben Wallace as Defence Secretary, and Sunak loyalist Claire Coutinho will take over as Energy Secretary. What does Coutinho’s appointment reveal?
James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Can Cleverly handle China? Aug 30, 2023

James Cleverly is in Beijing, a decision which he has been pushed to defend in a clip given to the BBC. Much has changed in the five years since a British foreign secretary last visited China. What's the purpose of the trip? How has it been received in Westminster?
Katy Balls speaks to Cindy Yu.
Listen to Cindy's fortnightly podcast on Chinese politics, society and culture here: https://www.spectator.co.uk/podcasts/chinese-whispers/

Who will take Nadine Dorries’s seat? Aug 29, 2023

Nadine Dorries’s seat in Mid Bedfordshire has a majority of 25,000. With the Boris Johnson ally now leaving Parliament, the seat is set to be a three-way race between the Tories, Labour and the Liberal Democrats. Who stands the best chance of challenging the Conservatives? Also on the podcast: Suella Braverman has instructed police to ‘investigate every crime’. Will it improve the public’s faith in the force?
James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.

Does Nadine Dorries have a point? Aug 28, 2023

Nadine Dorries resigned from Parliament over the weekend, writing in a letter to Rishi Sunak that the Conservatives have been ‘corrupted’, and accusing the Prime Minister of ‘opening the gates to whip up a public frenzy against one of his own MPs’. Is Dorries, at least in part, right?
James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and Kate Andrews.

The problem with the Tories’ ‘local heroes’ Aug 26, 2023

Are the Tories right to pick local candidates, over Westminster favourites, to be their next generation of MPs?
Cindy Yu speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Heale.

Why is Rishi delaying his reshuffle? Aug 24, 2023

Rishi Sunak is reportedly going to delay a planned major reshuffle. A Cabinet switch-up was expected next month, but it now seems that only ministers like Ben Wallace, who has already indicated that he wants to step down, will be moved from their posts. What changed the Prime Minister's mind?
Max Jeffery speaks to James Heale and Craig Oliver, former director of communications in No. 10.
Produced by Max Jeffery.

Would Starmer’s government have any cash to spend? Aug 22, 2023

If Labour wins the next election, will Keir Starmer have any money to spend on his programme of government? In a piece for the Times yesterday, journalist Philip Collins says it won't, and he thinks Labour is suffering because of this constraint. How can Labour be intellectually interesting if the government purse strings are so tight? Fraser Nelson disagrees. He says that, thanks to the Tories taking tax levels to record highs, Starmer will have plenty of cash to work with.
Kate Andrews speaks to Philip and Fraser.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Max Jeffery.

Should Rishi host MBS? Aug 19, 2023

Downing Street has extended an invite to Mohammed bin Salman to visit the UK in Autumn. Five years after the murder of Jamal Khashoggi, is it time to let Saudi Arabia in from the cold?
Fraser Nelson speaks to Simon Mayall, a former Middle East adviser in the Ministry of Defence, and to Jawad Iqbal, a Spectator contributor.

Results day: is the worst of the pandemic over for students? Aug 17, 2023

As A-level students receive their exam results, Cindy Yu speaks to Isabel Hardman and Mary Curnock Cook who is the former chief executive of UCAS. In a bid to curb recent grade inflation, fewer of the top results have been handed out to students who were the first year group to sit through pandemic style examinations. Can the government return to 2019 levels this summer?
Produced by Cindy Yu and Natasha Feroze.

Will Rishi hit his inflation target? Aug 16, 2023

Today we had the – seemingly – good news that the headline rate of inflation for July has come down to 6.8%. This is in line with Bank of England targets which suggest that Rishi could be set to meet his pledge to halve inflation. Is this cause for celebration in Number 10? Or should we be wary?
Cindy Yu speaks to Michael Simmons, The Spectator's data editor.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
Check out The Spectator's data hub: https://data.spectator.co.uk/

Public sector pay pushes wage growth to record high Aug 15, 2023

Natasha Feroze speaks to Fraser Nelson and Isabel Hardman about today's wage growth figures which have reached a 22-year high due to public sector pay. Are these an accurate reflection of the economy? Also on the podcast, Isabel Hardman takes a look at NHS week – each day the government has announced new measures to improve the National Health Service. Is a 'quit smoking' campaign really want the system needs?

Blair is back Aug 12, 2023

It’s been 16 years since Tony Blair walked away from frontline politics, but rather than retiring to Fife to write his books – like another Labour leader – he has managed to build his Tony Blair Institute for Global Change into one of the most sophisticated and influential think tanks in modern politics. What role could he play under a Starmer government?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and John McTernan, former political advisor to Tony Blair.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

What is the point of Lee Anderson? Aug 11, 2023

Katy Balls and editor of Conservative Home Paul Goodman join Natasha Feroze to discuss the troublemaker Lee Anderson. This week, his inflammatory comments on small boats dominated the news – is this good or bad for the Conservatives? And what role does Rishi Sunak have in mind for the former miner and deputy Chairman of the party?
Produced by Natasha Feroze.

Tories split over stopping the boats Aug 09, 2023

This morning the UK’s electoral watchdog The Electoral Commission said that it had been the victim of a 'complex cyber attack' by 'hostile actors'. What do we know about the attack?
The cyberattack has been a distraction from what was meant to be the government's small boats week. We've had migrants refusing to board the Bibby Stockholm barge, Lee Anderson's comments splitting the party, the Home Office floating the idea of a holding centre on the Ascension Island and a new deal with Turkey. What's the latest on Rishi's plan to stop the boats?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Matt Dathan, Home Affairs Editor at the Times.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Should Team Truss accept resignation honours? Aug 07, 2023

Bibby Stockholm, the government's first migrant barge opened this morning. Intended to house up to 500 migrants, will this plan to cut the costs of putting migrants up in hotels work? Also on the podcast, Natasha Feroze speaks to Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls about the Liz Truss honours list – who are the contenders? And who may politely decline a new title...

Do chess players make for better politicians? Aug 05, 2023

Rishi Sunak is apparently looking to expand the teaching of chess in schools, and to install chess sets in public parks, and will unveil the policy alongside a giant chessboard in the No. 10 garden. What is the Prime Minister thinking? And what does it say about Sunak’s idea of education?
Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and Jamie Njoku-Goodwin, a former special adviser and Westminster chess hustler.

If Rishi halves inflation, will you feel richer? Aug 04, 2023

Rishi Sunak is likely to hit his target of halving inflation by the end of the year, according to the latest Bank of England forecasts. But is that enough to make people feel better off, and will the Tories reap any political benefits for doing it?
Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and Michael Simmons.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Max Jeffery.

Can Labour take back Rutherglen and Hamilton West? Aug 02, 2023

A by-election is on the cards for Rutherglen and Hamilton West, after former SNP MP Margaret Ferrier was recalled by her constituents. She'd flouted lockdown rules in 2020, taking a train from London to Scotland despite testing positive for Covid. Given that Labour will need to make gains in Scotland in order to win the next election, this by-election has become a bellwether for the party. Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and Lucy Dunn about what to expect.
Produced by Cindy Yu.

What’s behind the Tory selections? Aug 01, 2023

As the Conservative candidate selections are underway, how will the associations balance the need for a local champion to win back constituency support vs Tory stars, such as Nick Timothy, getting selected? Paul Goodman from Conservative Home and Katy Balls speak to Natasha Feroze.

Should the Tories abandon green politics? Jul 29, 2023

Since the Tories retained Uxbridge in the by-election a fortnight ago by campaigning against Ulez, some Conservative MPs have been questioning whether the party should ditch their climate commitments. Was Uxbridge a one-off? What do British people want?
Natasha Feroze speaks to Katy Balls and Scarlett Maguire, director at polling firm JL Partners.

Sadiq’s Ulez expansion gets the green light Jul 28, 2023

The High Court has ruled that Sadiq Khan can expand the Ultra Low Emission Zone, after five Tory councils challenged the proposed policy. Will Keir Starmer be happy that a Labour mayor has won the day?
Natasha Feroze speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.

NatWest boss Alison Rose resigns. Why now? Jul 26, 2023

Natasha Feroze speaks to Kate Andrews and Fraser Nelson about the sudden decision for the NatWest boss Alison Rose to hand in her resignation. Prompted by the Nigel Farage Coutts bank account scandal, the bank's CEO faced mounting pressure to resign after late last night No.10 said they had serious concerns over the bank's actions. But why does the government play a role in this decision? And will there be more resignations to come?

Is Labour disunity a problem for Starmer? Jul 24, 2023

Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson speak to James Heale about Labour rows over issues such as ULEZ and the child benefits cap. Whilst not in government yet, is this something Keir Starmer will need to get a grip on in order to become the next Prime Minister?
Produced by Natasha Feroze.

What can we learn from the Uxbridge by-election result? Jul 22, 2023

The dust has settled after yesterday's by-election results. Having narrowly avoided a triple by-election defeat there seems to be little sign of Conservative party in-fighting, despite their poor showing. There is however a war of words brewing between the London Labour Party and Kier Starmer who blames Sadiq Khan's Ulez plan for the failure to snatch Uxbridge and South Ruislip. What lessons will each party take from the by-elections into next year's general election?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and pollster James Johnson, co-founder of JL Partners.

Sunak narrowly avoids triple by-election defeat Jul 21, 2023

There was something for everyone in the by-elections with each of the three big parties getting a seat. The Tories lost Somerton and Frome to the Lib Dems and Selby and Ainsty to Labour but did narrowly cling on in Boris Johnson’s former seat of Uxbridge and South Ruislip, albeit with a reduced majority of just 495 votes.
James Heale unpacks the results with Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Who is Susan Hall? Jul 19, 2023

Katy Balls speaks to Kate Andrews and James Heale about today's inflation figures and the latest news about the Conservative Mayoral candidate for London – Susan Hall.

Has Starmer become the villain? Jul 18, 2023

Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and former Labour advisor John McTernan to discuss the ongoing Labour row over the child benefits limit. Reactions were muted during today's shadow cabinet meeting, but is this a reflection of a looming reshuffle?
Produced by Natasha Feroze.

Labour row brews over two-child benefit cap Jul 17, 2023

Keir Starmer has said that Labour will not be reversing the two-child benefits cap, after Angela Rayner said it was ‘obscene and inhumane’. But will he continue to back the policy, which allegedly saves the Treasury £1.3 billion, or change his mind in the face of pressure from his shadow front bench?
James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Produced by Max Jeffery.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 16/07/23 Jul 16, 2023

Keir Starmer sets out his vision and is grilled on specifics. He claims Labour's green plans have not been delayed. Business Secretary and Equalities Minister Kemi Badenoch talks about the new trans-pacific trade deal, and forthcoming guidance on trans pupils in schools. And Tony Blair says technology is the answer to the country's problems in healthcare and the economy.

How do we fix Britain's stagnant economy? Jul 15, 2023

Advanced economies are not seeing the economic growth that they once did, and none more so than the UK where there has been little productivity or real wage growth since 2008. What factors have contributed to this? Which industries will be at the forefront as we chart a path towards a high-growth British future?
Kate Andrews speaks to American economist Tyler Cowen, at Civic Future's Great Stagnation Summit in Cambridge.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Will Sunak lose three by-elections in a day? Jul 14, 2023

The Tories are defending three seats next week, and could lose them all. Boris Johnson's old seat, Uxbridge and South Ruislip, Nigel Adams's old seat, Selby and Ainsty, and David Warburton's old seat, Somerton and Frome, are all being contested. How are the Tories trying to win back voters? And is it wise of Rishi Sunak to, as is rumoured he's going to, do a reshuffle straight after the results come in?
Max Jeffery speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Max Jeffery.

Is the public sector pay offer all it seems? Jul 13, 2023

It looks like the summer could be about to get a whole lot easier after the government announced that millions of public sector workers will get a pay rise between 5 and 7 per cent. In a press conference this afternoon, Rishi said this was the governments 'final offer' and the result of consultation independent pay review bodies. So far, the four teachers unions have announced that they will put the offer to their members, but will the junior doctors follow suit? How are the government planning to pay for this?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Illegal Migration Bill survives mammoth voting session Jul 12, 2023

Tory whips will be smiling today after a mammoth three and a half hour voting session on amendments to the Illegal Migration Bill last night. All the amendments put down by the House of Lords were defeated by the government across 18 divisions. Are Rishi's hopes of stopping the boats still alive? Where do Labour stand on the bill?
James Heale speaks to Stephen Bush and Katy Balls.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.

What does Starmer's Labour stand for? Jul 11, 2023

It has been a mixed start to the week for Labour. Rachel Reeves has been criticised for 'following the same tram lines' as the Tories on spending. Meanwhile, Starmer has been boosted by the decision taken by Unite – one of the UK’s biggest unions – to retain close ties with the Labour Party. Do they have a raft of transformative policies that will deliver change? Is the relationship between Labour and the unions as rosy as the Unite vote suggests?
Also today, the Nato summit in Vilnius is underway and the mood seems optimistic after Erdogan agreed to support Sweden's membership bid. What can we expect from the summit?
Oscar Edmondson speaks to Katy Balls and John McTernan, former political secretary to Tony Blair.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Are Biden and Sunak really 'rock solid'? Jul 10, 2023

Joe Biden was in London today to meet with Rishi Sunak. The pair had discussions in No. 10, and Biden described US-UK relations as ‘rock solid’. But the pair have recently had disagreements about who the next Nato secretary general should be, and about whether the West should send cluster munitions to Ukraine – so is the relationship really so rosy?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Freddy Gray.
Produced by Max Jeffery.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 09/07/23 Jul 09, 2023

Allegations involving the sexual misconduct of a BBC presenter. The US agrees to supply cluster bombs to Ukraine. The Conservative view on UK debt and tax cuts. Labour's plans for housing. And John Kerry speaks about the need for cooperation on climate policy.

Humza Yousaf's first 100 days Jul 08, 2023

James Heale speaks to John Ferry and Iain Macwhirter about Humza Yousaf's first 100 days in Holyrood. Plagued by Sturgeon's arrest, does the Scottish First Minister's future look bright?

Was booting Boris a mistake? Jul 07, 2023

It is one year since Boris Johnson announced his resignation as prime minister. That day, Labour held an 11 point lead in the polls but new YouGov polling today indicates that gap has widened to 25 points. Is there any hope the Tories can turn it around? What if Boris had stayed?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.

Chris Pincher’s suspension spells more trouble for Rishi Sunak Jul 06, 2023

A year on from allegations that Chris Pincher groped two young men at the Carlton Club (allegations that ultimately triggered the downfall of Boris Johnson), Parliament's standards watchdog has now found that Pincher brought the House into disrepute and recommended an eight-week suspension. On the podcast, Isabel Hardman says that this makes a by-election in his constituency of Tamworth a question of when, not if. But even worse for the Conservative party, their newly-selected candidate in that constituency is the current MP of another constituency. Cindy Yu talks to Isabel and Katy Balls about the mess that CCHQ finds itself in now.
Produced by Cindy Yu.

Did the NHS need a service at Westminster Abbey? Jul 05, 2023

The NHS marks its 75th anniversary today, and in Westminster, both Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer attended a service at Westminster Abbey in honour of the organisation. James Heale talks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews about why there was a church service for the NHS and whether Rishi Sunak's time would have been better spent at Prime Minister's Questions.
Produced by Cindy Yu.

Rishi Sunak’s Tory approval ratings turn negative Jul 04, 2023

Rishi Sunak’s personal approval rating among Tory members has turned negative for the first time in his premiership. Why is the Prime Minister becoming more unpopular in his party? Should he be worried about internal dissent?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.
Produced by Max Jeffery.

Who are the New Conservatives? Jul 03, 2023

A group of 25 Tory MPs, calling themselves the New Conservatives, have launched a plan that they say will cut net migration from 606,000, last year's figure, to 226,000, the figure in 2019. Temporary visa schemes for care workers should be shut, the 'skilled work' salary threshold raised, and the number of refugees accepted into the UK capped. Who is in the group, and what do they want?
James Heale speaks to Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls.
Produced by Max Jeffery.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 02/07/23 Jul 02, 2023

The government unveils its plans for the future of the NHS. But its progress on the healthcare problems of today is called into question. Can the NHS withstand the pressure that today's society places on it? How would Labour deal with teacher union negotiations? And do public sector pay rises cause inflation? Plus, an interview with the first woman to be sent on a mission around the moon.

Why is the NHS in such a bad way? Jul 01, 2023

Next week is the NHS's 75th birthday. Why is the health service in such a poor state? Are the Tories selling it off? And is there any hope for its future?
Max Jeffery speaks to Kate Andrews and Isabel Hardman.

Does Zac Goldsmith's resignation matter? Jun 30, 2023

Zac Goldsmith has resigned as a minister, and says he quit because Rishi Sunak is 'simply uninterested' in the environment. It comes a day after Goldsmith was named by the Privileges Committee as one of 10 Tories who organised a campaign to undermine the Partygate inquiry. How much will Goldsmith’s resignation hurt the government?
James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Produced by Max Jeffery.

Is Rishi's Rwanda plan dead? Jun 29, 2023

It never rains but it pours for Rishi Sunak, as the Court of Appeal has today ruled against his Rwanda plan, raising concerns about the safety of asylum seekers. It now looks as though Rishi could be set to fail in all five of his pledges. Is the prime minister heading for embarrassment?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Heale.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.

Korski drops out after groping claims. Now what? Jun 28, 2023

Daniel Korski, the former David Cameron aide who was standing to be the Conservative candidate for London mayor, has dropped out of the race after a woman claimed he groped her in a meeting in 2013. Korski had won the support of a number of high-profile Tory MPs, and was seen as the likely candidate to face Sadiq Khan in next year's mayoral election. With only two people left in the race, will the Conservatives reopen nominations?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Max Jeffery.

What happened at Hancock’s Covid grilling? Jun 27, 2023

Matt Hancock gave evidence at the Covid inquiry today. The former health secretary said that ‘the doctrine was wrong’, care home preparation was ‘terrible’ and improper planning was an ‘absolute tragedy’. But why was it accepted that harsher lockdowns would’ve helped?
Max Jeffery speaks to Isabel Oakeshott and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Max Jeffery.

Is the economy wearing Rishi Sunak down? Jun 26, 2023

As mortgage rates surge and a new Opinium poll finds Labour’s lead has jumped to 18 points, Rishi Sunak appeared on Laura Kuenssberg’s BBC show to insist that his plan is the right one. But was his slightly cranky reaction to some of the questions a reflection of how the party is really feeling about its future? Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Natasha Feroze.

The Wagner coup: what we know so far Jun 24, 2023

Fraser Nelson is joined by Svitlana Morenets and Mark Galeotti as Vladimir Putin faces an armed insurrection from the Wagner mercenary group – what could happen next?

The case for capitalism Jun 24, 2023

Kate Andrews is joined by Fraser Nelson and Johan Norberg, author of The Capitalist Manifesto: why the global free market will save the world. On the podcast Johan talks about its why lockdown societies never worked; whether he finds the word capitalism useful and his endless optimism for a better future.

Do Brits regret Brexit? Jun 23, 2023

Today is the seven years' anniversary of the Brexit referendum, and new polls find that a majority of Brits would prefer a closer relationship with the EU, or rejoining the European Union altogether. Can Labour capitalise on this? Cindy Yu talks to James Heale and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Cindy Yu.

Shock as interest rates hiked to 5 per cent Jun 22, 2023

James Heale speaks to Isabel Hardman and Kate Andrews as the Bank of England announced it has hiked interest rates to 5 per cent. Faced with inflation, a looming mortgage crisis and personal debt, Rishi Sunak said today he is '100 per cent on it'. But can he turn things around?
Produced by Natasha Feroze.

Could Britain turn into a stagflation nation? Jun 21, 2023

Natasha Feroze speaks to Kate Andrews and Katy Balls about today's inflation figures, stuck at 8.7 per cent despite predictions it would fall. As a flagship policy of Rishi Sunak's to half inflation, what options does the Prime Minister have?

Parliament votes to ban Boris Jun 20, 2023

In last night's vote on the Privileges Committee's report into whether Boris Johnson misled parliament, just six MPs backed the former prime minister. What's the reaction in Westminster today?
Also on the podcast, after shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves rowed back on Labour's £28bn green projects pledge, why are both parties in such a mess on energy?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

How bad is the mortgage time bomb? Jun 19, 2023

Katy Balls speaks to Kate Andrews and Fraser Nelson about the developments in the mortgage markets and how Tory MPs are expected to vote on Partygate.

Will Ulez be the undoing of Sadiq Khan? Jun 17, 2023

In his politics column for The Spectator this week James Heale profiles the three candidates that the Tories have shortlisted for London mayor. With the seventh London mayoral election coming up, can the Tories capitalise on Sadiq Khan's declining popularity recently, and offer some answers in the ongoing Ulez debate?
Cindy Yu speaks to James Heale and Dave Hill the former Guardian London commentator who now runs the website On London.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.

How will MPs vote on the Partygate report? Jun 16, 2023

The release of The Privileges Committee's report into whether Boris Johnson knowingly misled parliament has caused a war of words in the press. Several MPs have announced that they will vote against the report when it comes to House of Commons on Monday. What's the latest?
Also on the podcast, Boris Johnson is expected to be announced as the Mail's 'erudite' new columnist in tomorrow's edition. Does Johnson need a political office in order to cause trouble?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.

How damning is the Privileges Committee's report? Jun 15, 2023

We have finally got the results of the Privileges Committee's report into whether Boris Johnson deliberately misled parliament, and it doesn't make for comfortable reading for the former prime minister.
The 30,000-word document finds that he committed multiple contempts of parliament, including deliberately misleading the house, deliberately misleading the committee, breaching confidence, impugning the committee and the democratic process of the house and ‘being complicit in the campaign of abuse and attempted intimidation of the committee’.
What will these findings mean for Boris? And what has the reaction been in parliament?
Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Heale.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.

Nadine's revenge Jun 14, 2023

Having said she'll step down, Nadine Dorries has now said that she won't formally resign as an MP until later this year... It's hard to see this as anything other than revenge taken on Rishi Sunak, so as to prolong the by-election pain, Katy Balls says. Cindy Yu also talks to Kate Andrews about the economic pain in the country at the moment – from lacklustre GDP growth to rising mortgage rates.
Produced by Cindy Yu.

Are 'sinister forces' conspiring against Nadine Dorries? Jun 13, 2023

Nadine Dorries has hit out on various platforms saying that 'sinister forces' stopped her from receiving her peerage, as promised to her by former prime minister Boris Johnson. This has been met by a strong rebuke from Number 10, but do Boris and Dorries have grounds to feel aggrieved?
Also on the podcast, tomorrow we will learn the Privileges Committee's findings on whether Boris Johnson knowingly misled the House. What should we expect?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Paul Goodman, editor of Conservative Home.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.

Sunak comes out fighting over Boris honours row Jun 12, 2023

This morning Rishi Sunak has delivered a direct rebuke of Boris Johnson over the resignation honours row, during an interview at London Tech Week. Is this the Prime Minister going into fighting mode? Do his comments go some way towards heading off a Johnson-led rebellion?
Also on the podcast, Nicola Sturgeon was released from custody yesterday evening after seven hours of questioning. What's the latest?
Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.

Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup Jun 11, 2023

Boris Johnson's resignation provokes contrasting reactions. The honours system is called into question. Nigel Farage claims an insurgency could be on the cards. And Humza Yousaf says he will achieve Scottish independence.

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