Julia Hartley-Brewer

As Donald Trump dismisses soaring energy costs as a “very small price to pay”, the West is bracing for surging oil prices — and UK households are in the firing line, with higher prices for electricity, heating, petrol, airfare, and more.With disruption in the Strait of Hormuz (a critical route for roughly a fifth of the world's oil), some analysts warn crude could surge towards $150 a barrel, with extreme scenarios even higher if disruption is prolonged.Julia Hartley-Brewer is joined by Conservative MP and former Security Minister Tom Tugendhat, who argues all Keir Starmer has done is leave Britain less popular with our allies— while reports of a “humbling” call with Trump raise fresh questions about Labour's standing with Britain's biggest security partner. Tugendhat also warns the UK's hollowed-out military capability is now impossible to ignore, as questions swirl around the protection of the Cyprus base, the lack of a Royal Navy presence in the region, and the reality that moving even a single ship has become a Prime Minister-level decision because of our scarce resources.Plus, Julia speaks to Fleur Hassan-Nahoum, Israeli Foreign Ministry Special Envoy, on Iran's leadership, the threat posed by the regime and its proxies, and why she believes the West cannot treat this as “someone else's problem” even as families at home face higher bills.Also: the King's planned visit to the US, the fraying Trump–Starmer dynamic, and calls to ban a pro-Iran march in the UK amid renewed scrutiny of the IRGC. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Day seven of the Middle East conflict raises fresh questions about UK readiness at home and abroad. From Dubai, Isabel Oakeshott describes daily life under periodic alerts, assesses Iran's degraded drone/missile capability, and warns of potential IRGC-linked reprisals — as counter-terror police arrest four suspects over alleged links to Iranian intelligence and surveillance of London's Jewish community. Back in Westminster, Keir Starmer faces criticism over Britain's posture, the strained Atlantic relationship, and mixed messaging to allies in the Gulf. Former Army chief Lord Richard Dannatt sets out how decades of underinvestment have hollowed out UK capability — from warship readiness to the protection of our bases in Cyprus and Bahrain. He also argues deterrence that against Russia, and support for Ukraine, remains a central priority. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alex Phillips, sitting in for Julia Hartley-Brewer, discusses reports that Middle East allies are angry about the Labour government's handling of the conflict in Iran. Questions continue over the UK's military posture, the security of British bases overseas, and reports that cabinet minister Ed Miliband advised Keir Starmer against allowing the US to use UK bases, leading to Keir Starmer's initial refusal to allow the US to use them to launch strikes on Iran. On this episode, Brendan O'Neill argues the UK should stand “shoulder to shoulder” with our allies and confront the Iranian regime's role in the conflict. Rear Admiral Chris Parry assesses the state of UK defence capability, including the readiness of our Type 45 destroyers, threats in the Strait of Hormuz, and the wider global implications for energy security and deterrence. Former Defence Secretary Sir Liam Fox then discusses the UK's role in the world, the Chagos/Diego Garcia issue, and concerns raised by allies in Washington and the Gulf.Also: UK's rules of engagement, RAF Akrotiri and RAF Fairford, IRGC proscription, regional energy risk, and whether Britain is becoming “irrelevant and invisible” on the international stage. Alex Phillips is stepping in for Julia Hartley-Brewer until Friday 6th March.Julia Hartley-Brewer broadcasts on Talk from Monday to Thursday, 10AM to 1PM. Available on YouTube and streaming platforms, along with DAB+ radio and your smart Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alex Phillips, sitting in for Julia Hartley-Brewer, is joined by former senior military intelligence officer Philip Ingram to assess the UK Government's handling of the US/Israeli strikes on Iran, and what he calls an incoherent, domestically driven approach that risks weakening UK leverage with Washington. The pair unpick reports that HMS Dragon's deployment towards Cyprus has been delayed, what that implies about our military's readiness, and the exposure of British bases including Akrotiri as regional tensions escalate. Then, Shadow Attorney General Lord Wolfson sets out why he believes the Government's legal posture is strategically inconsistent and is being used as political cover - giving detail on Starmer's “international law” defence. And former Royal Navy commander Tom Sharpe argues decades of defence neglect are now playing out in real time — with the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important transit routes for energy supplies, and maritime security once again at the centre of the crisis.Alex Phillips is stepping in for Julia Hartley-Brewer until Friday 6th March.Julia Hartley-Brewer broadcasts on Talk from Monday to Thursday, 10AM to 1PM. Available on YouTube and streaming platforms, along with DAB+ radio and your smart speaker. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Keir Starmer faces fierce criticism after refusing to back US action against Iran — and then allowing limited “defensive” use of UK-US bases. As Donald Trump accuses the Prime Minister of weakness and political pandering to the Muslim vote, Alex Phillips' considers whether Keir Starmer is dithering and hiding behind international law. Mark Littlewood (Director of Popular Conservatism) weighs in on UK military capability, the threat from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), and whether Britain can afford to sit on the fence. Military analyst Elliot Wilson examines what the US and Israel can realistically achieve in Iran — from dismantling its nuclear capability to the risks and unknowns of regime change. And Peter Hitchens issues a stark warning about another Middle East war and the economic damage a wider conflict could inflict.Also: what this crisis could mean for oil and gas prices, Rachel Reeves' Spring Statement, and the growing backlash against Ed Miliband's energy policy as he is urged to scrap a fuel duty hike amid spiking oil and gas prices.Alex Phillips is stepping in for Julia Hartley-Brewer until Friday 6th March.Julia Hartley-Brewer broadcasts on Talk from Monday to Thursday, 10AM to 1PM. Available on YouTube and streaming platforms, along with DAB+ radio and your smart speaker. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alex Phillips sits in for Julia Hartley-Brewer, speaking to former Parachute Regiment major Andrew Fox about why No10 initially resisted US use of UK military bases to attack Iran. Celebrations erupted in Iran and across the world after Ayatollah Khameini and a host of significant Iranian regime officials were killed by strikes on Saturday morning. The regime has killed tens of thousands of its own citizens and maintained brutal, theocratic rule over Iran since a 1979 revolution brought them to power. American-Israeli military action has sparked debate about US intervention in the Middle East, whether this is ultimately in Western interests, the escalation risk, a power vacuum in Iran, and potential terror attacks by Shiite Muslims.Four US servicemen have been killed so far, and three American jets have been shot down by friendly fire.Donald Trump wanted to use RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire and the Chagos Islands' Diego Garcia to affect regime change and dismantle its nuclear and missile facilities. Having made it clear they would deny the president's request, the Labour government eventually shifted position as UK assets and personnel came under threat - but emphasised that any UK involvement would be "defensive".Andrew and Alex assess how this decision reflects on the UK prime minister. They also discuss Iran's missile capabilities, interception rates across the Gulf, resupply pressures, and how long the current tempo of operations can be sustained — as well as the likelihood of Russia or China escalating support for their ally in the region. Later, barrister Natasha Hausdorff, legal director of UK Lawyers for Israel, responds to arguments that Donald Trump's strikes violated international law.She weighs Lord Wolfson's critique of the Attorney General Lord Hermer's approach, examining how self-defence and the wider regional conflict framework are being interpreted by "the West's detractors". She ultimately justifies the strikes. Also: whether the UN is playing a credible role, and what the conflagration means for the UK–US "special relationship" and Britain's national security.Alex Phillips is stepping in for Julia Hartley-Brewer until Friday 6th March.Julia Hartley-Brewer broadcasts on Talk from Monday to Thursday, 10AM to 1PM. Available on YouTube and streaming platforms, along with DAB+ radio and your smart speaker. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Green Party claims its first ever Westminster by-election win, in Labour's 38th safest seat: Gorton & Denton. Julia Hartley-Brewer is joined by journalist and commentator Henry Hill to break down the political aftershocks: Labour pushed into third, Reform in second, the Conservatives losing their deposit, and what this says about Keir Starmer's strategy and the future of two-party politics.Talk reporter Samara Gill brings on-the-ground reporting from Manchester as Green figures celebrate, detailing the mood on the ground — from younger, left-leaning voters to a significant Muslim vote — and the arguments now swirling around community politics and campaign tactics, that included a Green party video in Urdu. Then Green Party activist and Birkbeck University academic Dr Ashok Kumar goes head-to-head with Julia on why the Greens won, whether “bread-and-butter” policies mattered more than foreign policy - the Greens made their policy on Gaza central - and how the party responds to allegations about sectarian campaigning, Urdu-language materials, and claims of “family voting” and electoral integrity raised by observers. Also: the latest on the defacing of Winston Churchill's statue in Parliament Square, after a man spray painted "zionist war criminal" on it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trevor Kavanagh, former political editor of The Sun, joins Julia Hartley-Brewer to dissect the latest immigration and asylum figures — and the continued public anger at the gap between political spin and what people can see happening on Britain's borders.Ministers may point to a fall in work, study and family visas, a small dip in asylum claims, and fewer asylum seekers in hotels — but Julia and Trevor ask the blunt question: what does “control” look like when illegal migrants are still arriving in large numbers, with small boats surging as soon as the weather improves? Trevor argues that a government's first duty is to defend the country — and that Britain has become a destination of choice, with taxpayers left funding accommodation, food and healthcare for people who entered unlawfully.Trevor also gives his take on two other flashpoints driving distrust in politics: the murky fallout from the Mandelson arrest story, and the uncertainty around the Chagos Islands deal — including whether Britain really will hand over sovereign territory and then pay to lease back a strategic military base.Then Jamie Jenkins, former ONS statistician, explains what the data actually shows behind the headlines: year-to-date increases in Channel crossings, the scale of asylum claims, how many are granted at first decision versus on appeal, and why “fewer hotel rooms” doesn't necessarily mean fewer claimants — with many simply moved into other accommodation that is still funded by the state.Finally, Julia and Jamie turn to the other crisis hiding in plain sight: the NHS. With spending having doubled over recent years, why aren't outcomes improving? Jamie lays out the real pressure points — an ageing population (including a projected surge in over-75s), inefficiency, broken processes, and why digitisation and better productivity may matter as much as extra funding.Julia Hartley-Brewer broadcasts on Talk Monday to Thursday, 10AM to 1PM.Available on YouTube and streaming platforms, along with DAB+ radio and your smart speaker. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tom Slater, editor of spiked, joins Julia Hartley-Brewer to slam the Green Party's policy programme — and why it's the ultimate “gift” to anyone arguing Britain needs common sense back in politics.Julia and Tom break down proposals that would effectively wipe out the idea of “illegal migrants” — including instant access to public services, the right to work with no restrictions, and, most controversially, the promise of a free house (or private room) and a taxpayer-funded basic living wage with no requirement to work or even look for work. Julia brands it “sixth-form politics” dressed up as compassion — warning it would supercharge pull factors while Britons already struggle with housing, jobs, school places and falling living standards.They also tackle the bigger picture: the political double standard where mainstream views on borders and safety are smeared as “extreme” — while genuinely radical ideas are waved through.Then Julia is joined by Karl Turner MP (Labour, Hull East) for an equally blunt conversation about accountability and the justice system. Karl Turner reacts to the extraordinary developments around Lord Mandelson's arrest connected to allegations relating to Jeffrey Epstein (Mandelson denies wrongdoing and has not been charged), and questions the secrecy around what the public is allowed to know.And on Labour's plan to curb jury trials for most offences, Turner calls it “outrageous”, says it won't fix court delays, and warns it risks ripping up a hard-won safeguard dating back to Magna Carta — with a serious Commons rebellion brewing.Julia Hartley-Brewer broadcasts on Talk Monday to Thursday, 10AM to 1PM.Available on YouTube and streaming platforms, along with DAB+ radio and your smart speaker. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Julia Hartley-Brewer Show, Julia is joined by Lord Foulkes (Labour peer and former minister under Tony Blair) and Brendan O'Neill (Chief Political Writer at Spiked) to unpack the growing political storm around Peter Mandelson's arrest last night in connection with the wider Jeffrey Epstein fallout. He was released on bail in the early hours of the morning. With Mandelson denying wrongdoing and there being no confirmed charges, the focus turns to Keir Starmer's political judgement in appointing Mandelson in the first place. Does Britain operate with one rule for the powerful and another for everyone else? Julia argues the story now lands squarely on Keir Starmer, because it raises questions about why someone with controversial associations was elevated to a senior diplomatic role — and what ministers and security vetting may have known.The episode also ranges across Reform UK's immigration and ECHR stance, proposals to restrict the Burka and other face coverings, and the Gorton & Denton by-election, including controversy over campaigning in languages other than English - namely Urdu, appealing to British-Pakistani voters - and the rise of sectarian-style politics. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Julia Hartley-Brewer is joined by conservative commentator Benedict Spence and The New Statesman's Oli Dugmore for a no-holds-barred deep dive into the stories dominating Britain. First: the latest Prince Andrew fallout — the scandal, the whispers inside royal circles, and what it means for the monarchy's judgement and future.Then: Reform UK's hardline border proposals, including an ICE-style enforcement unit, mass deportations, visa bans for countries that won't take people back, and the row over “restoring Britain's Christian heritage”. Plus: the Whitechapel flashpoint that's gone viral — a Christian preacher, angry complaints outside a mosque, and a police officer's blunt reminder: “This is Britain” and free speech cuts both ways. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Prince Andrew's arrest sends shockwaves through the Royal Family — and raises urgent questions about what happened, who knew, and what comes next. Host Peter Cardwell is joined by The Sun's Thomas Godfrey from Sandringham and former Head of Royal Protection Dai Davies to unpack the police investigation, what “misconduct in public office” really means, and whether royal protection officers could face scrutiny too. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Robert Jenrick MP, Reform UK's shadow chancellor, and Dai Davies, former head of Royal protection, come on The Julia Hartley-Brewer Show to discuss remarkable breaking news at the start of Julia's broadcast - that Andrew had been arrested at the Sandringham Estate for misconduct in public office. Andrew denies wrongdoing and has not yet been charged - as of the time of publishing. King Charles has released a statement saying ‘the law must take its course'.The continued release of the Epstein files have unveiled the extent of his relationship with the paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein. E-mail exchanges between the pair reveal that Andrew handed over sensitive documents to Mr Epstein in his role as trade envoy to the British government. He is currently being investigated by NINE separate police forces throughout the country. Also: Robert Jenrick reacts to a Talk exclusive - the news that various British Chaggossians have been served an eviction notice after landing on the island in protest at Britain's deal. Keir Starmer had agreed to give away the islands and lease back the Diego Garcia military base. American president Donald Trump has flip-flopped on his support for the deal. And Robert Jenrick reacts to a BBC investigation into rape gangs in London. Sadiq Khan has previously denied any awareness of systemic grooming in the capital, despite their prevalence in other parts of the country such as Rotherham. Julia Hartley-Brewer broadcasts on Talk from Monday to Thursday, 10AM to 1PM. Available on YouTube and streaming platforms, along with DAB+ radio and your smart speaker. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg, former Conservative government minister, comes on The Julia Hartley-Brewer Show to discuss why he agrees with Reform MP Robert Jenrick's economic plan to cut welfare to get the economy back on track. Their conversation comes on a day when inflation fell to 3% and unemployment for 16-24 year olds rose to 16.1%. The youth unemployment rate is the highest since 2020 and worse than the EU average - precipitating a crisis that could have ramifications for decades, as unemployment when you're young makes future work less likely. Meanwhile, Robert Jenrick MP, newly announced Treasury spokesman for Reform, made a major speech to the city. He confirmed Reform would maintain Bank of England independence, maintain the Office for Budget Responsibility and would crackdown on wasteful spending. He vowed to “defuse the benefits bomb”, including by reinstating the two child benefit cap and mandating in-person assessment for sickness or disability payments.The speech came hot on the heels of the announcement that inflation had dropped to 3% - a rare piece of good news for the shambolic chancellor of the exchequer Rachel Reeves. Shortly after Robert Jenrick's speech, it appeared there was disagreement between Mr Jenrick and Nigel Farage. Robert Jenrick vowed to maintain the triple lock on state pensions, whereas Nigel Farage said it was "open to debate".Also: How Sir Jacob would promote family-living, including by instating transferable tax allowances, and why it is a "tragedy" that 300,000 people were aborted last year.Julia Hartley-Brewer broadcasts on Talk from Monday to Thursday, 10AM to 1PM. Available on YouTube and streaming platforms, along with DAB+ radio and your smart speaker. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Brendan O'Neill, author and writer for Spiked Online, and Suella Braverman, Reform spokeswoman for education, skills and equalities, come on The Julia Hartley-Brewer Show to discuss the war on woke and Reform UK's new ‘shadow cabinet'. Reform UK announced the first four members of their ‘shadow cabinet': the spokespeople for various ministerial roles that would make up Reform's cabinet if they get into power. Zia Yusuf was announced as ‘shadow home secretary',Richard Tice was announced as business, trade and energy spokesman and would be deputy PM, Robert Jenrick was announced as ‘shadow chancellor of the exchequer', And Suella Braverman was announced as education, skills and equalities spokeswoman. She vowed to repeal the Equality Act and stop schools from creating the ‘next generation of eco-zealots'. Brendan O'Neill has just written a book - Vibe Shift - that outlines how ordinary, working class people have fought against the out-of-touch political, media and business classes to rally against woke-ism on climate, Brexit, and transgenderism. Also: Labour's U-turn on council elections, as they announced 30 council elections would go ahead in May. Steve Reed, minister for local government, had previously sought to delay them as authorities were reorganised. But there was public outcry, as democracy would have been denied for over four million people. Reform were polling well in many of the districts that were going to have their vote denied. And how the ECHR could be used to enable family members of Gazan refugees to come to Britain. Julia Hartley-Brewer broadcasts on Talk from Monday to Thursday, 10AM to 1PM. Available on YouTube and streaming platforms, along with DAB+ radio and your smart speaker. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Benedict Spence, conservative commentator, and Baroness Claire Fox, independent peer and director of the Academy of Ideas, discuss how the ECHR is causing more illegal migrant hand-outs in court. High court judges ruled that the police seizure of asylum seekers' phones amounted to a violation of European Human Rights Law, in contravention of article eight of the European Convention on Human Rights. Article eight outlines the right to a private and family life. The phones were seized as the migrants came to the country, enabling the police to gather evidence about any contact between them and people smuggling gangs. So far, an average of £6,500 per person has been paid to compensate migrants. 70 migrants have been paid. It is feared the total bill could run into the millions, as more migrants who have had phones seized make claims. Reform MP Robert Jenrick called the decision to compensate boat migrants a ‘farce'. Also: proposals to ban social media for U16s - including a potential ban on virtual private networks, used to circumvent the Online Safety Act. The news that the Home Office doesn't know how many migrants are pretending to be children, The case of a Filipino migrant who was funded to change sex by the NHS - before being given the right to stay in the UK,And the think tank that has propelled Keir Starmer's rise to power - Labour Together - using a PR firm to smear journalists investigating their funding. Julia Hartley-Brewer broadcasts on Talk from Monday to Thursday, 10AM to 1PM. Available on YouTube and streaming platforms, along with DAB+ radio and your smart speaker. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lord Maurice Glasman, Labour peer and founder of the Blue Labour group, and James Matthewson, former Labour party spokesman, come on The Julia Hartley-Brewer Show to discuss Sir Jim Ratcliffe's comments on migration and benefits - that since prompted Keir Starmer to request an apology and legislation to give 16 year olds the vote. Also: James Matthewson on the trans issue, after it was revealed that the school shooter in British Columbia, Canada, was a trans woman. Why James thinks Julia says ‘racist things'. And Lord Maurice Glasman on the Labour government's approach to immigration - including why Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood is doing ‘a good job'. Julia Hartley-Brewer broadcasts on Talk from Monday to Thursday, 10AM to 1PM. Available on YouTube and streaming platforms, along with DAB+ radio and your smart speaker. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chris Phillips, former head of the National Counter Terrorism Security Office, and Debbie Hayton, journalist and author, come on The Julia Hartley-Brewer Show to discuss two tragedies - a stabbing in London and a school shooting in Canada.Two boys, aged 12 and 13, have been left seriously injured after the attack in Brent, London. It is currently being investigated by a counter-terrorism unit. Chris Phillips discusses how to reduce knife crime, how to keep children safe, and how to improve policing to prevent incidents like this occurring again. Debbie Hayton discusses the Canadian school shooting, after the killer was described as a “gunperson” and an active shooter alert was described as a “female in a dress”. Nine people have died and twenty-five have been injured in the attack in a small village in British Columbia. The shooter was found dead with self-inflicted wounds. Rumours swirled about the perpetrator's sexual identity - which at the time of publishing was yet to be confirmed. Also: Chris Phillips on how pro-palestine protests are inhibiting officers from doing their job - as a report reveals that they are only on the beat for three days a week because of the demands of managing regular demonstrations. And Debbie Hayton on the Scottish National Party spending £1m on legal fees to defend gender self-identification in Scotland. Julia Hartley-Brewer broadcasts on Talk from Monday to Thursday, 10AM to 1PM. Available on YouTube and streaming platforms, along with DAB+ radio and your smart speaker. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Karl Turner, Labour MP for Hull East, and Dan Hodges, commentator for the Mail on Sunday, discuss the latest Westminster psycho-drama as Sir Keir Starmer maintains his control of his job - for now. Morgan McSweeney, Downing Street Chief of Staff, resigned on Sunday - triggering speculation that the PM could either resign or face an imminent leadership challenge. But on Monday, his cabinet team unanimously expressed their continued support for Keir Starmer. That included both Angela Rayner and Wes Streeting, who are both widely tipped as potential usurpers. Also: Karl Turner MP on what happened at a meeting between Keir Starmer and the Parliamentary Labour Party last night, Whether Keir Starmer is motivated by public service, If there should be a general election if we change leader, Dan Hodges on what we might see from the continued release of texts between Mandelson and government ministers, And whether potential leadership challengers - Wes Streeting, Angela Rayner and Andy Burnham - are ready for any leadership challenge. Julia Hartley-Brewer broadcasts on Talk from Monday to Thursday, 10AM to 1PM. Available on YouTube and streaming platforms, along with DAB+ radio and your smart speaker. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lord Foulkes, Labour peer and former minister under Tony Blair, comes on The Julia Hartley-Brewer Show to discuss Keir Starmer's chances of survival after Morgan McSweeney, No 10's chief of staff, resigned. Morgan McSweeney and Sir Keir Starmer were previously inseparable. Morgan McSweeney followed Starmer's rise to PM, after deciding that Starmer was the man to win power back for Labour during the Jeremy Corbyn years. When Sir Keir became Labour leader, he advised the PM on electoral strategy, which contributed to a resounding Labour victory in the 2024 general election. But he has been criticised for a failure to adequately prepare for governing - as the government quickly descended into chaos. He resigned following heavy pressure on Downing Street for the appointment of Peter Mandelson as ambassador to the United States. Details continue to emerge revealing the depth of Lord Mandelson's relationship with the paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. Also: Lord Foulkes defends Keir Starmer's record in office, Darren Grimes on Reform's plans for a shadow cabinet, And the whether Reform are being hypocritical about the decision to appoint Peter Mandelson to his role as US ambassador, given the Russian bribery scandal that engulfed Nathan Gill, former leader of Reform in Wales. Julia Hartley-Brewer broadcasts on Talk from Monday to Thursday, 10AM to 1PM. Available on YouTube and streaming platforms, along with DAB+ radio and your smart speaker. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Baroness Claire Fox, independent peer and director of The Academy of Ideas, comes on The Julia Hartley-Brewer Show to discuss the political fall-out from Peter Mandelson's appointment as US ambassador. At PMQs this week, Keir Starmer admitted to knowing Mandelson sustained a relationship with Jeffrey Epstein despite Epstein's conviction for soliciting minors for prostitution.And Keir Starmer made a speech earlier in the day responding to a backbench furore that followed the release of exchanges between Jeffrey Epstein and Lord Mandelson in the latest set of Epstein files. Also: Baroness Fox describes Peter Mandelson's actions as traitorous - but is frustrated by the possibility that this could bring Keir Starmer. She would have preferred him to go over his ‘betrayal' of British communities. Julia Hartley-Brewer broadcasts on Talk from Monday to Thursday, 10AM to 1PM. Available on YouTube and streaming platforms, along with DAB+ radio and your smart speaker. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Adam Boulton, journalist and broadcaster, comes on The Julia Hartley-Brewer Show to discuss Peter Mandelson's appointment as ambassador to the United States. He and Julia argue over Keir Starmer's judgment - as Adam argues it was a risk worth taking to get Lord Mandelson into the role. He and Julia also discuss: Gordon Brown's criticism of Peter Mandelson, Whether Peter Mandelson is a serial liar, And whether he should have taken the job, knowing his past. Julia Hartley-Brewer broadcasts on Talk from Monday to Thursday, 10AM to 1PM. Available on YouTube and streaming platforms, along with DAB+ radio and your smart speaker. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

John Sweeney, journalist and author of ‘Hunting Ghislaine: Epstein, the Prince and the Presidents' comes on The Julia Hartley-Brewer show to discuss Peter Mandelson's ties to Jeffrey Epstein, government leaks, and whether Peter Mandelson can expect a criminal investigation. He and Julia also discuss: Jeffrey Epstein's ability to manipulate, Whether Peter Mandelson is a ‘traitor', How damaging this is for Keir Starmer, And why it seems to be one rule for elites and another for everyone else. Julia Hartley-Brewer broadcasts on Talk from Monday to Thursday, 10AM to 1PM. Available on YouTube and streaming platforms, along with DAB+ radio and your smart speaker. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dai Davis, former head of Royal protection, and Benedict Spence, Conservative commentator, come on The Julia Hartley-Brewer to discuss:New revelations about the links between Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and Jeffrey Epstein, after a new tranche of files were released.The files allege Jeffrey Epstein made substantial payments to both Lord Mandelson and his partner at the time - £55,000 to Peter Mandelson, and £10,000 to his partner, Reinaldo Avila da Silva.A photograph of Lord Mandelson in his underwear speaking to a woman also emerged. Dai questions whether the security service should have known better - and discusses who in the Royals might have known what was going on. Julia Hartley-Brewer broadcasts on Talk from Monday to Thursday, 10AM to 1PM. Available on YouTube and streaming platforms, along with DAB+ radio and your smart speaker. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jimmy Lai is a British citizen and media billionaire who used his newspaper Apple Daily to promote democracy in Hong Kong. He was arrested in 2020 for sedition under new national security laws, and still awaits sentencing. Sebastien said he expects his father to see out the rest of his life in prison, unless there is diplomatic intervention. His son, Sebastien Lai, comes on The Julia Hartley-Brewer Show to discuss: His father's detainment. Keir Starmer's visit to China, and whether the UK is right to pursue closer economic ties with the Chinese. And whether the UK should pursue more concessions from trade talks, after approving the super-embassy in London and the first prime ministerial visit to Beijing in eight years. Julia Hartley-Brewer broadcasts on Talk from Monday to Thursday, 10AM to 1PM. Available on YouTube and streaming platforms, along with DAB+ radio and your smart speaker. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Liz Truss comes on The Julia Hartley-Brewer Show to discuss: Keir Starmer's visit to China, whether he is ‘kow-towing', the Chinese Communist Party spying on the British government, and what Britain stands to benefit from closer ties to the country. Liz Truss' legacy in government - and whether she was ‘sabotaged' by the civil service. Liz Truss' record on fighting against lockdowns during Covid. What she makes of the political ‘psycho-drama' and whether she has been approached by Reform UK. Keir Starmer's pro-bono work that led to persistent, fresh inquiries into veterans. Julia Hartley-Brewer broadcasts on Talk from Monday to Thursday, 10AM to 1PM. Available on YouTube and streaming platforms, along with DAB+ radio and your smart speaker. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tom Tugendhat and Richard Tice come on The Julia Hartley-Brewer Show to discuss Suella Braverman's defection to Reform UK. Tom Tugendhat discusses former home secretary Suella Braverman's outspoken criticism of the Conservative party. Richard Tice answers whether Nigel Farage's party has been damaged by Tory defections. Julia asks whether there is any point voting for Reform while so many former Conservatives join the party. Richard also asks about the upcoming Labour defection which was delayed. Julia Hartley-Brewer broadcasts on Talk from Monday to Thursday, 10AM to 1PM. Available on YouTube and streaming platforms, along with DAB+ radio and your smart speaker. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Karl Turner MP comes on Julia Hartley-Brewer's show to discuss the National Executive Committee blocking Andy Burnham's attempt to run as Labour Party candidate for Gorton and Denton. A by-election is due to be held in the consituency after Andrew Gwynne resigned due to ill-health. He was sacked from his ministerial position and the Labour party over WhatsApp messages that insulted consitutents and other politicians. Also: Julia and Benedict discuss the BBC's coverage of Iran and the second ICE shooting in Minneapolis, and Shabana Mahmood's police reform proposals as she announces a 'British FBI'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kemi Badenoch comes on The Julia Hartley-Brewer show after Donald Trump announced a deal had been made over Greenland. European NATO members had feared the US president's threats to take over the Danish territory would destroy the alliance. Kemi Badenoch tells the show her view of the deal and how she would manage transatlantic relations. Also: Ms Badenoch discussed how she would increase defence spending, whether she supports a social media ban for U16s, Britain's approach to China after the approval of the super-embassy, and uniting the right of British politics.Julia Hartley-Brewer broadcasts on Talk Monday to Thursday, 10AM to 1PM. Available on YouTube and streaming platforms, along with DAB+ radio and your smart speaker. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From the show on Wednesday, Julia Hartley-Brewer spoke to Brendan O'Neill, chief political writer at Spiked Online, and Baroness Kate Hoey, independent peer. Brendan O'Neill reacts to Donald Trump saying Britain needs “straightening out” and that “London is having a lot of problems”. Brendan also says that Trump's threats to take Greenland have prompted hypocritical criticism from the EU. Donald Trump joined other world leaders at Davos, Switzerland later in the day. Keir Starmer didn't attend. Also: Baroness Kate Hoey says she is not the figure currently rumoured to defect to Reform UK - and she discusses local elections being cancelled, the Chinese super-embassy, and the rising numbers of people who are on benefits without the requirement to look for work. Julia Hartley-Brewer broadcasts from Monday to Thursday on Talk, 10AM until 1PM.Available on YouTube and streaming platforms, along with DAB+ radio and your smart speaker. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

China has been given permission to build a vast new embassy in the heart of London despite criticism from MPs and campaigners that it will be used as a base for spying and security crackdowns.Local Government Secretary Steve Reed has approved the plans for the building at Royal Mint Court, a site near the Tower of London.The decision removes a diplomatic hurdle in the relationship with Xi Jinping's government, clearing the way for Sir Keir Starmer to make a widely-expected visit to China, possibly within weeks.Speaking with Former Conservative Government Minister Jacob Rees-Mogg, Talk's Julia Hartley-Brewer says: "This is an absolutely dire decision!" Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Robert Jenrick comes on The Julia Hartley-Brewer show to talk about his defection to Reform UK.He explains why he defected, uniting the right, why he backs Nigel Farage, and why Tory voters should switch to Reform. Included are Nigel Farage's plans for deportations, immigration, net zero, deregulation and welfare.Also: he explains why it is important to say ‘Britain is broken', Julia asks for his reaction to Donald Trump's upcoming tariffs on several European countries for their opposition to American acquisition of Greenland, and he tells the show whether he is prepared to work with Nigel Farage. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Richard Tice, deputy leader of Reform UK, comes on the Julia Hartley-Brewer show to react to breaking news that Tory leader Kemi Badenoch had sacked Robert Jenrick. Robert Jenrick was part of the shadow cabinet. He lost a leadership challenge to Kemi Badenoch in 2024 and was subsequently installed as shadow justice secretary.A potential defection to Reform UK had been rumoured - reportedly, his sacking followed the discovery of a printed resignation speech at a photocopier that was promptly brought to Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch's attention. In her statement, Kemi Badenoch said she had seen “irrefutable evidence” that Jenrick was about to defect in a manner "designed to be as damaging way possible” for his former colleagues at the Conservative Party. Nigel Farage, Reform UK leader, denied there was any deal to take Robert Jenrick to Reform UK at the time of his sacking. Julia Hartley-Brewer broadcasts Monday to Thursday, 10AM to 1PM, on Talk. Available on YouTube and streaming platforms, along with DAB+ radio and your smart speaker. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Brendan O'Neill, chief political writer at Spiked Online, discusses another government U-turn with Julia - this time on the introduction of mandatory digital ID. Rights campaigners have long criticised digital ID as a dangerous infringement on British people's right to privacy. Previously, Keir Starmer's government argued it would help reduce migration. It was intended to prevent illegal migrants from working on the black market, but politicians and campaigners questioned whether the ID would act as a successful deterrent. And it was estimated to cost £1.8 billion over three years.Also: Julia and Brendan discuss why Labour have U-turned on so many policies, the Jewish MP stopped from visiting a primary school visit by pro-Palestinian activists, the Maccabi Tel Aviv fan ban for a Europa League game against Aston Villa, and why pro-Palestinian activists have been silent on anti-regime protests in Iran. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On her Talk radio show Julia Hartley-Brewer talks to Sir Iain Duncan Smith, the former Conservative Party leader.Sir Iain Duncan Smith discusses calls for Keir Starmer's government to proscribe the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps - the group that maintains the theocratic regime - as a terrorist organisation.He explains why he thinks it would support Iranian protestors. Protests against Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's rule erupted after economic turmoil in the country, as Iran's currency plummeted to record lows.Also: he discusses the Chinese super-embassy opposite the Tower of London that could be approved soon, and why he thinks it's a threat to British security. Earlier, reports emerged of plans for a 'secret room' at the mega embassy just metres from key communication cables carrying sensitive information.Sir Iain responded to news that a Jewish MP was banned from visiting a primary school after pro-Palestine teachers and parents threatened to publicly protest his visit.And he talks about the news that Nadhim Zahawi has defected to Reform UK - and whether he would ever to move across to Nigel Farage's party. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Following the surprise defection of former Chancellor Nadhim Zahawi to Reform UK, Julia Hartley-Brewer speaks to Reform UK's London Mayoral candidate, Laila Cunningham. In this interview, Julia asks about the most senior defection to Reform and whether her party is becoming the home of “washed-up” Tory politicians. Laila Cunningham describes Nigel Farage as a “true leader”, the likes of which we haven't seen in years, and sets out a vision of her party and city:Lawless London: As Met Chief Sir Mark Rowley claims that critics of the police in London were willing to “promote narratives that suit them”, Laila condemns the "gaslighting" of Londoners who don't feel safe.Faith & British Values: Laila explains why she doesn't want to be known as a “Muslim mayor”, the difference between her and Sadiq Khan's Islamic faith, and why British values should come first no matter who you are. Civil Service Mutiny: Laila warns that her party is ready to overcome “obstacles” - including civil servants that refuse to work with Reform.X Ban: Laila explains why she views calls to ban Elon Musk's X (and Grok AI) as an attempt to “control the narrative”, as Ofcom says they will investigate X over sexualised AI deepfakes being shared on the site. Julia Hartley-Brewer broadcasts on Talk from 10AM-1PM, Monday to Thursday. Available on YouTube and streaming platforms, along with DAB+ radio and your smart speaker. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A mother of three was shot dead during an ICE operation in Minneapolis, triggering furious backlash from Democrats who are now demanding the federal immigration agency leave the state. The woman has been named as Renee Nicole Good who had only recently moved to the Twin Cities with her partner.Footage of the incident shows Good sitting inside her Honda Pilot as ICE agents attempt to detain her with officers surrounding the vehicle and orders her to get out. Moments later, as the car begins to move, one of the agents opens fire.Speaking with Former Senior Military Intelligence Officer Philip Ingram, Talk's Julia Hartley-Brewer says: "This is not an act of self-defence!"Meanwhile, people on fat loss jabs need ongoing support, researchers have said, after a major study found they put all the weight back on much faster than traditional dieters. Researchers from the University of Oxford discovered that people on drugs including semaglutide (Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro) lose weight during treatment but, on average, regain it within 20 months of stopping the jabs.Improvements to blood sugar levels, cholesterol and blood pressure are also lost when people stop the drugs, with patients ending up back where they were at the start of their diet journey.Carl Heneghan highlighted that obesity in the UK has doubled since the 1990s, with one in three children now obese.Julia Hartley-Brewer expresses fears that Keir Starmer's government will bring back rationing along with Digital IDs. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

British armed forces will be deployed on the ground in Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire with Russia, Number 10 has said.Speaking at a press conference in Paris alongside French president Emmanuel Macron and Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelensky, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said “military hubs” will be set up across Ukraine once a peace deal has been reached.The joint press conference was followed by a statement from Number 10, which said: “The signing of the declaration paves the way for the legal framework to be established for French and UK forces to operate on Ukrainian soil, securing Ukraine's skies and seas and building an armed forces fit for the future.Speaking with Spiked Online's Brendan O'Neill and Former Defence Secretary Ben Wallace, Talk's Julia Hartley-Brewer says: "Putin won't attack French and British troops!" Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Government will look at reforming the licence fee and consider more commercial revenue options for the BBC in plans outlined in its royal charter review. It comes amid disruption at the BBC following resignations from top executives and a lawsuit from US president Donald Trump, who is seeking up to 10 billion US dollars (£7.5 billion) in damages in response to the editing of a speech he made before the 2021 attack on the Capitol that was featured in a Panorama episode. The charter sets out the BBC's public purpose and is the constitutional basis for the corporation, which is predominately funded through the licence fee, paid by UK TV-watching households.Meanwhile, the Health Secretary has apologised to patients as doctors began a five-day walkout in England in an ongoing row over jobs and pay. It comes as healthcare leaders warned the impact of the strike will be “felt all the way into January and beyond”. Wes Streeting said the Government did “everything we could” to avoid the strike, including holding 11th-hour talks with British Medical Association (BMA) officials on Tuesday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The US president has filed a lawsuit against the BBC and is seeking up to 10 billion dollars (£7.5 billion) in damages in response to the editing of a speech he made before the 2021 attack on the Capitol.Donald Trump's lawyers argue the depiction of him given in the edit, which aired in a Panorama documentary a week before the results of the 2024 US election, “was false and defamatory” and they also said “the BBC intentionally and maliciously sought to fully mislead its viewers around the world”.In the Panorama programme, a clip from Mr Trump's speech on January 6 2021 was spliced to show him saying: “We're going to walk down to the Capitol… and I'll be there with you. And we fight. We fight like hell.”Speaking with Editor of Spiked Online's Tom Slater, Talk's Julia Hartley-Brewer says: “Everyone knows why they did it!" Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Two 17-year-old Afghan asylum seekers are jailed for abducting and raping a 15-year-old girl in Leamington Spa. Distressing phone footage captured the attack, with lawyers warning public release could spark disorder. Jahanzeb gets 10 years and Niazal gets 9 years. The judge says they robbed her of her childhood and recommends deportation. Reporting restrictions on their identities are lifted. Julia Hartley-Brewer chat to editor of Spiked Online, Tom Slater. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Julia Hartley-Brewer chats to Lord Young about Britain's Free Speech crisis as yet another Brit becomes the latest victim of Keir Starmer's two-tier nation. Today, it's Jamie Michael, who was initially charged with hate speech towards illegal migrants after posting a video on Facebook. Even though a jury took 17 minutes to find Jamie ‘not guilty', local safeguarding authorities in Wales deemed him not to be allowed to work with kids. Jamie, a father of two, is no longer allowed to coach his daughter's local football team. Outraged by this decision, Julia is joined by Conservative Peer and Free Speech Union founder, Lord Young, as well as regular guest Sam Armstrong. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

James Cleverly explodes on TalkTV: Labour's postponing four mayoral elections for two years is a "scandalous attempt to subvert democracy" – and they've done it twice now. "It absolutely stinks," he blasts. Julia Hartley-Brewer grills the Shadow Local Government Secretary in this fiery showdown. Is Starmer's crew killing fair elections? Tune in for the unfiltered takedown. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Julia Hartley-Brewer is joined by ex-Conservative Government adviser Claire Pearsall to go through the top stories of the day. Russia is prepared to go to war with Europe, Vladimir Putin has declared, as he accused European leaders of trying to scupper his peace talks with the US. The Russian president rejected the latest peace plan for Ukraine ahead of a meeting with Trump's envoys behind closed doors in Moscow. Meanwhile, Nigel Farage has reportedly let slip that he would be open to doing a deal with the Tories, and trans girls, i.e. BOYS, will not be allowed to join the Girl Guides or Brownies... Good, they are boys. Finally, some common sense. All that and much more on The Julia Hartley-Brewer Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Shadow Justice Secretary Robert Jenrick blasts Labour's chaos: prisoners accidentally freed and still on the run, a “part-time” David Lammy jetting off, plans to scrap jury trials, and Rachel Reeves accused of tanking the economy with £16bn of broken promises. Jenrick asks the question on everyone's lips: why are Lammy and Reeves still in their jobs? Fiery from Julia Hartley-Brewer. Short, sharp, and unfiltered. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Keir Starmer calls his £70 billion tax-hiking Budget “a moment of personal pride”. Britain calls it a betrayal. Julia Hartley-Brewer rips into the Prime Minister live on air: “Forget sacking Rachel Reeves… Keir, sack YOURSELF!” Today, Julia exposes how Labour's “black hole” turned out to be a £4.2 billion surplus the Chancellor conveniently forgot to mention. Sir Iain Duncan Smith says Reeves must resign for misleading Parliament. Was the entire crisis manufactured to justify the biggest tax grab in history?Then, the story that's chilling free speech across Britain: childminder Lucy Connolly, jailed for a tweet after the Southport murders, now watches her innocent young daughter get banned from school in an act of collective punishment. Julia publicly retracts her earlier stance on air: “Lucy should never have gone to prison. I was wrong.”Raw clips, no spin, zero apologies. This is the Britain they don't want you to see. Buckle up. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this explosive episode of the podcast, host Alex Phillips sits down with veteran journalist Trevor Kavanagh to dissect the mounting chaos under Keir Starmer's Labour government. Kicking off with the shocking U-turn on Angela Rayner's flagship workers' rights bill, where day-one unfair dismissal protections have been scrapped amid business backlash and accusations of manifesto betrayal, the duo explores how this climbdown exposes deepening rifts within Labour's ranks. They then turn to the alarming "brain drain" gripping Britain—record 110,051 asylum claims in the year to September, fueling a surge in hotel housing costs, while over 174,000 young Britons aged 16-34 flee the high-tax, socialist policies for better opportunities abroad. Wrapping up, Phillips and Kavanagh spotlight the international embarrassment as US diplomats, under Trump's directive, are ordered to log migrant-linked crimes in the UK, highlighting policies that critics say favor newcomers at the expense of locals—especially as asylum seekers now account for nearly half of net migration, straining resources and public safety. Tune in for unfiltered analysis on why Britain's borders and economy are buckling under the weight of unchecked inflows. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this hard-hitting episode, legendary journalist and broadcaster Andrew Neil sits down with host Julia Hartley-Brewer to deliver a blistering verdict on Chancellor Rachel Reeves' Autumn Budget 2025. Labeling it the "biggest tax increase of any government since the 1970s," Neil slams the £26 billion hike as a betrayal of voter trust—funding soaring welfare costs while squeezing workers, savers, and businesses. "Nobody voted for any of this. It's bad for democracy," he warns, unpacking how this "watershed" moment could stall economic growth, fuel inflation, and deepen the UK's fiscal woes. From scrapped benefit caps to record-high taxes, explore the real impact on everyday Brits and whether Labour's promises are crumbling under the weight of reality. Essential listening for anyone feeling the pinch—subscribe now for unfiltered political insight! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today's explosive episode, we dive headfirst into the chaos of the UK Autumn Budget 2025 – a day that started with high drama and ended with Chancellor Rachel Reeves facing her toughest grilling yet. Just minutes before she rose in the House of Commons to deliver her fiscal blueprint, the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) dropped a bombshell: the national budget is set to balloon by a staggering £29 billion by 2029-30. Was it a deliberate leak from Labour insiders, a Tory sabotage, or just bureaucratic bungling? We unpack the fallout, the finger-pointing, and what it means for your wallet. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this explosive episode of The Julia Hartley-Brewer Podcast, the Queen of Westminster unleashes on the latest NHS bombshell: a three-year trial greenlighting puberty blockers and hormone therapy for over 200 children—some just 10 years old. Is this groundbreaking research or a dangerous experiment on vulnerable kids? Julia doesn't hold back, slamming Health Secretary Wes Streeting and demanding accountability: "If you allow this to go ahead, you should be prosecuted—I really do." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alex Phillips and anti-lockdown hero James Melville rattle through the release of the COVID report. It finds that lockdowns could have been avoided entirely and that it was effectively a £200m "I told you so". It was also a betrayal of our children and how school closures destroyed the next generation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.