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Megan McElroy unpacks a rowdy PMQs with Tim Shipman and Isabel Hardman. Kemi Badenoch made Keir Starmer uncomfortable over student loans but – at a time when trust in the Conservative brand is low – could some of her rhetoric backfire? Plus, what did they make of the revelation that it was the Speaker of the House Lindsay Hoyle that reported Peter Mandelson to police as a flight risk?Produced by Megan McElroy and Patrick Gibbons. Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.For more Spectator podcasts, go to spectator.co.uk/podcasts.Contact us: podcast@spectator.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tories and Lib Dems held special election conferences, both hoping to make an impact at the Scottish Parliament election on May. We spoke to Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch and Lib Dem leader Ed Davey about their chances while the SNP continues to stay far in front. We also look ahead to Labour in Paisley this weekend and set out our own election planning 10 weeks from polling day.
Die Britse Konserwatiewe leier, Kemi Badenoch, sê die inhegtenisneming van die gewese ambassadeur in Amerika, Peter Mandelson, is 'n bepalende oomblik vir eerste minister Keir Starmer. Mandelson is aangekeer vir beweerde wangedrag in 'n openbare amp en op borgtog vrygelaat. Hy het na bewering sensitiewe regeringsinligting aan die ontslape veroordeelde seksmisdadiger Jeffrey Epstein uitgelek terwyl hy minister van Sakeondernemings was. Badenoch sê Starmer se tyd is verstreke:
Kemi Badenoch is the Conservative MP for North West Essex and the Leader of the Opposition. Since winning her seat in 2017, she has held cabinet positions as Minister of State for Equalities under Boris Johnson and Secretary of State for International Trade under Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak. She became leader of the Conservative Party in 2024 after Rishi Sunak's resignation and is the first black person to lead a political party in Britain. Her Nigerian parents came to Britain for medical treatment and Kemi was born in a private hospital in Wimbledon in January 1980. Her parents returned with their newborn daughter, and she was brought up in Nigeria in an affluent suburb of Lagos. After a series of military coups and economic downturns, her family, along with many other middle-class families in Nigeria saw their wealth decline and Kemi was sent to London to study for her A levels.Instead of following her parents into medicine, she chose to pursue Computer Systems Engineering and went to Sussex University. A well-paid career in IT followed and she joined the Conservative Party aged twenty-five where she also met her husband, Hamish. Her first attempt at becoming an MP was in 2010 in Dame Tessa Jowell's former constituency of Dulwich and West Norwood constituency in London. She finished third behind the Labour and Liberal Democrat candidates.In 2017, she was selected for the Saffron Walden seat and became an MP.She lives in London with her husband and three children and divides her time between Westminster and her constituency of North West Essex.DISC ONE: The Story of Tonight - Lin-Manuel Miranda, Okieriete Onaodowan, Daveed Diggs, Original Broadway Cast of Hamilton DISC TWO: Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough - Michael Jackson DISC THREE: Wonderful World - Sam Cooke DISC FOUR: Be Still - Aled Jones and English Session Orchestra DISC FIVE: Everybody's Free (To Wear Sunscreen) - Baz Luhrmann DISC SIX: Love is All Around - Wet Wet Wet DISC SEVEN: Carry You Home – Alex Warren DISC EIGHT: Dear Theodosia - Leslie Odom Jr., Lin-Manuel Miranda BOOK CHOICE: Vanity Fair by William Makepeace Thackeray LUXURY ITEM: The Marvel Movie Collection with a solar-powered DVD player CASTAWAY'S FAVOURITE: Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough - Michael Jackson Presenter: Lauren Laverne Producer: Sarah TaylorDesert Island Discs has cast many politicians away to the island over the years including Sir Keir Starmer, Nicola Sturgeon, Sir Vince Cable, Theresa May, Ed Miliband, Boris Johnson and Margaret Thatcher.
The Smart 7 is an award winning daily podcast, in association with METRO, that gives you everything you need to know in 7 minutes, at 7am, 7 days a week…With over 20 million downloads and consistently charting, including as No. 1 News Podcast on Spotify, we're a trusted source for people every day and we've won Gold at the Signal International Podcast awardsIf you're enjoying it, please follow, share, or even post a review, it all helps... Today's episode includes the following: https://x.com/i/status/2019374184196108714 https://x.com/i/status/2019394329232453920 https://x.com/i/status/2019284163862388742https://x.com/i/status/2019403641388413407 https://x.com/i/status/2019399061283967397 https://x.com/i/status/2019221590865838128 https://x.com/i/status/2019542537107615942https://x.com/i/status/2019425784402788539 https://x.com/i/status/2019410685331951884 Contact us over @TheSmart7pod or visit www.thesmart7.com or find out more at www.metro.co.uk Voiced by Jamie East, using AI, written by Liam Thompson, researched by Lucie Lewis and produced by Daft Doris. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Are Robert Jenrick and Suella Braverman's defections a blessing in disguise for Kemi Badenoch? In this week's EMQs, Ed Balls and George Osborne explain the pros and cons of the Tories losing MPs from the right of the party, and how Badenoch can take advantage of Labour's unpopularity. Then, the pair consider whether the UK could adopt a US style primary system for candidates and explain how they got selected for their seats in parliament. They also confront the surprising fact that no prime minister has come to power and been ejected through a General Election since the 1970s and answer whether Britain is actually a democracy?They then answer if any British politician is capable of inspiring people the way Mark Carney did at Davos. George and Ed use their past experiences writing and delivering speeches to debate whether Carney's speech was inspiring because of what was written, or how and where it was said.We love hearing from you, so please don't forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question. Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad- free join Political Currency Gold or our Kitchen Cabinet. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:
The Smart 7 is an award winning daily podcast that gives you everything you need to know in 7 minutes, at 7am, 7 days a week…With over 19 million downloads and consistently charting, including as No. 1 News Podcast on Spotify, we're a trusted source for people every day and we've won Gold at the Signal International Podcast awardsIf you're enjoying it, please follow, share, or even post a review, it all helps... Today's episode includes the following:https://x.com/i/status/2016078212355268838 https://x.com/i/status/2016060162079895917https://x.com/i/status/2016731269841686627https://x.com/i/status/2016858803669553513 https://x.com/i/status/2016806020983533626 https://x.com/i/status/2015438312375226668 https://x.com/i/status/2015420462994452747https://x.com/i/status/2015757303429955945 https://x.com/i/status/2015739941116928418https://x.com/i/status/2015375058705801508https://x.com/i/status/2015726679117767097 https://x.com/i/status/2016488646107418727 https://x.com/i/status/2016506349543165960 https://x.com/i/status/2015762914548863071https://x.com/i/status/2015774325702332819 https://x.com/i/status/2016460256751051262 https://x.com/i/status/2015435969273401779 https://x.com/i/status/2015373253536059509 https://x.com/i/status/2016131201728172101 https://x.com/i/status/2016069164360933685 https://x.com/i/status/2016886270899699724 https://x.com/i/status/2015429550184989079https://x.com/i/status/2015720114700624344 https://x.com/i/status/2016548202133016944 https://x.com/i/status/2016704557120966801 https://x.com/i/status/2016846980341772314 https://x.com/i/status/2016894947375407464 https://x.com/i/status/2016163791390560673 Contact us over @TheSmart7pod or visit www.thesmart7.comVoiced by Ciara Revins, written by Liam Thompson, researched by Lucie Lewis and produced by Daft Doris. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Send us a textJoin Heather Binning in conversation with special guest Kemi Badenoch, Leader of HM Opposition, Leader of the UK Conservative Party and Conservative MP for North West Essex.After a career in IT and then in the financial sector, she turned her sights to politics, taking her seat in Parliament in 2017. Amongst her many roles in Government and in opposition, she has been Minister for Women and Equalities Kemi discusses the frustration elected representatives face when agenda driven activists are provided the loudest voice on Select committees that are failing in their duty to scrutinise government policy and performance without prejudice. WRN members questions are put to Kemi on topical issues such as the concerning impact on our younger generations accessing highly sexualised, degrading material via the internet, Bridget Phillipson's delay in approving the EHRC guidance, women's rights as a focal electoral issue and the power of women supporting each other, regardless of political leaning.After a career in IT and then in the financial sector, she turned her sights to politics, taking her seat in Parliament in 2017. Amongst her many roles in Government and in opposition, she has been Minister for Women and Equalities .If you enjoyed listening to this podcast and would like to hear more, go to womensrights.network/wrn-podcast to listen, download and subscribe to more of our episodes. And if you'd like to join our conversations, go to womensrights.network/join-wrn
A new group has been launched within the Conservative Party aimed at reviving the much diminished ‘One Nation' wing. Kemi Badenoch has been dismissive. Has she made a fatal strategic miscalculation? The first Rock & Roll Politics live show of the year is on February 11th at Kings Place…. there's a lot to make sense of that night. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-8/ Written and presented by Steve Richards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Den siste uken har flere tidligere statsråder i det konservative partiet meldt sin overgang til Nigel Farage og Reform. Samtidig er en bevegelse under oppseiling for å trekke toryene tilbake mot det politiske sentrum. Partileder Kemi Badenoch har rettet kraftig skyts mot både avhoppere og de som vil moderere hennes egen plan. Hva slags kurs er det Badenoch har anlagt, og hvilke dilemmaer er det hun møter? Hør Erik Mustad og Øivind Bratberg i denne episoden av Pod Britannia.
Today, Kemi Badenoch, gave a speech addressing Conservative defectors and detractors. Adam chats to Alex, in Westminster about how Kemi Badenoch's speech accused her opponents of ‘psychodrama', called defectors ‘drama queens' and presented her vision for the future of the Conservative party.And we catch up with Chris in Beijing about what he's seen and heard so far on his trip with the Prime Minister.You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing newscast@bbc.co.uk or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXd Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Miranda Slade with Shiler Mahmoudi and Chloe Scannapieco. The social producer was Joe Wilkinson. The technical producer was Dafydd Evans. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.
Kemi Badenoch has attacked both Labour and Reform for being “addicted to psychodrama”, and called recent defectors from her party “drama queens”. Tim is joined by Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg to digest the speech.Tim also spoke to the Tory leader after she'd stepped off stage and put to her the suggestion – made by Sir Jacob on social media – that the Tories shouldn't field a candidate in Gorton and Denton in order to leave Reform a clear path.Elsewhere, Rees-Mogg makes the case for Shamima Begum to be allowed to return to the UK, and the Reverend Richard Coles talks to Tim and Jacob about the confirmation of new Archbishop of Canterbury, Sarah Mullally.We want to hear from you! Email us at thedailyt@telegraph.co.uk or find @dailytpodcast on TikTok, Instagram and X► Sign up to our most popular newsletter, From the Editor. Look forward to receiving free-thinking comment and the day's biggest stories, every morning. telegraph.co.uk/fromtheeditorProducer: Georgia Coan and Lilian FawcettSenior Producer: John CadiganExecutive Producer: Charlotte SeligmanVideo Producer: Will WaltersStudio Operator: Meghan SearleSocial Producer: Nada AggourEditor: Camilla Tominey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Kemi Badenoch has told her party not to get in her way as she steers it further to the Right. Is this the correct assessment of what the Conservatives needs to attract voters back? Or is she way off?Later, Trump has threatened Iran with his big beautiful armada. Does he have any concern for the protestors getting killed in their tens of thousands thousands? Or is this all about US interests?The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/
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.
He came, he saw, he conked out. Trump blew chaotically into Davos, demanded Greenland then carried out a spectacular U-turn. Well, for now at least. Whatever the outcome of this latest round of Trumpian Wheel of Fortune, one thing was very clear: Trump is a man struggling to make sense, even when he's been prepped for the biggest of stages. Alex Andreou, Naomi Smith and Kenny Campbell talk Trump, Carney, Macron and Newsom. And there's even time to talk Starmer, Badenoch and the Chagos fallout too, because domestic politics doesn't stop for Trump, even if it does get blown off course by him rather a lot. ***SPONSOR US AT KO-FI.COM/QUIETRIOTPOD – and get an invite to our next Editorial Meeting on February 17th*** • Grin And Share It: More on that Covid vaccination study • Check out Carole Cadwalladr's substack here. • Don't forget to check out our fabulous sister podcast, Arthur Snell's Behind the Lines • Read good stuff! Visit our bookshop here. • Email us at quietriotpod@gmail.com. • Or visit our website www.quietriotpod.com. Brought to you by Naomi Smith, Alex Andreou and Kenny Campbell. Quiet Riot is a Cooler Heads production. ***SPONSOR US AT KO-FI.COM/QUIETRIOTPOD*** Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
“You can't fire me, I quit!” The world of politics is stunned – stunned! – as rightward-lurching public transport vigilante Robert Jenrick joins Reform* mere hours after Badenoch canned him for treachery. Will the world's most self-seeking man work well with the world's other most self-seeking man, Nigel Farage? Hmm, what do you think? Plus: Truly, Attlee, Deeply! How is Starmer doing compared to his illustrious predecessors as Labour leader? Izzy Conn of the history podcast Leading Labour helps us work out where Sir Keir fits in the Labour league ladder. ( * Yes, we missed Andrew Rosindell. What do you want? Time travel??) ESCAPE ROUTES • Zöe recommends ‘Hamnet' at the movies – out now. • Izzy recommends the songwriting podcast And The Writer Is. • Andrew recommends you see Belgian rave-rock band Soulwax live if you get the chance. www.patreon.com/ohgodwhatnow Presented by Andrew Harrison with Zöe Grünewald. Audio and video production by Chris Jones. Art direction: James Parrett. Theme tune by Cornershop. Managing Editor: Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. OH GOD, WHAT NOW? is a Podmasters production. https://www.podmasters.co.uk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
This week's topics: • More AI music • Nigeria v Morocco AFCON discussion • The World Cup in Canada, America & Mexico • People not going to the world cup in America due to fear • ICE and their shenanigans • America's travel ban • World Cup ticket prices • Afcon changing from every 2 years to every 4 years • Robert Jenrick getting kicked out of the Conservatives [and joining Reform] • Did Jenrick or Badenoch win the dismissal day • Should a right wing voter. vote for Reform or Conservatives • Nigel Farage telling people to convert before May elections • Is Britain broken • India's progress • Countries that have improved since gaining independence • Black actresses and their Oscar wins • Acting with face only • A discussion about the movies Sentimental Value • Safdie show off: Marty Supreme v The Wrecking Machine • #StavrosSays : A collection of foreign films: Sentimental Value, It Was Just An Accident, The Secret Agent (O Agente Secreto) Connect with us at & send your questions & comments to: #ESNpod so we can find your comments www.esnpodcast.com www.facebook.com/ESNpodcasts www.twitter.com/ESNpodcast www.instagram.com/ESNpodcast @esnpodcast on all other social media esnpodcast@gmail.com It's important to subscribe, rate and review us on your apple products. You can do that here... www.bit.ly/esnitunes
Morse code transcription: vvv vvv In pictures Valentinos creations through the years I do not want to reconcile with my family, says Brooklyn Beckham UK to consult on social media ban for under 16s Zootropolis 2 becomes Hollywoods biggest animated film ever Water companies to face regular MOT style checks in industry shake up Trump says he will 100 carry out Greenland tariffs threat, as EU vows to protect its interests Spanish PM vows to find cause of deadly high speed train crash Europe is at a total loss Russia gloats over Greenland tensions Trump links Greenland dispute to not getting Nobel Peace Prize Badenoch warns Tory MPs against plotting and psychodrama
Robert Jenrick's dramatic defection to Reform UK has blown open long-simmering tensions on the British Right — and handed Kemi Badenoch a serious test as Conservative leader. In this essay, Joseph Dinnage, deputy editor of CapX, dissects the intrigue behind Jenrick's dismissal, the risks Badenoch took in cutting him loose, and the uncertain gains for Nigel Farage's insurgent party. It's a story of ambition, loyalty and timing — and one that may yet reshape the balance of power on the Right.Despatch brings you the best articles from CapX's unrivalled daily newsletter.Stay informed with CapX's unmissable daily briefings from the heart of Westminster. Go to capx.co to subscribe. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Yesterday was a breathless day in Westminster. The defection of Robert Jenrick spawned plenty of headlines and even more memes. But now that the dust has settled, how has the news been received? Was it a total victory for Reform, and evidence that they are slowly swallowing up the Tory party, or is Kemi still in the race?Today, the assisted dying bill is back in the Lords. As discussions about this legislation drag on, does its implementation look increasingly unlikely?Oscar Edmondson speaks to Tim Shipman and James Heale.Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.For more Spectator podcasts, go to spectator.co.uk/podcasts.Contact us: podcast@spectator.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
What a week! We kick off with the news of Robert Jenrick being booted from the Tories. Is this good for Badenoch? Is it good for him? Is it good for anything?! Plus, we look at our winners and losers and an under the radar story you might have missed, with Seth Thévoz and Jacob Jarvis. www.patreon.com/bunkercast Written and presented by Jacob Jarvis with Seth Thévoz. Audio production: Simon Williams. Managing Editor: Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. Music by Kenny Dickinson. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Robert Jenrick's dramatic defection from the Conservative Party to Reform UK has sent shockwaves through Westminster – and raised serious questions about the future of the British right.On this episode of Whitehall Sources, Calum Macdonald and political strategist Jo Tanner are joined by former Conservative minister Paul Scully to unpack how Kemi Badenoch moved first, sacking Jenrick before Nigel Farage could stage a political ambush.Was this a show of strength from the Conservative leader – or a sign of deeper fracture on the right? What does Jenrick really bring to Reform UK beyond short-form viral politics? And does Farage's growing band of defectors make Reform more credible – or harder to control?The panel also explores:Whether Badenoch is finally growing into the role of Opposition LeaderWhy grassroots Conservatives feel betrayedThe collapse of any realistic Tory–Reform pactReform UK's vulnerability on democracy and by-electionsClaims that a “high-profile Labour figure” could defect nextAnd whether Farage is once again dominating the political agenda while Labour struggles for airtimeThis is an inside-Westminster conversation about power, ego, loyalty, and the reshaping of British politics.
Robert Jenrick joins Reform and becomes the party's second big name defection from the Tories in days – after former Chancellor Nadhim Zahawi jumped ship earlier in the week.So is this a big blow to Kemi Badenoch? Beth, Ruth and Harriet think she's come out of it all pretty well after dramatically sacking her former leadership rival before he could jump ship.How much will the Tories miss Jenrick? And how will he get on working with Nigel Farage, his new leader? The ladies look back at some of Farage's past comments about Jenrick.You can WhatsApp the podcast at 07934 200 444 or email electoraldysfunction@sky.uk.And if you didn't know, you can also watch Beth, Harriet and Ruth on YouTube.
Kemi Badenoch has sensationally sacked shadow minister Robert Jenrick claiming he was secretly plotting to defect from the party in a way that was “as damaging as possible”. Reform has refused to confirm if Jenrick was planning to defect, although party leader Nigel Farage has said he ‘might' buy him a sympathy pint. While Labour and the Lib Dems have been quick off the mark to take advantage of the political unrest by creating memes. Adam and Laura are joined from Westminster by Henry Zeffman and Alex Forsyth to break down what we know. You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing newscast@bbc.co.uk or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXd Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Anna Harris with Shiler Mahmoudi and Chloe Scannapieco. The social producers were Joe Wilkinson and Gabriel Purcell-Davis. The technical producers were Ben Andrews and Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.
Robert Jenrick has been sensationally sacked from the shadow cabinet and suspended from the Conservative party after Kemi Badenoch said she was presented with ‘irrefutable evidence' that he was planning to defect. The shadow justice secretary was Badenoch's leadership rival and had long been said to have been prepared to do a deal with Reform UK's leader, Nigel Farage. Lucy Hough speaks to the Guardian's head of national news, Archie Bland – watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/infocus
This is a catch-up version of James O'Brien's live, daily show on LBC Radio. To join the conversation call: 0345 60 60 973
Sacked, suspended and the whip removed – Kemi Badenoch announced in spectacular fashion that Robert Jenrick was booted out of the Tory party for plotting to defect. John Harris and Kiran talk about how this will play out. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod
In a hastily arranged press conference, Robert Jenrick said the Conservatives had failed so badly he couldn't remain one of them. We hear from Conservative former chief whip Lord Hart - and our political editor Chris Mason analyses what today means for British politics.Also on the programme: President Trump still has his sights set on Greenland, despite the arrival of a contingent of European troops on the territory. But members of Congress are trying to block President Trump's ambitions - we're joined by one of them, Democrat Bill Keating.And why there's a campaign for English Evensong to be recognised with world heritage status.
The first Scotland-wide poll of the 2026 Holyrood election year delivers a political shock: Reform UK level with Scottish Labour, the SNP ahead but without a majority, and serious questions for every party leader.On this episode of Holyrood Sources, Calum Macdonald is joined by Geoff Aberdein (former SNP Chief of Staff, True North Advisors) and Andy Maciver (former Scottish Conservative communications director) to break down what the numbers really mean.
The Holyrood Sources Christmas Special is recorded live in Edinburgh with a packed audience as Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein and Andy Maciver review the biggest moments in Scottish and UK politics in 2025 — and make bold predictions for 2026 and the Holyrood election.In this wide-ranging discussion, the panel debates:Anas Sarwar's U-turn on gender recognition reformJohn Swinney's independence referendum strategyThe legacy of Nicola Sturgeon and Kate Forbes' decision to stand downLabour's UK Budget fallout and Rachel Reeves' credibilityReform UK's electoral breakthrough in ScotlandEnergy policy, the North Sea, offshore wind and deindustrialisationWhy politicians struggle to explain a credible energy transitionWhether Swinney could serve a full five-year term as First MinisterPredictions on Farage, Badenoch, Reform UK and the next political realignmentThis live Christmas episode captures Scottish politics unfiltered — with audience reaction, behind-the-scenes stories, and sharp disagreement between insiders who've shaped modern Holyrood.
This is a catch-up version of James O'Brien's live, daily show on LBC Radio. To join the conversation call: 0345 60 60 973
In the final PMQs of the year, Kemi Badenoch challenges Keir Starmer on growth, taxes and claims he doesn't have the “baubles” to stop the doctors' strike. Starmer hits back, arguing that Badenoch's Christmas wish list would freeze the minimum wage...Hugo Rifkind unpacks the Commons exchanges with Josh Glancy, Stefan Boscia and Ahir Shah. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Call Kemi: Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch takes your callsJoining Iain Dale on Cross Question are Conservative Shadow Foreign Affairs Minister Andrew Rosindell, Liberal Democrat Shadow Attorney General Ben Maguire, historian and broadcaster Dr Tessa Dunlop and the social entrepreneur Samuel Kasumu.
Kemi Badenoch's good form continues at Prime Minister's Questions. The Tory leader was once more visibly enjoying herself today as she feasted on Labour misfortune, and she did a good job in covering the breadth of problems in the government. She used her six questions to ask about different departments and how they were faring: an approach that can often risk diluting the overall attack. But today, Badenoch had an overarching theme to those questions, which was that the Prime Minister and his colleagues are failing to meet their own promises. To discuss, James Heale is joined by Tim Shipman and Michael Simmons. Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.For more Spectator podcasts, go to spectator.co.uk/podcasts.Contact us: podcast@spectator.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Panto season hits PMQs, with Badenoch calling Starmer a “caretaker PM,” Starmer accusing her of job-saving panic, and Lindsay Hoyle asking MPs to stop the pantomime auditions.Hugo Rifkind is joined by Patrick Maguire and Andrew Hunter Murray to unpack the exchanges in the House Of Commons. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Despite Labour's landslide victory in last year's general election, support for British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is now sharply eroding.Thomas de Waal, Peter Kellner, and Anne McElvoy unpack the rise of Reform UK and whether a pragmatic reengagement with the EU could revive growth in Britain.Peter Kellner, October 18, 2025, “Reform's Poll Lead Will Shrink,” The New World.Peter Kellner, October 10, 2025, “Voters Are Not Listening to Labour,” Prospect Magazine.Peter Kellner, September 22, 2025, “A History Lesson for Starmer and Badenoch,” Prospect Magazine.Peter Kellner, May 14, 2025, “The Moment of Truth for a UK-EU Reset,” Carnegie Europe.Anne McElvoy, December 5, 2025, “Despite Trump-pleasing Defense Boost, Britain's Military Is Braced for Cuts,” Politico.Anne McElvoy, November 20, 2025, “MAGA's British invasion,” Politico.Anne McElvoy, December 8, 2025, “Labour Together? Who Is Hastening the PM's Downfall,” Politics at Sam and Anne's.Anne McElvoy, December 3, 2025, “Who Is Behind Farage-Tory Pact Plot?,” Politics at Sam and Anne's.Anne McElvoy, November 27, 2025, “The Budget's Hidden Problems Revealed,” Politics at Sam and Anne's.
Why did the leader of the opposition call the chancellor 'spineless' and 'shameless'?Kemi Badenoch joins Nick in the Political Thinking studio to reflect on what lay behind the personal and political debates around Budget Day.How can she emulate Margaret Thatcher's regeneration of the Conservative Party?How did anger help drive her into politics? And why do her kids wish she still worked at McDonald's?Producer: Daniel Kraemer Research: Chloe Desave Editor: Jonathan Brunert Sound: Ged Sudlow and Andrew Mills
Kemi Badenoch takes your calls.Joining Iain Dale on Cross Question are the Exchequer secretary to the Treasury Dan Tomlinson, Shadow business minister Dame Harriett Baldwin, General secretary of the Trades Union Congress Paul Nowak and Columnist for The Times Fraser Nelson.
Neither Kemi Badenoch nor Keir Starmer performed very well at Prime Minister's Questions: both fluffed their lines early on. Badenoch managed to suggest the Budget had already happened, while Starmer got lost during an attack on Tory economic policy. But while Badenoch was back to the kind of poor delivery that had previously upset so many of her Conservative colleagues, Starmer still came off worse.The most interesting exchange was with Reform Chief Whip Lee Anderson, who goaded Starmer to ‘be a man' and ensure that all the cancelled local elections go ahead next year. This facilitated an exchange about recent allegations regarding Nigel Farage's behaviour when he was a schoolboy. Is this one going to follow the Reform leader around? And how do you actually pronounce ‘Farage'?Lucy Dunn speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Heale.Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.For more Spectator podcasts, go to spectator.co.uk/podcasts.Contact us: podcast@spectator.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today, Kemi Badenoch joins Newscast to mark 1 year since she became Conservative Party leader. What has she made of her first year? Has she had to re think her approach to PMQs? Is Reform an existential threat to her party? And, will she stay on as leader regardless of the results in May's elections? You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing newscast@bbc.co.uk or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXd Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Jack Maclaren with Anna Harris and Shiler Mahmoudi. The booking producer was Miranda Slade. The social producer was Grace Braddock. The technical producer was Ben Andrews. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.
‘On the day of the local elections, when the Tories suffered a historic setback, Kemi Badenoch went to the gym and got her hair done,' Tim Shipman reveals in the magazine this week. Aides insist that Badenoch has since ‘upped her game'. Her PMQs performances are improving and the CCHQ machine seems to have whirred into gear, making sure that Labour's embarrassments – from Angela Rayner's flat to the collapsed China scandal – don't go unpunished. Is she finally turning the ship around after a year in the job? Michael Gove and Tim Shipman discuss.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.For more Spectator podcasts, go to spectator.co.uk/podcasts.Contact us: podcast@spectator.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
‘On the day of the local elections, when the Tories suffered a historic setback, Kemi Badenoch went to the gym and got her hair done,' Tim Shipman reveals in the magazine this week. Aides insist that Badenoch has since ‘upped her game'. Her PMQs performances are improving and the CCHQ machine seems to have whirred into gear, making sure that Labour's embarrassments – from Angela Rayner's flat to the collapsed China scandal – don't go unpunished. Is she finally turning the ship around after a year in the job? Michael Gove and Tim Shipman discuss. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
We've just had PMQs, which have become much more interesting now that Kemi Badenoch has got her act together. She led on the Grooming Gangs Inquiry after a fourth survivor quit the inquiry over fears that it's being watered down. She went as far as to say that the government is in a ‘briefing war against survivors', and accused Labour of a ‘cover-up'. Nigel Farage attempted to upstage proceedings with his own stunt – he watched from the public gallery to make the point that he isn't given the chance to defend himself or his party. However, Badenoch's display meant that his tantrum has gone pretty much unnoticed. Is Kemi on the front foot?Also today, Starmer's new go-to girl Louise Casey is back in the news as she joins the inquiry. She has been mooted as a potential successor to Chris Wormald, the Cabinet Secretary. There has been a lot of briefing against Wormald – who was a perplexing pick in the first instance – but if they don't want him why not ‘sack him … and find him an Oxford college(!)', as Tim suggests?Oscar Edmondson speaks to Tim Shipman and James Heale.Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.For more Spectator podcasts, go to spectator.co.uk/podcasts.Contact us: podcast@spectator.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Kemi Badenoch, Tory Leader and member of UK Parliament, joined the Guy Benson Show today to discuss current events and the state of UK politics. Badenoch discussed why Trump's leadership is something that is sorely needed in the U.K, as many across the pond desire a more conservative government. Benson and Badenoch also discussed several shocking free speech stories coming out of the UK, including a Jewish man who was questioned by UK police for openly wearing a Star of David. Benson and Badenoch also discussed the state of conservatism in the UK and how they are viewed by the country, and why she hopes a signifigant "vibe shift" can provide success for her party. Listen to the full interview below. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
HEADLINE: UK Political Realignment and the Migration Crisis GUEST NAME: Joseph Sternberg SUMMARY:Joseph Sternberg discusses the UK's political realignment following the Conservative Party's 14-year misrule. Kemi Badenoch aims to revive the Tories with Thatcherite economic policies and a strong stance on welfare reform, prioritizing work and fairness. However, the Tories lack credibility on the highly controversial issue of illegal immigration across the English Channel, allowing Nigel Farage's Reform party to gain ground. The migration problem remains intractable due to high costs and lack of political incentive. 1866
HEADLINE: UK Political Realignment and the Migration Crisis GUEST NAME: Joseph Sternberg SUMMARY:Joseph Sternberg discusses the UK's political realignment following the Conservative Party's 14-year misrule. Kemi Badenoch aims to revive the Tories with Thatcherite economic policies and a strong stance on welfare reform, prioritizing work and fairness. However, the Tories lack credibility on the highly controversial issue of illegal immigration across the English Channel, allowing Nigel Farage's Reform party to gain ground. The migration problem remains intractable due to high costs and lack of political incentive. 1880
Today, Kemi Badenoch gave a speech at the Conservative party conference. Adam, Chris, and Henry Zeffman were listening and give their immediate reaction.She announced a flurry of new policies, including abolishing stamp duty and introducing a fiscal “golden rule”. Did she manage to silence her critics? And is her job as party leader, at least for now, safe? She also attacked Labour for the collapse a case of two men accused of spying for China, which they deny. But is she right to accuse the government of “sucking up to Beijing?”You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing newscast@bbc.co.uk or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXd Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Rufus Gray with Shiler Mahmoudi and Lucy Gape. The social producer was Elizabeth Chalmers. The technical producer was James Piper. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.
This morning Kemi Badenoch wrapped up Tory conference with a speech that will – for now at least – calm Tory jitters. The Tory leader's hour-long address in Manchester was intended as a rejoinder to critics of her leadership and she certainly achieved that aim. Having been accused of lacking spirit, imagination and vigour, Badenoch today demonstrated all three and gave an idea of what the direction of the party looks like under her. The main headline grabbing announcement was her plan to abolish stamp duty – a surprise ‘rabbit' that sparked a standing ovation. Is she safe, for now?Lucy Dunn speaks to James Heale and William Atkinson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.For more Spectator podcasts, go to spectator.co.uk/podcasts.Contact us: podcast@spectator.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The Prime Minister was set to announce his crackdown on the existing rights of refugees at the European Political Community meeting today; however, he has flown back to chair a Cobra meeting after a terror attack in Manchester. Two people have been killed and at least two others injured after a driver allegedly rammed a car into pedestrians outside a synagogue and attacked them with a knife. The suspect, who was shot by police, is also believed to be dead.Also on the podcast, Tim Shipman interviews Kemi Badenoch for the magazine this week. As she enters conference season with the Tories running third in the polls behind Reform and Labour, she tells Tim that she is up for a fight. On Friday, her shadow cabinet will agree a policy of leaving the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) but her first conference announcement – revealed exclusively to Tim – will be scrapping the Climate Change Act. Will she resign if the Conservatives go backwards in next year's elections? ‘Ask me that after the locals,' she says. Will this be her last Tory conference as leader? Lucy Dunn speaks to Tim Shipman and James Heale.Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.For more Spectator podcasts, go to spectator.co.uk/podcasts.Contact us: podcast@spectator.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this week's episode, Ryan Walters shows off his Oklahomophobia, a church-restaurant has to transubstantiate its bar inventory to keep its liquor license, and Marsh will talk the guys through the how-tos of canal sects. --- To make a per episode donation at Patreon.com, click here: http://www.patreon.com/ScathingAtheist To buy our book, click here: https://www.amazon.com/Outbreak-Crisis-Religion-Ruined-Pandemic/dp/B08L2HSVS8/ If you see a news story you think we might be interested in, you can send it here: scathingnews@gmail.com To check out our sister show, The Skepticrat, click here: https://audioboom.com/channel/the-skepticrat To check out our sister show's hot friend, God Awful Movies, click here: https://audioboom.com/channel/god-awful-movies To check out our half-sister show, Citation Needed, click here: http://citationpod.com/ To check out our sister show's sister show, D and D minus, click here: https://danddminus.libsyn.com/ Report instances of harassment or abuse connected to this show to the Creator Accountability Network here: https://creatoraccountabilitynetwork.org/ --- Headlines: Trump-appointed judge rebukes Oklahoma's Ryan Walters: https://www.msnbc.com/top-stories/latest/ryan-walters-oklahoma-judge-lawsuit-religious-freedom-rcna225290 Josef Fritzl case made me reject God, reveals Badenoch: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/politics/2025/08/07/kemi-badenoch-josef-fritzl-reject-god/ What's even better than ‘cultural Christianity'?: https://christianconcern.com/comment/whats-even-better-than-cultural-christianity/ Texas megachurch pastor says scammers stole $18K pretending to work for Wells Fargo: https://www.christianpost.com/news/texas-megachurch-pastor-alleges-scammers-stole-18k.html Utah school board member defends comments amid criticism of faith, Unabomber references: https://www.utahpoliticalwatch.news/utah-board-of-education-member-praises-unabomber-claims-mccarthy-was-right-in-bizarre-speech/ Archbishop backtracks after appointing convicted rapist as chancellor: https://thecatholicherald.com/article/archbishop-backtracks-after-appointing-convicted-rapist-as-chancellor Denham Springs revokes liquor license for restaurant hosting church services: https://www.wafb.com/2025/08/12/denham-springs-city-council-revokes-liquor-license-restaurant-hosting-church-services/