Steve Richards presents the Rock N Roll Politics podcast

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Based on his live one man show Rock N Roll Politics, the broadcaster and author, Steve Richards, takes a weekly behind the scenes tour of UK politics and the media that shapes the way we view the epic political dramas. The future is ridiculously unpredictable and the past is so easy to misread. Subs…

Steve Richards: Political columnist and broadcaster


    • Jun 10, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekly NEW EPISODES
    • 45m AVG DURATION
    • 335 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Steve Richards presents the Rock N Roll Politics podcast

    What does Sarah Vine's book tell us about the crisis in the Conservative Party?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 10, 2025 58:10


    Sarah Vine, the journalist and former wife of Michael Gove, has written a book that partly chronicles their lives in the court of David Cameron and the Notting Hill Conservatives. In doing so she is the latest insider chronicler to shine light on the shallowness of the Cameron project, with dark consequences for the Conservative party and the country. Rachel Reeves has a chance this week to reframe the government's confused narrative. Will she take it? Plus brilliant questions and latest news of Rock & Roll Politics live at the Edinburgh Festival. Rock & Roll Politics - The End of the Political Year Special is live at Kings Place on July 17th. Tickets here. Subscribe to Patreon for bonus podcasts, the main podcast a day early and ad free… plus special exclusive live events. Written and presented by Steve Richards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    What is the key ingredient that makes a leader stronger?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2025 57:40


    Keir Starmer is an evasive leader but on one point he is clear: he is a pragmatist, has no time for ideology and there will be no ‘Starmerism'. But without strong ideological convictions can a leader flourish? Plus, brilliant questions from the Rock & Roll Politics co-operative. Rock & Roll Politics is live in the main concert hall at Kings Place on July 17th.. The End of the Political Year Special. Tickets here. Subscribe to Patreon for bonus podcasts, the main podcast a day early and ad free… plus special exclusive live events. Written and presented by Steve Richards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Are there dark echoes from a distant Labour government?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 3, 2025 54:22


    While researching the 1929 Labour government for a new book I found myself thinking repeatedly “this reminds me of now”. The yearning to follow economic orthodoxies of the past, the desire to be agents of ‘change' while being fearful of change etc… and then I came across a Tony Blair interview from the 2001 election. This week, we look at the many lessons for now from a distant and another more recent Labour government. Rock & Roll Politics is live in the main concert hall at Kings Place on July 17th... The End of the Political Year Special. Tickets here. Subscribe to Patreon for bonus podcasts, the main podcast a day early and ad free… plus special exclusive live events. Written and presented by Steve Richards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    In conversation with Michael Heseltine

    Play Episode Listen Later May 27, 2025 69:43


    I spoke to Michael Heseltine at the Cambridge Literary Festival about his remarkable career, how he would have changed the Tory party's approach to Europe had he won the leadership contest in 1990, his reflections on Thatcher, his radical ideas if he were prime minister now… and much more. The Cambridge Winter Festival is held on the 22nd and 23rd of November. Rock & Roll Politics is live in the main concert hall at Kings Place on July 17th. Tickets here. Subscribe to Patreon for bonus podcasts, the main podcast a day early and ad free… plus special exclusive live events. Written and presented by Steve Richards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Can The Tories survive?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 20, 2025 66:02


    The Labour government has signed a deal with the EU that brings significant improvements to the agreement negotiated by Johnson and Lord Frosty Frost… their deal being a reminder of the many calamitous developments in the wild fourteen years of misrule. Can the Tory  Party recover from such a record or is it doomed to be replaced by Reform? Rock & Roll Politics is live in the main concert hall at Kings Place on July 17th. Tickets here. Subscribe to Patreon for bonus podcasts, the main podcast a day early and ad free… plus special exclusive live events. Written and presented by Steve Richards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Who will win the battle of the UK's borders?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 13, 2025 61:20


    Keir Starmer and Yvette Cooper have played their migration cards, but will they be enough to counter Farage's populist policies? Will they work in practical terms? And if they do, what will be the impact on growth and any hope for the urgently needed National Care Service? So many questions erupt when moving on to this thorny terrain… Subscribe to Patreon for bonus podcasts, the main podcast a day early and ad free… plus special exclusive live events. Written and presented by Steve Richards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Do Starmer and co know what they mean by ‘change' and ‘reform'?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 6, 2025 50:36


    Labour was elected to deliver ‘change' but Starmer, Reeves and Morgan McSweeney have been cautious and vague about their ambition to move on from the recent past. Instead Labour communications use the term ‘reform' as if it were a policy in itself. Now Labour faces the Reform Party, the Greens, the SNP and Lib Dems, all pitching bolder versions of change. Yet in government Labour is trapped by fiscal rules, the power of the Office for Budget Responsibility and a lack of clarity and coherence at the top. Can Starmer become a clear-sighted political teacher? • Rock'n'Roll Politics is live at Kings Place this Thursday, May 8th. Tickets available here. • Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.  Written and presented by Steve Richards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Is the Government moving closer to Europe?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 29, 2025 53:26


    There is a big UK/EU summit in May which ministers are confident will be a significant event – and not just a talking shop. Meanwhile Rachel Reeves has dared to state the obvious – that a deal with the EU is the biggest prize for the British government, as Trump oscillates wildly. Are these signs that a government so fearful of raising Brexit is beginning to turn towards Europe? And what would be the consequences?  Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on May 8th and streaming live, just days after the local elections and the Runcorn by-election. A new landscape? Tickets available here. Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.  Written and presented by Steve Richards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Why are the right targeting Ed Miliband?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 22, 2025 57:15


    The right are obsessed with Miliband and his zeal for net zero policies, but is there any basis for the argument that his net zero policies threaten economic growth? And what is their alternative strategy? Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on May 8th… there'll be a lot going on. Tickets available here. Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.  Written and presented by Steve Richards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    With Farage backing steel nationalisation, is public ownership back in fashion?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 15, 2025 49:33


    For decades nationalisation was the great taboo in British politics, while privatisation was deemed the great triumph of Thatcherism. Blair and Brown were opposed to any attempt to renationalise – but now there is cross party support for the nationalisation of British Steel, the railways are being renationalised and there is huge support for the government to take over water companies. What's happening… and why? Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on May 8th. Tickets available here. Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.  Written and presented by Steve Richards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Will Brexit Britain flourish in the New World Order?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 8, 2025 42:28


    Is there a hint of British exceptionalism in the early days of the Trump-induced economic crisis? Apparently the UK got off lightly, while Keir Starmer can be a ‘bridgehead' between Europe and the US. Let's see…  Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on the 8th of May, just days after local elections and the Runcorn by-election. Tickets available here. Subscribe to Patreon here for live events, bonus podcasts and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free. Written and presented by Steve Richards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    How long will Trump's ‘love' of tariffs last?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 1, 2025 49:52


    Trump has said ‘tariff' is his favourite word, but will US consumers agree with him when prices rise? Plus - does the UK need a Department for Economic Growth? Subscribe to Patreon here to join Thursday's live discussion and get a vault of timeless bonus podcasts. Rock & Roll Politics is live at the main concert hall in Kings Place on May 8th. Tickets here. Written and presented by Steve Richards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Is Rachel Reeves trapped by her fiscal rules?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 25, 2025 64:24


    This week Rachel Reeves announces more spending cuts in order to meet her fiscal rules, and the OBR's verdict on her ‘fiscal headroom'. But what was the original purpose of ‘the fiscal rules' and has Reeves learned the lessons from past Labour chancellors? Some context in a week that could doom a landslide government to being trapped rather than liberated by a chancellor's ‘ironclad' rules. Rock & Roll Politics is live at the main concert hall in Kings Place on May 8th. Tickets here. Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.  Written and presented by Steve Richards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Is Wes Streeting taking back control?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 18, 2025 61:09


    The decision to scrap NHS England is a rare example of clear thinking in relation to delivery of public services. Can such clarity be applied more widely or will chaotic lines of management from the BBC to the railways continue to prevail? Some context from the 1980s, the New Labour era and David Cameron's shallow and confused thinking when he set up NHS England. Rock & Roll Politics is live at the main concert hall in Kings Place on May 8th. Tickets here. Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.  Written and presented by Steve Richards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Can Rachel Reeves slash welfare spending?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 11, 2025 61:24


    Rachel Reeves is looking to save billions from the welfare budget. What are the lessons from New Labour's attempts to cut welfare and what is the purpose of the latest focus on benefits? Will the government succeed in its hastily planned mission? Plus, brilliant questions on the international crisis and the internal turmoil in Reform. Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on May 8th. Tickets here. Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.  Written and presented by Steve Richards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    What will it mean to have ‘boots on the ground'?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 4, 2025 46:19


    Keir Starmer is enjoying his best media coverage since the election – but the UK commentariat always hails the appearance of ‘strong leadership' during the early phase of an international crisis. Tough choices can still be avoided, but what happens when the consequences are played out and these vaguely defined choices must be made? The commentariat in the UK can turn speedily… and so can voters. Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.  Written and presented by Steve Richards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Can Keir Starmer be the ‘bridge' between Europe and Trump?

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 25, 2025 51:22


    The moving parts in the international crisis continue to move. Macron and Starmer in Washington, a new government to form in Germany and Trump never far away from a TV screen. But to what end are all the diverse parts moving? Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.  Written and presented by Steve Richards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Is Europe heading for war with Russia?

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 18, 2025 42:48


    Trump has instigated peace talks with Putin. The UK, France and Germany are alarmed, but what did they expect? And in their responses are they making a war with Russia more likely, and with what consequences? Plus more on ‘disrupters vs non-disrupters' - the silliest and most shallow framing in the history of modern politics. Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts including the current series ‘The Defectors', and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.  Written and presented by Steve Richards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Who are the ‘incumbent disrupters' in Keir Starmer's government?

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 11, 2025 58:27


    The new fashionable term in politics is ‘disrupter' or ‘insurgent'. Morgan McSweeney briefs that the government must be insurgents, but does he mean it? The cautious Number 10 operation seems wary of genuine change making ministers, so who are the insurgents? And can Starmer be one? Plus, brilliant questions from the Rock & Roll Politics co-operative. Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts, and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.  Written and presented by Steve Richards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Is Rachel Reeves an accidental risk taker?

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 4, 2025 59:55


    The chancellor hails her fiscal rules and iron resolution, but in her search for stability is she taking routes that are riskier than they appear to be? Plus five years of Brexit, the real Walden/ Thatcher interview and brilliant questions from the Rock & Roll Politics co-operative. Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts, and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.  Written and presented by Steve Richards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Can a cautious government achieve economic growth?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 28, 2025 61:26


    Rachel Reeves is going for growth, but will she succeed? Plus, as Channel 4 screen James Graham's new drama on Brian Walden's last interview with Margaret Thatcher, what are the lessons for today's media and top politicians? Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place next Monday 3rd of February for the first live show in what will be a wild political year. Tickets here. Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts, and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.  Written and presented by Steve Richards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Trump is back. What are the lessons for Starmer?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 21, 2025 53:15


    Trump has won again as a disruptor, reflecting the mood of an impatient electorate aching for change. Starmer won the election last year arguing for ‘change' – but can he become a confident changemaker? And why are hardline Brexiteers so content with Trump's power to determine the fate of the British economy, while obsessing over Westminster sovereignty in relation to the EU? Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on the 3rd of February for the first live show in what will be a wild political year. Tickets here. Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts, and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.  Written and presented by Steve Richards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Should the Liberal Democrats be getting more media attention?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 14, 2025 51:55


    Nigel Farage commands the airwaves with only four MPs – and the two bigger parties obsess about the threat posed by Reform. Yet it's the Lib Dems that made sweeping gains in Tory areas and have 72 MPs. As Keir Starmer's cautious government gives them space on issues such as social care and Europe, and the media focuses on Reform, could they become a force again? Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on the 3rd of February for the first live show in what will be a wild political year. Tickets here. Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts, and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.  Written and presented by Steve Richards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Is the government wasting a landslide majority?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 7, 2025 43:13


    The announcement that a national care service will be the subject of another review shines light on a government with a landslide majority, but that is reluctant to use it in order to achieve challenging but historic change. Plus, the Reform UK latest, and Musk disowns Farage. Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on the 3rd of February for the first live show in what will be a wild political year. Tickets here. Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts, and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.  Written and presented by Steve Richards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Rock & Roll Politics Special: The Troublemakers

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 30, 2024 87:08


    Join Steve Richards for a special end of year political deep dive - straight from the Rock & Roll Politics Patreon vaults. In a bumper double episode Steve looks at the careers of Enoch Powell and Tony Benn - on the face of it, two very different figures. Yet the pair remain connected by their capacity to play the role of political troublemaker - a theme to be explored by Steve in a forthcoming new book. Thanks to all the listeners in the Rock & Roll Politics co-operative for your support in 2024, and stay tuned for more in the new year. Written and presented by Steve Richards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Rock & Roll Politics Live at Kings Place - The final show of 2024

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 23, 2024 94:44


    • Give or get 20% off a year's Patreon support for the pod in our Black Friday sale.  Here's a recording of the final live show of 2024, recorded at Kings Place, where we tried to make sense of the epic politics of 2024. Including excellent questions from the Rock & Roll Politics co-operative. Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts, and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.  Written and presented by Steve Richards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Why Nigel Farage is not as formidable as he appears to be

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 17, 2024 54:27


    • Give or get 20% off a year's Patreon support for the pod in our Black Friday sale.  Farage is a formidable campaigner but the UK has a party based system, and running a party is a nightmare after the early euphoria of making waves has passed. Here's why. Plus, the co-operative's never ending debate on assisted dying, the future of Starmer and much more. Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts, and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.  Written and presented by Steve Richards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    What happens if thousands flee Syria?

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 10, 2024 55:22


    • Give or get 20% off a year's Patreon support for the pod in our Black Friday sale.  What happens if thousands flee Syria? Where do they go? Can borders be ‘closed' when asylum demands rise? The movement of people is the second crisis of the global economy after the financial crash, but there has been no global response.  Plus brilliant questions from the Rock & Roll Politics co-operative and important assembly notices. Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts, and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.  Written and presented by Steve Richards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Will Keir Starmer's ‘relaunch' make a difference?

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 3, 2024 49:08


    • Give or get 20% off a year's Patreon support for the pod in our Black Friday sale.  Keir Starmer will make a big speech on Thursday that is being perceived as a ‘relaunch', though Number 10 are keen to insist it is nothing of the sort. But is this a government with a clear sense of purpose? And if so, do voters know what that purpose is? Plus brilliant questions from the Rock & Roll Politics co-operative and important assembly notices. Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts, and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.  Written and presented by Steve Richards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Is Starmer Moving Closer to Europe?

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 26, 2024 49:51


    • Give or get 20% off a year's Patreon support for the pod in our Black Friday sale.  The government is advertising for a senior civil servant to work on a detailed ‘reset' of the UK's relations with the EU. Can the changes be of any significance? Will Trump be a factor in limiting the government's ambitions? And how far will the government dare to go? Plus brilliant questions from the Rock & Roll Politics co-operative and important assembly notices. Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place this Wednesday 27th of November for the last show of 2024. There's only a handful of tickets left, get yours here.  Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts, and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.  Written and presented by Steve Richards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    What's Wes Streeting up to?

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 19, 2024 53:04


    Wes Streeting has enjoyed a high profile under Keir Starmer so far. Recently he made a significant intervention in the debate over assisted dying, while announcing the first Alan Milburn inspired NHS reforms. What will the consequences be? Plus brilliant questions from the Rock & Roll Politics co-operative – and important assembly notices. Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on November 27th for the last show of 2024, the year of Trump, Starmer and Badenoch. There's a lot to make sense of.  Tickets here. Subscribe to Patreon here for bonus podcasts and much more. Written and presented by Steve Richards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Can Starmer connect with “the left behind”?

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 12, 2024 58:05


    Increasing numbers of voters feel disconnected from what happens in Westminster, Washington D.C, and most places where democratic politics is played out, leaving space for populists to feed off the angry indifference. Can the likes of Keir Starmer address the ‘people's revolt'? Plus brilliant questions from the Rock & Roll Politics co-operative and important assembly notices. Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on November 27th for the last show of 2024, the year of Trump, Starmer and Badenoch. So there's a lot to make sense of.  Tickets here. Subscribe to Patreon here for bonus podcasts and much more. Written and presented by Steve Richards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Can Kemi Badenoch revive the Tories?

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 5, 2024 54:55


    The Conservatives have elected yet another leader in yet another challenging context. Does Kemi Badenoch have the epic qualities required to revive the party's fortunes? Plus: the Budget, Harris v Trump, more brilliant questions from the Rock & Roll Politics co-operative, and important assembly notices. See Rock & Roll Politics live: • The Ropetackle in Shoreham on Weds 6 Nov. Tickets here. • Kings Place on Weds 27 Nov, the last show of the year. Tickets here. Back the podcast on Patreon here for bonus editions and much more. Written and presented by Steve Richards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Will the budget be a historic turning point?

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 29, 2024 55:33


    This week Rachel Reeves will deliver the most anticipated budget in modern times. Can she significantly change the UK's economic prospects and the course of a wobbly government? Plus brilliant questions from the Rock& Roll Politics co-operative, and important assembly notices. Rock & Roll Politics Live: • The Ropetackle in Shoreham, Weds 6 Nov. Tickets here. • Kings Place London, Weds 27 November – the last show of the year. Tickets here. Support us on Patreon here for bonus podcasts and much more. Written and presented by Steve Richards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Are some chancellors more powerful than their prime ministers?

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 22, 2024 50:05


    Some chancellors determine the fate of their governments with their budget – and Rachel Reeves may do so on October 30th. But prime ministers have no equivalent levers. Does this make some chancellors more powerful than their prime ministers?  Support Rock & Roll politics on Patreon. Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on November 27th. Come and join Steve for the final show of the year. Tickets here. Written and presented by Steve Richards Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    What is the most underrated quality in a leader?

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 15, 2024 59:22


    I am obsessed by the qualities required to be an effective leader, as members of the co-operative know. On reflecting on the death of Alex Salmond I discovered another underexplored quality in leadership – and I discuss the significance of Labour's attempt to create an active state. Plus brilliant questions from the Rock n Roll Politics co-operative, and important assembly notices. Rock n Roll Politics is live at the Ropetackle in Shoreham on November 6th. Tickets here. …and is live at Kings Place on November 27th.. the last show of the year. Tickets here. Subscribe to Patreon here for bonus podcasts and much more. Written and presented by Steve Richards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Will the departure of Sue Gray boost Starmer's government?

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 8, 2024 47:05


    Sue Gray has gone and Morgan Mcsweeney is in charge. Where does this leave Keir Starmer and his confused and confusing government? Plus brilliant questions from the Rock n Roll Politics co-operative, and important assembly notices. Subscribe to Patreon here for bonus podcasts and much more. Written and presented by Steve Richards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Why Are The Conservatives Still Talking To Themselves?

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 1, 2024 52:53


    The Conservatives were slaughtered at the latest election, and yet its leadership candidates are still singing the same old tune. Is the party weaker now than it was in 1997? Plus brilliant questions from the Rock & Roll Politics co-operative, and important assembly notices. Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place next Monday. Tickets here:  https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-7-oct-in-hall/ Subscribe to Patreon here for bonus podcasts and much more. Written and presented by Steve Richards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Can Labour recover from its wobbly start?

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2024 39:33


    The first Labour conference after a landslide win should be celebratory, but in Liverpool the mood is uncertain. Can Keir Starmer give his government a clearer sense of purpose?   Rock n Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on October 7th. Tickets here! Subscribe to Patreon here for bonus podcasts and much more. Written and presented by Steve Richards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Can the Lib Dems Make Any Impact on a Landslide Government?

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 17, 2024 51:01


    The Lib Dems won 72 seats at the election. While this is an epic achievement, it will have little influence over a government with a commanding majority. But is there one policy where they could play an historic role? Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on October 7th. Tickets here. Subscribe to Patreon here for bonus podcasts and much more. Written and presented by Steve Richards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Does the government need to be unpopular?

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 10, 2024 50:12


    Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves are refusing to budge over the winter fuel payment saga – and both argue they are willing to be unpopular if the decision is the 'right one'. But is this the smart strategic course? And is unpopularity an inevitable consequence of 'tough' leadership? Plus, answers to brilliant listener questions and some vital assembly notices... Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on Oct 7... a lot going on by then. Tickets here  Please subscribe to Patreon for ad free podcasts a day early and bonus podcasts every month. Subscribe here Written and presented by Steve Richards Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Will the next Tory leader ever be prime minister?

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 3, 2024 54:16


    Whoever wins the Tory leadership contest will face a titanic task. Are any of the six candidates up to it? And can Labour make the most of the political space while they decide?  Support Rock & Roll politics on Patreon. Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on Oct 7th after the party conferences. Tickets here. Written and presented by Steve Richards Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Do things have to get worse?

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 27, 2024 51:43


    In Keir Starmer's first major speech as Prime Minister he argues things will get worse before they will get better… Is this the right message and approach? Why are incoming Labour governments so much more cautious than their Conservative equivalents?  Rock & Roll Politics is live at King's Place London on Mon October 7. Tickets here Support the podcast on Patreon here for live events, bonus podcasts, the main podcast ad-free and a day early, and more… Written and presented by Steve Richards Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    The briefings against Sue Gray

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 20, 2024 34:06


    The macho briefings against Sue Gray have echoes with those against Marcia Williams in the Harold Wilson era, and could have disruptive consequences. Plus latest from the Edinburgh Festival. Rock & Roll Politics is at the Edinburgh Festival every day until August 24, with a different show every time for the whole festival. Tickets here Support the podcast on Patreon here for live events, bonus podcasts, the main podcast ad-free and a day early, and more… Written and presented by Steve Richards Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Are the Tories doomed whoever is the next leader?

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 13, 2024 39:20


    With Reform breathing down their necks should the next Tory leader seek to work with Farage or try to destroy him? Either route is fraught with explosive problems… Rock & Roll Politics is at the Edinburgh Festival every day until August 24, with a different show every time for the whole festival. Tickets here Support the podcast on Patreon here for live events, bonus podcasts, the main podcast ad-free and a day early, and more… Written and presented by Steve Richards Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Are the riots more than a law and order issue?

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 6, 2024 46:54


    There are attempts to elevate the activities of criminal thugs by suggesting that they are “on to something”. Are they? Plus brilliant questions on the riots, Rachel Reeves, and how to pronounce Kamala. Rock & Roll Politics is at the Edinburgh Festival from Sun Aug 11th and then every day, with a different show every time for the whole festival. Tickets here. Back the podcast on Patreon here for live events, bonus podcasts, the main podcast ad-free and a day early, and more… Written and presented by Steve Richards Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Has Rachel Reeves won the case for tax rises?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 30, 2024 55:59


    Labour was not candid about the state of public finances before the election. Can it be so now, without losing public trust?   Back us on Patreon to join the Post-Election Post-Mortem on ZOOM on Tue 30 July – plus you'll get bonus podcasts, live events, exclusive merchandise and much more.   Rock & Roll Politics is at the Edinburgh Festival from Aug 11th and then every day, with a different show every time. Tickets here   Written and presented by Steve Richards Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Why do doomed leaders struggle to quit?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 23, 2024 46:43


    President Biden will not fight a second term… but it's taken him a long time to reach an obvious conclusion that was right in front of us. And he's not alone. Most leaders do not dare to accept that it's over when it is. Plus, more on Labour's foreign policy, your questions and much more. Back us on Patreon to join the Post-Election Post-Mortem on ZOOM on Tue 30 July: https://www.patreon.com/posts/join-steve-for-108244685 – plus you get bonus podcasts, live events, exclusive merchandise and much more. https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Rock & Roll Politics is at the Edinburgh Festival from Aug 11th and then every day, with a different show every time. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics Written and presented by Steve Richards Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Where next for the ‘Special Relationship' amid US turmoil?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 16, 2024 47:34


    The attempted assassination of Donald Trump is a symbol of a disturbed democracy and will be another destabilising factor for the US. UK Prime Ministers choose to hug the US close, but how reliable an ally is the US for a British government seeking a more mature foreign policy after the reckless misrule of recent years? Plus: Why England losing is part of a reassuring pattern…your brilliant questions… and much more.   Rock & Roll Politics is at the Edinburgh Festival from Aug 11th and then every day… with a LOT to make sense of. Tickets here   Back us on Patreon for bonus podcasts, live events, exclusive merchandise and much more. Written and presented by Steve Richards Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Has Keir Starmer won the political space to be daring?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 9, 2024 54:15


    Keir Starmer is only the third Labour leader to enter Number 10 having won a landslide. Only Attlee and Blair achieved similar results. Starmer has the bonus of facing a demoralised and divided Tory party. How will he make use of rare political space? Plus, as ever, your brilliant questions.  Rock & Roll Politics is live daily at the Edinburgh Festival with a brand new show every day from Aug 11th. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics Back us on Patreon for bonus podcasts, live events, exclusive merchandise and much more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Written and presented by Steve Richards Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    What have we learnt from this strange election?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 2, 2024 50:28


    Labour's mammoth lead has been virtually unchanged from the start of the campaign six weeks ago. Despite this the election has been full of surprises and if we look closely enough there is much to discover from the oddest campaign in decades. Support Rock & Roll politics on Patreon. Rock & Roll Politics – the post election special is live at Kings Place on July 10th. If the polls are right it will be the first live show at Kings Place under a Labour government:. Tickets here. Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival in a new political landscape from Aug 11th. Tickets here. Written and presented by Steve Richards Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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