POPULARITY
Categories
Ellen Coyne and Jack Power join Pat Leahy to look back on the week in politics:· All 27 EU foreign ministers will gather in Druids Glen in Wicklow next week for a “Gymnich” meeting. What is that you ask, it is characterised as a more informal chat with no expectation of any hard decisions being made. The lull of August will now give way to a hectic calendar culminating in difficult choices around the next seven-year EU budget.· Andy Burnham made his first visit to Northern Ireland this week as UK prime minister. He raised eyebrows with his assertion that a Border poll is “off the table”. This won't please Sinn Féin given the money and energy they are putting into making a vote on a united Ireland a reality. · The Dáil sat briefly on Friday, where, among other topics of debate, it decided to vote against fuel price increases. The Government now further defers clawing back the cuts in excise taxes it announced earlier in the summer for two more months. Can it continue to shield the public from increasing fuel costs beyond November?Plus, the panel picks their favourite Irish Times pieces of the week:· The unifying power of the late Dolly Parton, Scouting Ireland's future, and CIA chief visits Moscow to urge a Ukraine war deal.Would you like to receive daily insights into world events delivered to your inbox? Sign up for Denis Staunton's Global Briefing newsletter here: irishtimes.com/newsletters/global-briefing/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In his first interview with the FT since becoming prime minister, Andy Burnham tells political editor and host George Parker that he is pro-business and understands the pressures that business is under — but wants something in return from corporate Britain. Deputy political editor Jim Pickard and columnist Stephen Bush join George to unpack Burnham's pitch on business and wealth creation, and what he had to say about tax, nationalisation and the EU.George @GeorgeWParker and @georgewparker.bsky.social; Stephen @stephenkb; and Jim @PickardJEWant more?Andy Burnham pledges to ‘take pressure off' business ahead of October BudgetAndy Burnham seeks to bridge gap with nervous business communityHealey to shelve his own defence spending target of 3% of GDP by 2030Andy Burnham set for first meeting with Trump in SeptemberThames Water creditors and government in stand-off over future Thames Water saga undermines case for more market solutionsHow the Bayeux Tapestry became a tool of soft powerCome and join the FT and Political Fix panelists at the FT Weekend Festival on Saturday, September 5 at Kenwood House Gardens in London. To save 10 per cent on tickets, visit ft.com/festival and use the discount code FTPODCAST.You can also sign up here for Stephen Bush's morning newsletter ‘Inside Politics' for straight-talking insight into the stories that matter, plus puns and tongue (mostly) in cheek views. Get 30 days free.Political Fix was presented by George Parker and produced by Persis Love and Clare Williamson. The executive producer is Manuela Saragosa. Original music by Breen Turner. Audio mix by Sean McGarrity. Our broadcast engineers were Andrew Georgiades and Petros Gioumpasis. Flo Phillips is the FT's head of audio. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jack Burnham outlines China's persistent military coercion campaign targeting Taiwan, noting that Beijing separates economic trade truces from its aggressive goal to subjugate the island. China's provocations, including Coast Guardpatrols east of Taiwan and flights over the median line, are designed to establish a "new normal." In December 2025, China responded to an $11 billion U.S. arms package by launching "Justice Mission 2025," an expansive military exercise simulating blockades and practicing "all-dimensional deterrence" to discourage U.S. intervention and test regional capabilities. (8)
Andy Burnham's first overseas trip as Prime Minister took him to Ukraine this week, offering the first real glimpse of what his foreign policy might look like. But with a budget and a party conference ahead, how much time can a PM elected on a domestic agenda really give to the world stage? Oscar Edmondson is joined by James Heale and the foreign policy analyst, Sophia Gaston, to assess Ed Miliband's early moves at the Foreign Office, why Jonathan Powell has made himself indispensable to Britain's allies, and who is in the running to replace Olly Robbins as permanent secretary.Produced by Henry LloydBecome 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.
Dr. Karen Litzy sits down with Jennifer Burnham Grubbs, founder of Ionava, to unpack why traditional health insurance often penalizes healthy people instead of rewarding them. Jennifer draws on 21 years in the insurance industry to explain what she saw, why she built a new financial category, and how Ionava is designed to reward health-conscious behavior with greater flexibility and less friction. We discuss why healthy people often get poor value from insurance, how Ionava differs from HSAs, FSAs, and health sharing ministries, and how its wallet-based model is meant to make health financial preparedness more practical. Key topics Jennifer explains why she built Ionava after two decades as an insurance broker and consultant, including seeing denied coverage, surprise billing, and confusing utilization patterns firsthand. The episode explores the idea that healthy people often subsidize the system without getting a meaningful return, even when they follow preventive care recommendations. Karen and Jennifer compare traditional insurance with a "good driver discount" model, highlighting how insurance rarely rewards healthier behavior. Jennifer explains why Ionava is not health insurance or an HSA, but a new financial category built around health, financial preparedness, and wellness spending. The conversation covers how Ionava's wallet works, including how users can spend on qualifying health and wellness expenses, from gym memberships to supplements and cosmetic wellness categories. Jennifer contrasts Ionava with HSAs and FSAs, emphasizing that Ionava is funded through the subscription and is designed to roll over rather than expire. They also discuss health sharing ministries and why Ionava was built to be secular and broadly accessible rather than tied to religious attestation. Jennifer explains the health score quiz, how it helps price vaults, and why Ionava currently starts with the healthiest applicants to maintain actuarial discipline. The episode dives into pre-existing conditions, how current health status affects eligibility, and why some people may be asked to wait as the pool expands. Karen and Jennifer unpack how Ionava avoids the network and contracted-rate limitations that shape traditional insurance, including why cash-based purchasing offers more flexibility across states and even internationally. Timestamps 00:00 - Why healthy people feel punished by the insurance system 01:13 - Jennifer's 21 years inside insurance and what she saw 02:40 - Denials, surprise bills, and the pain points that shaped Ionava 03:30 - Why there is no "good driver discount" for health 05:01 - Why most people never get their money's worth from insurance 06:18 - Preventive care that still triggers hidden costs 07:16 - The problem with opaque medical pricing 08:38 - Why innovation often falls outside traditional coverage 09:27 - Why Jennifer first tried to fix insurance from the inside 11:43 - The limits of claims help and out-of-network gaps 13:42 - Why the private sector had to build a new answer 14:15 - What "health financial preparedness" means 15:39 - Health as physical, mental, and financial readiness 16:41 - Why people still buy insurance even when they hate it 17:12 - Ionava as an alternative or layered financial strategy 18:28 - How Ionava differs from HSAs 20:20 - Why Ionava is more like a funded debit wallet 21:46 - What counts as a qualified spend 22:10 - Why FSAs can feel like a use-it-or-lose-it trap 23:34 - Why Ionava rolls over and rewards healthy behavior 24:17 - How Ionava differs from health sharing ministries 26:36 - Why the health score exists 27:34 - How vault pricing works and why rates are locked for life 29:01 - Optional biometrics and earning more on your wallet balance 30:29 - How Ionava thinks about pre-existing conditions 31:57 - Why some applicants may be asked to come back later 33:11 - Beauty, fitness, and wellness spending inside the wallet 34:37 - The support system for new users 36:15 - Why Ionava is different from reimbursement-based models 37:37 - How insurance networks and contracted rates really work 41:04 - Why Ionava uses cash pricing worldwide 42:39 - Jennifer's weekly wellness spend: supplements 43:18 - The biggest myth healthy people believe about insurance 43:47 - Why she wants HSAs to fund Ionava vaults 44:18 - Books that shaped her thinking: The Go Giver and Give and Take 46:10 - Gardening, herbs, and staying grounded while building a company 47:18 - Where to learn more about Ionava and reserve a vault More About Jennifer: Jennifer (Azar) Burnham-Grubbs, is the Founder and CEO of Quantum Insurance Services and the Founder of ionava. She's spent 21 years inside the insurance industry as a fiduciary broker, managing over $100 million in insurance products for clients ranging from professional athletes and C-suite executives to everyday families. She's also the co-founder of Womxn of Wealth, a nonprofit dedicated to building women's financial acumen. After more than two decades inside the system, she launched ionava — a new financial category built for the healthy consumers the insurance system overcharges and underserves. She's a Princeton grad, based in Los Angeles Resources from this Episode: Ionava Website Jennifer on LinkedIn The Go Giver (book) Jane Sponsorship Information: Book a one-on-one demo here Front Desk @ Jane Mention the code LITZY1MO for a free month Follow Dr. Karen Litzy on Social Media: Karen's Twitter Karen's Instagram Karen's LinkedIn Subscribe to Healthy, Wealthy & Smart: YouTube Website Apple Podcast Spotify Stitcher iHeart Radio
James Meadway joins PTO to discuss the report he recently authored for the Verdant think tank on the economic costs of the recent UK heatwaves. We talked about how the extreme weather hit productivity right across the economy - from construction workers and delivery drivers to office workers. And about how the increasing casualisation of the workforce makes UK workers increasingly vulnerable to the physical and financial damage caused by such events. We also talked about the impact on infrastructure and about the inadequacy of the Burnham government's response to the situation. Notes: The Cost of Heat: Summer 2026 UK heatwaves - an economic impact update: https://www.verdantthinking.org/publications-and-events/the-cost-of-heat-may-to-july Adam Tooze - "Mad dogs and ...": Heatwave economics - summer 2026: https://adamtooze.substack.com/p/chartbook-467-mad-dogs-and-heatwave
The UK has a new Prime Minister: Andy Burnham, the former mayor of Manchester. Last year, he went as far as saying that he would like to see the UK rejoin the European Union in his lifetime. Since then, he has scaled back his ambitions: Burnham acknowledged a few weeks ago, that this was not the right time to reopen the debate over possible EU membership.What should Europeans expect from Prime Minister Andy Burnham? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Scoop: Ed Miliband is expected to announce two different kinds of sanctions over Israeli settlements in the West Bank. We have the details, but will the plan be enforceable?Get ready for politics on hyperspeed this autumn: a decision on North Sea oil and gas, an announcement about the prisoner early release scheme, two welfare reviews, conferences, a budget and a 10-year plan. But amidst the flurry of activity, is Andy Burnham putting off some tough decisions?Reform UK says British-born workers should get priority for social housing. We look at the shifting Overton window on citizenship as three parties on the right - The Conservative Party, Reform UK and Restore UK - jostle for votes.Steven Swinford, political editor, The TimesFraser Nelson, columnist, The TimesProducers: Euan Dawtrey, Harry KitsonExecutive producer: Molly GuinnessPicture: Getty Images00:00 - Parliament Returns: The Autumn Political Agenda01:45 - Ed Miliband, Gaza Sanctions & West Bank Trade Bans07:50 - Early Release Scheme & Police Backlash (PC Harper Case)10:45 - The Mini-Budget, Welfare Reviews & 10-Year Plan15:00 - Reform UK's Housing Policy & Citizenship Split23:30 - Kemi Badenoch Meets Giorgia Meloni in RomeThis podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Your morning briefing. All the news you need to start your day.On today's podcast:(1) Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent threatened economic punishment against any country doing business with Iran as part of what he called an “economic D-Day” campaign to isolate the Islamic Republic and end nearly six months of war.(2) UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham said he and other European leaders plan to travel to the US next month to lobby President Donald Trump to let Ukraine access some of its Patriot air defense missile stocks ahead of the winter.(3) The UK became the first foreign nation to gain access to Ukraine’s vast trove of battlefield data in a deal designed to train artificial intelligence models and develop fresh military capabilities.(4) The trade war between the US and Canada erupted into an extraordinary exchange of insults and threats between President Donald Trump and Doug Ford, the leader of Ontario.(5) Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent refrained from any further signals on revamping US debt management on Monday, following a report that his department could draw down some of its cash pile to fund buybacks of higher-yielding older securities.(6) Saudi Arabia plans to build a theme park complex near Paris that will include at least one area dedicated to Japanese manga comic books.(7) Recruiters are facing a problem they may have once wished for: Every resume is perfect. Artificial intelligence tools have made it easy to submit a flawless job application, so employers are bringing back traditional techniques to sift through candidates.Podcast Conversation: More Cheese, Please — Japan’s Guilty ConsumptionSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Britain's Prime Minister, Andy Burnham, on a visit to Kyiv, has promised to continue support for Ukraine despite what he called "outrageous threats" from Russia. He was speaking at an event marking Ukraine's independence day. Mr Burnham said that the UK and its allies would help Ukraine develop new technologies and support efforts to destroy Russian missiles before they are launched. He confirmed that the UK will provide blueprints so Ukraine can manufacture more long-range cruise missiles. Also: Pakistan's representative is visiting Iran to push for the reopening of talks between Washington and Teheran. A special BBC report from inside Afghanistan under the Taliban hearing from politicians and the impact their hardline rules are having on women. A spike in pirate attacks in the Western Indian Ocean and we hear from Kenya where four people have been arrested following the death of at least eighteen elephants that died after suspected poisoning. The Global News Podcast brings you the breaking news you need to hear, as it happens. Listen for the latest headlines and current affairs from around the world. Politics, economics, climate, business, technology, health – we cover it all with expert analysis and insight.Get the news that matters, delivered twice a day on weekdays and daily at weekends, plus special bonus episodes reacting to urgent breaking stories. Follow or subscribe now and never miss a moment.Get in touch: globalpodcast@bbc.co.ukPhoto: Britain's Prime Minister Andy Burnham receives the "Honorary Distinction to the British People", "Gratitude of the Ukrainian People" award from Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy during a celebration ceremony of the Independence Day of Ukraine, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in central Kyiv, Ukraine August 24, 2026. Credit: REUTERS/Gleb Garanich
Day 1,641.Today we assess a hectic weekend of diplomacy, with Andy Burnham and other world leaders in Kyiv to mark Ukraine's Independence Day – his first foreign trip as Britain's new Prime Minister. He came ready to hand over blueprints for Storm Shadow cruise missiles, not long after President Zelensky discussed fresh supplies of missile interceptors with his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron. Meanwhile, Ukraine has targeted another major Russian online retailer – Ozon – for the first time, and Russia's ambassador to London Andrei Kelin was withdrawn to Moscow with no explanation.Contributors: Dominic Nicholls (Host on Ukraine: The Latest). @DomNicholls on X.Antonia Langford (Freelance Journalist in Kyiv). @Antonialford on XWith thanks to John Foreman CBE, Chatham House associate fellow and former UK defence attaché to Russia.Producer: Rachel PorterSenior Producer: Lilian FawcettVideo Producer: Sophie O'Sullivan and Tom SteedSocial Producer: Aaron WheelerStudio Director: Meghan SearleExecutive Editor: Francis DearnleyCreated by David KnowlesNOW IN FULL VIDEO WITH MAPS & BATTLEFIELD FOOTAGE:Every episode is now available on our YouTube channel shortly after the release of the audio version. You will find it here: https://www.youtube.com/@UkraineTheLatest CONTENT REFERENCED:If you're interested in sponsoring Dom's upcoming defence event, email our colleagues at events@telegraph.co.ukRussian Offensive Campaign Assessment, August 23, 2026 (Institute for the Study of War)https://understandingwar.org/research/russia-ukraine/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-august-23-2026/Burnham hits back after Kremlin accuses him of prolonging war in Ukraine (Antonia Langford for The Telegraph)https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2026/08/24/kremlin-attacks-burnham-over-storm-shadows-for-ukraine/EMAIL US:Contact the team on ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk. We continue to read every message, and seek to respond to as many as possible.HIGHLIGHTS:British Storm Shadow missile blueprints exchanged for 'goldmine of Ukrainian battlefield data'Coalition of the Willing meet in Kyiv in Ukraine's Independence Day, including Andy Burnham Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Andy Burnham is making his first foreign visit as prime minister to Ukraine, marking the country's independence day. Burnham will use the trip to announce that the UK government will declassify information about missiles to help Ukraine build its own. Lucy Hough speaks to senior international correspondent Luke Harding – watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/infocus
After spending his Saturday afternoon watching Everton win at home, Andy Burnham showed up in Kyiv this morning to hand a gift to President Zelenskyy in the form of missile blueprints. To dissect the PM's trip to the eastern Europe, James Heale is joined by Mark Galeotti to discuss the impact of the Storm Shadow plans, both for Kyiv, and for Moscow.Produced by Henry LloydBecome 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.
Blag fatigue, content hunting, Burnham's barbecues, tiny beds, nose hair, and falling. Join the Iron Filings Society: https://www.patreon.com/topflighttimemachine and on Apple Podcast Subscriptions. Get a 7-day full access free trial and pay for 10 months up front for the price of 12 if you like a bargain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Douglas Alexander has been around for ages and he still looks fresh-faced. In this frank and entertaining hour the Secretary of State for Scotland reveals why Labour failed so badly at this year's Holyrood elections.He also takes us behind-the-scenes of the first weeks of the Burnham government as well as the fall of Keir Starmer.PLUS stories from the good old Blair/Brown days and more importantly: what's his ideal Greggs order?See the Political Party Live on Stage:9 November: Liz Kendall (London)21 December: Wes Streeting (London) GET TICKETS for Matt's brand new stand-up show Project Holy Moly at the Edinburgh Festival and touring nationwide in 2027:www.mattforde.comMARCH19 FAVERSHAM The Alex20 DORKING HallsAPRIL7 STOURBRIDGE Town Hall8 GLOUCESTER Guildhall9 LEICESTER Y Theatre12 SALFORD Lowry16 NORTHAMPTON Royal & Derngate21 EXETER Northcott Theatre24 LONDON Bloomsbury Theatre28 ALNWICK Playhouse29 BARNARD CASTLE Witham30 HULL AsylumMAY6 BIRMINGHAM The Glee Club12 COVENTRY Warwick Arts Centre13 WORCESTER Huntingdon Hall14 CHORLEY Theatre18 STAMFORD Corn Exchange19 SHEFFIELD Steamworks20 SHREWSBURY Theatre Severn21 NOTTINGHAM Theatre Royal23 LEEDS City Varieties Music Hall26 NORWICH Playhouse27 NORWICH PlayhouseJUNE2 SCUNTHORPE Plowright4 CANTERBURY Gulbenkian Theatre5 READING Concert Hall8 CARDIFF The Glee Club9 BATH Komedia10 MONMOUTH Savoy Theatre11 CHIPPING NORTON The Theatre15 BURY ST EDMUNDS Theatre Royal16 MILTON KEYNES The Stables18 TUNBRIDGE WELLS Trinity Theatre30 LIVERPOOL Everyman PlayhouseJULY1 CARLISLE Old Fire Station2 GLASGOW The Glee Club4 EDINBURGH Lyceum Theatre Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
One of the first big decisions of Andy Burnham's premiership is looming: whether to drill for North Sea oil and gas. Labour made a manifesto promise not to grant new licences for oil and gas exploration, but the question of whether to go ahead and drill at the Rosebank and Jackdaw sites - offshore oil and gas fields that have pre-existing licences - remains.After a summer of wildfires and heatwaves, but with our energy security and cost-of-living precarious, the new Prime Minister faces a political dilemma.Anoosh Chakelian is joined by political editor Ailbhe Rea.LISTEN AD-FREE:
Burnham's summer is coming to an end, how has his start in office gone? And what problems does he have to look forward to? Plus, there are new hacking concerns for the UK and Trump is back on another tariff tirade… Gavin Esler and Ros Taylor discuss this as they look at the key stories to look out for in the coming days. Support us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/bunkercast Written and presented by Ros Taylor with Gavin Esler. Audio production: Jade Bailey. Managing Editor: Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. Music by Kenny Dickinson. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
A visit to Ukraine is Andy Burnham's first chance to prove himself on the world stage. Will he, like other former PMs, end up over shadowing his foreign secretary?Hugo Rifkind unpacks the politics of the day with Libby Purves and Sebastian Payne.Picture: Getty Images Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ce lundi 24 août, réécoutez en podcast le replay du Monde qui bouge : la revue de presse présentée par Annalisa Cappellini.
Today, is the Burnham bounce real? And, does it tell us anything about the new prime minister's popularity long term?Adam presents Newscast live on 5live rounding up the political week with James Heale of the Spectator, Emma Burnell of Labour List and Luke Tryl of More in Common. What does Sue Gray think went wrong inside Starmer's number 10? How much should we read into Reform's recent infighting? And, did the public find the emergency alarm annoying?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 Miranda Slade and Anna Harris . The social producer was . The technical producer was . The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.
One month on from Andy Burnham entering Downing Street and a lot has changed at the top of government. Starmer's old guard have been reshuffled or replaced, and Burnham's government have announced dozens of new projects, but the big challenges that he faces are largely the same. Noa Hoffman is joined by Baroness Thangam Debbonaire, the former shadow culture secretary, to review Andy's report card.Produced by Henry Lloyd.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.
There's more gloomy economic news for Andy Burnham as unemployment disappoints, inflation rises and the public finances take another hit. With welfare spending and debt interest climbing, how much room does the government really have to deliver on its promises?Meanwhile, Burnham has pledged to be the ‘cost of living' Prime Minister – but one Treasury insider tells Michael Simmons that there is ‘not a single special adviser in this government who understands economics'. Is optimism in No. 10 about to collide with economic reality?James Heale, Tim Shipman and Michael Simmons discuss.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.
One month on from Andy Burnham entering Downing Street and a lot has changed at the top of government. Starmer's old guard have been reshuffled or replaced, and Burnham's government have announced dozens of new projects, but the big challenges that he faces are largely the same. Noa Hoffman is joined by Baroness Thangam Debbonaire, the former shadow culture secretary, to review Andy's report card.Produced by Henry Lloyd. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Andy Burnham has been on a regional tour of the UK, delivering a steady stream of policies aimed at tackling social issues. But now comes the hard part: should he push ahead with new drilling in the North Sea? After a summer of drought and wildfires, can the prime minister make the case for more fossil fuel extraction? FT political editor George Parker stands in for Lucy Fisher as host, and is joined by Inside Politics columnist Stephen Bush, and deputy political editor Jim Pickard. Plus, after Sue Gray described working in Starmer's government as ‘unbearable', and a top UK civil servant was revealed to have received a £500,000 payout package, the panel reflects on what we have learned about Starmer's premiership now that it's over. George @GeorgeWParker and @georgewparker.bsky.social; Stephen @stephenkb; and Jim @PickardJEWant more?Burnham launches pandemic-style drive to cut rough sleepingAndy Burnham faces climate test over North Sea oil decisionAre ‘dodgy' vape shops choking Britain's high streets?Working in Starmer's Number 10 was ‘unbearable,' says Sue GrayJamie Dimon warns UK chancellor against higher bank taxesTop UK civil servant received record £500,000 payout after Starmer sackingCome and join the FT and Political Fix panelists at the FT Weekend Festival on Saturday, September 5 at Kenwood House Gardens in London. To save 10 per cent on tickets, visit ft.com/festival and use the discount code FTPODCAST.You can also sign up here for Stephen Bush's morning newsletter ‘Inside Politics' for straight-talking insight into the stories that matter, plus puns and tongue (mostly) in cheek views. Get 30 days free.Political Fix was presented by George Parker and produced by Persis Love. The executive producer is Manuela Saragosa. Original music and audio mix by Breen Turner. Our broadcast engineers were Andrew Georgiades and Petros Gioumpasis. Flo Phillips is the FT's head of audio.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In his first month in office, Andy Burnham has tried to project a message of hope and optimism. But as problems pile up, will that start to look out of touch?Ryan Tubridy unpacks the politics of the day with Daisy McAndrew and Michael Binyon. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This special episode of The Weekly Briefing from Capital Economics features an exclusive extract from our client briefing on the global bond sell-off, its causes, consequences and where markets go from here. In this edited extract, Group Chief Economist Neil Shearing and Chief Markets Economist Jonas Goltermann answer questions from clients around the world, including:What was Scott Bessent's Treasury market intervention intended to achieve, and why it has so far fallen short?What are the economic forces pushing investors to demand more compensation for holding long-dated government bonds?Which economies are most exposed to a fiscal crisis?Is the AI credit boom affecting demand for government debt?How high could bond yields rise from here?Related contentRead: How to think about the bond market sell-offhttps://www.capitaleconomics.com/publications/global-economics-focus/how-think-about-bond-market-sellRead: What taxes could Burnham raise to fund his policy ambitions?https://www.capitaleconomics.com/publications/uk-economics-update/what-taxes-could-burnham-raise-fund-his-policy-ambitions
TABLE OF CONTENTS THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 8-19-2026Rebecca Grant, Vice President of the Lexington Institute, discusses technological advancements on the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford. She details the transition from traditional steam-powered catapults to modern electromagnetic aircraft launch systems (EMALS), which offer superior, adjustable torque to launch both lightweight drones and heavily armed fighter jets. Additionally, Grant highlights the ship's new electromagnetic advanced weapons elevators, which double the capacity of older Nimitz-class systems and move much faster to significantly improve sortie generation rates. However, a White House executive order directing a study to reconsider steam systems threatens to disrupt these advancements. Grant warns that backtracking to older technology on carriers currently in construction, like the CVN-81, could delay delivery by up to seven years, creating dangerous operational gaps as Chinese naval threats rise in the Pacific. (1)Rick Fisher of the International Assessment and Strategy Center analyzes China's advancement in space and its competition with the United States. Fisher discusses China's Gandai constellation, a space debris monitoring satellite system controlled by the People's Liberation Army (PLA), which tracked a SpaceX Falcon 9 booster crashing near the moon's Einstein crater from over 380,000 kilometers away. He warns that this constellation can perform dual-use military targeting for space combat and missile defense. Fisher criticizes China's lack of transparency, noting its refusal to give advance notice for earthbound ICBM tests and its intention to let expendable propulsion stages crash into the lunar surface. Finally, he highlights the rapid progress of China's LandSpace with its liquid-fueled, methane-oxygen-powered reusable Zhuque-3 rocket, predicting that ten Chinese companies will offer cheap reusable launch services within five years and directly undercut Western competitors. (2)Greg Scarlatoiu, President and CEO of the Committee for Human Rights in North Korea, analyzes the multifaceted security threats posed by Pyongyang. Scarlatoiu describes North Korea as a post-communist, dynastic kleptocracy and a crime family masquerading as a nation-state. Under Kim Jong-un, the regime has consolidated its intelligence and police agencies while streamlining its nuclear and ballistic missile programs. Scarlatoiu explains that North Korea's war economy exploits its people's human rights and security to fund weapons, which it now exports globally to Russia and Iran. The discussion, co-hosted by Gordon Chang, highlights active military provocations along the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), including recent boundary crossings. Finally, Scarlatoiu and Chang evaluate how controversial remarks by the Trump administration praising Kim Jong-un have strained trust in extended deterrence and undermined relationships within the vital US-South Korea alliance. (3)Craig Unger, investigative reporter and author, explores President Donald Trump's unstable foreign policy toward Russia and Ukraine. Unger contends that Trump behaves as a Russian appeaser whose real estate-linked advisers take marching orders from Vladimir Putin. The discussion highlights how Ukrainian-manufactured drones have successfully targeted Russian oil refineries, causing severe fuel shortages and long gas lines across Russia. While these military successes initially impressed Trump, leading him to publicly promise Patriot missiles and production technology to President Zelenskyy, Unger reveals that Trump subsequently withheld this critical support. Unger cautions that as Putin faces an existential crisis and potential military defeat, he may launch a limited incursion into Baltic states like Estonia or Poland. This would trigger NATO's Article 5, which Unger warns Trump would likely refuse to honor, thereby destroying the Western alliance. (4)Caleb Weiss of the Bridgeway Foundation and the Foundation for Defense of Democracies examines the evolution of African jihadist movements. Weiss details the case of Jamal Chima, a Ugandan Guantanamo Bay alumnus who transitioned from Al-Qaeda to recruiting for the Islamic State Central African Province (ISCAP) in Kampala. Weiss explains that East African court systems frequently experience "catch and release" cycles due to strict evidentiary demands for terrorism cases. The segment also addresses the kidnapping of missionary Kevin Rideout by the Islamic State Sahel Province. Weiss describes how these groups raise funds through lucrative ransoms, utilizing regional coordination hubs like the Al-Furqan and Al-Karrar offices to move capital globally to active cells in regions like Afghanistan. Finally, he notes that eastern Libyan commander Khalifa Haftar has leveraged anti-jihadist operations to secure Western backing. (5)Michael Bernstam of the Hoover Institution warns of a severe global crisis in refined petroleum products, especially diesel, gasoline, and jet fuel. Bernstam explains that the "crack spread"—the cost differential between crude oil and refined diesel—has reached an unprecedented historical peak of over $102 per barrel. This crisis stems from a fifty-year systemic failure, during which no major new refineries were built in the United States or Europe. Compounding this, sophisticated Ukrainian drone strikes have successfully knocked out 40% of Russia's refining capacity, forcing the major oil exporter to ban refined product exports and become an importer. Additionally, China has halted refined exports to meet its domestic demand. Bernstam warns that the resulting global diesel shortage directly threatens agricultural planting, harvesting, and regional food security, particularly for developing nations as winter approaches. (6)Peter Huessy of the Gold Institute for International Strategy critiques the Hollywood film House of Dynamite for its inaccurate depiction of US nuclear command and control. Huessy argues that the movie relies on flawed premises, such as the sudden, unexplained failure of Defense Support Program (DSP) tracking satellites and the total failure of US missile defense interceptors, to fabricate a helpless crisis scenario. He highlights that actual US missile defenses achieve 75% to 85% success in tests and up to 98% in combat scenarios like Israel's missile defense systems. Huessy strongly refutes the film's negative portrayal of military leadership as reckless warmongers and its central message that nuclear deterrence is ineffective. He asserts that the nuclear triad has successfully and perfectly preserved global peace for eighty years, keeping the country safe. (7)Simon Constable, writer for the Wall Street Journal, discusses European climate anomalies and their severe impact on global commodities. Speaking from the south of France, Constable reports temperatures reaching 35 degrees Celsius, contributing to low water levels in the Danube, Rhine, and Po rivers. These climate constraints, alongside maritime blockades of Ukrainian ports, have driven up prices for energy, wheat, and coffee. Turning to UK politics, Constable criticizes Prime Minister Keir Starmer for failing to spur house-building and notes that regional politicians like Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham lack an international profile. Finally, he reviews a longevity quiz from the Wall Street Journal, which highlights that the wealthiest Americans live fourteen years longer than the poorest. He notes that Japan leads the world in centenarians, emphasizing that geographic location and financial wealth are pivotal factors in determining an individual's healthy lifespan. (8)Andrea Stricker of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies examines Middle Eastern nuclear proliferation and the mystery surrounding legacy materials. Stricker details a positive, US-brokered development in which the post-AssadSyrian government agreed to cooperate and turn over legacy yellowcake uranium stored at a covert facility known as Site 99. This material was intended for a North Korean-built plutonium-producing reactor at Al-Kibar, which was destroyed by Israel in 2007. Despite long-standing Syrian secrecy and the site changing hands among various factions, environmental sampling by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed undeclared, man-made uranium particles at multiple locations. Stricker also raises concerns regarding Turkey's nuclear ambitions, highlighting its civilian programs' potential military purposes and Turkey's recent attempt to secure raw uranium contracts with the military regime in Niger. (9)Joel Kotkin, senior research fellow at the Civitas Institute at the University of Texas at Austin, examines California's economic and demographic challenges. Kotkin notes that California is on the verge of losing its population lead as middle-class families vote with their feet and move to states like Texas. He attributes this out-migration to exorbitant housing costs, a severe shortage of upwardly mobile middle-class jobs, and high electricity prices that hamper manufacturing and modern technology sectors like artificial intelligence. Furthermore, Kotkin highlights systemic social issues, including high teen unemployment, rising store break-ins, and a deteriorating public education system. These factors have depleted the state's middle class, leaving the tax base heavily dependent on a wealthy top one percent who can easily relocate to lower-tax states like Florida. Kotkin warns that this loss of middle-class families threatens California's future tax base and demographic vitality. (10)Corrections applied, several pending your confirmation: Bridgeway Foundation (transcribed as "Ridgeway," segment 5 — Weiss's actual affiliation), Al-Furqan and Al-Karrar offices (transcribed as "Al-Furkan and Al-Karr" — the standard renderings of the ISIS regional offices), LandSpace and Zhuque-3 (transcribed as "Land Space Corporation" and "Juk 3" — the Chinese firm and its rocket), Zelenskyy per house style, and "yellow cake" → yellowcake. One flag: "Gandaiconstellation" (segment 2) — I couldn't verify that name; the audio may be rendering a Chinese program name roughly, worth checking with the transcript or Fisher's notes. In segment 8, note the source describes Keir Starmer as PM and Andy Burnham as Manchester Mayor — this contradicts the recent batches where Burnham is PM. I've left it as the source has it since it's Constable's segment, but flag it if the summary tool garbled the timeline.R
Helena Horton on why the government may decide to allow more oil and gas drilling in the North Sea. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/infocus
To hear the full episode and the series as it drops, sign up up at therestispolitics.com Alastair is joined by Andy Burnham's closest confidant, friend and former colleague, Steve Rotheram – the Metro Mayor of the Liverpool City Region to discuss… Who really is Andy Burnham, and how is he going to change Britain? How have events like Hillsborough, and Thatcher's Northern neglect shaped him? And, how does he contend with his imposter syndrome, his ‘Catholic guilt complex', and his restless desire to be liked? Producer: India Dunkley Researcher: Miranda Crawford Video Editor: Josh Smith Social Producer: Celine Charles Executive Producer: Emily Kent Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On the one hand, Burnham may never be as popular as he is now. On the other, the PM could lose an election if he calls it soon, bringing his long-held dream of being prime minister to a horribly premature end.Anoosh Chakelian is joined by political editor Ailbhe Rea.LISTEN AD-FREE:
Racism and misogyny are becoming normalised as a result of rightwing politics and the ‘cesspit' of social media, says Labour's Bridget Phillipson. In an extended interview, the minister for women and equalities and new party chair sits down with Kiran Stacey to talk about her fears for British society, the climate crisis, what Burnham is really doing differently from Starmer, and whether her party can beat Reform. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod
Is Burnham's Britain's first ‘TikTok Prime Minister' and what does that mean for accountability, old-fashioned journalism, and the Westminster lobby? Why are violent Israeli settlers able to act with impunity against Palestinians in the West Bank, and is Israel effectively annexing the territory? Should young people spend the last two weeks of their summer holidays thinking about the challenges facing the world? Join Rory and Alastair as they answer all these questions and more in this week's edition of Question Time. Get involved with Politika's Policy Ideas for Positive Change HERE. The competition is open to all 16–18 year olds in the UK, and submissions close on 20th September 2026. __________ Enjoy Rory and Alastair's interview with Maoz Inon and Aziz Abu Sarah by searching ‘Leading' on Spotify, Apple, or YouTube. Go deeper into the world of The Rest Is Politics by signing up for our free newsletter HERE, featuring exclusive interviews, analysis and weekend reads from Alastair and Rory. Summer sale is HERE: Get an annual membership for an extra 20% off with code SUMMER26 That's ad-free listening, every bonus episode, and full access to our exclusive members' series. Sale ends August 31st, so grab it before summer's over. The Rest Is Politics is powered by Fuse Energy. Stop overpaying for energy. Switch at fuseenergy.com/politics and get a free TRIP+ subscription. Get our exclusive NordVPN deal here ➼ nordvpn.com/restispolitics It's risk-free with Nord's 30 day money back guarantee ✅ __________ Instagram: @restispolitics Twitter: @restispolitics Email: therestispolitics@goalhanger.com __________ Becoming Burnham Trailer Editor: Dylan Bonham Social Producer: Celine Charles Video Editor: Josh Smith Assistant Producer: Daisy Alston-Horne Producer: Evan Green Exec Producer: Bella Soames Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Andy Burnham tells the Times that the job of being prime minister is to be popular, rather than making a "fetish" of toughness. But does that mean avoiding difficult decisions?Hugo unpacks the politics of the day with Robert Crampton and Alice Thomson. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Lemar's birthday month celebration takes an intimate, deeply reflective, but hilarious turn on We Drink & We Watch Things as we move into his third selection of August: Bo Burnham's groundbreaking 2021 musical comedy special, Bo Burnham: Inside. Shot, directed, edited, and performed entirely by Burnham in a single room during isolation, this masterpiece redefined what a comedy special could be, blending hilarity with existential dread.To accompany the solitary, late-night atmosphere of the special, we are sipping on a custom cocktail called Lemar fittingly dubbed "Stir Crazy" - both strong and sweet to get you through lockdown.This week, we explore how Burnham captured the collective mental space of an entire era using nothing but a tiny room, projection lighting, and sheer artistic ambition. We break down the sheer musical brilliance behind instantly iconic tracks like "Welcome to the Internet," "All Eyes on Me," and "Comedy," dissecting how the special shifts seamlessly from razor-sharp satire of digital culture to raw, unfiltered vulnerability. We also marvel at the technical wizardry of his one-man crew setup, discussing how his lighting design, camera angles, and editing build a sense of claustrophobia and emotional resonance that rivals major feature films.If you spent months with these songs stuck on repeat, or if you want to hear us unpack one of the most uniquely creative artistic achievements of the decade, this is an episode you will love. We are blending our awe for Burnham's singular vision with our usual casual banter, continuing to celebrate Lemar's favorite picks all month long.This episode VIDEO is live on YouTube AND Spotify!Follow us on Instagram to get ep sneak peaks and find out what's coming up. DM us what you want to hear about next!Interested in what we're watching off the pod? Check out Mackenzie or Lemar's Letterboxd!
Waar de gevolgen van klimaatverandering voor de Britten tot dusver vooral een probleem elders waren, zet deze zomer de boel op scherp. Bosbranden, hittegolven en een dreigend drinkwatertekort, de Britten hebben het over weinig anders. Tegelijkertijd wil de nieuwe Labour-regering van Andy Burnham gaan boren naar fossiele brandstoffen in de Noordzee. En dat is minder tegenstrijdig dan het klinkt, vindt hij. Ook in deze aflevering Na een - uiteraard geheime - peiling onder spionnen in Europa, van de CIA en de Mossad komt de Britse geheime dienst MI6 als beste ter wereld uit de bus. Zijn ze daar blij mee? Ze zeggen er niets over. Wat maakt de Britse spionnendienst zo goed? Over Van Bekhovens Britten In van Bekhovens Britten praten Lia van Bekhoven en Connor Clerx elke week over de grootste nieuwsonderwerpen en de belangrijkste ontwikkelingen in het Verenigd Koninkrijk. Van Brexit naar binnenlandse politiek, van de Royals tot de tabloids. Waarom fascineert het VK Nederlanders meer dan zo veel andere Europese landen? Welke rol speelt het vooralsnog Verenigd Koninkrijk in Europa, nu het woord Brexit uit het Britse leven lijkt verbannen, maar de gevolgen van de beslissing om uit de EU te stappen iedere dag duidelijker worden? De Britse monarchie, en daarmee de staat, staat voor grote veranderingen na de dood van Queen Elisabeth en de kroning van haar zoon Charles. De populariteit van het Koningshuis staat op een dieptepunt. Hoe verandert de Britse monarchie onder koning Charles, en welke gevolgen heeft dat voor de Gemenebest? In Van Bekhovens Britten analyseren Lia en Connor een Koninkrijk met tanende welvaart, invloed en macht. De Conservatieve Partij leverde veertien jaar op rij de premier, maar nu heeft Labour onder Keir Starmer de teugels in handen. Hoe ziet het VK er onder Keir Starmer uit? En hoe gaan de ‘gewone’ Britten, voor zover die bestaan, daar mee om? Al deze vragen en meer komen aan bod in Van Bekhovens Britten. Een kritische blik op het Verenigd Koninkrijk, waar het een race tussen Noord-Ierland en Schotland lijkt te worden wie zich het eerst af kan scheiden van het VK. Hoe lang blijft het Koninkrijk verenigd? Na ruim 45 jaar onder de Britten heeft Lia van Bekhoven een unieke kijk op het Verenigd Koninkrijk. Als inwoner, maar zeker geen anglofiel, heeft ze een scherpe blik op het nieuws, de politiek, de monarchie en het dagelijkse leven aan de overkant van de Noordzee. Elke woensdag krijg je een nieuwe podcast over het leven van Van Bekhovens Britten in je podcastapp. Scherpe analyses, diepgang waar op de radio geen tijd voor is en een flinke portie humor. Abonneer en mis geen aflevering. Over Lia Lia van Bekhoven is correspondent Verenigd Koninkrijk voor onder andere BNR Nieuwsradio, VRT, Knack en Elsevier en is regelmatig in talkshows te zien als duider van het nieuws uit het VK. Ze woont sinds 1976 in Londen, en is naast correspondent voor radio, televisie en geschreven media ook auteur van de boeken Mama gaat uit dansen, het erfgoed van Diana, prinses van Wales (1997), Land van de gespleten God, Noord-Ierland en de troubles (2000), In Londen, 9 wandelingen door de Britse hoofdstad (2009) en Klein-Brittannië (2022). Over Connor Connor Clerx is presentator en podcastmaker bij BNR Nieuwsradio. Hij werkt sinds 2017 voor BNR en was voorheen regelmatig te horen in De Ochtendspits, Boekestijn en de Wijk en BNR Breekt. Als podcastmaker werkte hij de afgelopen tijd aan onder andere De Taxi-oorlog, Kuipers en de Kosmos, Splijtstof, Baan door het Brein en Welkom in de AI-Fabriek.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The UK's new Prime Minister has pledged to end rough sleeping by Christmas. Emergency accommodation will be provided for the winter, alongside practical support for health needs, as part of a £442m package. Andy Burnham says they did it during the Covid pandemic, so they can do it again. UK Correspondent Enda Brady told Mike Hosking critics' response to Burnham's 'everyone in for Christmas' message is it means everyone will be out by January. He says it's an ambitious statement from the Prime Minister. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The shocking death of former Cambridge University professor Jason Arday raises serious questions about the press investigation of his career and the claims he made about his life. Some blame the right-wing press for his death, others the university. Some blame the litany of racist and abusive messages Arday received online. Where should responsibility lie? Plus, Andy Burnham is clearly more comfortable navigating today's online world than Keir Starmer. But does he fully grasp the forces he's up against? Are Russia, China and malign actors closer to home “flooding the zone” with disinformation to drown out the truth? Former senior UK government adviser-turned disinformation analyst Amil Khan joins the panel to dissect the information war that Burnham faces. • Questions for But Your Emails? Thoughts? Comments? Email us at ogwn@podmasters.co.uk. ESCAPE ROUTES • James has been playing the strategy video game Civilisation VII • Marie is in the middle of Pereira Maintains by Italian writer and academic Antonio Tabucchi. • Amil has been reading Beer in the Snooker Club by Egyptian writer Waguih Ghali. • Seth watched David Lean's 1970 epic Ryan's Daughter When you buy books through our affiliate bookshop you help fund the podcast by earning us a small commission for every sale. Bookshop.org's fees help support independent bookshops too. www.patreon.com/ohgodwhatnow Presented by Seth Thévoz with James Ball, Marie Le Conte and Amil Khan. Produced by James Liddell. Audio Production by Tom Taylor. Art direction: James Parrett. Theme tune by Tom Taylor and Simon Williams. Managing Editor: Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. OH GOD, WHAT NOW? is a Podmasters production. www.podmasters.co.uk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
durée : 00:31:11 - Entendez-vous l'éco ? - Communiste militant avant d'amorcer une trajectoire très conservatrice, James Burnham pressent l'avènement d'une classe managériale, qui devait selon lui prendre le relais des sociétés capitalistes et socialistes. Vous aimez ce podcast ? Pour écouter tous les épisodes sans limite, rendez-vous sur Radio France
Where were you at 7pm on Friday? Wherever you were, it's likely you heard a loud alert activated on millions of mobile phones.It was the biggest use yet of the government's emergency alert system, warning of the dangers posed by wildfires across England and Wales.Prime Minister Andy Burnham defended the use of the measure, encouraging the public to take it seriously. But was it more red herring than red alert?Should the system only be used if there is an imminent threat to life? Did it expose vulnerable people to potentially more danger? And what does it tell us about the way the Burnham government communicates?Niall is joined by Jo Tanner, a former adviser to Boris Johnson and now a director at PR firm Rud Pedersen.
Labour overtaking Reform in opinion polls for the first time in over a year, travel chaos for government ministers and the controversial grave of Dobby the house-elf. Anoosh Chakelian is joined by Oli Dugmore to discuss the stories of the week.LISTEN AD-FREE:
Islander #6 magazine is now one sale. Buy it here! Harry, Connor, and Nick discuss Burnham's migrant plans to destroy the countryside, how life comes at you fast, and the Clacton circus is over and Nigel Farage won, what a shock.
Epstein survivor Lara Blume McGee urged British Prime Minister Andy Burnham to directly press President Donald Trump not to pardon Ghislaine Maxwell, saying the possibility of clemency for the woman she accused of grooming her was deeply disturbing. McGee said Maxwell began grooming her when she was 20 and argued that Britain had a responsibility to speak forcefully because Maxwell is a British citizen. Attorney Spencer Kuvin, who has represented multiple Epstein survivors, echoed that demand and said Burnham should make clear to the Trump administration that freeing Maxwell would have consequences far beyond American politics. Their concerns were heightened by Trump's refusal to categorically rule out a pardon and by Maxwell's lawyers suggesting that she would cooperate more fully with investigations into Epstein's crimes if she received clemency. Survivors viewed that possibility as an unacceptable bargain in which the person convicted of helping Epstein abuse young women and girls could potentially trade information for her freedom.The article also placed the pardon controversy within the broader political fight surrounding Maxwell's treatment by the Justice Department. Survivors remained angry over her transfer to a minimum-security federal prison after lengthy meetings with Todd Blanche and feared that the favorable treatment could ultimately culminate in clemency. Kuvin argued that a pardon would send a devastating message to trafficking survivors by suggesting that a convicted accomplice could receive special consideration because she possessed information about powerful people. The pressure on Burnham also came after the U.S. Senate unanimously passed a nonbinding resolution opposing any presidential pardon or clemency for Maxwell, demonstrating unusually broad political opposition to the idea. McGee and other survivors were therefore calling on the British government to add its voice to that opposition and to support a wider independent inquiry into Epstein, Maxwell and anyone else credibly implicated in their crimes.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:'Andy Burnham needs to tell Trump not to pardon my groomer Ghislaine Maxwell' | News Politics | Metro News
Nigel Farage has comfortably won back his Clacton seat but with the investigation into his finances now back on, what, if anything, has been gained by this by-election gamble? And with the Reform UK leader absenting himself from the count, and his ratings falling, we ask whether the party is losing momentum. Plus, just weeks into being prime minister, Andy Burnham is facing his first challenges. Can he keep on the front foot with his cost of living drive and tour of the nation? Host Lucy Fisher is joined by FT political editor George Parker and political correspondent Anna Gross.FOLLOW:Lucy @LOS_Fisher or @lucyfisher.ft.com; Anna, @AnnaSophieGross and George @GeorgeWParker and @georgewparker.bsky.social;Want more? Investigation into Nigel Farage resumes after he wins Clacton by-electionFarage won in Clacton. But there are bigger tests to comeWhy Andy Burnham could be tempted by an early election gambleStarmer allies warn John Healey against blowing ‘strong' economic inheritance Burnham urges retailers to stop selling disposable barbecues amid wildfiresYou can also sign up here for Stephen Bush's morning newsletter ‘Inside Politics' for straight-talking insight into the stories that matter, plus puns and tongue (mostly) in cheek views. Get 30 days free.Political Fix was presented by Lucy Fisher and produced by Clare Williamson and Persis Love. Original music and audio mix by Breen Turner. Flo Phillips is the FT's head of audio.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Should Andy Burnham deliver a covid style national emergency briefing to inform the public about the climate emergency? How do we foster cross-party consensus on the climate emergency? And, can we balance the need to build data centres and protect the environment? Join Alastair Campbell, Rory Stewart and Caroline Lucas as they discuss all of these questions and more. To watch Caroline's four part series on climate as a national security threat, sign up at therestispolitcs.com Read the redacted Joint Intelligence Committee Report here Find out more about the National Emergency Briefing here. Producer: India Dunkley Researcher: Evie Townend Video Editor: Josh Smith, Vasco Andrade Social Producer: Celine Charles Executive Producer: Bella Soames General Manager: Tom Whiter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Epstein survivor Lara Blume McGee urged British Prime Minister Andy Burnham to directly press President Donald Trump not to pardon Ghislaine Maxwell, saying the possibility of clemency for the woman she accused of grooming her was deeply disturbing. McGee said Maxwell began grooming her when she was 20 and argued that Britain had a responsibility to speak forcefully because Maxwell is a British citizen. Attorney Spencer Kuvin, who has represented multiple Epstein survivors, echoed that demand and said Burnham should make clear to the Trump administration that freeing Maxwell would have consequences far beyond American politics. Their concerns were heightened by Trump's refusal to categorically rule out a pardon and by Maxwell's lawyers suggesting that she would cooperate more fully with investigations into Epstein's crimes if she received clemency. Survivors viewed that possibility as an unacceptable bargain in which the person convicted of helping Epstein abuse young women and girls could potentially trade information for her freedom.The article also placed the pardon controversy within the broader political fight surrounding Maxwell's treatment by the Justice Department. Survivors remained angry over her transfer to a minimum-security federal prison after lengthy meetings with Todd Blanche and feared that the favorable treatment could ultimately culminate in clemency. Kuvin argued that a pardon would send a devastating message to trafficking survivors by suggesting that a convicted accomplice could receive special consideration because she possessed information about powerful people. The pressure on Burnham also came after the U.S. Senate unanimously passed a nonbinding resolution opposing any presidential pardon or clemency for Maxwell, demonstrating unusually broad political opposition to the idea. McGee and other survivors were therefore calling on the British government to add its voice to that opposition and to support a wider independent inquiry into Epstein, Maxwell and anyone else credibly implicated in their crimes.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:'Andy Burnham needs to tell Trump not to pardon my groomer Ghislaine Maxwell' | News Politics | Metro NewsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-epstein-chronicles--5003294/support.
Harry, Beau and Elizabeth Heverin discuss the partial eclipse of the Sun taking place today, the evil AI company that is acquiring rare books and destroying them, and Mr Burnham's impending war on highstreet slop. Islander #6 magazine is now one sale. Buy it here!
On today's episode, Andy & DJ discuss the flagrant foul on Sophie Cunningham drawing the attention of Florida's Attorney General after the ejected player claimed "white privilege," a record 230 illegal migrants crossing the English Channel in a single dinghy as the Burnham government issues yet another stern warning, and Halo Studios being hit with layoffs following the release of Halo.
Nigel Farage is heading back to the polls in Clacton after resigning to trigger a by-election over questions surrounding his £5 million gift. With the main parties refusing to stand, Farage looks set for a comfortable victory – but will his popularity in Clacton translate to the rest of the country? And have voters simply stopped caring about the controversy?Meanwhile, Andy Burnham is facing the first major tests of his premiership. As questions mount over how he will pay for his ambitious domestic agenda, Burnham has intervened again over plans to release prisoners early, insisting that the killers of PC Andrew Harper should remain behind bars. Is his willingness to respond to public pressure a sign of how he intends to govern?Oscar Edmondson speaks to Noa Hoffman and the Financial Times's Lucy Fisher.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.
C Lieven expresses skepticism regarding Russian influence in German elections, noting that the Alternative for Germany (AfD) is genuinely popular due to anti-immigration stances and skepticism toward funding Ukraine. Meanwhile, the UK faces budget constraints that hinder promised military spending increases. A migration crisis involving thousands of people attempting to enter EU territory from Morocco has triggered emergency meetings. Nationalist parties in Europe may move toward total immigration bans to satisfy their core supporters. (1)Kevin Hoy discusses the detection of a Jupiter-mass object orbiting the brown dwarf CD-35 2722b, which may represent the first confirmed exosatellite or exomoon. Using the radial velocity method, researchers identified a "wobble" in the spectrum of the brown dwarf, indicating a secondary body in a highly eccentric 170-day orbit. This discovery is a significant milestone for astrophysics, as it helps scientists understand planetary formation processes outside our solar system. Hoy explains that such objects are difficult to find because technology is often limited by the brightness and proximity of host stars. Future mapping of nearby systems could involve high-power radar technology. (2)Evan Ellis explores the landscape of Uruguay, a stable country navigating the trade interests of its neighbors, Brazil and Argentina. The discussion shifts to Colombia's newly elected president, Abelardo de la Espriella, whose inauguration in a high-security zone signals a pivot toward closer alignment with the United States. Ellis also addresses the complex situation in Venezuela, where the U.S. is negotiating with the relatively unknown Dinorah Figuera rather than more prominent opposition figures. Regional stability is further threatened by an explosion of homicides in Uruguay and the presence of millions of Venezuelan refugees in Colombia. (3)Bradley Bowman warns of the unprecedented military cooperation between Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea, documented in 616 instances of security collaboration. Russia has transferred advanced technology, such as Su-35 fighters and submarine quieting techniques, to China to secure support for its war in Ukraine. Simultaneously, Iran provides drones and targeting data to help Russia strike Ukrainian targets and U.S. forces in the Middle East. North Korea has supplied thousands of soldiers and munitions to the European front. Bowman emphasizes that the U.S. defense industrial base is currently a shadow of its World War II capacity. (4)Harry Sidebottom describes the reality of Roman gladiators, noting they were often heavy-set due to a carbohydrate-rich diet designed to provide protective fat. These fighters were glamorous figures who enacted Roman virtues of courage and physical strength for the public. While many were slaves or prisoners, others were free men who volunteered to escape grinding poverty. Most gladiators fought only once or twice a year, with a survival rate of roughly seven in eight. The segment also notes a rare historical instance where a Roman audience felt sympathy for elephants being massacred in the arena. (5)Peter Berkowitz analyzes the work of Professor Patrick Deneen, who argues that liberal democracy is a "curse" that has atomized American society. Deneen presents contradictory accounts of whether liberalism was a founding principle or a 20th-century imposition. He advocates for a "regime change" toward a pre-liberal order that prioritizes biblical faith and classical virtue over individual rights. Berkowitz notes that Deneen's ideas have influenced figures like Vice President JD Vance, who has publicly endorsed Deneen's work. The critique suggests that Machiavellian means and state coercion may be necessary to restore a Christian foundation to the nation. (6)Jack Burnham explains the FCC's efforts to prohibit military-grade, foreign-produced drones, specifically targeting Chinese firms like DJI due to security concerns. These "dual-use" systems are defined by their ability to carry heavy loads and utilize advanced sensor arrays. A significant security gap exists because critical infrastructure like power grids and hospitals lacks the same protections afforded to airports and military bases. Burnham cites a 2024 arrest of a man flying an unregistered drone over Vandenberg Space Force Base in California as evidence of the threat. The Trumpadministration has issued executive orders to secure American airspace from unidentified objects. (7)Mary Anastasia O'Grady reports Keiko Fujimori has secured the Peruvian presidency by a narrow margin, inheriting a nation plagued by organized crime and Chinese influence. Fujimori faces an immediate crisis with the expected arrival of El Niño in September, which threatens the fishing industry and may cause floods. Transnational criminal organizations involved in extortion and illegal mining present a strategic threat to property rights and small businesses. Additionally, China's construction of the Chancay port and heavy mining investments have granted Beijing significant political leverage. Fujimori must now balance these economic realities while attempting to restore the rule of law. (8)Corrections applied: Mary Anastasia O'Grady as directed; Abelardo de la Espriella (transcribed as "Delospria," segment 3 — matching prior batches); and Patrick Deneen (transcribed as "Denine," segment 6 — the Notre Dame political theorist). One to flag: Kevin Hoy (segment 2) — I couldn't verify this astronomer's name, and the brown dwarf designation (rendered as "CD352722b," which I've set as CD-35 2722b) suggests the transcription may be rough. Worth checking against the booking sheet.
Jack Burnham explains the FCC's efforts to prohibit military-grade, foreign-produced drones, specifically targeting Chinese firms like DJI due to security concerns. These "dual-use" systems are defined by their ability to carry heavy loads and utilize advanced sensor arrays. A significant security gap exists because critical infrastructure like power grids and hospitals lacks the same protections afforded to airports and military bases. Burnham cites a 2024 arrest of a man flying an unregistered drone over Vandenberg Space Force Base in California as evidence of the threat. The Trumpadministration has issued executive orders to secure American airspace from unidentified objects. (7)