Podcasts about Downing Street

Street in London, England

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Latest podcast episodes about Downing Street

FT Politics
Starmer in a spin as the ‘Dark Lord' bites the dust

FT Politics

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 12, 2025 31:21


After the toe-curling revelations about Lord Peter Mandelson's connections with the convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein, the ambassador's departure seemed inevitable to all - with the exception of some in Downing Street. Questions about the speed of his sacking, what Sir Keir Starmer knew and why the New Labour grandee was hired in the first place will plague the prime minister as he prepares for US President Donald Trump's upcoming visit. Host George Parker is joined by FT columnist Stephen Bush, deputy opinion editor Miranda Green, and deputy political editor Jim Pickard to discuss the political fallout for the PM and look ahead at the two-horse race to replace deputy Labour party leader Angela Rayner.Want more?:Labour MPs are increasingly doubting Keir Starmer's leadershipWhy the Mandelson affair raises questions about Starmer's judgmentExit Mandelson — but not Number 10's problemsPeter Mandelson's back: the Prince of Darkness returnsBridget Phillipson faces Lucy Powell in final stage of Labour deputy leader raceFollow George on Bluesky @georgewparker.bsky.social and on X at @GeorgeWParker; Jim @PickardJE, Stephen @stephenkb and Miranda on @greenmirandaSign up to Stephen Bush's morning newsletter Inside Politics for straight-talking insight into the stories that matter, plus puns and tongue (mostly) in cheek. Get 30 days free at https://www.ft.com/InsidePoliticsOfferPolitical Fix is presented by George Parker and produced by Clare Williamson. The executive producer is Flo Phillips. Audio mix and original music by Breen Turner. The FT's acting head of audio is Manuela Saragosa. CLIPS: Parliament TVRead a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Fourcast
Peter Mandelson and Epstein: how much did Starmer know?

The Fourcast

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 11, 2025 28:56


For the third time in his political career, Peter Mandelson has fallen from high office in a scandal linked to rich and powerful men - this time it was his relationship with the disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein that was his undoing. Lord Mandelson was sacked from his role as UK ambassador to the US after leaked emails showed him offering support for Epstein even after a sex offence conviction. Downing Street said the Prime Minister found 'the depth and extent of the relationship reprehensible.' But questions are now being asked about Keir Starmer's judgement in appointing him in the first place given Lord Mandelson has attracted - some would say courted - controversy throughout his career. He was widely considered to be doing a good job in Washington though, with a good rapport with President Trump. Is that relationship now damaged? On the latest episode of the Fourcast, Cathay Newman was joined by the Labour peer Ayesha Hazarika, the author and political journalist Ian Dunt who has written extensively on Lord Mandelson and the film-maker Richard Sanders who produced the Dispatches documentary that first revealed the friendship between the two men.

Under The Lid - Inside Pro Cricket Podcast
2005 Men's Ashes - Under The Lid With Matthew Hoggard

Under The Lid - Inside Pro Cricket Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 11, 2025 59:18


It was the series that thrust English cricket to the forefront of everyone's minds and captured the hearts of the nation.On this week's special episode, Jack Brooks is joined by 2005 Men's Ashes winner Matthew Hoggard to look back over those life-changing five Tests. From the nervy wins at Edgbaston and Trent Bridge to not being able to get into Old Trafford and that infamous post-series celebration at 10 Downing Street, Hoggy has so many epic stories up his sleeve.Brought to you by the PCA and The Cricketer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Off Air... with Jane and Fi
The great cattery in the sky (with Rick Astley)

Off Air... with Jane and Fi

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 10, 2025 53:28


Jane and Fi recount their visit to Downing Street last night and it sounds like the Champagne was well and truly flowing. Larry the cat was did not make an appearance, but Hugh Grant was there - not that Jane remembers. Plus, they speak to singer and songwriter, Rick Astley, about his 2026 UK and Ireland Tour. We've announced our next book club pick! 'Just Kids' is by Patti Smith. You can listen to the playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3qIjhtS9sprg864IXC96he?si=uOzz4UYZRc2nFOP8FV_1jg&pi=BGoacntaS_uki. If you want to contact the show to ask a question and get involved in the conversation then please email us: janeandfi@times.radio. Follow us on Instagram! @janeandfi. Assistant Producer: Hannah Quinn Podcast Producer: Eve Salusbury Executive Producer: Rosie Cutler Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Politics At Jack And Sam's
Rachel vs the blockers: Who will win?

Politics At Jack And Sam's

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 10, 2025 20:18


Private concerns around the public finance black hole in Whitehall dominates the chatter, as the Chancellor aims to plug the £20-£40 billion gap ahead of the budget.  Sam and Anne discuss the situation and ask: What's the tone on the issue? What happened in Keir Starmer's first new-look cabinet meeting? What influence is the new environment secretary having? Elsewhere, the Prime Minister welcomes the Israeli President to Downing Street as tensions escalate in the Middle East, and we check in on the state of the Labour deputy leadership race. 

英语老师瑶瑶
【摩登家庭】来,一起学习一下off-limits的用法。

英语老师瑶瑶

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 9, 2025 4:40


【句子】I believe I was clear that the bedrooms were off-limits. 【Modern Family S3E20】【发音】/aɪ/ /bɪˈliːv/ /aɪ/ /wɒz/ /wɑːz/ /klɪə(r)/ /ðæt/ /ðə/ /ˈbed.ruːmz/ /wɜː(r)/ /ˌɒf ˈlɪm.ɪts/ /ˌɑ:f ˈlɪm.ɪts/【发音技巧】that the不完全爆破;【翻译】我相信我说得很明白,卧室禁入。【适用场合】今天节目中我们来一起学习这个复合词,off-limits,它可以当作是形容词去使用,表示“禁止入内的;禁区的”;这个表达在美式英语中用得更多一些;If a place is off limits, you are not allowed to go there.在口语中,有些情况下,这样的连字符也是可以去掉的。 eg: Downing Street has been off limits to the general public since 1982. 自1982年起,唐宁街已经禁止公众进入。 eg: The playing fields were off limits to the school-children during the winter months.冬季期间,学校操场上禁止学生进入。 eg: This club is off-limits to anyone under 21.这个俱乐部禁止21岁以下的人进入。 它在日常生活中,也可以用来指:“物品被禁止使用或者触摸”;eg: My diary is off-limits! Don't you dare read it.我的日记是禁区,你胆敢看看试试! eg: Dad's new sports car is totally off-limits to us kids.我们这些孩子是绝对不能碰爸爸的新跑车的。 【尝试翻译以下句子,并留言在文章留言区】The park is off-limits to dogs.

Off Air... with Jane and Fi
Never confuse a gorge with a hole!

Off Air... with Jane and Fi

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 8, 2025 48:35


Should the teacher related to Cheddar Man become the King? Why did the Queen ride side saddle? And what wisdom will Jane and Fi dish out during their trip to Downing Street? Many questions are answered in today's email special. We've announced our next book club pick! 'Just Kids' is by Patti Smith. You can listen to the playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3qIjhtS9sprg864IXC96he?si=uOzz4UYZRc2nFOP8FV_1jg&pi=BGoacntaS_uki If you want to contact the show to ask a question and get involved in the conversation then please email us: janeandfi@times.radio Follow us on Instagram! @janeandfi Assistant Producer: Hannah Quinn Podcast Producer: Eve Salusbury Executive Producer: Rosie Cutler Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Evolve to Succeed
The Journey from Burnout to Inner Peace - with Katherine Baldwin

Evolve to Succeed

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 8, 2025 58:11


What happens when the life you dreamed of doesn't bring you happiness? This week on the Evolve to Succeed Podcast, we're joined by Katherine Baldwin. Former Reuters political and foreign correspondent who once travelled the world alongside Tony Blair, Gordon Brown, and David Cameron. From covering wars, natural disasters, and global crises, Katherine lived a life of adrenaline, success, and status. Yet behind the scenes, she was battling burnout, binge eating, alcohol dependence, and an overwhelming sense of emptiness. In this deeply honest and inspiring conversation, Katherine shares how she transitioned from chasing external validation to finding inner peace and purpose. We discuss the dangers of overachievement, the role of addiction and denial in high-pressure careers, and the courage it takes to step away from an identity built on success. Katherine also reveals the practices and mindset shifts that helped her recover, embrace self-love, and build meaningful relationships. Whether you're an entrepreneur, business leader, or professional striving for balance, this episode will give you tools to pause, reflect, and realign with what truly matters.

A long way from the block
Ep. 120-Running for justice—my conversation with Deo Kato

A long way from the block

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 6, 2025 83:04


In this inspiring episode, I sit down with the Ugandan-born, UK-raised runner Deo Kato—a man who, doing what had never been done, ran from Cape Town to London to raise awareness of social injustices and human migration. It all started in 2020, when he first connected running with activism. For 381 days in a row, he ran a 10k, to honor the Montgomery Bus Boycott and its duration. During our conversation, he considers the ways his childhood in Uganda developed his deep appreciation for community, a sustaining value throughout the ups and downs, trials and tribulations, he has faced. His running has, in profound ways, reflected that, taking place in all terrains and weathers. He once ran through Egypt when the temperature approached 125 degrees Fahrenheit. He talks about his biggest setback—being imprisoned for three weeks in South Sudan for so-called improper paperwork. The support he received from his fellow prisoners gave him a new motivation to continue when he was considering quitting. We end with his final, solo journey into London from Greece, arriving at 10 Downing Street—home to the UK prime minister—where he took a knee with hundreds of supporters behind him. 

The Jon Gaunt Show
Starmer's Chaos: Rayner Out, Lammy IN | Labour's Political Meltdown

The Jon Gaunt Show

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 6, 2025 54:14


Keir Starmer's Labour reshuffle has descended into chaos. #Starmer #Labour #AngelaRayner #DavidLammy #YvetteCooper #JonGaunt #UKPolitics Angela Rayner is sacked, David Lammy is promoted to Deputy PM, and Yvette Cooper — who FAILED to stop the small boats crisis — is now Foreign Secretary!Trump and Putin will EAT HER ALIVE on the world stage. Meanwhile, the Home Office goes to someone who let THOUSANDS of criminals out early, and Rachel Reeves stays on as Chancellor? Is Starmer writing the longest political suicide note in history and handing Nigel Farage the keys to Downing Street? Join Jon Gaunt LIVE as we expose the full scale of Labour's political meltdown and what it means for UK politics. #Starmer #Labour #AngelaRayner #DavidLammy #YvetteCooper #RachelReeves #CabinetChaos #LabourCrisis #UKPolitics #SmallBoats #Trump #Putin #NigelFarage #PoliticalMeltdown #KeirStarmer Starmer, Labour, Angela Rayner, David Lammy, Yvette Cooper, Rachel Reeves, Cabinet Chaos, Labour Crisis, UK Politics, Small Boats, Trump, Putin, Nigel Farage, Political Meltdown, Keir Starmer This video is a politics blog and social commentary by award winning talk radio star, Jon Gaunt

The News Agents
Angela Rayner resigns - can a reshuffle save Labour?

The News Agents

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 5, 2025 31:18


Keir Starmer announced 'Phase 2' of his government on Monday - a reset of his Downing St operation supposed to get Labour gripping the agenda and on the front foot for the year ahead. Just four days on, the PM faces his biggest test yet. Angela Rayner, the deputy PM, housing secretary, and deputy Labour leader resigning after a breach of the ministerial code for not paying the correct tax on the purchase of a flat in Hove. In response, Starmer is undergoing a sweeping reshuffle - only the chancellor Rachel Reeves was told her job was safe ahead of time. What happens now? Could a left-wing candidate cause Starmer a major political headache if they run to replace Rayner as deputy leader? Will Rayner become a lightning rod on the backbenches? Does Starmer risk creating yet more enemies in sacking cabinet ministers?Can Starmer use this moment to bolster his authority - or is it his most destabilising day in office?

PoliticsHome
Labour's Autumn of discontent

PoliticsHome

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 5, 2025 48:58


As MPs returned to Westminster after the summer recess, this week we're looking ahead to a crucial autumn for this government, packed full of potential pitfalls as they hope year two in office is an upgrade from a tricky first 12 months.But after a clunky internal Downing Street reset and distracting revelations about Angela Rayner's tax affairs, things have not got off to the best start, with a high-risk Donald Trump visit, party conference season, the ongoing smalls boats crisis and Rachel Reeve' sophomore Budget to deliver, things don't get any easier for Keir Starmer and his team in the coming weeks.Joining host Alain Tolhurst to discuss how Labour navigates its way through all of this are two of the party's MPs; Antonia Bance, the member for Tipton and Wednesbury, and Jess Asato, the MP for Lowestoft.Alongside them are Chris Hopkins, Political Research Director at the pollsters Savanta, along with Adam Payne, editor of PoliticsHome.To sign up for our newsletters click herePresented by Alain Tolhurst, produced by Nick Hilton and edited by Ewan Cameron for Podot

Parliament Matters
Is Parliament at the root of the country's problems?

Parliament Matters

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 5, 2025 66:49


Does Parliament itself lie at the root of some of Britain's political and economic difficulties? Lord Goodman argues that it does and so makes the case for urgent parliamentary reform. This week we also examine the implications of a Downing Street reshuffle that has created a “Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister,” raising new questions about accountability in the Commons. The discussion ranges from Angela Rayner's uncertain position, Nigel Farage's controversial US appearance, and the Greens' leadership contest, to the growing use of artificial intelligence in parliamentary work.______Please help us improve Parliament Matters by completing our Listener Survey. It will only take a few minutes.Go to: https://podcastsurvey.typeform.com/to/QxigqshS______This week we ponder the creation of a post unprecedented in modern government: Darren Jones as Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister. Ruth and Mark analyse what this role might mean for scrutiny, Commons procedure, and the balance of power at the heart of government, particularly with Angela Rayner's future unresolved. From there, they turn to Nigel Farage's decision to criticise Britain's free speech laws before a US Congressional committee – an intervention that may weaken rather than strengthen his position – and to the Greens' choice of a leader outside Westminster, with all the opportunities and risks that entails. They also consider how artificial intelligence is beginning to shape the way MPs work, from the appearance of formulaic phrases in Hansard to pilot schemes using AI tools for correspondence and drafting. Finally, in an extended interview, Conservative peer Lord Paul Goodman argues that economic renewal cannot be achieved without reforming Parliament itself: fewer, better-prepared bills, more serious scrutiny, and more experienced Ministers, including some drawn from outside Parliament._____

The Two-Minute Briefing
Rayner clings on – but for how long?

The Two-Minute Briefing

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 4, 2025 38:48


Angela Rayner is hanging on to her job by a thread. As fresh details emerged in The Daily Telegraph about how she used NHS compensation to fund the purchase of her second home, senior Labour figures looked to be distancing themselves from the Deputy Prime Minister.Rachel Reeves made a point of telling broadcasters it is “on all of us” to understand tax rules, before No 10 refused to guarantee she would still be in post by the next general election.Camilla and Tim look at the latest developments in Rayner's tax scandal, and wonder whether she might resign imminently in order to overshadow tomorrow's Reform party conference.Elsewhere they're joined by royal expert Valentine Low, whose new book Power and the Palace - which has been making headlines for the last week - sheds a fascinating new light on the relationship between the monarchy and Downing Street.Producer: Georgia CoanSenior Producer: John CadiganPlanning Editor: Venetia RaineyVideo Editor: Will WaltersSocial Producer: James SimmonsStudio Director: Meghan SearleExecutive Producer: Charlotte Seligman Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Highlights from Moncrieff
Are we getting dumber?

Highlights from Moncrieff

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 4, 2025 10:18


Did you notice that the world just didn't have its head screwed on right during the pandemic? Well, Stuart Jeffries did.From Trump telling people to drink bleach and the party in 10 Downing Street, Stuart covered it all in his book ‘A Short History of Stupidity'. He joins Seán to discuss!

Un jour dans le monde
Pourquoi Nigel Farage, ex-"clown" de la vie politique britannique, pourrait bien s'installer au 10 Downing street

Un jour dans le monde

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 4, 2025 3:31


durée : 00:03:31 - Le monde à l'endroit - Figure du Brexit un temps retiré de la vie politique britannique, Nigel Farage est devenu l'opposant numéro un au premier ministre travailliste Keir Starmer. Son parti Reform UK caracole dans les sondages grâce à la vague anti-immigration et au soutien de l'Amérique trumpiste. Vous aimez ce podcast ? Pour écouter tous les autres épisodes sans limite, rendez-vous sur Radio France.

Political Currency
Could sacking Rayner make her a ‘backbench martyr'?

Political Currency

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 4, 2025 71:29


Politics is back with a bang, and so are Ed Balls and George Osborne. As Keir Starmer declares "phase two" of his government, he's immediately engulfed by a scandal that threatens his Deputy Prime Minister, Angela Rayner. In this episode, Ed and George dissect her complicated tax affairs, the accusations of hypocrisy, and the difficult choice facing the Prime Minister: is she too powerful to sack?Next, they unpack how Nigel Farage and Reform UK managed to dominate the entire summer. While the government was on holiday, Farage set the agenda on immigration, crime, and free speech. Ed and George explore how he did it, why the government and opposition struggled to respond, and how it fuels the dangerous "drain the swamp" narrative that ‘they're all as bad as each other'.Plus, the pair turn to Starmer's attempt to reset with a major reshuffle of his Downing Street operation. With a new comms chief, top economic advisors, and the creation of a brand-new role - Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister - will this shake-up provide the grip and purpose the government desperately needs? Or are they just rearranging the deckchairs?To get episodes early and ad-free, join Political Currency Gold or the Kitchen Cabinet:

Moncrieff Highlights
Are we getting dumber?

Moncrieff Highlights

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 4, 2025 10:18


Did you notice that the world just didn't have its head screwed on right during the pandemic? Well, Stuart Jeffries did.From Trump telling people to drink bleach and the party in 10 Downing Street, Stuart covered it all in his book ‘A Short History of Stupidity'. He joins Seán to discuss!

The High Performance Podcast
Why Building Trust Beats Being Liked, with Martin Lewis

The High Performance Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 3, 2025 23:43


Trust is one of those things we all rely on, yet rarely stop to examine. We know when it's there, we know when it's broken, but how is it built, and how do you keep it when the pressure is at its highest?Martin Lewis has become one of the most trusted figures in Britain, not by being popular, but by being useful. He's challenged politicians in Downing Street, taken on corporations, and given millions of people advice when they needed it most. His influence doesn't come from clever slogans or branding, but from a habit that runs through everything he does: consistency, honesty, and care.In this episode, I share the lessons I've taken from Martin's approach to trust. Together, we explore:Why trust isn't built through image, but through actionThe Trust Triangle: authenticity, logic, and empathyWhy empathy is the quality that makes people not just listen, but believeHow trust grows from small choices repeated consistentlyWhat leaders, teams, and families can learn from Martin's approachWhether you're leading a team, guiding a business, or simply trying to strengthen relationships in your own life, this is a powerful reminder that trust isn't a strategy.Here is more information on the studies referenced: 26th Annual Global CEO Survey (PWC Study, 2023) The Best Place To Work (Book,  Dr. Ron Friedman, Ph.D, 2014) The Trust Triangle: Authenticity, Logic, Empathy (Professor Frances Frei, Harvard Business School)Listen to the full episode with Martin Lewis: https://pod.fo/e/22a519 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In The News
The rise of Farage: can Keir Starmer do anything to halt Reform?

In The News

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 3, 2025 19:21


This week, Britain's Labour Party returned to Westminster from a summer recess defined by anti-migrant protests, and during which, Nigel Farage's Reform UK dominated the news agenda.British prime minister Keir Starmer resumed business in parliament by announcing a small reshuffle of his Downing Street team. However, the Labour leader is still facing an array of domestic and foreign policy conundrums, most notably Farage's rapidly rising popularity.His right-wing Reform UK party has led Labour in about 90 successive opinion polls, while recent polls show 71 per cent of British voters believe the prime minister is handling the asylum hotel issue badly. Nearly four in ten British voters now cite immigration and asylum as the most important issue facing the country.With Starmer facing calls from Labour Party heavyweights to take a more radical approach to the small boats crisis, and calls led by Farage for Britain to leave the European Convention on Human Rights, the Labour Party is undoubtedly facing a rocky autumn season.What are the main challenges facing Starmer's Government in the coming weeks and how does he propose to overcome them?And how much have Nigel Farage and his Reform UK party benefited from Labour's plummeting support?Today, on In The News, can Keir Starmer claw back control as Nigel Farage soars ahead?Irish Times London correspondent Mark Paul discusses the political perils facing Keir Starmer as the summer recess ends.Presented by Sorcha Pollak. Produced by Andrew McNair. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

24 horas
Sánchez y Starmer celebran en Reino Unido el acuerdo alcanzado sobre Gibraltar

24 horas

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 3, 2025 18:39


Este miércoles, el presidente del Gobierno, Pedro Sánchez, se ha reunido en Londres con el primer ministro británico, Keir Starmer. El tema central que ha marcado la reunión y las relaciones entre ambos países ha sido la economía y el acuerdo sobre Gibraltar. En este último punto, Sánchez ha felicitado a Starmer por haber "concluido con éxito" un pacto que considera "fundamental" entre España, el Reino Unido y la Unión Europea. En el '24 Horas de RNE' ponemos el foco en este encuentro celebrado en el número 10 de Downing Street, en Londres, con el profesor de Relaciones Internacionales de la Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Julio Guinea Bonillo, y con el alcalde de La Línea, Juan Franco Rodríguez.Guinea ha aclarado que este encuentro entre ambos Estados se está dando en estas fechas porque "en junio recordaremos que se desbloqueó. El gran escollo fue Gibraltar, con un acuerdo político entre la Unión Europea, el Reino Unido y España".Por su parte, el alcalde de La Línea ha reconocido estar "preocupado y un poco decepcionado", ya que, según ha señalado, "no esperaba una declaración conjunta de los dos primeros ministros y del presidente del Gobierno respecto a una cuestión que para nosotros es tan sumamente compleja, delicada y concreta, y en la que, además, nos va la vida".Escuchar audio

Politics At Jack And Sam's
Why is nobody talking about the ‘black hole'?

Politics At Jack And Sam's

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 3, 2025 21:52


 The date for the budget will be confirmed today – so Sam and Anne look at the options for Rachel Reeves' diary with a backdrop of more market jitters.  They also go over the ways she could plug the hole in the public finances – estimated to be between £20-£50 billion –while still meeting her fiscal rules.  But why isn't the government saying more about the tricky decisions ahead?  There are more scraps from Monday's government reshuffle – with a name of someone who apparently turned down a role.  As well as from the first PMQs after summer, Keir Starmer will meet with the leader of Spain, Pedro Sanches, at Downing Street and new Green leader Zack Polanski gets to work. 

Beyond the Noise - the PRWeek podcast
Burson, DGA chiefs on ‘essential' party conferences

Beyond the Noise - the PRWeek podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 3, 2025 28:27


Party conference season is almost upon us – and this week's episode of PRWeek's Beyond the Noise podcast looks at why public affairs and comms professionals should get involved.Joining PRWeek UK editor John Harrington are Nick Williams, executive chair of international and public affairs at Burson London; and Katherine Morgan, a partner at DGA Group who leads the London public affairs team and is head of Europe public affairs.Beyond the Noise looks at some of the biggest issues affecting communications and PR. Download the podcast via Apple, Spotify, or listen on your favourite platform.Our guests this week discuss why party conferences are important for public affairs and PR professionals, how they have evolved over recent years, and their expectations for the 2025 conference season.They give their take on Reform UK's conference on 5 and 6 September, which is expected to generate great interest amid a surge in support for the Nigel Farage-led party.The opposite is expected to be true for the Conservative conference – although our guests explain why it's still important to attend.Williams and Morgan talk about their agencies' plans for the different conferences. And they offer advice for newcomers about how to make the most of the ‘Glastonbury of the political calendar'.The duo also offer their take on this week's comms reshuffle at Downing Street, which has seen the return to No. 10 of Portland Communications founder Tim Allan. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The John Batchelor Show
PREVIEW: KING CHARLES.: Colleague Gregory Copley comments on the challenge for the King to steady the brittle Starmer government and at the same time to reassure the public watching the doubts in leadership. More.

The John Batchelor Show

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 2, 2025 2:26


PREVIEW: KING CHARLES.: Colleague Gregory Copley comments on the challenge for the King to steady the brittle Starmer government and at the same time to reassure the public watching the doubts in leadership. More. 1901 OLD HOUSE Comment on Excerpt from "P-COPLEY-KING-9-2.mp3": This segment introduces a discussion about the upcoming state visit of Donald Trump hosted by the King and Queen of England, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. The conversation highlights significant turmoil within the London government, citing unresolved issues such as migration, unfulfilled promises by the Labour Party, an unsettled budget, and a dispute in Downing Street between the Prime Minister and the Chancellor of the Exchequer. A key question posed is whether the King can intervene to help calm the situation, similar to his earlier role in quelling riots related to migration. However, the effectiveness of his intervention in the current climate remains unclear, with Gregory Copley noting the King must be careful not to take sides. Comment on Excerpt from "P-COPLEY-KING-9-2.mp3": This excerpt delves into the King's influence and the delicate balance he must maintain to avoid appearing political, especially concerning "visceral street causes" related to people's economic well-being. While the King can exert pressure on Prime Minister Starmer, Starmer is described as "tonedeaf," failing to recognize help. Notably, the King previously "bailed out" the Labour administration by calming massive street riots and is expected to do so again. However, there's a limit to how much people can be appeased when continually ignored or subjected to adverse social and economic conditions. The segment also suggests a potential "revolt" and leadership change within the Labour Party at some point.

Saving Elephants | Millennials defending & expressing conservative values
185 – Inventing Conservatism with Daniel J. Flynn

Saving Elephants | Millennials defending & expressing conservative values

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 2, 2025 61:42


Few forerunners of the modern conservative movement are as important, little known, and underappreciated as Frank Meyer.  Meyer possessed the IT factor that made women want him and men want to be associated with him.  He used that in his early years to advance Marxism in England—building an impressive Marxist organization that had the attention of UK's government, dating the Prime Minister's daughter while calling for the violent overthrow of the Prime Minister's government, and becoming a national celebrity as the nation debated whether he should be exiled.  But later in life, when he turned to the Right, that same charisma was used to help William F. Buckley build a fledgling conservative movement that ultimately changed the politics of the nation.   Joining Josh to discuss this most remarkable life is Daniel J. Flynn, author of his latest book: The Man Who Invented Conservatism: The Unlikely Life of Frank S. Meyer.   About Daniel J. Flynn From spectator.org Daniel J. Flynn, a senior editor of The American Spectator, serves as a visiting fellow at the Hoover Institution for the 2024-2025 academic year. His books include Cult City: Harvey Milk, Jim Jones, and 10 Days That Shook San Francisco (ISI Books, 2018), Blue Collar Intellectuals: When the Enlightened and the Everyman Elevated America (ISI Books, 2011), A Conservative History of the American Left (Crown Forum, 2008), and Intellectual Morons: How Ideology Makes Smart People Fall for Stupid Ideas (Crown Forum, 2004). In 2025, he releases his magnum opus, The Man Who Invented Conservatism: The Unlikely Life of Frank S. Meyer. He splits time between city Massachusetts and cabin Vermont.    About The Book Frank Meyer devised the blueprint for American conservatism—fusionism—championed by Barry Goldwater, Ronald Reagan, and so many to this day. Yet long before and far away, Communists in London chanted “Free Frank Meyer!” to block the deportation of a comrade who was their cause célèbre. Those fervent Marxists could never have predicted that their hero would one day provide the intellectual energy necessary to propel conservatives to political power.    The Man Who Invented Conservatism unveils one of the twentieth century's great untold stories: a Communist turned conservative, an antiwar activist turned soldier, and a free-love enthusiast turned family man whose big idea captured the American Right. This intellectual migration coincided with a clandestine affair inside 10 Downing Street, service as a lieutenant to the man who later constructed the Berlin Wall, and neighborly chats with the pop-star and poet celebrity next door. Present at the creation of National Review, Meyer helped launch Joan Didion's writing career. From H. G. Wells to Henry Kissinger to Milton Friedman, he rubbed shoulders with everyone who mattered.   Having discovered Meyer's previously unexamined correspondence in an old soda warehouse, Daniel J. Flynn documents this saga in The Man Who Invented Conservatism, exposing the rivalries, jealousies, friendships, and fights that shaped the movement and what it means to be a conservative today.  

Bloomberg Daybreak: Europe Edition
Gold Hits Record High, Nestlé CEO Affair Exit, Lab Diamond Pressure

Bloomberg Daybreak: Europe Edition

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 2, 2025 18:55 Transcription Available


Your morning briefing, the business news you need in just 15 minutes. On today's podcast: (1) Gold hit a record high as the prospect of Federal Reserve rate cuts and growing concerns over the central bank’s future gave fresh legs to the multiyear rally in precious metals. (2) Nestlé dismissed Chief Executive Officer Laurent Freixe after only a year due to an undisclosed workplace affair, extending the management turmoil at the world’s biggest food company that’s known for its conservative corporate culture. (3) Revolut has kicked off a process for some employees to sell their shares in the company at a $75 billion valuation. (4) A plane carrying European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen was disrupted by what authorities suspect was Russian signals interference in Bulgaria. (5) UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced a raft of changes to his Downing Street team in a bid to reset his government and give him more influence over economic policy, after a stuttering first year in power saw his leadership called into question and Labour tank in the polls. (6) Across Botswana the lines of patients outside government clinics are lengthening, construction companies dependent on state jobs are firing workers and university students are threatening to boycott lectures after not getting the allowance increases they were promised. Podcast Conversation: Silicon Valley Drive to Get AI Into American Schools Is WorkingSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brexitcast
The Downing Street Shake-Up

Brexitcast

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 1, 2025 42:21


Today, as parliament returns Keir Starmer has reshuffled his Downing Street team once again. What has prompted another change at Number 10? What does this mean for Rachel Reeves as Chancellor? And, why are so many people talking about flags?James and Chris are joined by 5 Live presenter Matt Chorley after he interviewed the Prime Minister, to discuss all this, plus, new changes to the asylum system. 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://tinyurl.com/newscastcommunityhereGet 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://bit.ly/3ENLcS1 Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. It was presented by Adam Fleming. It was made by Jack Maclaren with Shiler Mahmoudi. The social producers were Gabriel Purcell-Davis. The technical producer was Stephen Bailey. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Six O'Clock News
Sir Keir Starmer shakes up his top team

Six O'Clock News

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 1, 2025 30:23


The Prime Minister tells the BBC he gets people's concerns as he shakes up his top Downing Street team, admitting he's frustrated by the pace of change.. The Home Secretary Yvette Cooper announces tighter restrictions for refugees wanting to bring their families to the UK. Plus: Reform UK claims the parents of some children with special educational needs are abusing their entitlement to free school transport. Liverpool break the British football transfer record with a £125 million signing. And the grovelling apology made by a Polish millionaire after he took a young boy's souvenir cap at the US Open.

Politics Weekly
Starmer's back-to-school headaches – podcast

Politics Weekly

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 1, 2025 24:25


Pippa Crerar and Kiran Stacey are back, talking through all of the challenges the government faces as MPs return to Westminster. Plus, they discuss the prime minister's shake-up of his Downing Street team. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod

The Red Box Politics Podcast
Starmer's Surprise Shake-Up

The Red Box Politics Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 1, 2025 35:45


Parliament is back from recess, and Keir Starmer has reshuffled his team in Downing Street - what do the prime minister's appointments tell us about his plans for a reset?Hugo Rifkind Unpacks the politics of the day with Seb Payne and Charlotte Ivers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Two-Minute Briefing
Starmer hangs Reeves out to dry again — is the Chancellor toast?

The Two-Minute Briefing

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 1, 2025 42:34


Labour have marked the return to school with a mini-reshuffle in Downing Street, elevating a handful of ‘star pupils' into key Government roles. Among them is Treasury minister Darren Jones, now promoted to Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister – a new position with a seat at the Cabinet table.But the shake-up risks undermining Chancellor Rachel Reeves, already braced for a bruising autumn Budget and the likelihood of major tax rises. Tim and Camilla discuss the political manoeuvring inside No 10.And as Reform UK ramp up their attacks on local government pension “waste,” Camilla speaks to Zia Yusuf, head of the party's DOGE unit, about what they've uncovered and whether whispers of an early general election are true.We want to hear from you! Email us at thedailyt@telegraph.co.uk or follow @dailytpodcast on Instagram, X and TikTok.Producer: Georgia Coan and Lilian FawcettSenior Producer: John CadiganPlanning Editor: Venetia RaineyVideo Editor: Andy MackenzieSocial Producer: James SimmonsStudio Director: Meghan SearleExecutive Producer: Charlotte Seligman Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The World Tonight
UK suspends refugee family reunions

The World Tonight

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 1, 2025 37:33


The Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has announced the government will suspend family reunion for refugees, as part of an overhaul of the asylum system and Downing Street's attempt to "reset" at the start of a new parliamentary term. Also in the programme: the spiralling cost of transport for school pupils in England with special educational needs; and the Premier League's eye-watering sums on the final day for player transfers.

The News Agents
Why does Keir Starmer keep agreeing with Nigel Farage?

The News Agents

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 1, 2025 36:15


Keir Starmer has shaken up his core team in Downing Street today. It's an attempt to grip the agenda, improve the government's messaging and take on Nigel Farage after a difficult first year in office. "Delivery, delivery, delivery" was what the Prime Minister said was the government's priority for the year ahead - but deliver what? There is a debate taking place in the Labour party between those who believe a more progressive case is needed, that you don't beat Farage by apeing his talking points. Others are convinced that it is only by addressing these concerns that you can stop them from splintering off to Reform. Will today's reset get us any closer to revealing which side of that divide the PM is on?Later, what the fevered online speculation about Donald Trump's health this weekend tells us about the White House - has there been a cover up or was it just a campaign by an army of trolls?The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal -> https://nordvpn.com/thenewsagents Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee

FT Politics
Farage, flags and the ghosts of Labour's past

FT Politics

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 29, 2025 32:47


Just as Sir Keir Starmer was stealing a few days' summer holiday, Reform unveiled its immigration policy, former Labour heavyweights called for a withdrawal from the European Convention on Human Rights, and Tony Blair popped up in the White House. So with recess nearly over, the prime minister is trying to take back the news agenda starting with a shake-up at Number 10. And with conference season almost under way, an upcoming visit from President Donald Trump, and the Budget around the corner, Starmer has ample opportunity to seize the spotlight. Host George Parker is joined by political correspondent Anna Gross, the FT's chief political commentator Robert Shrimsley, and FT columnist and author of the daily newsletter Inside Politics Stephen Bush.Follow George on Bluesky or X: @georgewparker.bsky.social, @GeorgeWParker; Robert: @robertshrimsley, @robertshrimsley.bsky.social; Stephen @stephenkb and Anna @AnnaSophieGross Want more?Farage is winning the new battle of BrexitDonald Trump holds White House talks on postwar plan for GazaKeir Starmer launches Downing Street shake-up Can Labour pull off a comeback?Jack Straw says the UK should ‘decouple' from the ECHRThe FT Weekend Festival returns for our 10th edition on Saturday, September 6 at Kenwood House Gardens in London. George Parker and Lucy Fisher will be hosting a breakfast event, talking politics and podcasts, in the Experience Tent from 9.45am. If you can't make it, please send a question, ideally as a voicenote, to our email address: politicalfix.com.PLUS, sign up to Stephen Bush's morning newsletter Inside Politics for straight-talking insight into the stories that matter, plus puns and tongue (mostly) in cheek. Get 30 days free at https://www.ft.com/InsidePoliticsOffer Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Today Podcast
Jordan Schwarzenberger Part Two: A Radical Religious Conversion

The Today Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 29, 2025 28:36


Could finding religion allow Gen Z to better find their place in the world? That is the assessment made by Jordan Schwarzenberger, the manager of Europe's biggest YouTube group Sidemen and advisor to Downing Street's Small Business Council. He converted to Catholicism in 2020 after being a devout atheist all his life.He now argues that we're too obsessed with pleasure and that in turning our backs on the Catholic Church we have become a less moral society.Jordan tells Amol about how he came to Christianity at a Kanye West album launch party, how his new-found faith has impacted his life and why he wants more people to follow in his footsteps.This is part two of Amol's Jordan Schwarzenberger interview. Look back in your feed for the first part, where Jordan explains how to build a successful brand on social media.GET IN TOUCH* WhatsApp: 0330 123 9480 * Email: radical@bbc.co.ukEpisodes of Radical with Amol Rajan are released every Thursday and you can also watch them on BBC iPlayer: https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episodes/m002f1d0/radical-with-amol-rajanAmol is a presenter of the Today programme on BBC Radio 4. He is also the host of University Challenge on BBC One. Before that, Amol was media editor at the BBC and editor at The Independent.Radical with Amol Rajan is a Today podcast. If you enjoy this (and you've read this far so hopefully you do), then we think you'll also like another podcast from Today. It's called Political Thinking with Nick Robinson and you can listen to Nick's interviews here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/p04z203lThis episode of Radical with Amol Rajan was made by Lewis Vickers with Izzy Rowley. Digital production was by Gabriel Purcell-Davis. Technical production was by Phil Bull. The editor is Sam Bonham. The executive producer is Owenna Griffiths.

The Today Podcast
YouTube, Insta and TikTok: A Guide to Growing Your Social Media Following (Jordan Schwarzenberger - part one)

The Today Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 28, 2025 36:43


With audiences increasingly turning to echo-chambers on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube for their entertainment and away from traditional mass-media, is there anything that can bring communities together again? Jordan Schwarzenberger manages Sidemen, Europe's most popular YouTube collective – and recently went viral with a thesis over what he described as “the death of monoculture”. The Forbes 30 Under 30 entrepreneur and member of Downing Street's Small Business Council tells Amol why he thinks Gen Z are withdrawing into micro-communities. But he has some radical suggestions for how to survive and thrive in an era where unique social content can count for far more than being part of an established media brand. GET IN TOUCH * WhatsApp: 0330 123 9480 * Email: radical@bbc.co.uk Episodes of Radical with Amol Rajan are released every Thursday and you can also watch them on BBC iPlayer: https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episodes/m002f1d0/radical-with-amol-rajan Amol is a presenter of the Today programme on BBC Radio 4. He is also the host of University Challenge on BBC One. Before that, Amol was media editor at the BBC and editor at The Independent. Radical with Amol Rajan is a Today podcast. If you enjoy this (and you've read this far so hopefully you do), then we think you'll also like another podcast from Today. It's called Political Thinking with Nick Robinson and you can listen to Nick's interviews here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/p04z203l This episode of Radical with Amol Rajan was made by Lewis Vickers with Izzy Rowley. Digital production was by Gabriel Purcell-Davis. Technical production was by Phil Bull. The editor is Sam Bonham. The executive producer is Owenna Griffiths.

The News Agents
Everything wrong with Keir Starmer's media strategy - and how to fix it

The News Agents

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 28, 2025 38:32


There's news today of a Downing Street shakeup and speculation too about a ministerial reshuffle next week. Parliament returns on Monday, with Labour MPs hoping that the new term will bring with it a chance to rejuvenate a government that has plummeted in the polls and a party that seems almost mutinous. This summer, Nigel Farage has planted himself at the centre of the news agenda - with regular press conference, media stunts and interventions. Labour ministers have been doing the round too - but they seem to have less to say in recent weeks than the Reform leader, Amidst all the talk of a reset, Jon and Lewis break down where Labour's media strategy is going wrong - and what Keir Starmer needs to do to win the messaging war. Visit our new website for more analysis and interviews from the team: https://www.thenewsagents.co.uk/The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal -> https://nordvpn.com/thenewsagents Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee

Whitehall Sources
Farage's Immigration Plan: Labour on the Back Foot

Whitehall Sources

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 28, 2025 48:59


Nigel Farage and Reform UK have dominated the summer political agenda with radical immigration proposals: leaving the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), repealing the Human Rights Act, and suspending the Refugee Convention. But are these policies legally possible – and politically effective?In this episode of Whitehall Sources, Calum Macdonald, Kirsty Buchanan and Jo Tanner break down:Farage's immigration plan and whether he's shaping or simply riding public opinion.Why Labour's response has been so weak – and whether Keir Starmer risks being outflanked on immigration.The Tory dilemma: can Kemi Badenoch or others reclaim ground after years of failure?Rachel Reeves' controversial proposal to slap National Insurance on landlords' rental income – will it fix the £50bn black hole or just squeeze tenants?No.10 turmoil: Starmer's shake-up of his top team, Treasury distrust, and growing Downing Street dysfunction.We also hear why Kirsty Allsopp thinks Reeves is "running the economy like Baldrick," and why some insiders fear the government could collapse if the Autumn Budget goes wrong.

Ciara's Pink Sparkle Podcast!

I chatted with Ken Ross OBE who is the Founding Officer of the National Down Syndrome Association and the Vice Chair of the the Portsmouth Down Syndrome Association. He has also done some amazing work with Bafta about media representation and people with a disability in the media. He also told me about his lovely relationship with his son Max who has Down Syndrome as his dad. We also talked about a fantastic event they hosted at 10 Downing Street which I got invited to a while ago. I also asked him some fun questions too!

A History of England
257. Iron Lady out, Grey Man in

A History of England

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 24, 2025 14:59


With the poll tax, Thatcher took one bad decision to many. From the point of view of orthodox Thatcherite thought, it sounded like a good idea. She'd been working for years to shrink the state but, while she could herself cut public spending at national level, local government could keep racking it up if it so chose. She'd introduced rate capping to limit how far local councils could raise local taxes. The poll tax – officially the Community Charge – was the next step. In the old system, with local taxation based on house values, it was the rich that paid the most even though it was the poor that mainly benefited from local services. A flat rate tax per head – which the Community Charge was, hence the derogatory name Poll Tax – would, the theory suggested, give poor voters a direct relationship with local taxation and expenditure, making them less likely to vote for council candidates who would push for increased local spending.In fact, the tax was seen as unfair and its introduction led angry protests that on occasion led to rioting.It wasn't, though, the poll tax that directly ended Thatcher's time at the top. Instead, it was another row with one of her closest colleagues. Already Michael Heseltine, in 1986, and Nigel Lawson, in 1989, had been significant figures – so-called ‘big beasts' – leaving her government. Now, in the autumn of 1990, she fell out with Geoffrey Howe. He too resigned and in his resignation speech talked about how his loyalty was divided between Thatcher herself and the country or party. The day after his resignation, Heseltine announced he would challenge Thatcher for the Tory leadership. In the resulting election, like Heath against her, she won the first round but by too narrow a margin to prevent a second round. Like Health against her, she resigned.It wasn't Heseltine, however, who replaced her. On the contrary, much to many people's surprise, it was John Major, who'd only been elected to parliament in 1979 and only served in cabinet since 1986, who came through as the compromise candidate Tory MPs could rally behind. He became party leader and Prime Minister.And then, much to everyone's surprise again, he went on, partly helped by campaigning errors by Neil Kinnock's Labour Party, to win the election in 1992. The Tories had won four general elections in a row. But now that would return the grey man to Downing Street rather than the Iron Lady.A very different proposition…Illustration: Geoffrey Howe delivering his resignation speech to the Commons, 13 November 1990, with Nigel Lawson sitting next to him. Photo PA from the Guardian.Music: Bach Partita #2c by J Bu licensed under an Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivatives (aka Music Sharing) 3.0 International License

The Last Word with Matt Cooper
Downing Street Warns Sally Rooney She Could Face Prosecution If She Supports Palestine Action

The Last Word with Matt Cooper

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 19, 2025 10:23


Award-winning Irish author Sally Rooney has said she would donate her earnings from her books to support Palestine Action, with Downing Street warning that she risks facing a terrorist offence if she does so.The group was recently proscribed as a terrorist organisation in the UK.Mark Paul, London Correspondent with the Irish Times, spoke to Frank Greaney on Tuesday's The Last Word.Hit the ‘Play' button on this page to hear the piece.

The Leader | Evening Standard daily
Gaza children to be brought to UK 'in coming weeks' for medical treatment

The Leader | Evening Standard daily

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 18, 2025 15:23


The Government is working “at pace” to bring sick and injured children from Gaza to the UK for urgent medical treatment, Downing Street has said. We're joined by Dr James Smith, a British emergency physician and expert in humanitarian studies based at University College London. He worked in Gaza for 2.5 months, and assisted with the medical transfer and evacuation of patients.And in part two, author Julia Smith joins us to share her favourite walks which are close to the capital, from her book ‘Walks for each season: 26 great days out in the countryside near London'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Six O'Clock News
European Leaders Prepare to Accompany Zelensky to Washington

Six O'Clock News

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 17, 2025 16:34


Sir Keir Starmer and several other senior European leaders are to join the Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelensky, in Washington tomorrow, where he's due to hold talks with Donald Trump at the White House. Downing Street said the "coalition of the willing" would seek robust security guarantees for Ukraine in the event of any deal with Russia. In other news, there have been dozens of arrests in Israel where protestors have taken to the streets demanding a ceasefire and a deal to secure the release of hostages still held by Hamas in Gaza. And the British actor, Terence Stamp, has died at the age of 87.

A History of England
256. Maggie losing it

A History of England

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 17, 2025 14:58


Having looked last week at how Maggie Thatcher was running out of options for how to carve out a new role for Britain on the world stage, this week we look at how things were going at home. After all, she'd won a second landslide Commons majority in 1987, and that ought to be enough for anyone to shape politics to their wishes.Well, it turned out not be that easy. Though it didn't go far at this time, this was when the first stirrings for devolution, and eventually perhaps even independence, began to emerge in Scotland and Wales. After all, they'd been held together with England in Britain when there was a British Empire, and with that Empire gone, what held them together now?And then there was the crisis over the HIV/AIDS worldwide pandemic. It had led to a surge in homophobia, as many mistakenly labelled the condition ‘the gay disease'. Some Labour-contraolled local councils had reacted by working with organisations from the gay community and even funding some of them. This was repugnant to Thatcher, who shared a widespread view that the family was the bedrock of society, and acceptance of gay lifestyles was a major threat to it. The result was the adoption of what came to be known as ‘Section 28' banning the ‘promotion' of homosexuality by local councils or in schools. No prosecution of a local authority under Section 28, but its mere existence and the uncertainty of just what constituted ‘promotion' put a chill on work to support people suffering discrimination and to encourage safe sexual practices.Then there was Northern Ireland, and one of the weirder Thatcher initiatives. This was to try to deny terrorist or terrorist-associated organisations what she thought of as ‘the oxygen of publicity'. She banned the broadcasting of the voices of the leaders of these organisations which led to the ludicrous state of affairs where actors were used to repeat the words of those leaders, as though somehow banning the voice mattered more than banning the words.And then there was the economy. Things were beginning to turn a little nasty with unemployment and inflation both climbing worryingly. One approach favoured by some of Thatcher's collaborators, notably her Chancellor of the Exchequer, was to ‘shadow' the German currency, the Deutschemark. Since the Mark had joined the EEC's Exchange Rate Mechanism, setting exchange rates between European currencies which were only allowed to vary by 6% above or below that rate, Britain was in effect accepting the constraints of the ERM without being a member.When Lawson realised that advisers to Thatcher inside Downing Street were mocking his approach, he decided that he was being undermined in his work and resigned from the government.After Michael Heseltine in 1986, this was the second Tory big beast to leave her Cabinet. One loss of a minister might be regarded as a misfortune, two looked like carelessness. A third one would start to look very bad, as we'll discover next week.Oddly, after Lawson had gone, to be replaced by his deputy, a man who'd made a remarkably rapid rise through the ranks of the government, John Major, Thatcher allowed herself to be persuaded to take Britain into the ERM. Sadly, because sterling went in at far too high a value, this only limited options for dealing with the worsening economic position.So, as with foreign affairs, Thatcher was facing shrinking options on the domestic front too.Illustration: 9 February 1988 Protest against Section 28. Photo by Maggie HoneyMusic: Bach Partita #2c by J Bu licensed under an Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivatives (aka Music Sharing) 3.0 International License

Monocle 24: The Briefing
Russian forces continue to infiltrate Ukrainian defences ahead of Alaska summit

Monocle 24: The Briefing

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 14, 2025 37:42


UK prime minister Keir Starmer welcomes the Ukrainian president at 10 Downing Street as Russia continues its offensive.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Actionable Futurist® Podcast
S7 Episode 6: From Particle Physics to Parliament: Making Governments More Human Through Artificial Intelligence with Dr Laura Gilbert CBE

The Actionable Futurist® Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 13, 2025 39:41 Transcription Available


How does a particle physicist end up shaping the UK Government's approach to artificial intelligence? In this thought‑provoking episode, Andrew Grill sits down with Dr Laura Gilbert CBE, former Director of Data Science at 10 Downing Street and now the Senior Director of AI at the Tony Blair Institute.Laura's unique career path, from academic research in physics to the heart of policymaking, gives her a rare perspective on how governments can use emerging technologies not just efficiently, but humanely. She shares candid insights into how policy teams think about digital transformation, why the public sector faces very different challenges to private industry, and how to avoid technology that dehumanises decision‑making.Drawing on examples from her work in Whitehall, Laura discusses the realities of forecasting in AI, the danger of “buzzword chasing”, and why the next breakthrough in Artificial General Intelligence might well come from an unexpected player, possibly from within government itself.This is a conversation for anyone curious about the intersection of science, policy, ethics, and technology, and how they can combine to make government more responsive, transparent, and human-centred.What You'll Learn in This EpisodeHow Laura Gilbert moved from particle physics research into government AI leadershipThe strategic role of AI in shaping modern policy and public servicesWhy forecasting in AI is harder than it looks—and how this impacts decision‑makersThe balance between technical capability and human‑centred governanceWhy governments must look beyond the tech giants for innovative solutionsLessons from the Evidence House and AI for Public Good programmesResourcesTony Blair Global Institute WebsiteUK Government AI IncubatorLaura on LinkedInRaindrop.io bookmarking appThanks for listening to Digitally Curious. You can buy the book that showcases these episodes at curious.click/orderYour Host is Actionable Futurist® Andrew GrillFor more on Andrew - what he speaks about and recent talks, please visit ActionableFuturist.com Andrew's Social ChannelsAndrew on LinkedIn@AndrewGrill on Twitter @Andrew.Grill on InstagramKeynote speeches hereOrder Digitally Curious

The Food Programme
Big Food, Big Power

The Food Programme

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 1, 2025 43:26


Sheila Dillon looks into claims that big food companies wield too much influence over government decisions and public health. The episode follows news from the youth-led campaign group BiteBack2030, which says its billboard campaign has been effectively silenced. The group recently organised a mock inquiry in Parliament, involving MPs, to share concerns about how junk food advertising and sponsorship are affecting the health of children in the UK.Sheila also hears from a group of protesters who marched to Downing Street this month, shouting the message “Fight Fake Food.” Organiser Rosalind Rathouse, from the Cookery School on Portland Street, says the public needs to know how the food they're eating is damaging their health. She is calling on everyone to learn to cook this summer. During the march, campaigners delivered a list of wishes to Downing Street, highlighting the changes they'd like to see in food policy.Also featured are Jennifer Richardson from The BMJ, which has been investigating the impact of commercial influence on children's health, and Cathy Cliff from the Soil Association, who submitted a Freedom of Information request to uncover the extent of food industry lobbying and its effect on government policy.Presented by Sheila Dillon Produced for BBC Audio in Bristol by Natalie Donovan

The Times of Israel Daily Briefing
Day 663 - Et tu, Britain? UK on the brink of recognizing Palestine

The Times of Israel Daily Briefing

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 30, 2025 21:41


Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Political reporter Tal Schneider and diplomatic reporter Nava Freiberg join host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced on Tuesday that the UK would recognize a Palestinian state in September unless the Israeli government takes substantive steps to end the war and humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip, and meets several other conditions, including recommitting to a viable peace process. This is happening while, for the past several days, high-level representatives at a UN conference have urged Israel to commit to a Palestinian state. We discuss fallout to Starmer's announcement, the “New York Declaration” and which other states may follow suit in potentially recognizing Palestine this fall. In his announcement, Starmer said that Israel could forestall the recognition by reaching a ceasefire in Gaza, making clear that it will not annex the West Bank (or Gaza), and committing to a peace process that results in a two-state solution. This comes as there are increased rumors of plans to annex parts of the Gaza Strip. But are these rumors just a negotiation tactic? Schneider weighs in. At the NY two-state solution conference this week, Arab and Muslim countries, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Egypt, Jordan and Turkey, signed a declaration condemning for the first time Hamas’s onslaught of October 7, 2023, and calling on the Palestinian terror group to release all the hostages it is holding, disarm and end its rule of Gaza, in a bid to end the devastating war in the Strip. Schneider and Freiberg explain that all may not be as laudable it seems. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: UK to recognize Palestinian state in Sept. unless Israel ends Gaza war, commits to peace PM says ‘obstinate’ Hamas blocking hostage deal, as he weighs annexing parts of Gaza In 1st, entire Arab League condemns Oct. 7, urges Hamas to disarm, at 2-state solution confab Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves. IMAGE: Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer delivers a statement inside No. 10 Downing Street after the cabinet was recalled to discuss the situation in Gaza, in London, July 29, 2025. (Toby Melville, Pool Photo via AP)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newshour
Britain to recognise a Palestinian state

Newshour

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 29, 2025 47:14


UK will recognise Palestinian state in September unless Israel agrees to a Gaza ceasefire and other conditions. Israel says the move rewards Hams.Also in the programme: Ex-Colombian president Álvaro Uribe has been found guilty of witness-tampering; and an Australian woman - Joan Anderson - who went largely uncredited for her leading role in the creation of the hula hoop has died at the age of 101.(Photo: UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer making a statement in Downing Street, London, following a Cabinet meeting to discuss the situation in Gaza. The UK will recognise the state of Palestine in September before the UN General Assembly, unless the Israeli government takes steps to end the "appalling situation" in Gaza, the Prime Minister has told the Cabinet. 29 July 2025. Credit: Toby Melville/PA Wire)