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There are reports of chaos in Downing Street – but just how bad are things really? Ros Taylor talks Jacob Jarvis through the latest from Number 10 and how Farage is upping the pressure on Starmer. Plus, we look at world news to look out for in the coming days. We are sponsored by Indeed. Go to https://indeed.com/bunker for £100 sponsored credit. Listen to the latest podcast from Podmasters, Crime Scene, the truth behind true crime with Alison Phillips and Bernard Hogan-Howe: https://linktr.ee/crimescenepodcast www.patreon.com/bunkercast Written and presented by Jacob Jarvis with Ros Taylor. Audio production: Tom Taylor. Managing Editor: Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. Music by Kenny Dickinson. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Delivery. It's a popular word in politics, but how to Prime Ministers ensure it happens?Michelle is Researcher in Residence at 10 Downing Street and Lecturer in Government Studies at The Strand Group, King's College.She has written a new book 'The Art of Delivery: The Inside Story of How the Blair Government Transformed Britain's Public Services'. This is a wonderful insight into the inner workings of 10 Downing Street and how Tony Blair changed his approach to the civil service during his premiership.Michelle brings the internal machinations to life in this fascinating and entertaining interview. BUY Michelle's book here: https://www.bitebackpublishing.com/books/the-art-of-delivery COME AND SEE THE POLITICAL PARTY LIVE! 9 June: Kemi Badenoch14 July: Michael GoveGet tickets for all shows here: https://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ GET FREE tickets to Radio 4's The Matt Forde Focus Group here: https://www.sroaudiences.com/application.asp?show_id=579 DONATE to the RNOH Charity here:justgiving.com/campaign/mattforde SEE Matt at on tour until June 2025, including his extra date at The Nottingham Playhouse: https://www.mattforde.com/live-shows29 May: Chipping Norton Theatre30 May: Swindon Arts Centre 4 June: Leeds City Varieties 5 June: Nottingham Playhouse 6 June: Cambridge Junction 12 June: York, The Crescent 13 June: Chelmsford Theatre 14 June: Faversham, The Alex Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Contrario a los tradicionales espacios de prensa de las casas de gobierno del mundo,LA Semanal de Luis Abinader es un esfuerzo semanal por dar buenas noticias, pero el año tiene 52 semanas y es difícil tener contenido positivo para la imagen gubernamental durante 52 semanas consecutivas multiplicadas por cuatro.Las salas de prensa del resto del mundo mantienen más o menos el mismo modelo. El caso de México es extremo porque la jefa del Estado como su antecesor resiste cada día el interrogatorio de medios acreditados y periodistas competentes.En la Casa Blanca o el 10 de Downing Street los voceros tienen que permanecer frente al micrófono hasta que el último periodista pregunte no importa el tiempo que tome. Normalmente estos periodistas que por especialidad tienen años en esas salas se ponen de acuerdo en los temas de relevancia informativa.El formato de LA Semanal es que el presidente lleva a un funcionario a dar una noticia siempre positiva para el gobierno y luego se abre un debate con la participación populista de mansos y cimarrones en el que lo menos que le han preguntado al presidente es por la presencia de platillos voladores.Y decimos que es lo menos porque han habido solicitudes de empleos, de publicidad y hasta de pensiones para dominicanos residentes en el exterior sin que eso tenga que ver con la información del día o de la semana.Por precario que sea nuestro periodismo al gobierno hay que decirle que no es posible dar una buena noticia durante 52 semanas porque el mundo no es así.Ayer cuando Guido anunciaba por fin el plan piloto para controlar las estafas desde las cárceles y el presidente daba los números del ciber delito carcelario un colega que trabaja en telemicro aprovechó para defender los intereses de la empresa con una pregunta cuya respuesta equivaldría a una sentencia. Guido salió muy bien porque dijo que el caso estaba en los tribunales pero se hizo evidente que en la sala los que representaban a uno y otro grupo querían imponer su agenda.La diferencia entre el interés nacional y el interés corporativo es del cielo a la tierra y yo no sé a cuántos les interesa la propiedad de una frecuencia más allá de que sepamos el método por el cual el estado la otorgó.LA semanal no es un espacio informativo sino de relaciones públicas pero eventos como el de ayer evidencian lo que digo: las buenas noticias forzadas chocan con la realidad de un mandato que empezó viejo.El COE reco
It's been another turbulent week for Labour after Keir Starmer announced a crackdown on legal migration. The prime minister gave what has since become a controversial speech suggesting the UK is at risk of becoming an “island of strangers” – and home secretary Yvette Cooper announced an end to all social care visas, tighter rules for highly skilled visas, more rigorous English language tests, and more. Host Lucy Fisher is joined by the FT's Robert Shrimsley and Jim Pickard to dissect the policies, as well as the reaction to Starmer's speech and where Labour's position leaves the Tories on immigration. Plus, the panel delves into the Downing Street briefing about a whole host of new prison reforms set to drop next week.Follow Lucy on Bluesky or X: @lucyfisher.bsky.social, @LOS_Fisher; Jim @pickardje.bsky.social; Robert @robertshrimsley, @robertshrimsley.bsky.socialWhat did you think of this episode? Let us know at politicalfix@ft.com Want more? Free links: Starmer rejects Enoch Powell parallel after ‘island of strangers' speech Democracy's downward spiral leaves Starmer no leeway on immigrationLiz Truss regime's ‘moron premium' still looms over UK economyBadenoch pivots to economy in bid to fend off Reform threatSome prisoners in England who breach release terms face short jail sentencesSign up here for 30 days free of Stephen Bush's Inside Politics newsletter, winner of the World Association of News Publishers 2023 ‘Best Newsletter' award. Presented by Lucy Fisher, and produced by Lulu Smyth. The executive producer is Flo Phillips. Original music and mix by Breen Turner. The FT's acting co-head of audio is Manuela Saragosa. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Colin Bulfield, Executive Producer of the new film Ocean With Attenborough, talks about working with the celebrated broadcaster and filmmaker Sir David Attenborough on his latest project, an exploration of the vital importance of healthy oceans to our planet which is in cinemas around the country now. Current exhibitions at V&A Dundee and the British Library in London shed light on the history and future of garden design. Curator James Wylie and academic and author Becca Voelcker discuss how gardens reflect society, how they have influenced other fields such as art and philosophy, and what gardens might look like in 50 years time. And librettist Emma Jenkins and composer Toby Hession talk about how their new operetta for Scottish Opera and the D'Oyly Carte Opera Company, A Matter of Misconduct!, which is inspired by political scandals, the No.9 Downing Street press briefing room and classic British comedy from Hancock's Half Hour to The Thick of It. Presenter: Kirsty Wark Producer: Mark Crossan
The Smart 7 is an award winning daily podcast, in association with METRO, that gives you everything you need to know in 7 minutes, at 7am, 7 days a week…With over 18 million downloads and consistently charting, including as No. 1 News Podcast on Spotify, we're a trusted source for people every day and we've won Gold at the Signal International Podcast awardsIf you're enjoying it, please follow, share, or even post a review, it all helps... Today's episode includes the following: https://x.com/i/status/1922209593230299382 https://x.com/i/status/1922177258468290733 https://x.com/i/status/1922328789750563208 https://x.com/i/status/1922299574451904751 https://x.com/i/status/1922208881503080566 https://x.com/i/status/1922276837062803742 https://x.com/i/status/1922287155566596357https://x.com/i/status/1922095055868744013https://x.com/i/status/1922113249933140083 Contact us over @TheSmart7pod or visit www.thesmart7.com or find out more at www.metro.co.uk Voiced by Jamie East, using AI, written by Liam Thompson, researched by Lucie Lewis and produced by Daft Doris. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
What does it take to make one of the most scrutinised leaders in the world feel relatable? And how do we build internal comms that truly include everyone — especially the quieter voices? In this episode, Katie Macaulay is joined by personal brand expert, storytelling strategist and award-winning filmmaker Richard Etienne. Richard shares the remarkable story of being summoned to 10 Downing Street and handed a single-line brief: make the Prime Minister more personable. As Theresa May's official videographer, he used empathy, authenticity and storytelling to reveal the human behind the headlines. But this episode goes beyond politics. Richard explores how to build a bold career in comms, why speed and trust matter more than ever, and how storytelling remains a vital leadership tool. He also shares the mission behind The Introvert Space, his community interest group and his mission to ensure even the quietest voices are heard in the workplace. Expect honest reflections, practical insights — and a timely reminder that powerful communication starts with listening. Share your thoughts on this or any other episode of The Internal Comms Podcast using the hashtag #TheICPodcast. Thank you for listening.
The Matts get their heads around the cost of travelling in the UK by train, wonder if the death of Weightwatchers signifies a stage of human evolution, lament the disgraceful comments of Reform's Andrea Jenkyns and offer their guiding hand to Downing Street… enjoy!EXCLUSIVE OFFER: Get The New European for just £1 for the first month. Head to theneweuropean.co.uk/2matts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The good news of Christianity is that we can all have hope no matter how bad or sad life and the world may be. ‘Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all the darkness,' said Desmond Tutu, one of the leading opponents of Apartheid in South Africa. Pastor Wes Richards' first book called ‘Hope and a Future: a story of love, loss and living again' tells how his family was restored after grieving the loss of a much-loved wife and mother. It's been translated into Spanish and Portuguese and the feedback received shows that hope is a universal need. Everybody needs hope, from the least to the greatest. This week in the VE Day 80th anniversary celebrations, Winston Churchill's inspiring words of hope have once more been broadcast to millions. Yet as he grew older and again became Prime Minister, the great man was himself in need of great hope as he faced the post-war years of new domestic and global social, economic and political challenges. In 1954 he invited Billy Graham to Downing Street for a 20-minute meeting after hearing of the great crowds that had gathered to listen to the evangelist in Wembley and other stadiums. Although they overran their allotted time, Churchill told Graham to keep speaking, and the evangelist affirmed that God was the only hope for the world and for us individually. You don't have to be a Billy Graham, however, to spread the good news as a remarkable Bible story in 2 Kings 6:24-7:6 shows us. In 2 Kings 7:9, four outcast lepers: ‘said to each other, “We're not doing right. This is a day of good news and we are keeping it to ourselves.”' This is a story that has many applications for us today: 1. People desperately need hope (2 Kings 6:28-30) 2. Today is a day of hope (2 Kings 7:1-9; Luke 2:10-11; John 6:35; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Psalm 103:3; 1 John 1:9; John 14:6; John 8:12,36; Luke 4:18-19; John 11:25) 3. We have a responsibility to share the good news of hope (2 Kings 7:9-16; 2 Corinthians 5:20 & 6:2) Apply 1. People desperately need hope. They were people who had been through extremely tough circumstances. This story is set in the 9th century before Christ and, not for the first time, Israel was a nation under attack. An entire city, Samaria, was under siege. Ben-Hadad king of Aram to the north of Israel wanted to starve them into submission. The siege lasted so long that ‘there was a great famine in the city.' The economy was shattered, and inflation rocketed, like it has done in many failed states. As food was so scarce they were people who had lost their way morally and spiritually. They were desperate and moral values were thrown out. Anything went and the people resorted to cannibalism (2 Kings 6:28), just like in World War 2, particularly during the long siege of Leningrad. All kinds of things happen when moral values collapse. They were people who saw no way out of their pain, where death and despair stalked the city and those in authority had no answer (2 Kings 6:30). The King tore his clothes, his close advisors were depressed and cynical, declaring not even God could help them. Today there is a great famine in many developed nations as well as literal famines in other nations. People are starved of Love: family break up is at record levels. So many suffer abuse, cruelty, pain and heartache in their homes. People are starved of Direction: they don't know where their lives are headed. They too lack a moral or spiritual compass. People are starved of Meaning: suicides are up, particularly amongst the young, because of a sense that life has no meaning or purpose. People are starved of Hope: they are worried and depressed about the future. Many people indeed lead lives of quiet desperation. However, there is hope! 2. Today is a day of hope. The answer to the hopeless situation did not come from a political ruler but from a prophet of God. Elisha was a man who knew the character of God and the reality of the power of God. And he had a word from God that there was about to come a big turnaround in the economy because there would very quickly be a big change in their circumstances (2 Kings 7:1). Sky high prices would drop because there would be more than enough supplies for everyone, the famine would end, and people would suddenly have real reason to hope. So these four desperate lepers wandered into enemy lines only to find the enemy forces had fled leaving food and provision everywhere (2 Kings 7:3-9). They couldn't believe it, but it was true. Their famine was over! Today also is ‘a day of good news.' And that good news is not coming from the politicians or the press but from those who understand what Christianity is all about. For good news is at the heart of Christianity. When Jesus came into the world it was a cause for celebration (Luke 2:10-11). The good news of Christianity is that when everything seems lost and hopeless we can be rescued. You don't have to just exist. You don't have to be so empty. You don't have to be trapped by your circumstances. You don't have to stay depressed. Your famine can end (John 6:35). Instead of emptiness and sadness, you can be filled with love, joy, peace when you have an encounter with the Holy Spirit who makes Jesus real to us. You can have a new start (2 Corinthians 5:17). God can make all things new by changing you from the inside out. You can be forgiven for your wrongdoing, even if you have some big regrets in your life (Psalm 103:3; 1 John 1:9). You can find meaning and direction (John 14:6; John 8:12). You can discover a whole new life of freedom (John 8:36). No habit, addiction, problem or sin needs to hold you captive. You can be free from fear and guilt and shame, freed to be all that God meant you to be. You can experience great favour (Luke 4:18-19). God wants to bless you with His goodness and mercy all the days of your life. You can be blessed in your emotions, your body, your spirit, your finances, your family and in every area of life. You can be confident of a secure future (John 11:25), with hope for this life and the next. So how are people going to get to know that they have hope and a future? That's up to you and me. 3. We have a responsibility to share the good news of hope. The four lepers in the story had their own needs met and were really enjoying themselves. But then they thought of all the starving people back in the city (2 Kings 7:9-16). They told them an amazing message of hope. At first people were skeptical, as many are today. But then they decided to investigate for themselves, and they found out it was all true. There was good news after all. The whole city was saved because a few people were bold enough to share the good news. In the New Testament Jesus commanded his disciples to spread the good news to everyone everywhere. Every Christian has a responsibility to communicate this message of hope (2 Corinthians 5:20). We need to do this personally, spreading the word to your friends, family and contacts. We need to do this urgently like the lepers who knew how desperate people were for hope, so they reported the news 'at once'. There is no time to lose in giving people hope (2 Corinthians 6:2). Today you can discover the good news of the hope that Jesus offers and then you need to become an ambassador of hope.
Premier Keir Starmer zit nog geen jaar in Downing Street, maar z'n populariteit is alweer als sneeuw voor de zon verdwenen. Ondertussen zien andere partijen hun kans schoon. Staat het tweepartijenstelsel in het Verenigd Koninkrijk op knappen? En terwijl de regering van Starmer 5 jaar na de Brexit weer toenadering zoekt tot de Europese Unie, groeit de Europa-kritische partij van Nigel Farage gestaag. Ligt er een nieuwe bom onder de relatie tussen het Verenigd Koninkrijk en de EU? Te gast is Lia van Bekhoven, correspondent in het Verenigd Koninkrijk. Gasten van BNR's Big Five van business bij de buren: -Annelies Bontjes, correspondent in België -Margriet Brandsma, oud-Duitsland correspondent -Ed Kronenburg, oud-ambassadeur in Parijs -Lia van Bekhoven, correspondent in het Verenigd KoninkrijkSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
New reports indicate a 'major' trade deal between the US and UK is set to be announced. US President Trump has teased that a partnership with a 'respected world nation' is in the works - and Downing Street hasn't denied that the UK isn't involved. UK correspondent Enda Brady speculates further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What does Keir Starmer think is his most important duty as Prime Minister? Why should we remember VE Day? What is Britain's role in WW2, and NATO, for international peace? Join Al Murray and James Holland as they interview the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, in a wide-ranging chat overlooking the Rose Garden, for the 80th Anniversary of VE Day at 10 Downing Street. And find out the most important question of all - what is Keir Starmer's favourite war movie? Watch the full video ad-free on Patreon - sign up at patreon.com/wehaveways A Goalhanger Production Produced by James Regan Exec Producer: Tony Pastor Social: @WeHaveWaysPod Email: wehavewayspodcast@gmail.com Join our ‘Independent Company' to watch exclusive livestreams, get presale events, and our weekly newsletter - packed with discounts. Membership Club: patreon.com/wehaveways Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Irish Exchequer returns and the sound of weeping from Downing Street Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/the-other-hand-with-jim.power-and-chris.johns. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Harriet discusses the UK/India trade deal, Labour sticking to it's stripping of winter fuel payments and allegations of sexism at Downing St.
How far could Nigel Farage's Reform reshape British politics and what would he do if the party ever won power?In this episode of Talking Politics, Tom Bradby is joined by Political Editor Robert Peston and Deputy Political Editor Anushka Asthana to discuss the impact of Reform's newfound place ahead in the polls and what the party's recent success at the ballot box says about the current mood of voters.Our experts also evaluate whether Farage's Reform are now the official opposition to Keir Starmer and Labour and if the party could break the traditional third party ceiling to find a route to Downing Street.And they also give their verdict on the likelihood of Boris Johnson making a return to frontline politics with questions growing over Kemi Badenoch's future as Conservative leader.You can WATCH or LISTEN to Talking Politics on ITVX, YouTube or on your favourite podcast platform.Got a question for the team? Email us on talkingpolitics@itv.com or comment on our social media posts.
Want your own Brand or Business Podcast? Try out our NEW Podcast Calculator: https://www.boxlight.io/ Jimmy's Jobs: Celebrating 200 Episodes and the Future of Business Podcasting In this special episode, Jimmy celebrates the milestone of 200 podcast episodes and takes a reflective look back on his journey from Downing Street advisor to stay-at-home dad and podcast host. He discusses the initial motivations for starting the podcast during the pandemic, his interest in careers education, and how podcasting became his preferred medium due to his dyslexia. Jimmy delves into the valuable lessons learned from interviewing entrepreneurs, the challenges and rewards of creating engaging business content, and the evolving landscape of business podcasting. He also shares insights on managing creative burnout and the economics behind producing high-quality episodes and running a related media business. 00:00 Introduction and Cheers 01:15 The Role of Mentorship 02:53 The Evolution of the Podcast 04:31 Business Journalism and Storytelling 06:57 Personal Reflections on Entrepreneurship 08:54 Challenges and Realities of Entrepreneurship 12:37 The Art of Interviewing 17:23 Insights from Guests 21:41 Quick Fire Round 27:19 The Future of Business Podcasting 29:35 The Future of Business Podcasting 30:55 Employee-Generated Content and Social Media 31:24 Authentic Media Content for Corporations 34:14 The Role of CEOs in Podcasts 38:08 Economics of Podcasting 44:18 Managing Creative Burnout 53:18 Dream Guests and Future Plans ********** Follow us on socials! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jimmysjobs Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jimmysjobsofthefuture Twitter / X: https://www.twitter.com/JimmyM Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmy-mcloughlin-obe/ Want to come on the show? hello@jobsofthefuture.co Sponsor the show or Partner with us: sunny@jobsofthefuture.co Credits: Host / Exec Producer: Jimmy McLoughlin OBE Producer: Sunny Winter https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunnywinter/ Editor: Sunny Winter Junior Producer: Thuy Dong Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Reform is flirting with traditional Labour support - workers and union members. Ten local authorities are now controlled by Reform - including Doncaster, taken from Labour - plus three mayoralties and a new MP. After Nigel Farage's almost unbelievable success in local elections last week, is this the strategy to take him all the way to Downing Street? Niall Paterson is joined by our political correspondent Liz Bates, and reporter Alexandra Rogers, to unpick what Reform's flirtations mean for Labour. Producer: Soila Apparicio Editor: Philly Beaumont
Steve Hilton is a Brit — and a proud citizen of the United States. He’s running for governor of California. Can this Republican, who used to be on David Cameron’s staff at 10 Downing Street, turn California red? He joins Michele to make his case. Michele Tafoya is a four-time Emmy award-winning sportscaster turned political and cultural commentator. Record-setting, four-time Sports Emmy Award winner Michele Tafoya worked her final NBC Sunday Night Football game at Super Bowl LVI on February 13, 2022, her fifth Super Bowl. She retired from sportscasting the following day. In total, she covered 327 games — the most national primetime TV games (regular + postseason) for an NFL sideline reporter. Learn More about “The Michele Tafoya Podcast” here: https://linktr.ee/micheletafoyaSubscribe to “The Michele Tafoya Podcast” here: https://apple.co/3nPW221Follow Michele on twitter: https://twitter.com/Michele_TafoyaFollow Michele on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realmicheletafoya/Learn more about the Salem Podcast network: https://salempodcastnetwork.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Steve Hilton is a Brit — and a proud citizen of the United States. He’s running for governor of California. Can this Republican, who used to be on David Cameron’s staff at 10 Downing Street, turn California red? He joins Michele to make his case. Michele Tafoya is a four-time Emmy award-winning sportscaster turned political and cultural commentator. Record-setting, four-time Sports Emmy Award winner Michele Tafoya worked her final NBC Sunday Night Football game at Super Bowl LVI on February 13, 2022, her fifth Super Bowl. She retired from sportscasting the following day. In total, she covered 327 games — the most national primetime TV games (regular + postseason) for an NFL sideline reporter. Learn More about “The Michele Tafoya Podcast” here: https://linktr.ee/micheletafoyaSubscribe to “The Michele Tafoya Podcast” here: https://apple.co/3nPW221Follow Michele on twitter: https://twitter.com/Michele_TafoyaFollow Michele on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realmicheletafoya/Learn more about the Salem Podcast network: https://salempodcastnetwork.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Street and tea parties are being held across the UK - including at Buckingham Palace and Downing Street - to mark 80 years since World War Two ended in Europe. The BBC's Rob Watson spoke to Alexa Cook.
When you have a system where ministers almost never understand their portfolios, civil servants change jobs every few months, and MPs don't grasp parliamentary procedure even after decades in office — is the problem the people, or the structure they work in?Today's guest, political journalist Ian Dunt, studies the systemic reasons governments succeed and fail.And in his book How Westminster Works ...and Why It Doesn't, he argues that Britain's government dysfunction and multi-decade failure to solve its key problems stems primarily from bad incentives and bad processes. Even brilliant, well-intentioned people are set up to fail by a long list of institutional absurdities that Ian runs through — from the constant churn of ministers and civil servants that means no one understands what they're working on, to the “pathological national sentimentality” that keeps 10 Downing Street (a 17th century townhouse) as the beating heart of British government.While some of these are unique British failings, we see similar dynamics in other governments and large corporations around the world.But Ian also lays out how some countries have found structural solutions that help ensure decisions are made by the right people, with the information they need, and that success is rewarded.Links to learn more, video, highlights, and full transcript. Chapters:Cold open (00:00:00)How Ian got obsessed with Britain's endless failings (00:01:05)Should we blame individuals or incentives? (00:03:24)The UK left its allies to be murdered in Afghanistan (to save cats and dogs) (00:09:02)The UK is governed from a tiny cramped house (00:17:54)“It's the stupidest conceivable system for how to run a country” (00:23:30)The problems that never get solved in the UK (00:28:14)Why UK ministers have no expertise in the areas they govern (00:31:32)Why MPs are chosen to have no idea about legislation (00:44:08)Is any country doing things better? (00:46:14)Is rushing inevitable or artificial? (00:57:20)How unelected septuagenarians are the heroes of UK governance (01:01:02)How Thatcher unintentionally made one part of parliament work (01:10:48)Maybe secrecy is the best disinfectant for incompetence (01:14:17)The House of Commons may as well be in a coma (01:22:34)Why it's in the PM's interest to ban electronic voting (01:33:13)MPs are deliberately kept ignorant of parliamentary procedure (01:35:53)“Whole areas of law have fallen almost completely into the vortex” (01:40:37)What's the seed of all this going wrong? (01:44:00)Why won't the Commons challenge the executive when it can? (01:53:10)Better ways to choose MPs (01:58:33)Citizens' juries (02:07:16)Do more independent-minded legislatures actually lead to better outcomes? (02:10:42)"There's no time for this bourgeois constitutional reform bulls***" (02:16:50)How to keep expert civil servants (02:22:35)Improving legislation like you'd improve Netflix dramas (02:34:34)MPs waste much of their time helping constituents with random complaints (02:39:59)Party culture prevents independent thinking (02:43:52)Would a written constitution help or hurt? (02:48:37)Can we give the PM room to appoint ministers based on expertise and competence? (02:51:51)Would proportional representation help? (02:56:20)Proportional representation encourages collaboration but does have weaknesses (02:58:51)Alternative electoral systems (03:07:44)This episode was originally recorded on January 30, 2025.Video editing: Simon MonsourAudio engineering: Ben Cordell, Milo McGuire, Simon Monsour, and Dominic ArmstrongMusic: Ben CordellCamera operator: Jeremy ChevillotteTranscriptions and web: Katy Moore
More misadventures in parenting, life, and beyond with Rob Beckett and Josh Widdicombe... Rob gets in trouble for being late for school pickup, R+J ponder how radio and wi-fi actually work, Rob talks about his visit to 10 Downing Street, and Josh was witness to a high-speed car chase!! Please follow and leave a rating and review you filthy street dogs... xx If you want to get in touch with the show with any correspondence, kids intro audio clips, small business shout outs, and more.... here's how: EMAIL: Hello@lockdownparenting.co.uk INSTAGRAM: @parentinghell Parenting Hell is a Spotify Podcast, available free everywhere every Tuesday and Friday. MAILING LIST: parentinghellpodcast.mailchimpsites.com Join the mailing list to be first to hear about live show dates and tickets, Parenting Hell merch and any other exciting news... A 'Keep It Light Media' Production Sales, advertising, and general enquiries: hello@keepitlightmedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
To Snap or Not to Snap?... As we turn to October 2007, election fever has taken over the UK - everyone from journalists to the opposition to Ed Balls himself is expecting Gordon Brown to call a snap general election. But with the polls lurching back towards the Tories, Brown gets cold feet. In the final episode of this series, Deborah Mattinson rejoins the series to recall those final war room discussions with Gordon Brown himself and his closest advisors, discussions that end up with the election… aborted. Brown chooses to make this public in a blockbuster Downing Street interview with Andrew Marr, who joins us in the studio for the second half of the show to take us behind the scenes at that momentous juncture. How did he end up with the scoop, what was Gordon Brown's demeanor in the room, and why did he decide to break the news as soon as he walked out the door of number 10? To listen our bonus 'The Inquiry' episode, where Ed and George reflect on this series, sign up to Political Currency Gold or our Kitchen Cabinet. Head to Apple Podcasts or www.patreon.com/PoliticalCurrency to find out more. Producers: John Rogers and Miriam HallTechnical Producer: Danny PapeExecutive Producers: Ellie Clifford and Dino SofosPolitical Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network Subscribe now on Patreon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
George Parker of the Financial Times assesses the latest developments at Westminster.To discuss the Chancellor's trip to Washington to try to secure a trade deal with the US, George is joined by Labour MP and Chair of the Business and Trade Committee, Liam Byrne, and former Conservative government Trade Minister, Greg Hands.Also this week, London hosted the global energy security conference. To discuss the green energy transition, George is joined by Green Party MP Ellie Chowns and Gary Smith, the General Secretary of the GMB union.Liberal Democrat MP Christine Jardine and Conservative MP Dr Caroline Johnson join George to discuss the recent Supreme Court ruling that a woman is defined by biological sex.And, in the week of St George's Day, the Prime Minister hosted the first ever Downing Street reception to mark the occasion. To discuss the meaning of 'patriotism', George speaks to Tom Baldwin, a former Labour adviser and the author of a biography of Keir Starmer and Samuel Kasumu, who worked as an adviser to former Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
We pulled this episode together at short notice to promote the work of adoptive parent Clare Solomon joined by Euan Preston of the Potato group to talk about the upcoming march to protest against the changes to the ASGSF. We chat through the changes and what they are looking to achieve through the petition and the march. You can sign the petition here, or find out more about the march on the 3rd May to Downing Street here and find out more about them on their Facebook page here. As always if you've experience of adoption, fostering or special guardianship from any perspective personal or professional and would like share that on the podcast please get in touch through the Facebook page, BlueSky or email us at AandFpodcast@gmail.com Listen/subscribe on iTunes here Spotify here
We Don't Need Starmer's Flag Lessons! We Don't Need Starmer's Flag Lessons! #KeirStarmer #SaintGeorgesDay #EnglishFlag #ReformUK #BritishPolitics On Saint George's Day 2025, Keir Starmer stood outside Downing Street with Gary Lineker and other political allies to deliver what he called a patriotic message — but what looked more like a calculated political move. By wrapping himself in the St George's flag, Starmer claimed the Labour Party is the “true patriotic party” of British politics. But this was no celebration of English identity — it was a transparent attempt to hijack English patriotism and fight off the growing threat of Nigel Farage and Reform UK, who are gaining fast in the polls. Starmer says he wants to “take the flag back from extremists” — but who gave it away in the first place? If anyone's been divisive, it's Starmer himself. After the Southport massacre, he smeared all the protestors as “far-right thugs” and withheld details about Axel RudaKubana, the man whose murder triggered national outrage. Even his own counter-terrorism czar admitted this silence helped spark the riots. Let's also not forget the Emily Thornberry flag scandal back in 2014 — where the top Labour MP mocked a home displaying the English flag. She was demoted, but now Starmer has elevated her to the House of Lords. That's Labour's idea of accountability? The flag of Saint George is not a symbol of hate or division — it's a symbol of the English working class, of tradition, and of pride. But in Starmer's politically correct, divided version of England, even the definition of a woman is up for debate. The people of England don't need flag lessons from the Labour Party. We need honesty, unity, and leadership that respects our national values — not more empty gestures.
Katy Balls joins Coffee House Shots for the last time as the Spectator's political editor. Having joined the magazine ten years ago – or six prime ministers in Downing St years – what are her reflections on British politics? Katy's lobby lunch partner from the Financial Times Stephen Bush joins Katy and Patrick Gibbons to try and make sense of a turbulent political decade, work out where the greatest risk is to the current Labour government, and attempt to make some predictions for the next ten years. Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
Katy Balls joins Coffee House Shots for the last time as the Spectator's political editor. Having joined the magazine ten years ago – or six prime ministers in Downing St years – what are her reflections on British politics? Katy's lobby lunch partner from the Financial Times Stephen Bush joins Katy and Patrick Gibbons to try and make sense of a turbulent political decade, work out where the greatest risk is to the current Labour government, and attempt to make some predictions for the next ten years. Produced by Patrick Gibbons.
What happens when the man behind the headlines becomes the headline? Former tabloid editor and Downing Street comms chief Andy Coulson opens up about his very public fall from grace — from resignations and scandal to serving time in prison — and how he rebuilt his life and career in the shadow of cancel culture. With raw honesty and sharp insight, Andy talks about the realities of recovery, the myth of reinvention, and why consistency and character matter more than ever in a world obsessed with outrage. Listen For10:57 How to Recover from Cancellation: Strategy Over Reinvention15:45 Attention Deficit and the New Rules of Reputation17:48 Crisis Management vs. Political Strategy: Don't Follow the Trump Playbook20:28 In a Polarized World, How Do You Define Good and Bad?23:16 Answer to Last Episode's Question From Guest Tina McCorkindale, PhD Guest: Andy CoulsonWebsite | Instagram | LinkedIn | Wikipedia Page Andy's Podcast Crisis? What Crisis? Rate this podcast with just one click Stories and Strategies WebsiteCurzon Public Relations WebsiteAre you a brand with a podcast that needs support? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it.Apply to be a guest on the podcastConnect with usLinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads | Bluesky | PinterestRequest a transcript of this episodeSupport the show
The old man was back. The Conservatives won the 1951 election and Winston Churchill returned to Downing Street. And he really was an old man – nearly 77 when he took office. To many, he it seemed increasingly clear that he was unfit for office, but he wouldn't leave, clinging on, in the end, for three and a half years. He did get various things done. He presided over the ending of rationing. He allowed the British secret service to work with the Americans to bring down the democratically elected government in Iran, to protect British oil interests, a move whose consequences we're still suffering from today. And he also did all he could to lessen the risk of the world wiping itself out in a war using Hydrogen bombs, far more destructive still than the bombs that had actually been used against Japan. He appointed a Home Secretary, David Maxwell Fyfe, who would use the full power of the law against gay sex to make life miserable for a lot of gay men. His most notable victim was Alan Turing, an outstanding scientist of his generation, persecuted, subjected to chemical castration, and driven to an early death, it seems pretty clear, by suicide.Fyfe also believed strongly in the death penalty, even though this was a time when a couple of particularly striking miscarriages of justice came to light, miscarriages that led to the execution of innocent men. It would take decades to clear their names. But the death penalty would not be abolished at that time.Churchill's attempt to do something about the Hydrogen bomb was his last great initiative in office, his last international action, his last pretext for putting off resignation. It, however, failed. Even so, he hung on another eight months, with no obvious excuse for not going. Still, if he had no excuse, it's clear today that he may well have had an understandable reason, other than the natural instinct of men in power to cling on to it as long as possible.He may simply have had no confidence that his designated successor, Anthony Eden, was up to the job. Something we'll be checking up on next week.Illustration: Winston Churchill seeing Queen Elizabeth II to her car after dinner at Downing Street the day before he left office. Public Domain.Music: Bach Partita #2c by J Bu licensed under an Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivatives (aka Music Sharing) 3.0 International License
On this very special episode of Movers and Shakers, the gang head out of the Notting Hill pub to take, once again, to Downing Street. But handing over the latest petition is only the start of an action packed day – from there, it's on to the Houses of Parliament to convene with hundreds of Parkies for The Big Sing! This episode is a little journey through the day, as we speak to people who made the trip down to London about their experiences and hopes for the future. Plus, Mark Mardell is up in Huddersfield, as the WPD celebrations spread across the country.Don't forget to sign the Parky Charter petition by going to ParkyPetition.com!Sponsored by Boardwave, who support Cure Parkinson's.Presented by Rory Cellan-Jones, Gillian Lacey-Solymar, Mark Mardell, Paul Mayhew-Archer, Sir Nicholas Mostyn and Jeremy Paxman.Produced and edited by Nick Hilton for Podot.Sound mixing by Ewan Cameron.Music by Alex Stobbs. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
10 Downing Street is a rabbit warren of offices in a Georgian townhouse, and the centre of power in Britain. But how much control does it really exert over the rest of government, does it matter who has what job, and should we turn the whole thing into a museum?The political masterminds discuss how number 10 really works, and Polly explains why her husband thinks Canada is worse than North Korea.Send questions, comments and voicenotes to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
UK correspondent Harriet Line looks at Downing Street's reaction to Donald Trump's tariffs, plus the first Universal theme park in Britain and the King and Queen visit a convalescing Pope Francis.
10 Downing Street is a rabbit warren of offices in a Georgian townhouse, and the centre of power in Britain. But how much control does it really exert over the rest of government, does it matter who has what job, and should we turn the whole thing into a museum?The political masterminds discuss how number 10 really works, and Polly explains why her husband thinks Canada is worse than North Korea.Send questions, comments and voicenotes to howtowin@thetimes.co.uk. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Global stocks have sunk a day after President Donald Trump announced sweeping new tariffs on goods imported to the United States. The UK government is continuing to push for a trade deal with Washington DC. We ask what options it has and speak to a business leader present at a roundtable with the Prime Minister in Downing Street this morning.Hungary says it's quitting the International Criminal Court in protest at its decision to issue an arrest warrant for Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. We speak to the Hungarian government and an international human rights lawyer.And the countdown begins to the Women's World Cup in 2035, which will be hosted in the UK.
Today, Marine Le Pen walked out of a Parisian courtroom after being found guilty of embezzling EU funds.Adam is joined by Katya Adler and Marion Soletty, Politico's Editor-At-Large in France to unpack Le Pen's first interview after the verdict in which she called the ruling a "political decision" and says she will appeal. They discuss the dramatic day in court, and what the National Rally party might do next. And Chris has been talking to the Prime Minister about the Netflix drama Adolescence, after Keir Starmer hosted a roundtable at Downing Street with the show's creators. 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://discord.gg/m3YPUGv9New 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 Miranda Slade with Shiler Mahmoudi and Julia Webster. The technical producer was Dafydd Evans. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The editor is Sam Bonham.
Nick Timothy – Conservative MP and former joint chief of staff in Downing Street – returns to The Brendan O'Neill Show. Nick and Brendan discuss Rachel Reeves's disastrous spring statement, how Net Zero is fuelling deindustrialisation, and how multiculturalism has torn society apart. Celebrate 25 years of spiked. Donate £25 or more to get a year's membership of spiked supporters for half the usual price: https://www.spiked-online.com/donate/ Order Brendan O'Neill's After the Pogrom now from:
Iain sits down with the Chancellor Rachel Reeves inside her Downing Street office for an exclusive interview, following her Spring Statement.Joining Iain Dale on Cross Question are the Conservatives' Shadow Chief Secretary to the Treasury Richard Fuller, Labour MP and Treasury Select Committee chair Dame Meg Hillier, Bloomberg economics journalist Stephanie Flanders and the businessman and markets commentator David Buik.
With the stench of rebellion hanging around the tearooms of SW1 after ministers announced fresh welfare cuts, this week host Patrick Baker explores the backbench revolts of years past, asking how disobedient MPs really plan and plot against their own parties. Veteran Tory MP David Davis describes how he and other rebels defeated David Cameron's plans to bomb Syria almost by accident — and offers tips on shutting down confrontational government enforcers, or chief whips. Christopher Howarth, a secretive member of the European Research Group of Eurosceptic Tory MPs, was instrumental in defeating Theresa May's EU deal during the Brexit wars. He describes countering the cunning tactics of a Downing Street operation desperately trying to quell rebellions, and how he spotted a loophole in Tory rules that led to May's resignation. POLITICO senior political correspondent Annabelle Dickson has been gauging the mood among angry would-be Labour rebels — and hearing why some are feeling disillusioned with the direction of their party. One of those certain to rebel in a Commons vote on welfare is the Labour MP for Alloa and Grangemouth in Scotland, Brian Leishman, who explains why he's appalled at the cuts to benefits. But rebels beware: Tony Blair's former no-nonsense chief whip Hilary Armstrong recalls threatening badly behaved MPs with being sent to work on obscure infrastructure committees unless they toed the line. But she insists the best way to deal with rebels — who Blair called his "little darlings" — is a "softly, softly" approach. And Blair's former political secretary John McTernan, sets out why he believes the huge new intake of Labour MPs might be more prone to rebellion and says the current rancor poses a bigger question for the party. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On this episode of the Prophecy News Podcast, if you haven't noticed by now, America is in shambles, not only that Europe is also in shambles, and conditions are ripe, once again for world war. Revolution from every quarter is on everyone's lips, and things don't look like they'll be getting better anytime soon. Over in England today, Heathrow airport is closed today because a massive fire of unknown origin is raging while you read this. It comes as fears have been expressed that Putin may be behind the blaze as experts warn it “bears all hallmarks” of a Russian sabotage plot. The fire follows a chilling wave of Russian intelligence-linked fires, bomb plots, and even assassination attempts across Europe – and has delighted Russian trolls. Meanwhile, Downing Street would not say whether it is confident Heathrow Airport will be fully reopened by Saturday. Asked whether this would be the case, a No 10 spokesman said: “Well, it's clearly a fast-moving situation.” That's an understatement if there ever was one, and a perfect way to describe today's Podcast!
Tommy Meskill, London Correspondent, reports
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has said his government is turning its back on the hostility of the previous Tory government which he says did not help relations between the UK and Ireland.
Israel again kills hundreds of Palestinians in 'horrifying' war "Israeli air strikes on besieged Gaza have killed at least 404 Palestinians, including 150 children, a Geneva-based rights group reported as Benjamin Netanyahu decides to resume his war on enclave. The Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor also reported hundreds of wounded Palestinians. Separately, images emerging from Gaza following Israel's attacks are beyond horrifying, UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell said. She noted that some of the strikes reportedly hit makeshift shelters with sleeping children and families. A ceasefire between Israel and Hamas took effect on January 19. Israel has killed over 48,500 Palestinians since October 2023. The rights group warned that global inaction is enabling further massacres." Netanyahu calls intensified Gaza strikes are 'only the beginning' "Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed that deadly strikes on Gaza were only the start of intensified military attacks. In a televised speech Netanyahu said Hamas has already felt the strength of Israel in the past 24 hours, noting that this is only the ""beginning."" Meanwhile, pro-Palestine protests erupted in Washington and London, with demonstrators demanding an end to US military aid to Israel. Crowds outside the White House and Downing Street chanted, “Free Palestine” and “Arms embargo now,” calling for immediate international action." Zelenskyy backs 30-day ceasefire proposal on energy infrastructure "Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed support for a proposed 30-day ceasefire on energy infrastructure, following talks between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump. Zelenskyy clarified that Ukraine had initially proposed the ceasefire, stressing that Washington's involvement as a guarantor was essential. However, he accused Putin of seeking to weaken Ukraine, reiterating that Russia isn't ready for peace. Zelenskyy also confirmed a prisoner exchange of 175 soldiers from each side and noted ongoing fighting in the Russian Kursk region." US releases final JFK assassination files after decades of secrecy "The US National Archives has released the final batch of files on John F. Kennedy's assassination, a case still shrouded in conspiracy theories six decades later. It fulfills a prior executive order by president Donald Trump mandating the unredacted release of records on JFK, his brother former attorney general Robert F. Kennedy and civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. Millions of pages have been released over decades, but these final files, held back due to national security concerns. While past investigations concluded Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone, the slow declassification of documents has only fueled speculation of a deeper plot behind Kennedy's 1963 murder." Astronauts return to Earth after unexpected nine-month stay in space "After an unexpected nine-month stay in space, four astronauts have finally returned to Earth, ending a mission that captivated global attention. A SpaceX Crew Dragon carrying NASA's Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams alongside fellow American Nick Hague and Russian cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov splashed down off Florida's coast yesterday evening. The mission garnered worldwide interest. NASA confirmed the successful landing, concluding a mission that far exceeded its original timeline."
Today, Laura and Paddy discuss UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer's virtual summit with the ‘coalition of the willing'.Downing Street say representatives from 26 countries joined the Prime Minister this morning to discuss bolstering support for Ukraine by moving military planning to an “operational phase”. But is Russia any closer to agreeing a ceasefire deal? And how strong is a coalition with no US backstop? And, can Keir Starmer succeed in building coalition within his own party? Laura's been looking at different Labour factions - and potential cabinet fall-outs - ahead of cuts to welfare spending to be announced next week. 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://discord.gg/m3YPUGv9New 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/3ENLcS1Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. It was presented by Laura Kuenssberg and Paddy O'Connell. It was made by Miranda Slade with Bella Saltiel. The technical producer was Hannah Montgomery. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The editor is Sam Bonham.
The British prime minister Keir Starmer says an online summit with twenty-five fellow leaders has built momentum towards setting up a peacekeeping force in Ukraine in the event of a peace deal. We speak to an Italian MP on why his country is not ready to send troops. Also in the programme: Tens of thousands march against alleged government corruption in Serbia's capital Belgrade; and Sri Lanka conducts first-ever census of wildlife harmful to agriculture. (Image: Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer speaking to the media in Downing Street, London. Credit: Leon Neal/PA Wire)
Today, we discuss the Chancellor Rachel Reeves looking at making spending cuts worth billions to the government's welfare budget. The Treasury will put the proposed cuts to the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) on Wednesday amid expectations the chancellor's financial headroom has disappeared. Adam is joined by economics editor Faisal Islam to unpack what we know about the proposed cuts, and the chancellor's Spring Statement later this month.And, former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has spoken to the Nick Robinson in his first wide-ranging interview since leaving Downing Street. Nick and Adam unpack what Rishi had to say, including why he regrets the ‘Stop the Boats' slogan, how he felt about a podcast questioning his Englishness and what his political philosophy boils down to. 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://discord.gg/NbuxWnmYNew 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/3ENLcS1Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. It was presented by Adam Fleming. It was made by Miranda Slade with Shiler Mahmoudi and Anna Harris. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The editor is Sam Bonham
An exclsuive in-depth interview with the Rishi Sunak. In this first instalment, the former prime minister tells stories from behind the scenes on the world stage explains why he thinks we must now cut welfare spending to fund defence.Sunak reflects on how a sense of duty - inspired by his Hindu faith - helped drive his political career, and reflects on how and why he ultimately led the Conservative Party to the worst electoral defeat in its history.Producers: Daniel Kraemer and Joel Massey
In the second, bonus instalment of this exclusive interview with the former prime minister, Rishi Sunak opens up about his time as Chancellor and Prime Minister, including how his relationship with Boris Johnson fell apart, why he regrets his "Stop the Boats" slogan and what comes next for someone who has become an elder statesman, aged 44.Producers: Daniel Kraemer and Joel Massey
Today, we look at how Sir Keir Starmer and other leaders are reacting to the row/pile on/slanging match between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky in the Oval Office.Starmer called both men on Friday night to show support, and he's hosting Zelensky at Downing Street ahead of a European leader summit on Sunday.Laura and Paddy discuss the Prime Minister's plans plus answer questions from listeners about the dispute.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://discord.gg/NbuxWnmYNew 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 Laura Kuenssberg and Paddy O'Connell. It was made by Chris Flynn and Adam Chowdhury. The technical producer was Jack Graysmark. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The editor is Sam Bonham.
The Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky received a warm reception and words of support from Prime Minister Keir Starmer a day after his televised spat at the White House. So how far Europe is prepared to go in its support for Ukraine? We speak to a former British diplomat and a European politician with opposing views. Also in the programme: North Korea reopens its borders to Western tourists; and how an Oscar-nominated film has shone a light on the Russian-speaking community in New York state.(Image: Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky shake hands during a bilateral meeting at 10 Downing Street. Credit: Reuters)