Podcasts about Downing Street

It has been a whirlwind week in Westminster with the BBC in crisis and a supposed challenge to the prime minister's leadership. So, was there a putative coup from within Keir Starmer's own cabinet? Is there a “toxic culture” in Downing Street? Plus: the panel's take on the runners and riders for the top job at the national broadcaster. Host George Parker is joined by Anna Gross, Stephen Bush and Jim Pickard to discuss. This episode was recorded before the FT broke the story about the chancellor scrapping proposals to raise income tax. Read the article here: Starmer and Reeves drop proposal to increase income tax rates in Budget Plus, stay tuned for our panel discussion next week ahead of the Budget on November 26. Follow George @georgewparker.bsky.social; Jim @pickardje.bsky.social and Stephen @stephenkb.bsky.socialWant more? Self-inflicted leadership crisis unites factions against Starmer ‘He's played a blinder': How Wes Streeting won the weekBrain-dead Labour retreats to its comfort zone: campaigningWho will be the next director-general of the BBC?And 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 analysis. Get 30 days free.Plus, the FT is hosting a live webinar on November 28 on what the UK Budget will mean for your money. You can put questions to FT journalists Claer Barrett, Stuart Kirk, Tej Parikh and special guest, tax expert Dan Neidle. Get your free pass now at ft.com/budgetwebinar. Our email address is politicalfix@ft.comPolitical Fix was presented by George Parker and produced by Lulu Smyth. The executive producer is Flo Phillips. Original music by Breen Turner, mix by Odinn Ingibergsson. The video engineers are Petros Gioumpasis and Andrew Georgiades. The FT's acting co-head of audio is Manuela Saragosa.Clip from BBCRead a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kemi Badenoch tells the Prime Minister he's lost control of Downing Street, and his government has "descended into civil war."Hugo Rifkind unpacks the exchanges from Prime Minister's Questions with Patrick Maguire and Gabriel Pogrund. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Westminster was thrown into chaos last night after Downing Street rushed to defend Sir Keir Starmer's leadership amidst whispers of 'coup' to oust the leader. Starmer's allies are pointing the finger at two of his top ministers, Health Secretary Wes Streeting and Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, accusing them of “leadership manoeuvres”. But Streeting flat out denied he had any such plans during his media rounds, saying he was ‘a Faithful' in reference to the BBC series The Traitors.Camilla and Tim are joined by our Political Editor Ben Riley-Smith to ‘uncloak' the rumours, the rivalries and the truth behind Labour's latest psychodrama.We want to hear from you! Email us at thedailyt@telegraph.co.uk or find @dailytpodcast on TikTok, Instagram and X► Sign up to our most popular newsletter, From the Editor. Look forward to receiving free-thinking comment and the day's biggest stories, every morning. telegraph.co.uk/fromtheeditorProducers: Georgia Coan and Lilian FawcettSenior Producer: John CadiganVideo Producer: Will WaltersStudio Operator: Meghan SearleExecutive Producer: Charlotte SeligmanSocial Producer: Nada AggourEditor: Camilla Tominey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

APAC stocks traded mixed with the region indecisive amid light fresh catalysts and as participants digested earnings.House Democratic caucus will meet at noon Wednesday in Washington, according to Punchbowl's ShermanUK's Downing Street has launched an extraordinary operation to protect UK PM Starmer amid fears among the PM's closest allies that he is vulnerable to a leadership challenge in the wake of the Budget, according to The Guardian's Crerar.European equity futures indicate a positive cash market open with Euro Stoxx 50 futures up 0.3% after the cash market closed with gains of 1.1% on Tuesday.Looking ahead, highlights include German CPI Final (Oct), Italian Industrial Output (Sep), BoC Minutes (Oct), EIA STEO, OPEC MOMR, Speakers including ECB's Schnabel & de Guindos, Fed's Paulson, Bostic, Williams, Barr, Waller, Miran, Collins; US Treasury Secretary Bessent. Supply from Germany & US, Earnings from E On, Bayer, Infineon, ABN AMRO, Cisco & On.Read the full report covering Equities, Forex, Fixed Income, Commodites and more on Newsquawk

Sir Keir Starmer is standing on the edge of a black hole.The budget is looming and Downing Street believes some of the prime minister's own MPs may move against him if it is badly received. Much of the jitters within Labour swirl around the filling of a black hole in the public finances that may actually be self-imposed and self-inflicted.Niall is joined by our data and economics editor Ed Conway - who explains everything you need to know about a fiscal black hole that might not actually really exist.Producer: Tom GillespieEditor: Mike Bovill

Iain Dale interviews campaigner and author Paul Holden about his new book The Fraud which lays bare the intrigues, stratagems, and deceits that helped deliver Sir Keir Starmer to Downing Street at the behest of a man most people couldn't pick out of a crowd...

Presenter and author Alice Loxton discusses how fiction can help us understand the past – particularly when it comes to women's stories; finding humour in classic literature; and her companionship with figures from history. Alice is passionate about bringing history to mainstream, younger audiences, and she has over three million followers on social media, where her videos educate on British history, heritage and art. She has worked with many organisations including 10 Downing Street, The Royal Academy, English Heritage, The National Gallery, Tate, BBC, ITV, and Microsoft, and she writes about history for publications including The Times, Telegraph and Spectator. She's an ambassador for the National Trust, a mentor for The King's Foundation 35 Under 35 Network, and a patron of The British Pilgrimage Trust.  Alice's book Eighteen: A History of Britain in 18 Young Lives was a Sunday Times bestseller and Blackwell's Book of the Year 2024. Her new book, Eleanor: A 200-Mile Walk in Search of England's Lost Queen, sees her follow in the footsteps of Eleanor of Castile's funeral procession, bringing to life the formidable character of this lesser-known royal.   Alice's book choices are: ** Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen ** Secret Voices by Sarah Gristwood ** Through England by Side Saddle by Celia Fiennes ** The Tower by Flora Carr ** Hamnet by Maggie O'Farrell Vick Hope, multi-award winning TV and BBC Radio 1 presenter, author and journalist, is the host of season eight of the Women's Prize's Bookshelfie Podcast. Every week, Vick will be joined by another inspirational woman to discuss the work of incredible female authors. The Women's Prize for Fiction is the biggest celebration of women's creativity in the world and has been running for over 30 years.  Don't want to miss the rest of season eight? Listen and subscribe now! You can buy all books mentioned from our dedicated shelf on Bookshop.org - every purchase supports the work of the Women's Prize Trust and independent bookshops.  This podcast is sponsored by Baileys and produced by Bird Lime Media.

Manitoba enshrines Indigenous Veterans Day into law; veterans say it's a sign of reconciliation. Saskatchewan Party convention this weekend focuses on regaining urban support. U.S. federal judge blocks Trump administration from deploying the National Guard to Portland, Oregon. U.S. Supreme Court allows Trump administration to temporarily withhold 4-billion dollars in food aid funding. Air passengers in U.S. impatient over flight cancellations due to government shutdown. UPS, FedEx ground MD-11 fleets after deadly Louisville crash. Peace talks between Afghanistan and Pakistan collapse. 10 Downing Street's Larry the Cat to be featured in major documentary film about prominent British cats.

In this episode of the Anglotopia podcast, Jonathan Thomas takes listeners on a journey through significant locations in Britain associated with Sir Winston Churchill. The discussion begins with key sites in London, including the Houses of Parliament, Downing Street, and the Cabinet War Rooms, highlighting their importance in Churchill's life and career. The conversation then shifts to notable places outside of London, such as Blenheim Palace and Chartwell, which were pivotal in shaping Churchill's identity. The episode concludes with a look at international connections to Churchill's legacy, including museums and archives in the United States. Links Houses of Parliament Tours - Palace of Westminster official tour booking page Churchill War Rooms - Imperial War Museums official site 10 Downing Street - UK Government page (note: not open to the public) Chartwell National Trust Blenheim Palace Official Website Harrow School Royal MIlitary Academy Sandhurst Churchill Archives Cambridge National Churchill Museum Fulton, Missouri International Churchill Society Wallace Collection Churchill Paintings Exhibition (2026) Tim Riley Churchill Podcast Churchill Archive Podcast Takeaways Churchill's connection to London was profound and influential. The Houses of Parliament served as a key location for Churchill's political career. Chartwell was not just a home but a source of inspiration for Churchill. Blenheim Palace is significant as Churchill's birthplace and family heritage site. The Cabinet War Rooms provide insight into Churchill's leadership during WWII. Churchill's speeches were often first delivered in the House of Commons. The Churchill Archives at Cambridge is a valuable resource for research. Churchill's legacy extends beyond the UK, with significant sites in the US. The Wallace Collection will host a major exhibition of Churchill's paintings in 2026. Visiting Churchill-related sites offers a deeper understanding of his impact on history. Sound Bites "If he had a single place of work that was most important to him, it would be the Houses of Parliament and the Palace of Westminster." "He genuinely had a great love and affection for the Houses of Parliament. He thought they were beautiful. He thought they were the heart of the empire. He thought that it was an immense privilege to work there." "Many people don't know that when you hear recordings of Churchill's speeches, most of those were actually recorded after the war." "He famously said that a day away from Chartwell is a day wasted." "To him, the manor house represented the England that he loved the most." "Chartwell is not a grand house. It's not like Blenheim Palace. Blenheim Palace is a palace. Chartwell is a family home." "He produced much of his literary output that he would eventually win the Nobel Prize for literature for." "I should do a whole podcast on Young Churchill because some of the stuff that he did is wild." "We're going to guide you through the places, why they're important to Churchill, and then give you some visiting tips in case you would like to visit." "It's where he wrote, it's where he painted, it's where he had his family life and raised his children in the later years." Chapters 00:00 Exploring Churchill's Britain 20:01 Churchill's Legacy Beyond London 32:52 anglotopia-podcast-outro.mp4 Video Version

We are taking this week off to recover from Halloween, so we have a BonusCast to share instead, featuring #10 Downing Street. It is the most famous address in British politics. This is the home of the British Prime Minister. The building is 300 years old and was not a place where many early Prime Ministers wanted to live. It wasn't fancy and for many years it was downright dangerous due to its shoddy construction. Today, it is much better and has been the backdrop to many famous historic events. It also is home to several  spirits!

Nigel Farage, leader de Reform UK, gagne en popularité au Royaume-Uni, alors que le Premier ministre Keir Starmer est affaibli par des scandales et des revers électoraux. Avec 30 % d'intentions de vote, son parti pourrait devenir la première force politique en cas d'élections anticipées. Dans « La Story », le podcast d'actualité des « Echos », Pierrick Fay et Nicolas Madelaine dévoilent le parcours et les ambitions du patron de Reform UK.« La Story » est un podcast des « Echos » présenté par Pierrick Fay. Cet épisode a été enregistré en novembre 2025. Rédaction en chef : Clémence Lemaistre. Invité : Nicolas Madelaine (correspondant des Echos à Londres). Réalisation : Willy Ganne. Musique : Théo Boulenger. Identité graphique : Upian. Photo : Reuters/Hiba Kola. Sons : France 24, This Morning on ITV, The Guardian, Extrait « I'm a celebrity. Get me out of there », Reform UK, Extrait « Le prénom », Chanson officielle de l'apéro, Sky News.Retrouvez l'essentiel de l'actualité économique grâce à notre offre d'abonnement Access : abonnement.lesechos.fr/lastory Hébergé par Acast. Visitez acast.com/privacy pour plus d'informations.

In last week's episode of Feedback, we spoke to BBC Radio 4 Comedy and Entertainment commissioner Julia McKenzie about Call Jonathan Pie in the 6.30pm comedy slot. In this week's entirely listener-led programme, we'll hear your comments and reaction to last week's interview. And two listeners, Abi and Clare, discuss Radical with Amol Rajan in our Vox Box. The relatively new podcast has Amol sitting down with some of the leading lights in tech, politics and more, for big conversations designed to help you, as the programme descriptions suggests, to 'win the future'. But is it as radical as its title?And some listeners are asking why the Today programme left the Chancellor of the Exchequer's live pre budget statement from Downing Street early. Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Pauline Moore Assistant Producer: Rebecca Guthrie Executive Producer: David PrestA Whistledown Scotland production for BBC Radio 4

Listeners on the Best of Spectator playlist can enjoy a section of the latest episode of Quite right! but for the full thing please seek out the Quite right! channel. Just search ‘Quite right!' wherever you are listening now. This week on Quite right!: Rachel Reeves goes on the offensive – and the defensive. After her surprise Downing Street address, Michael and Maddie pick over the many kites that have been flying in advance of the Budget at the end of the month. Was she softening the public up for tax rises, or trying to save her own job? Michael explains why Reeves is wrong to say that Labour's inheritance is the reason for our current economic misfortune and says that it is ‘absolute bollocks' that Brexit is to blame.Next, a chilling weekend of violence sparks a bigger question: are we witnessing the rise of nihilistic crime in Britain? From the Huntingdon train stabbings to rampant shoplifting, are we becoming used to the ‘anarcho-tyranny' that is taking hold – where petty crimes go unpunished and public order breaks down?And finally, from Halloween to Bonfire Night, the culture wars go seasonal. Michael and Maddie debate whether we should loathe ‘pagan' Halloween and instead turn 5 November into a national holiday.Produced by Oscar Edmondson. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A mum from Margate has died just three months after being diagnosed with cancer.53-year-old Michelle Bailey was told in July she had an incurable form of the disease after initially suffering what doctors thought was a stroke.Also in today's podcast, the leader of Kent County Council has hit back at the Chancellor, after she criticised the local authority during a speech at Downing Street.Rachel Reeves was speaking ahead of her Budget later this month. Hear what she had to say and the response from Reform UK's Linden Kemkaran. The boss of a Kent charity's admitted they got too big, too quickly.Gillingham Street Angels, which runs a number of shops and a food bank, announced at the start of the week it was going to close after supporting hundreds of homeless and vulnerable people since 2018.People living on Prince Andrew Road in Broadstairs have told the podcast the name is now embarrassing, and they want it changed.It's after Andrew Mountbatten Windsor was stripped of his Royal title over his links to disgraced financier Jeffery Epstein. Andrew has always denied any wrong doing.A campaign is underway to organise a Christmas dinner for young care leavers in north Kent.Many of those who grow up in foster homes are left with nowhere to go on the big day after they turn 18.An event is already held every year in Folkestone, and now volunteers want to put on a meal in the north of the county.And in sport, Gillingham manager Gareth Ainsworth has returned to oversee training this week following heart surgery.He's been absent from the club for a month after having an operation in early October. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

An early morning speech from the chancellor to pledge fiscal stability and flag tax rises, while the main challenger for Downing Street overturns his party's fiscal platform. The team discuss the fix Rachel Reeves is in and whether Nigel Farage is now choosing to play by the rules of mainstream politics. Plus: Dick Cheney's role as Veep. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Your morning briefing, the business news you need in just 15 minutes.On today's podcast:(1) Zohran Mamdani was elected the 111th mayor of New York in a historic victory that will put an avowed democratic socialist in charge of the city that serves as the capital of global finance.(2) The global selloff in semiconductor stocks accelerated on concern over lofty valuations for some of the artificial intelligence boom’s biggest winners.(3) UK Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves will meet CEOs from top insurers in Downing Street on Wednesday, as she seeks to encourage more investment in the City ahead of a tricky budget later this month.(4) European Union member states clinched a preliminary deal to reduce emissions by 90% through 2040 compared with 1990 levels, a move that bolsters the bloc’s climate leadership credentials ahead of the COP30 summit.(5) WhatsApp, the popular messaging service owned by Meta Platforms Inc., introduced a standalone Apple Watch app that makes it easier for users to interact with their chats from Apple Inc.’s smartwatch without pulling out an iPhone.Podcast Conversation: I Saw a Vision of Chocolate’s Future in an Amsterdam BrownieSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It is three weeks until the Budget – and Rachel Reeves wants to get her narrative out there. The Chancellor held an early morning press conference today to, in her words, ‘set out the circumstances and the principles' guiding her thinking on 26 November.Her speech followed a familiar pattern. First, there was the evisceration of the ‘austerity', ‘reckless borrowing' and ‘stop go of public investment' which characterised the last 14 years. In her 25-minute speech in Downing Street, one line in particular stood out: ‘If we are to build the future of Britain together', Reeves said, ‘we will all have to contribute to that effort. Each of us must do our bit.'Crucially, she refused to rule out breaking her manifesto pledge not to raise income tax, national insurance or VAT. Megan McElroy discusses the groundwork she's laying for the budget with James Heale and Michael Simmons. See the graph Michael refers to here: https://data.spectator.co.uk/pollsBecome a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.For more Spectator podcasts, go to spectator.co.uk/podcasts.Contact us: podcast@spectator.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, has warned voters that she will need to make what she described as "necessary choices" to balance the books, in the Budget, three weeks tomorrow. She took the rare step of publicly laying out her thinking at Downing Street - a move that has been widely interpreted as preparing the ground for tax rises. Ms Reeves refused to rule out breaking Labour's manifesto pledge to not increase income tax, VAT or National Insurance. The Conservatives said the Chancellor had delivered a "laundry list of excuses" and did not need to put up taxes.

Today Chancellor Rachel Reeves has given the clearest sign yet that she will break Labour's manifesto promise not to raise taxes on workers, after delivering an unusual pre-Budget speech at Downing Street this morning. She said that after years of so-called economic mismanagement, the budget will focus on “getting inflation falling” and “creating the conditions for interest rate cuts”. But she hasn't ruled out raising income tax. Stephanie Brobbey, a former private wealth lawyer and founder and CEO of the Good Ancestor Movement, shares her perspective. And in part two, the build-up to the festive season is here. The Standard's Culture Writer India Block joins us to discuss this year's John Lewis Christmas advert. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Chancellor breaks the norm by making a speech in Downing Street 22 days ahead of the budget – with everyone closely watching for what exactly she says on tax rises. Sam and Anne consider why Rachel Reeves is doing it now and how budget preparations have changed since Liz Truss' days. We're not expecting new policy from the Treasury, more an event which tries to prepare voters for tax changes. Elsewhere in Westminster, Conservative leader – Kemi Badenoch – is out and about attacking the government's spending on the welfare bill. Plus, we have our weekly check-in on the state of the polls.

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves declined to reiterate Labour’s manifesto commitment against broad-based tax hikes, as she made an unusual appeal to the British public to support her upcoming budget.In a rare pre-budget speech in Downing Street carried on national broadcasters, Reeves argued she would prioritize bringing down borrowing costs and inflation, and blamed the previous Conservative administration for putting lasting pressure on the public finances.In the clearest hint yet that the Labour government will compromise on its commitment to avoid lifting the UK’s main tax levers, Reeves said the world had changed since it came to power in July 2024.In this special episode of the Bloomberg Daybreak Europe Podcast, Stephen Carroll and Caroline Hepker discuss with UK Correspondent Lizzy Burden, Bloomberg Opinion columnist Marcus Ashworth, and our Chief UK economist Dan Hanson.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, why did the King choose now to strip Andrew of his titles?Adam, Alex, Ben Chu of BBC Verify and Matthew Doyle the former Downing Street communications director react to the news that Prince Andrew will now be known as Andrew Mountbatten Windsor. Will we see him in public life again?The panel also discuss the possibility of tax rises in the upcoming budget. And whether the labour government have backed themselves into a corner with their tax promises. 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 Joe Wilkinson. The social producer was Sophie Millward. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

The government has said it has no plans to introduce a law to change the line of succession, after the King stripped his brother of all his titles and honours. Also: A former Sergeant-Major is jailed for sexually assaulting a teenaged recruit, who later killed herself. And a charity proposes restorative justice for sub postmasters wronged by the Horizon IT scandal, so they can meet the people responsible.

Beat the system with TallyMoney. Gold you can spend. Discover more here: https://click.tallymoney.com/A64P/xuvbajli #ad Could Nigel Farage genuinely lead Reform UK into government and become Prime Minister? In this episode of Chopper's Political Podcast, journalist James Frayne joins Christopher Hope to analyse what is driving Reform's surge, what could still stop them, and what the party needs to do if it wants to be taken seriously as a government-in-waiting.The purchase of gold and investment in bullion is not FCA regulated nor do they benefit from the protections of the Financial Services Compensation Scheme or the Financial Ombudsman Service. The value of your investment can go down as well as up. Consider the risks involved before choosing to invest. This card is issued by Transact Payments Limited pursuant to licence by Mastercard International Incorporated. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has dismissed calls for an investigation into Chancellor Rachel Reeves, after it emerged she did not obtain the required “selective” rental licence for her £3,200-a-month Dulwich home when she moved into No 11 Downing Street following the election. In a letter to the prime minister, Reeves “sincerely” apologised for her “inadvertent error”, but the Tories have said she should be sacked. They cited Starmer's argument after Boris Johnson's fine for breaching Covid rules that “lawbreakers cannot be lawmakers”. The Standard's Chief Political Correspondent Rachael Burford is here with the latest. And in part two The Standard's Chief Theatre Critic and host of The London Theatre Review podcast, Nick Curtis, is here to review Ella Hickson's adaptation of Peter Pan, from the Royal Shakespeare Company, which is showing at The Barbican Centre. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Liz Truss is never far from the shores of the United States, hobnobbing with the folk seeking to "Make America Great Again." What does she think Britain can learn from the second Trump era? Anne McElvoy travels to Washington to talk to the former Conservative Prime Minister Liz Truss, who's on a self-proclaimed “mission” to remake the U.K. in the image of MAGA-land. It's exactly three years since she left Downing Street after just 49 days in office following a mini-budget that sent the markets into freefall — and has haunted  her party ever since. In a wide-ranging interview, Truss tells Anne that the Green Party might end up being the official opposition party after the next general election and argues that voters are sick of "technocratic managerial crap" in politics. She insists that she will foreseeably not be joining Reform UK, despite criticizing her own party's record in office. Truss also pours scorn on both Kemi Badenoch's leadership of her old party and the Labour Chancellor Rachel Reeves, whom she blames for an impending economic crisis. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As Labour prepares its first Budget, can the party really blame Brexit for Britain's sluggish productivity – and will voters be convinced? We also ask why Britain still isn't building enough homes, and whether a new environmental levy risks making the crisis worse.Plus: in an age of short-form video and fractured attention, where have all the great communicators gone? With Thatcher's centenary in mind, the panel explores what it takes to cut through in modern politics – and who, if anyone, is getting it right.Marc Sidwell is joined by writer and strategist John Oxley and former Downing Street communications adviser Robert Midgley for a sharp look at the week's big political questions.Stay informed with CapX's unmissable daily briefings from the heart of Westminster. Go to capx.co to subscribe. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Matthew Bannister onPeter Gurney, the George Medal winning bomb disposal expert who regularly risked his life to defuse explosive devices, including the mortars that were fired at 10 Downing Street by the IRA in 1991.Diane Keaton, the actor best known for her collaboration with Woody Allen in Annie Hall and Manhattan.Peter Hall, the pioneering English winemaker from Sussex who turned his Breaky Bottom grapes into acclaimed sparkling wines.Angela Bond, who saved the much-loved Bush Theatre in West London from closure. The director Josie Rourke and the writer Jack Thorne pay tribute.Producer: Ed Prendeville Assistant Producer: Ribika Moktan Researcher: Jesse Edwards Editor: Glyn TansleyArchive used: BBC News, BBC, 07/02/1991; Newsnight, BBC, 26/10/1981; It's My Story: The Long Walk, BBC Radio 4, 26/03/2012; The Food Programme: A Vintage Year for Homegrown Wine, BBC Radio 4, 22/11/2018; Food and Drink, BBC, 10/08/1982; Annie Hall, MGM, 1977; Cast: Diane Keaton; Director: Woody Allen; Producers: Fred T. Gallo, Robert Greenhut, Jack Rollins, Charles H. Joffe; Screenwriters: Woody Allen, Marshall Brickman; Woman's Hour, BBC Radio 4, 15/11/2011; Front Row, BBC Radio 4, 19/06/2017; Diane Keaton – Seems Like Old Times, Columbia Pictures, 1980

This week marks 100 years since the birth of Margaret Thatcher – one of the most influential figures in modern British politics. In this exclusive interview for The Daily T podcast, Camilla and Tim sit down with her daughter, Carol Thatcher, to explore what it was like growing up with Britain's first female prime minister.Carol offers a rare, personal insight into life inside Number 10 Downing Street, sharing intimate stories of her mother's work ethic, her approach to power and the personal side of a political icon.She reflects on how Thatcher's leadership continues to inspire female politicians, the fallout after the Tories ousted her, and why her mother still holds a near-mythical status within the Conservative Party.► Sign up to our most popular newsletter, From the Editor. Look forward to receiving free-thinking comment and the day's biggest stories, every morning. telegraph.co.uk/fromtheeditorProducers: Georgia Coan and Hugo Verelst-WaySenior Producer: John CadiganVideo Producer: Will WaltersStudio Operator: Meghan SearleExecutive Producer: Charlotte SeligmanSocial Producer: Nada AggourEditor: Camilla Tominey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today discussions to resolve the ban on fans of an Israeli football club attending a match against Aston Villa are happening “at pace, across government”, Downing Street has insisted. Sir Keir Starmer was “angered by the decision” to ban Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters from next month's Europa League game in Birmingham amid public safety fears, and linked it to antisemitism. But West Midlands Police said it supported the decision, saying it had classified the fixture as “high-risk”. Emily Hilton, International Policy Director for the Jewish led organisation Diaspora Alliance, joins us to discuss. And in part two, The Standard's Nick Kimberley is here to review the English National Opera's Albert Herring by Benjamin Britten, which is the first show to be staged since the company's new ‘twin city' existence between London and Manchester. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Newly released documents from the UK National Archives show that former Prime Minister Tony Blair met Jeffrey Epstein on May 14, 2002, at 10 Downing Street. The meeting was reportedly arranged at the behest of Peter Mandelson, who lobbied Blair's staff—particularly chief of staff Jonathan Powell—by describing Epstein as “safe” and a “friend” with extensive international connections. A briefing memo prepared for Blair characterized Epstein as a wealthy financial adviser with ties to Bill Clinton and Prince Andrew, and suggested that discussions could cover “science and international economic and monetary trends.” Blair's spokesperson later said the meeting lasted less than 30 minutes, was focused on UK-US politics, and that Blair had no further engagement with Epstein.The revelation casts new light on Blair's judgment and raises questions about how long Epstein was courted by political elites—even before his known criminal behavior became public. Critics argue that even if the meeting occurred pre-conviction, the decision to host Epstein at Downing Street hints at the institutional insulation and elite networks that allowed Epstein's influence to spread unchecked. That Mandelson actively promoted the meeting, praising Epstein's character and connections, further underscores how political actors were willing to legitimize him. The disclosure also fuels demands for accountability, especially as many now view early interactions like this as complicit steps in Epstein's broader web of patronage, power, and impunity.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:Memo that government officials tried to bury shows Jeffrey Epstein met Sir Tony Blair in Downing Street... and Lord Mandelson set it up | Daily Mail Online

Elaine Thompson won £2.7 million in the UK lottery. What makes her story extraordinary is that she said she would win the exact amount one week before it happened.In this episode of Lottery, Dreams, and Fortune, host Timothy Schultz (Powerball winner turned podcaster) speaks with Elaine about:The night she realized she had won the jackpotWhy she claimed her winnings publiclyHow she used the money to help family, friends, and children with cancerHer experiences traveling the world, from Number 10 Downing Street to Italy's lottery showsThe role of purpose, work, and giving back after sudden wealthAdvice for lottery players and insights from her 30-year journeyElaine's remarkable story blends luck, intuition, and generosity. Whether you play the lottery, believe in manifestation, or simply enjoy true stories of transformation, this conversation will inspire and surprise you.

Newly released documents from the UK National Archives show that former Prime Minister Tony Blair met Jeffrey Epstein on May 14, 2002, at 10 Downing Street. The meeting was reportedly arranged at the behest of Peter Mandelson, who lobbied Blair's staff—particularly chief of staff Jonathan Powell—by describing Epstein as “safe” and a “friend” with extensive international connections. A briefing memo prepared for Blair characterized Epstein as a wealthy financial adviser with ties to Bill Clinton and Prince Andrew, and suggested that discussions could cover “science and international economic and monetary trends.” Blair's spokesperson later said the meeting lasted less than 30 minutes, was focused on UK-US politics, and that Blair had no further engagement with Epstein.The revelation casts new light on Blair's judgment and raises questions about how long Epstein was courted by political elites—even before his known criminal behavior became public. Critics argue that even if the meeting occurred pre-conviction, the decision to host Epstein at Downing Street hints at the institutional insulation and elite networks that allowed Epstein's influence to spread unchecked. That Mandelson actively promoted the meeting, praising Epstein's character and connections, further underscores how political actors were willing to legitimize him. The disclosure also fuels demands for accountability, especially as many now view early interactions like this as complicit steps in Epstein's broader web of patronage, power, and impunity.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:Memo that government officials tried to bury shows Jeffrey Epstein met Sir Tony Blair in Downing Street... and Lord Mandelson set it up | Daily Mail OnlineBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-moscow-murders-and-more--5852883/support.

Newly released documents from the UK National Archives show that former Prime Minister Tony Blair met Jeffrey Epstein on May 14, 2002, at 10 Downing Street. The meeting was reportedly arranged at the behest of Peter Mandelson, who lobbied Blair's staff—particularly chief of staff Jonathan Powell—by describing Epstein as “safe” and a “friend” with extensive international connections. A briefing memo prepared for Blair characterized Epstein as a wealthy financial adviser with ties to Bill Clinton and Prince Andrew, and suggested that discussions could cover “science and international economic and monetary trends.” Blair's spokesperson later said the meeting lasted less than 30 minutes, was focused on UK-US politics, and that Blair had no further engagement with Epstein.The revelation casts new light on Blair's judgment and raises questions about how long Epstein was courted by political elites—even before his known criminal behavior became public. Critics argue that even if the meeting occurred pre-conviction, the decision to host Epstein at Downing Street hints at the institutional insulation and elite networks that allowed Epstein's influence to spread unchecked. That Mandelson actively promoted the meeting, praising Epstein's character and connections, further underscores how political actors were willing to legitimize him. The disclosure also fuels demands for accountability, especially as many now view early interactions like this as complicit steps in Epstein's broader web of patronage, power, and impunity.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:Memo that government officials tried to bury shows Jeffrey Epstein met Sir Tony Blair in Downing Street... and Lord Mandelson set it up | Daily Mail OnlineBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-epstein-chronicles--5003294/support.

Episode 244 and Victorian popular fiction author H Rider Haggard features as one of the main characters of this tale. Rider Haggards' creation called Allan Quartermain appeared in 18 novels - the first in what has become known as is the Lost World genre. George Lucas and Philip Kaufman copied the Allan Quartermain template for Indiana Jones character - as well as the basic storylines for movies like Raiders of the Lost Ark. While King Solomon's Mines is Rider Haggard's most popular work, Allan Quartermain has since reappeared in movies in the League of Extraordinary Gentlemen, which gave his books a bit of a push. His novels, which blended exploration, myth, and early ideas of evolution, also influenced the subconscious of his generation, resonating with spiritual and psychological themes that were explored by figures like Jung and Freud. Furthermore, his work reflects and grapples with late Victorian anxieties, including imperial politics, the changing role of religion, and burgeoning notions of race and empire. Right now, we're saddling up with Theophilus Shepstone in Pietermaritzburg - it's 1877. If you recall last episode, Transvaal President Burgers had gone to war against baPedi chief Sekhukhuni, which ended in a stalemate and reports of atrocities committed by German lead mercenaries. Burgers had already complained in England about their treatment of the Boer claims to the diamond fields - and the Colonial office had coughed up 90 000 pounds as compensation. You could call it a bribe, because that's what it was. The boers accepted the compensation, but did not back down on their claims to land in the vicinity of the Transvaal, including baPedi land. As long as the Transvaal remained receptive to the confederation idea at least in Carnarvon's mind, there was no real conflict to deal with amongst the local officials. But there was growing tension between an historian JJ Froude and Garnet Wolseley for example. Froude had been sent on a fact-finding mission to the colonies by Carnarvon and he became a surprising advocate for the Boers and the Free State and Transvaal Republics. His advice to Carnarvon was to let the states handle their own problems, as they resented interference from Downing Street. Cape Governor Sir Henry Barkly had been sending Carnarvon reports drawn largely from pro-annexationist newspapers in the Transvaal and the Cape Colony. These implied that the Transvaal was nearing a state of anarchy as a result of its war with the Sekukuni's baPedi. Eagerly lapping all this up was Sir Garnet Wolseley who was the very epitome of the Stiff upper lip Brit, a military officer and administrator, represented the opposite, more interventionist imperial view. In late December 1876, Sir Theophilus Shepstone departed from Pietermaritzburg in Natal with a small, almost symbolic, escort of just 25 Natal Mounted Police and a handful of officials including the young H Rider Haggard. Just as an aside, Haggard was not being paid for his duties as Shepstone's secretary. Work experience I guess you'd call it. However, Shepstone's secret instructions were far more decisive: if he deemed it necessary and opportune, he was to annex the territory to the British Crown. The Transvaal had no easy revenue base, and Shepstone introduced new taxes on both black and white Transvalers, while his administrative reforms chafed the Boers. Most resented they now had no elected representation under British rule and resistance started almost immediately.

A Sunday snapshot of London in 1975 – Harold Wilson in Downing Street, inflation roaring, Bowie on the airwaves, and a bomb that failed to explode in Westminster. From the smell of petrol and vinegar on the streets to Routemasters, Reliant Robins, and 25p fish-and-chips, this is the city as it really was: battered, brave, and brilliantly alive.

This is a catch-up version of James O'Brien's Mystery Hour. To join the game, call 0345 60 60 973, Thursdays at 12pm.

Episode Summary: Freedom, tolerance, and human dignity only exist in Christian nations. In this episode, we dive into Tory (Conservative) Member of Parliament Danny Kruger's viral speech on England's Christian foundations, exploring the myth of public neutrality and the consequences of abandoning a moral anchor. From parish life and common law to the sanctity of life and public office, we trace how Christian ideas shaped institutions that protect the weak and restrain the strong—and why leaving that framework vacant invites new “gods” to take their place.We examine the moral vacuum Kruger identifies: the rise of secular ideologies, the growth of Islam in Britain, and the hybrid “woke” creed mixing pagan revivals, Christian heresies, and modernist power theories. Rather than caricatures, we look at what these forces do to families, schools, and civic trust, and why a politics of grievance cannot sustain a free society. Along the way, we wrestle with difficult issues—late-term abortion, assisted dying, and repentance in public life—while charting a path for Christians to reclaim moral authority in politics and culture.From Alfred to Wesley to Wilberforce, history shows that revival can transform nations when the Church acts as the nation's conscience. This conversation invites listeners to take ownership of the ideas, responsibilities, and institutions we inherit—and consider what it will take to restore freedom, truth, and hope for future generations.Who is Disciple Nations Alliance (DNA)? Since 1997, DNA's mission has been to equip followers of Jesus around the globe with a biblical worldview, empowering them to build flourishing families, communities, and nations.

Two years ago Hamas fighters launched a terror attack on Israel, killing more than 1,000 people and taking around 250 hostage.The Hamas-linked Gaza health authorities say tens of thousands have been killed in the subsequent war, which has devastated the area and led to catastrophic food shortages. In the UK today, members of the Jewish community will commemorate the victims of October 7th, while pro-Palestine protests take place on university campuses across the country. How can we protect vulnerable communities while allowing legitimate protest? Should the police be given increasing powers to intervene, or does that pose a threat to democratic freedoms? This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuest: Matt Dathan, Home Affairs Editor, The Times. Host: Manveen Rana. Producer: Shabnam Grewal, Micaela Arneson. Clips: Times News, 10 Downing Street, The Guardian, Suella Braverman via Twitter. Photo: Getty ImagesGet in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In these clips from three years ago, Fishi Sunak was complaining about the press being mean to him, a nice lady had a nice idea to improve Downing Street and Bodger was on manoeuvrers.

‍ * New * Valora - Your AI Business Coach Turn the wisdom from this episode into practical actions for your business in minutes. Access Valora here and get personalised actions for growth > ‍ The Truth About Coaching Through Imposter Syndrome So many coaches and consultants encounter clients who hold themselves back—not because they lack skills, but because they quietly believe they don't deserve success. ‍ In this episode of The Brilliant Book Festival, I'm joined by Clare Josa, author of Ditching Imposter Syndrome and now her follow-up book: Coaching Imposter Syndrome. ‍ Clare has spent more than two decades helping people break free from imposter syndrome. Now her mission is bigger: to equip coaches, consultants and leaders with safe, practical tools to recognise and respond to imposter syndrome when it shows up in their sessions. ‍ She also reveals the myths still circulating about imposter syndrome, why it's not the same as self-doubt, and how AI might just play a surprising role in helping people feel more confident and capable. ‍ If you've ever wondered how to tell the difference between skills-based self-doubt and deeper identity-level imposter syndrome, this conversation will open your eyes. ‍ Prefer to WATCH? https://www.youtube.com/@melittacampbell ‍‍ ‍ “Imposter syndrome isn't a life sentence. It's something you can spot, understand and clear.” – Clare Josa ‍ Beyond Self-Doubt: Spotting the Real Signs Clare explains that self-doubt is about skills, while imposter syndrome cuts deeper — it's about identity. ‍ Self-doubt sounds like: “I don't know enough, I need more experience.” Imposter syndrome sounds like: “I'm not good enough. They'll find me out.” This distinction matters, because the tools that help with self-doubt often fail when the issue is imposter syndrome. Coaches who miss this can leave clients feeling stuck or even unsafe. ‍ The Myths Holding Us Back In recent years, imposter syndrome has gained visibility, but with that has come misinformation. Clare shares how some dismiss it as: ‍ “Just self-doubt in disguise.” “A construct designed to hold women back.” Her response? Labels aside, what matters is helping people recognise the patterns keeping them small, and giving them tools to move forward. ‍ “Confidence grows fastest when you have the right tools and support at your fingertips.” – Clare Josa ‍ ‍ Practical Tools for Coaches Clare's new book and app provide 26 simple, safe tools coaches can use the moment imposter syndrome gatecrashes a session. These tools help coaches to: ‍ Clear limiting patterns without opening emotional “Pandora's boxes.” Shift their clients mindset fast with confidence and safety. Give coaches clarity on how far to go — and when to signpost deeper support. The goal isn't to turn every coach into an imposter syndrome specialist, but to equip them with the confidence to help clients without overstepping. ‍ ‍ Imposter Syndrome, Introverts and Change Clare also clears up another myth: imposter syndrome doesn't only affect introverts. Both introverts and extroverts experience it, but they cope differently: ‍ Introverts tend to overthink. Extroverts tend to overact. And because imposter syndrome is linked to identity, it often surfaces during times of transition—like stepping into a new role, raising prices, or navigating fast-changing technology. ‍ AI as a Confidence Companion Perhaps most intriguing, Clare has developed Ask Clare AI — an app trained on millions of her own words to give coaches, managers and individuals real-time support between sessions. ‍ It's not designed to replace the coach, but to act as a safe, trauma-informed resource when self-doubt or fear strikes in the moment. ‍ ‍ A Final Thought to Reflect On Coaching through imposter syndrome isn't about fixing clients — it's about helping them reconnect with who they really are. ‍ When coaches can spot the difference between self-doubt and identity-level struggle, and when they have the tools to guide clients safely through those first steps, everyone benefits. ‍ As Clare reminds us, the real goal is bigger than overcoming imposter syndrome. It's about building a world where people feel comfortable in their own skin, confident in their contribution, and free to reach their full potential. ‍ So instead of asking, “How do I help my clients push through self-doubt?” try asking, “How can I give them the tools and confidence to break free from imposter syndrome for good?” ‍ That small shift in perspective can change not just a coaching session, but the whole trajectory of a client's success. ‍ ‍ ‍ About Clare Clare Josa has been a leadership mentor since 2003. She's the author of eight books, including Dare To Dream Bigger and Ditching Imposter Syndrome. She was certified as an NLP Trainer in 2003, and is also a formally-trained Meditation and Yoga Teacher Teacher, a Reformed Engineer and the former Head of Market Research for one of the UK's most disruptive companies.  ‍ Clare has spent more than a decade specialising in empowering passionate world-changers to do the ‘inside work' so that you can get on with making a difference in the world. As co-founder of the EU VAT Action campaign in 2014, she has had to overcome any remaining ‘visibility' fears, to stand on international stages (European Parliament, Downing Street, IoD) in front of people who had been studying what she was giving keynotes on for most of their careers. ‍ She is regularly interviewed by the international press and has been interviewed by numerous radio and TV stations. She is a member of the UK's Institute of Directors and she speaks internationally about how to change the world by changing yourself. ‍ Clare lives in Sussex, in the UK, with her husband, their 3 young boys, a bouncy Jack Russell, a totally loopy springer spaniel, and 10 mindful chickens.  ‍ Read Clare's Books: Ditching Imposter Syndrome ‍‍                                         Coaching Imposter Syndrome. Connect with Clare Website    LinkedIn ‍ ‍ About Your Host, Melitta Campbell Melitta Campbell is an award-winning business coach, TEDx speaker, author of A Shy Girl's Guide to Networking and founder of The Value Whispering Circle. ‍ Through her Value WhisperingTM Blueprint, she helps introverted female entrepreneurs build quietly impactful businesses that grow through clarity, trust, and alignment. Learn more about working with Melitta here ‍ ‍ Ready to Grow Your Business? ‍Learn more about the ways you can work with Melitta Campbell to uncover your Value Sweet Spot to market, sell and grow your business confidently, and always on your terms. Working with Melitta >  ‍ ‍ Loved this episode? Turn your Insight into Action with Valora Valora is the podcast's new AI Business Coach. Answer three short questions and she'll translate your responses into simple, practical actions you can take this week to grow your business. Click here now to access Valora > ‍ ‍ You May Also Enjoy... The Bookability Formula: What the 1% of most-booked speakers do (and you can too) The Leveraged Business: How to Scale Your Business without the Sacrifice Uncaged: A Good Girl's Journey to Reinvention Get a PhD in You: A Course in Miraculous Self-Discovery The Go-Giver: A Little Story About a Powerful Business Idea ‍ > More Podcast Episodes ‍

As Labour Conference draws to a close and Prime Minister Keir Starmer launches an attack on Nigel Farage, your co-pilots are here to make sense of the madness.Allison brings you a special report from the “Pink Ladies” demonstration outside Downing Street and speaks to women who have raised concerns about migrant hotels and lack of accountability for women's safety, and catches Conservative London Assembly member Susan Hall ahead of her speech at the event.Meanwhile Liam keeps you on track with the economy whilst reporting from a plush train in Uzbekistan!Both agree the Labour conference has been a confusing affair, claiming Nigel Farage ‘hates Britain', when he has worked as a politician for the UK for decades…See Planet Normal Live: https://www.battleofideas.org.uk/ |Sign up to our most popular newsletter, From the Editor. Look forward to receiving free-thinking comment and the day's biggest stories, every morning. telegraph.co.uk/fromtheeditorWatch Allison chat with the Pink Ladies: https://youtu.be/cQRPz1EnhCkRead Allison ‘Everything you wanted to know about digital ID but were afraid to ask'': https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2025/10/01/everything-you-wanted-to-know-about-digital-id/ |Read Allison: ‘Toxic Starmer's dirty tactics won't fool the people of Britain'https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2025/09/30/starmers-racism-slurs-are-final-nail-in-labours-coffin/ |Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/a/ak-ao/allison-pearson/ |Read Liam ‘To solve the UK's productivity puzzle we need to start with the state'': https://www.telegraph.co.uk/business/2025/09/28/solve-uk-productivity-puzzle-need-start-with-state/ |Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |Need help subscribing or reviewing? Learn more about podcasts here:https://www.telegraph.co.uk/radio/podcasts/podcast-can-find-best-ones-listen/ |Email: planetnormal@telegraph.co.uk |For 30 days' free access to The Telegraph: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/normal | Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Elon Musk's business empire has been hit by a wave of senior departures over the past year, video games maker Electronic Arts is being taken private by a Saudi Arabia-backed consortium, and Downing Street has opened the door for Labour to break its election promises and raise taxes in the Budget. Plus, the euro's biggest rally since 2017 has further to run, Wall Street banks are predicting. Mentioned in this podcast:Elon Musk hit by exodus of senior staff over burnout and politicsVideo games maker Electronic Arts strikes $55bn deal to go privateLabour refuses to rule out manifesto-breaking tax risesEuro's rally has further to run, Wall Street banks predictThe FT News Briefing has been nominated for Signal's listener's choice award for best Daily Podcast. Vote for us here! Today's FT News Briefing was produced by Fiona Symon, Katya Kumkova, Sonja Hutson, and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Kent Militzer, Michael Lello and David da Silva. The FT's acting co-head of audio is Topher Forhecz. The show's theme music is by Metaphor Music.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, the Home Secretary has told Labour conference that migrants will have to prove they are contributing to society to earn the right to remain in the UK. Under the proposals, legal migrants will have to learn English to a high standard, have a clean criminal record and volunteer in their community to be granted permanent settlement status. Meanwhile, earlier in the day the chancellor Rachel Reeves warned of harder choices to come when it comes to economic choices. Adam, Alex and Chris explain the significance of both speeches.Plus, Adam is joined by chief secretary to the Prime Minister Darren Jones. He discusses the inner workings of Downing Street, when patriotism becomes racism and the tough choices ahead. 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 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 Adriana Urbano. The social producers were Joe Wilkinson and Gabriel Purcell-Davis. The technical producer was Ricardo McCarthy. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

On this week's Spectator Out Loud: Matthew Parris reflects on the gay rights movement in the UK; faced with Britain's demographic declines, Stephen J. Shaw argues that Britain needs to recover a sense of ‘futurehood'; Henry Jeffreys makes the case for disposing of wine lists; Tessa Dunlop reviews Valentine Low's Power and the Palace: The Inside Story of the Monarchy and 10 Downing Street; and, Angus Colwell reviews a new podcast on David Bowie from BBC Sounds.  Produced and presented by Patrick Gibbons. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 242 is about putting ploughs into the ground, how the rural areas of much of the country was experiencing something of an agricultural revolution. It's rather a fascinating tale, because there are tremendous contradictions in what we're going to talk about this episode. As usual, there we will need to combine a global story with our local story —without doing so would be to stunt our awareness of the strands and tendrils that spread and connect. By the 1850s, Great Britain was manipulating trade and military as well as political power as reciprocating elements. This is a technique adopted by pretty much every empire since before Carthage. Political influence was used so as to extend and secure free exchange, in Britain's case commerce and anglicisation, spread political influence and welded alliances. As Lord Palmerston so aptly pointed out “…It is the business of Government to open and secure the roads for the Merchant…” Antiquated regimes were its enemy and foreign tariffs were its enemy, as anyone knows, the greatest enemy of free trade are tariffs. Empires were broken, the gouty and outdated Chinese, the religion-strangled Turkey, innumerable sheikdoms, sultanates and chieftancies were drawn into the invisible British empire of informal sway. When merchants manage affairs instead of men with guns, it's harder to pin down the essence of power — and also the dangers. The results of this grand vision were not encouraging by the 1870s and the Victorians were less sure of their panacea for both Asia and Africa. Among the ancient and invincibly conservative Confucian and Islamic rulers, no effective westernising collaborators had been found. The Tai'ping rebellion in China and the growing chaos in Muslim states appeared never ending. It was the United States that was gobbling up immigrants — most of Britain's emigrants went there, and the Victorians bought and sold more there than in any other single country. It had dawned on the British political elite that their commerical experience impressed a single portentous fact — that their most successful trading associations with the exception of the Indian Empire, were with Europeans transplanted abroad. They accounted for around 70 percent of all her investment overseas. The white communities in the temperate zones had the outlook and the institutions favourable to progress which the Asiatics and Africans seemed to lack. They offered customers with European tastes and money to spend. Mutual self-interest with whites of their empire meant private business of Great Britain commingled freely with that of Greater Britain and the once-colonial societies of the New World — the Americans and many in South America too. At the same time, the colonists were growing more bitter about Downing Street control and self-government appeared one solution. The aim was to avert the loss of more colonies and more American Wars of independence. So by the 1870s, confederated Canada, responsibly governed Australia and the Cape were regarded as constitutional embodiments of collaboration between British and colonial interests — all working at their best. The number of trading stores in the Transkei quadrupled to a few hundred, and all of this meant that there was a major qualitative shift in the cumsumption patterns of Africans. New permanent wants replaced needs, metal was now preferred to traditionally crafted pots and baskets, the cow-hide kaross was replaced by the Witney blanket, ploughs and all manner of tools flooded into these developing farms. Around South Africa, energy seemed to be surging. Take the highveld for example. The sour veld of the Harrismith district to be precise. Largely used for summer grazing, the farmers here often moved their herds into Natal every autumn. Below the Berg as they put, OnderBerg. Underberg.

UKPolitics #StarmerOut #JonGaunt #IDCards #BorderCrisis #LabourParty #Starmer #Live

It's almost 10 years since Britain voted to leave the EU, and we're still dealing with the consequences. In his new book, Between The Waves, Politico's chief UK political correspondent Tom McTague argues that the journey to Brexit really began with Enoch Powell, before be taken up by his political heir, Nigel Farage. He talks […]

PREVIEW: GUEST NAME: Anatol Lieven SUMMARY: John Batchelor and Anatol Lieven discuss the UK political landscape, noting the decline of the Labourand Tory parties. Lieven observes that both established parties are unpopular, losing voters and MPs to more extreme factions. The rise of Nigel Farage's Reform Party on the right and Jeremy Corbyn's party on the left signifies a shift, with these parties now seen as more convincing representatives of their respective ideologies. 1828 DOWNING STREET

As Martha heads to the United Kingdom this week to cover President Trump's historic trip to the U.K., she discusses the upcoming events with British journalist and host of 'Neil Sean's Daily News Headlines,' Neil Sean. They speculate on what Americans can expect to come out of his visit, and Neil breaks down the current state of politics in the United Kingdom under Prime Minister Keir Starmer.  Later, Neil explains tensions between the Royal Family and Prince Harry's meeting with King Charles III. He also describes the state of Prince Harry's relationship with his brother, Prince William.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices