Podcast appearances and mentions of Ayesha Hazarika

On The News Quiz this week, Andy Zaltzman is joined by Ayesha Hazarika, Susie McCabe, Geoff Norcott and Pierre Novellie to discuss Britain's attempts to court the US and the EU, Trump's tariff turmoil, new report cards from Ofsted, and Starmer's uncovered voice coaching.Written by Andy Zaltzman.With additional material by: Jade Gebbie, Alex Kealy, Christina Riggs and Stuart McPherson. Producer: Rajiv Karia Executive Producer: Richard Morris Production Coordinator: Jodie Charman Sound Editor: Marc WillcoxA BBC Studios Audio Production for Radio 4 An Eco-Audio certified Production.

Sonia Sodha of The Observer assesses the latest developments at Westminster.How should the British government respond to Donald Trump? That question was again asked this week after the American President suggested the US could take over Gaza, removing Palestinian residents in order to redevelop the strip. Earlier in the week the President also threatened tariffs against allies such as Mexico, Canada and the EU. To discuss how the UK should navigate this tricky diplomatic terrain, Sonia speaks to Lord Darroch, former UK ambassador to the US, and Sir David Lidington, a former Conservative Cabinet minister and now chairman of the defence think tank RUSI.Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson, gave a major speech on Monday setting out her vision for England's schools. It follows criticism of her Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill which is currently going through Parliament. To debate the reforms Sonia is joined by Mary Bousted, a former general secretary of the National Education Union and now a Labour peer, and Neil O'Brien, a Conservative MP and former minister.Is the UK becoming less cohesive? Sara Khan, the government's former independent adviser on social cohesion and resilience, explains why she thinks there is a risk to democracy from declining social cohesion.And, as a new book charting Keir Starmer's rise to power sends the Westminster gossip machine into overdrive, Sonia speaks to one of the co-authors, Gabriel Pogrund of The Sunday Times, and Labour peer, Ayesha Hazarika.

From politics to comedy to campaigning against anti-social behaviour, broadcaster Ayesha Hazarika is the latest guest on Lord Speaker's Corner.Baroness Hazarika grew up in Coatbridge, Scotland and is the first person of Indian Assamese heritage to join the House of Lords. She rose to become a senior adviser to Labour figures including Harriet Harman and Ed Miliband, playing a crucial role preparing them for PMQs:‘I think Prime Minister's Questions gets a very bad rap, because it does often become quite Punch and Judy, but I think it's a really important function of our democracy. There are not many democracies around the world where the principal politician in the land is called to the same spot week in, week out, and faces questions on any topic from any Member of Parliament across the country.'In this episode, Baroness Hazarika talks about her unlikely career path from politics to stand-up comedy and broadcasting, and back to politics. She also explains to Lord McFall how she will use her new political platform to campaign against anti-social behaviour and crime:‘I don't like calling this low-level crime, because I don't think it's low-level crime. But I think this stuff is not easy, but the more we talk about it and the more we press government ministers, that puts the pressure on them to keep on keeping this a priority.'Finally, Baroness Hazarika tells Lord McFall about receiving the phone call to offer her a place in the Lords, explaining ‘I really couldn't believe it, because if you're somebody like me from my background and you've loved politics your whole life, it's a real honour to be asked to join the House of Lords for the party that you have served and the party you love.'She shares that this wasn't the first thought that went through her head though, saying ‘The person said, “I'm calling on behalf of Keir Starmer. This is really serious. Are you by yourself? I think you better sit down.” And the first thing I thought was, "Oh my goodness, what have I been saying on my social media? Am I about to get cancelled, or am I about to get suspended from the Labour Party? Have I said something terrible?' See more from the series https://www.parliament.uk/business/lords/house-of-lords-podcast/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Recorded live at the Centre for Progressive Policy's Inclusive Growth Conference on 28th November, this special episode The Power Test looks at where we are six months into the new Labour government and what it needs to do to deliver its promise of a decade of national renewal.Following the Budget, the reelection of Donald Trump in the US, farmer protests, and a rumoured government ‘relaunch', Sam Freedman and Ayesha Hazarika, together with Chief Executive of the New Economics Foundation Dr Danny Sriskandarajah, CPP's Director of Place and Practice Annabel Smith, and Power Test regular and Director of the Project on Center-Left Renewal at the Progressive Policy Institute Claire Ainsley, look at what Labour needs to do to deliver, restore trust in politics and survive.Most significantly, “voters need clear proof points on delivery that they can see in their own lives” said Ainsley, arguing that standard economic measures will not be enough to convince Britons to back Labour for a second term. “You have to improve living standards, not just infrastructure and GDP” - a lesson potentially that can be taken from Donald Trump's victory in the US over an unpopular Democratic Party despite a booming economy on paper.Labour also needs to be telling a story about its approach on the economy - “you need to constantly tell people what you're doing. The Tories tried several different explanations of their approach - but at least they tried” - with the panel pushing the government to toughen up argument, even on politically challenging issues including taxes on wealth.Smith also raised the somewhat untapped potential Labour mayors can offer the government - “we can reinvigorate Labour representation, with Labour mayors being part of how the government communicates its message”. Mayors are well-known, often well-liked and sometimes higher profile than new cabinet ministers. But Sam Freedman points out that with Andrea Jenkins defecting to Reform, it's quite possible that Lincolnshire could well have a Reform mayor next year, and the party needs to get a move on - particularly with local elections and those in Scotland due within 18 months to two years. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Very funny episode this week as Baroness Hazarika gets lucky to join me in the first week for a while where Labour haven't been s***ing the bed. We talk about the fights they're willing to have with the Right and Left in the upcoming budget. We also talk male objectification and whether MSM have a hypocritical blind-spot. In the Patreon only section we talk about why Trump flipping burgers is a genius move.  Order the PAPERBACK EDITION of my book: https://www.amazon.co.uk/British-Bloke-Decoded-Everything-explained/dp/1800961308/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr= JOIN the Podcast Patreon and receive each episode early, AD-FREE & with bonus content https://www.patreon.com/geoffnorcott?fan_landing=true  Join my MAILING LIST for priority Tour booking & special offers https://signup.ymlp.com/xgyueuwbgmgb Watch my COMEDY SPECIAL on YouTube https://youtu.be/YaxhuZGtDLs  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week's big cinema release Joker: Folie a Deux is under scrutiny from Tom Sutcliffe's reviewers, broadcaster Ayesha Hazarika and film critic Tim Robey. They have also read Alan Hollinghurst's new novel Our Evenings. Gramophone Artist of the Year soprano Carolyn Sampson performs in the Front Row studio - and on National Poetry Day Tom and the critics pick their favourite poems. Presenter: Tom Sutcliffe Producer: Paula McGrath

Live from Labour Party conference, The Power Test returns to look at the Labour's first months in power. Ayesha Hazarika and Sam Freedman are joined by Georgia Gould, Labour MP and Parliamentary Secretary for the Cabinet Office, Helen MacNamara, former Deputy Cabinet Secretary, and Marc Stears, director of the UCL Policy Lab, who supported this special episode, to discuss how Labour can reform and revive public services when the coffers are *cough* running low. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Baroness Hazarika - Ayesha Hazarika, former Labour adviser - joins Calum and Kirsty Buchanan, former Special Adviser to Theresa May, to discuss the politics and policy of the moment. We consider why far-right thugs were able to stage a mini riot in the aftermath of the stabbing attack in Southport in which three young girls died. We also reflect on Chancellor Rachel Reeves's announcement ending universal Winter Fuel Payments and preparing the country for tax rises. Plus, why the Tory leadership contest is going on too long. Support the podcast by becoming a member at: https://plus.acast.com/s/whitehallsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With Labour now firmly in the driver's seat of government, Sam Freedman and Ayesha Hazarika are joined by Power Test co-founder and former Chief Executive of the Centre for Progressive Policy, Charlotte Aldritt, and Ryan Wain, the Executive Director of Politics at the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change, to look at where Britain goes next.How can Labour get Britain's creaky systems moving in the right direction, and put together a positive, proactive plan for power? From AI in the civil service to Martin Lewis in the (fantasy) cabinet, this is a wide-ranging final discussion for the series. And no season finale would be complete without a few guest stars, so we've invited a few special contributors to send a message to this new government, making their requests and offering their advice. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ayesha Hazarika sits in for Jane today and she pulls back the curtain on the House of Lords - much to Fi's delight. They also chat abattoirs (again), online dating and the joys of Coatbridge. Plus, Jane speaks to comedian and ventriloquist Nina Conti. 'Whose Face Is It Anyway' will be at Edinburgh Fringe Festival next month and her film 'Sunlight' will premiere at the Edinburgh Film Festival on the 17th of August. Our next book club pick has been announced! 'Missing, Presumed' is by Susie Steiner. If you want to contact the show to ask a question and get involved in the conversation then please email us: janeandfi@times.radio.Follow us on Instagram! @janeandfiPodcast Producer: Eve SalusburyExecutive Producer: Rosie Cutler Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

July 4th, 2024: the date that Labour returned to power. After 14 years in the political wilderness, Keir Starmer has led the party to a landslide victory. With the keys to No.10 Downing Street in his hands – and a crack team of ministers assembled – it's time to look back on how Labour has changed under the Starmer premiership, and ahead to how it, in turn, could change Britain.Ayesha Hazarika – fresh from a marathon broadcasting stint – and Sam Freedman – fresh from a marathon Excel stint – gather to debrief on a momentous night for Labour politics. But the story was not always a smooth one, and Ayesha and Sam are here to unriddle the subplots, expose areas of coming danger (the threat of Reform? the rise of independent candidates?) as well as celebrating triumphs in Scotland, the so-called 'Red Wall' and the defenestration of multiple Prime Ministers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Former Labour adviser Ayesha Hazarika is back with Beth and Ruth for the last few days of the election campaign.   On this episode they discuss how Beth is preparing for election night – what constituencies to look out for and they give a listener advice on election snacks.   They also discuss the final days of campaigning and why the Tories are attacking Keir Starmer for suggesting he will finish work at 6pm on a Friday night if he becomes Prime Minister.     Email Beth, Ruth, and Ayesha at electoraldysfunction@sky.uk, post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444. 

As the general election reaches its final week, host Sascha O'Sullivan takes us inside the last push of the campaign. She explores how parties use every trick of the trade, from advertising to frantic leafleting, to try to capture every possible vote and travels to the BBC debate in Nottingham where the main party leaders had one final face off.Ayesha Hazarika, broadcaster and former adviser to Ed Miliband, explains how many voters begin tune into an election campaign only once they reach the last 10 days, and warns about the impact of gaffes during the final stretch.Former Conservative Party staffer Cleo Watson tells Sascha a scandalous story from the last week of the Vote Leave campaign which never made it to the press. Ben Guerin, one of the advertising masterminds of Boris Johnson's 2019 election victory, relates how parties use attack ads in the last few days. And Craig Oliver, Downing Street Director of Communications for David Cameron, gives us tips for winning the "ground war" by focusing relentlessly on the constituencies which matter the most.Sascha also speaks to pollster James Johnson who says that in the last week, many candidates can be overcome with a misguided optimism about their prospects — and tells us what happens campaign HQs get their data wrong. Also, Jeremy Corbyn's former head of press Steve Howell takes us inside Labour's 2017 campaign, while Sean Kemp, former special adviser to Nick Clegg, gives us a run down on Lib Dem targeting tactics in the final week. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Just before we head hurtling into election week, Sam Freedman and Ayesha Hazarika are on hand to take you through the reality of Labour's pledge on energy - together with think tank Third Way's Josh Freed who leads its Climate and Energy work and Brett Christophers, author of The Price is Wrong: Why Capitalism Won't Save the Planet.Labour has made reforming a troubled energy market one of its six key pledges, with the creation of a Great British Energy company at the heart of that. But will this guarantee energy security going forward? Is it compatible with our long-term commitment to decarbonisation and Net Zero? And, as voters head to the ballot box, how will it answer their big question: will energy prices be going down?For more, visit THEPOWERTEST.CO.UK Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Former Labour adviser Ayesha Hazarika is back with Beth and Ruth as the election campaign moves towards its final week.  On this episode they answer listener questions about Nigel Farage - after the Reform UK leader suggested the West provoked Russia's invasion of Ukraine, while insisting he was not an "apologist or supporter of Putin" - and more on Priti Patel's chances of becoming leader of the Conservative Party.  They also discuss the role of Sir Keir Starmer's wife Victoria in the Labour campaign and what her role might be if Labour form the next government.   Email Beth, Ruth, and Ayesha at electoraldysfunction@sky.uk, post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.         

As we approach the final lap of the 2024 general election, host Sascha O'Sullivan discovers what life is like for the photographers who trail hot on the heels of Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer.She speaks to PA photographer Stefan Rousseau, who talks about the blunders of this campaign, the photos we'll remember long after votes have been cast, and how special advisers try their hardest to frame their boss's image.Former Labour aide Ayesha Hazarika relives the turmoil of Ed Miliband's bacon sandwich moment, splashed across front pages in the 2015 election campaign, and the photographer who took that iconic picture, Jeremy Selwyn, tells Sascha how it looked from the other side of the lens.Freelance photographer Hollie Adams describes what a gift Boris Johnson was to Westminster's snappers, and Sascha finds out if the rumors really are true: did the former PM mess up his hair before facing the cameras?Andy Parsons, the official Downing Street photographer under several PMs, justifies No. 10 keeping a personal snapper on its staff, while Rousseau claims the practice has closed down access to the press. And former U.S. President Barack Obama's personal photographer describes capturing the famous picture of the White House Situation Room as Osama bin Laden was taken out. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As the issue drives Nigel Farage's return and the Conservatives seek to sharpen attacks on Labour in a last ditch attempt to breakthrough in the campaign, this week Ayesha Hazarika and Sam Freedman look into Labour's pledge on immigration.Ayesha and Sam probe further into Labour's policies on immigration with former Home Office adviser Matt Cavanagh and LSE economics professor, and former Chair of the Migration Advisory Committee, Alan Manning.For more visit THEPOWERTEST.CO.UK Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Former Labour adviser Ayesha Hazarika joins Sky News political editor Beth Rigby and Conservative peer Ruth Davidson as the general election campaign heads towards its final fortnight.   They're assessing whether Labour can shake off the questions about its taxation policies.   As Conservative Grant Shapps seemed to accept election defeat in an interview, is that something anyone should do in the middle of the campaign?   They discuss the "what ifs" of Reform UK leader Nigel Farage as he tries to become an MP.   And as the SNP launch their manifesto, how is the election shaping up differently in Scotland?   Plus, Beth, Ruth and Ayesha tackle listeners' questions on manifesto promises and Reform UK's unusual set-up.   Email Beth, Ruth, and Margaret at electoraldysfunction@sky.uk, post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.   In this episode, we mention the Clacton-on-Sea constituency, the full list of candidates are:     Bensilum, Matthew (Liberal Democrats)   Farage, Nigel Paul (Reform UK)   Jamieson, Craig (Climate Party)   Mack, Tony (Independent)   Osben, Natasha (Green Party)   Owusu-Nepaul, Jovan (Labour Party)   Papanastasiou, Tasos (Heritage Party)   Pemberton, Andrew (UKIP – NO to Illegal Immigration)   Watling, Giles Francis (Conservative Party) 

On this special manifesto episode of The Power Test, Ayesha Hazarika and Sam Freedman are joined by two special guests: Nick Pearce, one of the authors of Labour's 2010 manifesto, and Claire Ainsley, who was Keir Starmer's policy guru from 2020 to 2022. Together, this quartet dissect and discuss the Labour party's 2024 manifesto (titled, simply, 'Change'). Does it live up to that name? What are the big policy areas it covers, from housing to the NHS? And are there any notable omissions from the a document that could be foundational to how a Labour government does business?Looking at whether this is a bold statement of the party's intention to change Britain for the better – the key question that The Power Test has been asking for three seasons – or a cautious testament to Starmer's "safety first" mentality, this is your breakdown of the first clear indication of where the country is headed. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Former Labour adviser Ayesha Hazarika joins Sky's Beth Rigby and Conservative peer Ruth Davidson to talk about the latest developments in the general election campaign.     On this episode, they discuss whether Rishi Sunak can recover from his D-Day blunder, the fallout from Douglas Ross's resignation as leader of the Scottish Conservatives, and how the parties are funding their manifestos as they are revealed this week.    Plus, Beth tells us how she is preparing to interview the prime minister and Sir Keir Starmer at the upcoming Sky Leaders' Event. Email Beth, Ruth, and Ayesha at electoraldysfunction@sky.uk, post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.        

The academic who inspired Blair's “respect agenda" on tackling crime and anti-social behaviour urges Labour to ensure that there is effective investment in community support alongside law and policing.Talking to Ayesha Hazarika and Sam Freedman, Professor Richard Sennett, Professor of Sociology at the London School of Economics, says he recognises the similarities between the approaches taken by Keir Starmer and Blair on crime and anti-social behaviour but fears that the economic circumstances make effective action much harder today. For more, visit THEPOWERTEST.CO.UK Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Former Labour adviser Ayesha Hazarika joins Beth Rigby and Ruth Davidson as the regular Tuesday sub for Jess Philips during the election period.    On this episode, they talk about how leaders will be preparing for TV debates - Beth's hosted one, Ayesha has worked with politicians doing them, and Ruth has stood behind a lectern several times herself.   They discuss what Rishi Sunak might try to land as he tries to close the gap in the opinion polls.  Plus, has there been a "purge" of the left in Labour as Starmer thinks about what his benches will look like if he becomes prime minister.     Email Beth, Ruth, and Ayesha at electoraldysfunction@sky.uk, post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.   

Sam Freedman and Ayesha Hazarika sit down with the Chief Executives of the The King's Fund and NHS Confederation, Sarah Woolnough and Matthew Taylor, to discuss Labour's health pledge on waiting lists and what lies ahead.This week as the general election campaign hits full swing, and The Power Test is focused once again on one of the top issues for the voting public: The NHS.To find out more visit ThePowerTest.co.uk and become a Power Member so that you can access episodes early and ad-free. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Schools expert, and Teacher Tapp co-founder, Laura McInerney, joins Sam Freedman and Ayesha Hazarika to speak about Labour's commitment to recruit extra teachers by removing the VAT exemption on private schools - as well as the party's other plans on education.With election fever setting in, The Power Test is not being knocked off course. With just six weeks until a new government will be in place, Sam and Ayesha look in detail about what Labour is offering and whether its plan adds up.Joined by McInerney, the team look at Labour's pledge to recruit 6,500 extra teachers, a review of the national curriculum, the role of Ofsted, special needs education, and culture war arguments in schools. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With Labour under pressure from trade unions to remain committed to its 'New Deal for Working People', this week Ayesha Hazarika and Sam Freedman look at the party's relationship with the unions and the future ahead.They're joined by the General Secretary of the Prospect trade union, Mike Clancy, to look at Labour's relationship with the union movement and how any future government can build a productive relationship to reshape the economy and support its growth mission.They also look at Natalie Elphicke's defection to Labour and the delicate balance Keir Starmer faces in holding together his broad church. In the Quickfire round, Mike nominates Barbara Castle to the Fantasy Cabinet and suggests that Labour should be less shy about facing the impact that Brexit has had on the British economy and society more generally. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the aftermath of last week's local elections, Sam Freedman and Ayesha Hazarika, together with author and Political Science Professor Rob Ford, look at what the results might mean for a future Labour government on this week's episode of The Power Test podcast.Under the surface of a very good set of elections for the party, and another very bad few days for the Tories, Ford, who was part of the BBC's elections analysis team, suggests however there are a few trends that may give an early warning to some of the challenges the party may face in power. In particular, the willingness of the left to be "much less partisan and back other options" such as the Green Party which now has a "serious and credible base in local government - having quadrupled the number of councillors they have in the last five years".Sam warns that the party may therefore find itself squeezed in the middle - between a more centrist leadership trying to play to Red Wall voters, and others at the same time trying to defend from a rising left flank."If I'm a Labour MP in Hastings or Stroud or places like that where the Greens are coming on very strong and I'm in a Labour government that is being tough on benefits because that's what the newspapers want us to do, and not spending money, I'm going to start getting nervous pretty quickly that I'm going to lose my voter base." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In a week of drama in Scottish politics, Ayesha Hazarika and Sam Freedman are joined for this week's episode of The Power Test by former Labour leader in Scotland, Kezia Dugdale.They discuss where Scottish politics goes next following the shock resignation of Humza Yousaf, whether the SNP's attack lines on independence have been blunted, and whether Anas Sarwar, the current leader of Scottish Labour, can take advantage of an increasingly rosy electoral picture.For more, please visit ThePowerTest.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Ayesha Hazarika and Sam Freedman are joined by none other than Sam's dad, Sir Lawrence Freedman, to discuss future foreign and defence policy under a Labour Government.How will Labour confront the range of security threats that the UK faces across the world? Sir Lawrence Freedman, renowned academic, historian and author on foreign policy and international relations, reflects on the grave challenges a Starmer Government will face in a dangerous world. From the 'Special Relationship' and how a Trump re-election might ignite the necessity for nuclear independence, to analysing the sustained threats post by Putin and Russia, and Xi and China, this is a wide-ranging but essential discussion.Visit THEPOWERTEST.CO.UK to find out more and support the show.Tune into The Debrief, live on Twitter/X this coming Monday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is Labour capable of reversing the curse facing centre-left governments around the world? Josh Simons, Director of the highly influential think tank Labour Together says the party must be ready to confront the challenge of thinking about how it can govern and win a second term.Josh joins Ayesha Hazarika and Sam Freedman to speak about how Labour is preparing for government and whether the party really has a plan to win the decade in power it wants and needs.Visit THEPOWERTEST.CO.UK to find out more and support the show.Tune into The Debrief, live on Twitter/X every Sunday at 7pm. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Following last week's episode with Ed Balls, former Treasury boss Nick Macpherson joins Sam and Ayesha to interrogate the economic environment facing the next government. We're hearing a lot from Labour about economic security, fighting off the party's reputation for ‘spendonomics', but is the party being too far too cautious and harming its plans for growth?If you've enjoyed this episode of The Power Test, why not become a Power Member on Substack to get the show ad-free and early? Subscribe here.And don't forget to tune into The Debrief, the sister show of The Power Test, which airs live on X every Sunday at 7pm. Just go to The Power Test account on X.Nick Macpherson on this week's pod suggests maybe it is. The former Treasury boss says the party shouldn't get “obsessed with fiscal rules”Don't get obsessed with fiscal rules, ex-Treasury boss warns LabourA future Labour Government should borrow to invest and avoid being “too obsessed with fiscal rules”, says the former Treasury boss, Sir Nick McPherson, on this week's The Power Test podcast with Ayesha Hazarika and Sam Freedman.In a wide-ranging discussion about a future government transition and Labour's economic plans, Sir Nick said:Borrowing:“My guess is Labour will, and so they should, borrow a bit more in order to invest. Providing that investment program is focused on what really matters and is then seen through I don't see that as a great problem in terms of the public finances. Indeed, some would argue that that Labour may be being too cautious.”Labour's fiscal plans:“The case for being tough now is potentially it gives them room for manoeuvre. It gets them credit with the financial markets which, actually, is even more important today than it was in 1997 simply because the national debt is a whole lot higher and the interest rate bill required to service that debt is very high indeed.“The other thing is, and this may surprise some people, I'm a relative optimist about the economy so I think the Labour inheritance may just be a little bit better than the OBR and others are suggesting. Real wages are rising, interest rates may come down this year which will help people with mortgages and so on, and we just may see more spending in the economy, the economy growing a bit more fast and rather more revenues coming in than expected. If I'm right, and you know I'm not always right, they may actually have rather more room for manoeuvre and so they may be able to stick with the fiscal plan whilst also spending a bit more.“My guess is also they will have some tax increases up their sleeve of the sort which is consistent with the wider commitments not to raise the main rate, say, of National insurance and income tax.”The £28 billion and fiscal rules:“Did they have to drop the £28 billion commitment? In the end, £28 billion is not actually very much these days. It's about 1% of GDP. I mean, compared to the sorts of money Nigel Lawson gave away in 1988 this is chicken feed. But I can see in an uncertain world why they just want to be a bit cautious." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As Labour announces its plans to reclaim 'Levelling Up', Sam Freedman and Ayesha Hazarika are joined by Ed Balls to discuss the dual challenges of tackling economic and regional inequality and going for growthBoris Johnson's claim to end the North-South divide has been a spectacular disaster in terms of going from a box office slogan to something of any substance at all. Councils across the UK are on the brink of collapse and bankruptcy and economic equality across the country has never been more entrenched.So what happens now? Can the agenda move into reality and what would an actual Levelling Up plan look like? Are people going to buy it anymore without any tangible progress to show for it, and ultimately what is the role of Westminster vs local authorities and regional mayors.Tackling regional inequality is not only an end in itself but also a means in going for growth - an absolute imperative for the next government. Both Labour and the Tories have said they want to deliver growth, but what is the path for delivering it? It has to be a key priority for the next Prime Minister, as part of a central growth drive, working with and not against business, championing open markets and consumers as well as a comprehensive backing for combined authorities with devolved powers.Ed also speaks to Sam and Ayesha about podcasting with George Osborne, Labour's workers rights package as well as never being invited to give the Mais lecture. He is also the first guest to face our new Power Questions section - where he calls for Keir Starmer to grasp the theme of Global Britain and be confident about the UK's outward facing role in the world, how Jo Cox's legacy can help heal divisions in politics and ultimately, how the party should be willing to say when it thinks other parties have done good things that it will continue in government. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this first episode of 2024, the duo discuss the news that Ayesha will soon become Baroness Hazarika of Coatbridge in the County of Lanarkshire and the role of the House of Lords in legislating before focusing on the current political landscape and the challenges and opportunities ahead for Labour as the party prepares for its return to government.Notes: Sam Freedman and Ayesha Hazarika return to the airwaves as The Power Test - the weekly political podcast with a purpose exploring how Labour should govern to really change Britain for the better - gears up for this election year.in this first episode of 2024, the duo discuss the news that Ayesha will soon become Baroness Hazarika of Coatbridge in the County of Lanarkshire and the role of the House of Lords in legislating before focusing on the current political landscape and the challenges and opportunities ahead for Labour as the party prepares for its return to government.A 'torturous holding pattern' is seeing people more and more assured that Keir Starmer will be the country's next Prime Minister, and the party is quickly being treated as the next government - yet, it is still not clear exactly what inheritance it will be gifted by a Conservative Party burning down the house on its way out of the door.So what does that mean for Labour and what it hopes to achieve in government?Can the party really even get a head start before it is derailed by circumstances far from its control? Does its junking of key landmark policies and its commitment to Tory fiscal rules to strengthen its reputation for security hinder or help its aspirations for governing? Will Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves suddenly change tack once they walk down Downing Street and what can the party do to really deliver economic growth?Sam and Ayesha chew the fat and set out the big issues and themes which they will dive into throughout the next few weeks and months alongside some extra special expert guests as we move forward towards the election and review the party's plans for a "decade of national renewal" in more detail.The podcast continues weekly wherever you get your pods. Send in your reactions, questions and ideas on how Labour can change Britain at thepowertest.co.uk - become a member and get involved in our growing community. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With Islamophobia, antisemitism, and threats against MPs all in the news, what role has the media itself played in stoking tensions? Also in the programme, as international broadcasters sign a letter calling for access to Gaza, what impact would that have on how the conflict is reported?Guests: Alex Crawford, Special Correspondent, Sky News; Caroline Wheeler, Political Editor, Sunday Times; Ayesha Hazarika, Columnist and Presenter, Times Radio; Tim Montgomerie, Columnist and Founder of Conservative Home; Dr Hannah White, Director, Institute for GovernmentPresenter: Katie RazzallProducer: Dan Hardoon

Andy Zaltzman quizzes news from Swansea this week. Providing all the answers are Lucy Porter, Robin Morgan, Tadiwa Mahlunge, and Ayesha Hazarika.In this episode Andy and the panel have a look at some broken geopolitical New Year's resolutions and how life seemingly both began and is now struggling in Wales.Written by Andy ZaltzmanWith additional material by: Cody Dahler, Cameron Loxdale, and Callum JonesProducer: Sam Holmes Executive Producer: James Robinson Production Coordinator: Sarah Nicholls Sound Editor: Marc WillcoxA BBC Studios Production for Radio 4

Today, we hear tributes to the DJ Steve Wright. We also look Labour's suspension of a second parliamentary candidate after allegations he made comments about Israel. Steve Wright, who presented programmes for BBC Radio 1 and Radio 2 for more than four decades, has died at the age of 69. We hear from his friends and former colleagues: fellow DJ Tony Blackburn and presenter Nicky Campbell.Also Labour withdraws support for their candidate in the upcoming Rochdale by-election, Azhar Ali who claimed Israel had allowed the October 7th attacks by Hamas to happen. Mr Ali apologised, saying his comments were “"deeply offensive, ignorant, and false". A second Labour parliamentary candidate has also been suspended for comments he made about Israel. Adam speaks to Professor of Politics at University of Strathclyde, Sir John Curtice, and Times Radio Presenter, Ayesha Hazarika.You can join our Newscast online community here: https://tinyurl.scom/newscastcommunityhere Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. It was presented by Adam Fleming. It was made by Jack Maclaren with Joe Wilkinson, Natasha Mayo and Sam McLaren. The technical producer was Dave O'Neil. The assistant editor is Chris Gray and the senior news editor is Jonathan Aspinwall.

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

This week we're bringing you the very best of the podcast you might have missed this year.Heading into an election year in 2024, which election in history will it most closely resemble? Will it be a 1997-style landslide? Could the Tories pull off a surprise win like John Major in 1992? Or could it be such a tight result we have to go back to the polls, like in 1974?Live at the Cheltenham Literature Festival in October, Matt was joined by polling guru Professor John Curtice, Times Radio's Ayesha Hazarika, Red Box Editor Lara Spirit, and Times Radio's senior political correspondent Patrick Maguire. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the final Prime Minister's Questions of the year, the insults are flying: Rishi Sunak accuses Keir Starmer of engaging in "political tittle-tattle", while Starmer brands Sunak the donkey of the Tories' nativity. Matt is joined by Ayesha Hazarika, Tim Shipman and Lara Spirit to pause and unpack the exchanges from the Commons chamber.Plus: Columnists Robert Crampton and Alice Thomson discuss at what age people start to feel like adults, how to avoid arguments about politics over Christmas, and Robert's biceps. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The prime minister has defended his Rwanda bill at a press conference in which he described the plan as the “toughest immigration law ever”. But his own party is split over it.It came the morning after the resignation of immigration minister Robert Jenrick, who said the new law wasn't tough enough. And former Prime Minister Boris Johnson finishes his evidence at the Covid inquiry after being asked about partygate, Eat Out to Help Out and his time in hospital.Adam and Chris are is joined by Boris Johnson's former advisor Will Walden, and Times radio presenter and former Labour advisor Ayesha Hazarika.You can join our Newscast online community here: https://tinyurl.com/newscastcommunityhere Today's Newscast was presented by Adam Fleming. It was made by Chis Gray with Gemma Roper. The senior news editors are Jonathan Aspinwall and Sam Bonham

The Observer's Sonia Sodha and guests look back on the political week. Conservative MP Danny Kruger and executive co-chair of the National Care Association Nadra Ahmed discuss migration and social care. Labour MP and former culture secretary Ben Bradshaw and Conservative MP and chair of the British Museum APPG Tim Loughton talk about the row over the Parthenon sculptures. PMQs is dissected by Ayesha Hazarika, former political adviser to Ed Miliband and Harriet Harman, and Sir Craig Oliver, former director of communications at No 10 under David Cameron. And the late Alistair Darling is remembered by Catherine MacLeod and Torsten Bell, who were both his former advisers.

Andy Zaltzman quizzes the week's news. Providing all the answers Ria Lina, Ayesha Hazarika, Chris McCausland, and Alasdair Beckett-King. In this episode Andy and the panel discuss Rishi rowing back on net zero, Wales slowing down, HS2 grinding to a halt and Starmer's European sojourn. Written by Andy Zaltzman With additional material by Cody Dahler Mike Shephard Rhiannon Shaw and Miranda Holms Producer: Gwyn Rhys Davies Executive Producer: James Robinson Production Co-ordinator: Dan Marchini Sound Editor: Giles Aspen A BBC Studios Production

Which election in history could 2024 most closely resemble? Will it be a 1997-style landslide? Could the Tories pull off a surprise win like John Major in 1992? Or could it be such a tight result we have to go back to the polls, like in 1974?Live at the Cheltenham Literature Festival, Matt is joined by polling guru Professor John Curtice, Times Radio's Ayesha Hazarika, Red Box Editor Lara Spirit, and Times Radio's senior political correspondent Patrick Maguire. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As Keir Starmer makes his final pitch to the public ahead of the next general election, Matt looks back at the pre-election conference speeches of previous Labour leaders with Tony Blair's former speechwriter Phil Collins and former Ed Miliband adviser Ayesha Hazarika.Plus: Columnists Daniel Finkelstien and Miranda Green on ministers calling pro-Palestinian protesters in London to stay at home, and who emerges victorious from this year's party conference season. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Keir Starmer announces plans to break the Class Ceiling. Will inequality be the big issue in the next election? And WTF is “oracy” anyway? As ticket offices disappear from the railways, are we in course of a society without face-to-face contact? Plus, the meaning of Biden's visit to the UK, the feeding frenzy over the BBC's SEX STORY, and who are our heroes and villains of the week? Listen for surprise revelations about our panel's social life…  Listen to our new newspaper review podcast PAPER CUTS here. https://listen.podmasters.uk/PCogwn • “Smashing the class ceiling isn't new territory for the Labour Party – it's the POINT of the Labour Party.” – Ayesha Hazarika • “Repeating slogans works in politics. But when ‘Strong and Stable' ends up on a novelty birthday card then you know you've gone too far.” – Tom Peck • “It's hard for Sunak to get away with saying ‘hold your nerve' when he personally doesn't have to hold any nerve at all.” – Hannah Fearn • “When you are at that level of politics … you never need to lift a finger again to do anything basic.” – Ayesha Hazarika Presented by Alex Andreou with Hannah Fearn, Ayesha Hazarika and Tom Peck. Audio producer: Robin Leeburn. Producer: Chris Jones. Art: James Parrett. Theme music by Cornershop. Managing Editor: Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. OH GOD, WHAT NOW? is a Podmasters production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Patrick Maguire is in for Matt, looking at Labour's 1983 manifesto - 'the longest suicide note in history' - 40 years on, with historian Phil Tinline. He also finds out how to write a modern manifesto with two people with first-hand experience, Ayesha Hazarika and Robert Colvile.PLUS: Timandra Harkness and Jimmy McLoughlin discuss Boris Johnson's WhatsApps, whether MPs who are under police investigation should be barred from Parliament, and whether AI is an existential threat. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Freddy Gray is joined by Ayesha Hazarika and Katy Balls who has written the cover this week on Keir Starmer's centrist army. Also on the show, Cirino Hiteng Ofuho on Sudan's violent civil unrest; Gracy Curley on the upcoming US election and Sean Mathias and Rob Gore-Langton on Hamlet.  00:00 Welcome from Freddy Gray 03:39 Who are Keir's 'Starmtroopers?' With Katy Balls and Ayesha Hazarika 24:59 What's happened in Sudan? With Dr Cirino Hiteng Ofuho 36:29 A look ahead to the US election. With Grace Curley 53:56 Richard Burton's botched Hamlet. With Sean Mathias and Robert Gore-Langton. Produced by Natasha Feroze.

In this episode of Lady Killers, Lucy Worsley, Professor Rosalind Crone and broadcaster Ayesha Hazarika discuss the first four cases - brothel-keeper Mary McKinnon, chocolate-cream killer Christiana Edmonds, enslaved woman Margaret Garner and abortionist Elizabeth Taylor. They examine legal prejudice, frustrated sexual desire, illegal abortion, and slavery. They explore women's rights over their own bodies, and dig a little deeper into the parallels between women in the 19th century and women in contemporary society. Together they consider the extent to which progress can be taken for granted, and ask whether anything might have been better for women in the past than today. Producer: Emily Hughes Sound Design: Chris Maclean Series Producer: Julia Hayball A StoryHunter production for BBC Radio 4

SPECIAL EARLY RELEASE! THE GREASED PIGLET IS OUT OF THE PEN... It's his party and he'll lie if he wants to… Boris Johnson finally, finally goes before the Privileges Committee. How did his tactic of sneering, blustering and lying go over? And is it finally sausage time for the Greased Piglet? Plus as the horrific Casey Report excoriates the Met, does London's police force have to be dismantled? And in the Extra Bit, what's the weirdest thing that's ever happened to our panelists? “Johnson's defence is ‘I am too stupid to understand the rules I myself set'.” – Geri Scott “Steve Baker is now a card-carrying member of the Europhilic wokerati. He's noshing on his tofu right now.” – Naomi Smith “His argument is ‘Nobody told me not to do the bad thing that I was on telly every night telling you plebs not to do'.” – Ayesha Hazarika Written and presented by Ros Taylor with Naomi Smith, Ayesha Hazarika and Geri Scott. Audio producer: Alex Rees. Assistant producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz. Theme music by Cornershop. Lead Producer: Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. OH GOD, WHAT NOW? is a Podmasters production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As Keir Starmer casts Jeremy Corbyn out, the panel discusses what this means for the Labour Party, its former leader and wider politics. Could this set a new model for influential but independent MPs? Then – have you seen your gas bill yet? We unpack the latest in the energy cost crisis, as people suffer despite booming profits for providers. Plus – what Government departments would our team like to take over – would they copy Sunak and make any new ones?  “It's really bad for a party to become a cult around one figure, I hope Corbyn and his fans see that.” – Ayesha Hazarika  “For Jeremy Corbyn, he had all of the power within the party, he couldn't convert that into power within the country.” – Ayesha Hazarika “If you have to spend so much time exposing the endless screw ups of our current leaders, when do you get a chance to talk about what you want to talk about?” – Hannah Fearn www.patreon.com/ohgodwhatnow Presented by Andrew Harrison with Ahir Shah, Ayesha Hazarika and Hannah Fearn. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. Lead Producer: Jacob Jarvis. Producers: Jet Gerbertson and Alex Rees. Assistant producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz Audio production by Alex Rees. OH GOD, WHAT NOW? is a Podmasters production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Andy Zaltzman is joined by Lucy Porter, Mark Steel, Ayesha Hazarika and Ian Smith. This week they discuss ongoing strike action, the Labour Party's political transactions and a royal family fraction. Hosted and written by Andy Zaltzman with additional material from Alice Fraser, Mike Shephard, Aidan Fitzmaurice and Jade Gebbie. Producer: Georgia Keating Executive Producer: Pete Strauss Production Co-ordinator: Becky Carewe-Jeffries Sound Editor: Marc Willcox A BBC Studios Production