Podcast appearances and mentions of Ed Balls

Should a government hold a referendum on tax? A civil servant messages in to pose this idea to Ed Balls and George Osborne on this week's EMQs. The two debate the merits of holding any referendum, reminisce on how easily they become about more than their central question, and ponder whether tax policy is suited to the form of a referendum. Former MP Luke Hall asks the pair about charities funding and tax changes, and George relays the surprising difficulty he found in crafting the appropriate policy for this sector whilst Chancellor. And, is Peter Mandelson leaking information to Jeffrey Epstein a betrayal to the Labour party on the scale of the SDP forming in ‘81 or Ramsay MacDonald's National government? Or, is it something even greater? Ed explains the ways that the Mandelson scandal is uniquely perfidious.Finally, is the shelf life for a British politician shorter than the rest of the world? Why is it so rare to see someone re-enter the Commons after leaving? Ed and George weigh up the reasons for greater churn in British political life than in other democracies. We love hearing from you, so please don't forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question.Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad- free join Political Currency Gold or our Kitchen Cabinet. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

We're one week from the Gorton and Denton by-election, which could prove another brutal blow to Keir Starmer's already unstable premiership. Could Reform gain another MP or will this be the Green Party's first by-election victory? And is a Labour hold out of the question? Ed Balls and George Osborne explore the state of play for the parties, including the U-turn on postponing 30 local elections, the Labour Together scandal, and Reform unveiling their ‘shadow cabinet'. Then, following last weekend's Munich Security Conference, the pair turn their attention to further calls for Europe to increase defence spending. The question for the UK is: can the Treasury afford the proposed 3% defence spending by the end of the parliament? And would the British public accept spending cuts needed to hit that target? Finally, George gives the inside scoop on the AI Impact Summit in India. He explains what opportunities and concerns are being addressed by world leaders, as well as why it represents an achievement for Britain.We love hearing from you, so please don't forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question.Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad- free join Political Currency Gold or our Kitchen Cabinet. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

Keir Starmer's standing has gone from bad to worse this week, with the Peter Mandelson scandal giving way to a series of resignations in No. 10 and the Scottish Labour leader openly calling for Starmer to go. Ed Balls and George Osborne look at what might be Starmer's worst week yet, and assess if he can survive or if we're reliving the final days of Boris Johnson, and Theresa May.Away from Westminster, the Munich Security Conference begins this weekend, which means we're one year on from JD Vance's consequential address in which he claimed the greatest threat to the continent came from within. Has that speech set the tone for the Trump administration's relationship with Europe? What reverberations has that had for the UK? How will European leaders manage in a world without America as a reliable ally? Finally, they tackle one of the great debates in British politics: what do you do about the Palace of Westminster? The British parliament has been crumbling for decades and the dilemma of how to fix a working government building has been a live issue since Ed and George first the Commons. As the issue is delayed, the costs continue to rise. They ponder the solution to this while reminiscing about crumbling offices, leaks and mice running across their feet. Is it in the British public's interest to spend billions refurbishing the Palace of Westminster? We love hearing from you, so please don't forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question. Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad- free join Political Currency Gold or our Kitchen Cabinet. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

In this episode we discuss details from the Epstein files, with references to sexual exploitation and some strong language.We begin this week with the growing political fallout from the Epstein files, following the release of thousands of emails by the US Department of Justice detailing Peter Mandelson's relationship with Jeffrey Epstein. The revelations have prompted comparisons with the Profumo affair and raised serious questions about judgment, power, and trust at the heart of British politics. Ed Balls and George Osborne discuss their shock at the extent of the released emails , how it has reignited scrutiny of Keir Starmer's decision-making, and whether this crisis could bring the Prime Minister down.Epstein's connections with British elites goes beyond Westminster however. His well documented friendship with the former Prince, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, has once again put the Royal Family under pressure. How can King Charles deal with a scandal of this magnitude? And for others implicated in these files, like the Clintons and Donald Trump, what might follow?Overshadowed in the noise of the Epstein files was the long-awaited appointment of Jerome Powell's successor as chair of the Federal Reserve, and it was announced last week that Kevin Warsh was Trump's pick. Ed and George reflect on their personal interactions with Warsh. What kind of Central Banker will he be? How will he differ from Powell? And, how might he handle political pressure from Trump's White House? We love hearing from you, so please don't forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question. Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad-free join Political Currency Gold or our Kitchen Cabinet. If you want even more perks, including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

Are Robert Jenrick and Suella Braverman's defections a blessing in disguise for Kemi Badenoch? In this week's EMQs, Ed Balls and George Osborne explain the pros and cons of the Tories losing MPs from the right of the party, and how Badenoch can take advantage of Labour's unpopularity. Then, the pair consider whether the UK could adopt a US style primary system for candidates and explain how they got selected for their seats in parliament. They also confront the surprising fact that no prime minister has come to power and been ejected through a General Election since the 1970s and answer whether Britain is actually a democracy?They then answer if any British politician is capable of inspiring people the way Mark Carney did at Davos. George and Ed use their past experiences writing and delivering speeches to debate whether Carney's speech was inspiring because of what was written, or how and where it was said.We love hearing from you, so please don't forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question. Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad- free join Political Currency Gold or our Kitchen Cabinet. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

It's official: we are the champions. Fresh from two wins at last night's Political Podcast Awards, a victorious Ed Balls and George Osborne look at two fairly drastic political recalibrations at home and abroad. Keir Starmer flew to China this week, amidst renewed tensions over his leadership, marking the first prime minister to visit the country in 8 years. Ed and George question why Number 10 played down this significant geopolitical moment, and how it reflects the tension surrounding Starmer leadership. They also look at Andy Burnham's failed return to Westminster and Kemi Badenoch's threats to her left and right.Meanwhile, in the United States, Donald Trump is forced to de-escalate his position on immigration following multiple fatal shootings on the streets of Minnesota. Has the White House lost control of the narrative? And if so, what does this tell us about the limits of a hardline on the politics of immigration?Also, the pair highlight a new Institute for Fiscal Studies paper, which looks into how the house price boom and intergenerational wealth is affecting home ownership and social mobility in the UK today. What impact is this having on people's life chances? And is the Labour government able to tackle it in light of its watered down planning reforms?We love hearing from you, so please don't forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question. Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad-free join Political Currency Gold or our Kitchen Cabinet. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

Welcome to Monday! Jane is off today and tomorrow, so we're bringing you a big book special today… Robbie Millen, literary editor of The Times and The Sunday Times, joins Fi to discuss his current book recommendations, being an intellectual snob, deliciously bitchy writing, why you should avoid poets, and Ed Balls doing the Gangnam Style dance. Our next book club pick is 'A Town Like Alice' by Nevil Shute. Our most asked about book is called 'The Later Years' by Peter Thornton. You can listen to our 'I'm in the cupboard on Christmas' playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1awQioX5y4fxhTAK8ZPhwQIf you want to contact the show to ask a question and get involved in the conversation then please email us: janeandfi@times.radioFollow us on Instagram! @janeandfiPodcast Producers: Eve SalusburyExecutive Producer: Rosie Cutler Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why didn't Nick Clegg become Chancellor of the Exchequer in the 2010 coalition government? Ed Balls and George Osborne take you inside the negotiations that formed the Conservative-Lib Dem coalition in this week's EMQs. They also discuss why Gordon Brown didn't make Ed chancellor, and whether it was the original sin of his premiership.They also discuss the role of academics in policy making, and why American scholars end up more favored than their British counterparts. And, how many U-turns can a government sustain? Ed and George look at the impact of U-turn politics on trust and authority, and discuss how the coalition survived the omnishambles budget? Finally, the pair consider whether MPs who defect - including recent high profile Tories like Robert Jenrick - should stand down to trigger by-elections. They explain where this has gone wrong historically, and the dangerous precedent it would set for future political rebellions in all major parties. We love hearing from you, so please don't forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question.Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad-free join Political Currency Gold or our Kitchen Cabinet. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

Fresh off a week of anxiety and uncertainty, George Osborne reports to Ed Balls from Davos to give the inside track on what it was like to see Trump's address in person and the murmurs from the Alps about what the President really wants. The pair also look at the reactions from Keir Starmer, European allies, and the Mark Carney speech that got everyone talking. The pair then reflect on Robert Jenrick's sacking and defection to Reform one week on. Has he truly put national interest above personal interest? Should the two parties come to an agreement to reunite the right of British politics? And could the defection of other Tories such as Andrew Rosindell help Kemi Badenoch change the party for the better?Ed has also been on the European continent this week, visiting Versailles for the annual Franco-British Colloque. He speaks of his insights into growing acceptance of victory for the far-right National Rally in next year's presidential election, a rumoured Macron return in 2032, and the need, now more than ever, for a stronger relationship across the Channel.We love hearing from you, so please don't forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question.Thanks for being a valued member of our Kitchen Cabinet or a Gold subscriber. Remember Kitchen Cabinet members get exclusive access to live EMQs recordings, briefings from the team, and an exclusive Political Currency mug.Please note: Kitchen Cabinet is only available via Patreon.Credits:Research: Sam BurtonProduction: Caillin McDaid, Caitlin Hanrahan & Sam Psyk. Video Editor: Avi AsherExecutive Producer: Ellie CliffordPolitical Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fellow ex-minister Edward Timpson sends in a question this week, asking Ed Balls and George Osborne how they stayed mentally and physically healthy during their time in government. The pair share their guide for what all ministers should do to remain fit in and out of office.Shevaun Haviland, Director General for the British Chambers of Commerce, then asks how the ongoing issues with business rates are solved permanently. George explains why this tax is one that causes issues for every government, and the problems inherent to reforming it. A listener sends in a question from Tokyo, allowing Ed and George to delve into the decades-long standstill of the Japanese economy and the cult-like following new prime minister Sanae Takaichi has gained. Finally, George explains why it's easier to make promises in opposition than stick to them in government, revisiting plans by the Tories to downsize government cars before the coalition, and why it didn't work out that way.We love hearing from you, so please don't forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question. Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad- free join Political Currency Gold or our Kitchen Cabinet. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

Drop the excuses culture. Stop complaining about civil servants. And just get it right the first time rather than repeatedly u-turning. Wes Streeting didn't hold back at the IfG conference this week - so what does the health secretary's verdict on the government say about Keir Starmer and the challenges he and his ministers face in 2026?   Wes Streeting, Mel Stride, Darren Jones, Louise Casey, Andy Burnham, Michael Gove, Ayesha Hazarika and Ed Balls all joined the IfG Annual Conference to discuss what government is doing right, what it is getting wrong, and what it needs to do differently. We discuss the fascinating, headline-making and thought provoking day. The performance of the civil service was a theme that recurred throughout the conference. What does rewiring the state really mean? Is it even happening? What are the reforms that Whitehall really needs? This week also saw the publication of the IfG's annual Whitehall Monitor, our flagship stocktake of the size, shape and performance of the civil service. It's packed with data and analysis - and its lead author joins the podcast to tell us all about it.   Presented by Hannah White Featuring Hannah Keenan, Tim Durrant and Ben Paxton Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The dramatic news of Robert Jenrick's sacking and rumoured plot to defect to Reform broke mid-record this week, meaning Ed Balls and George Osborne give a live reaction to the news. Has Kemi Badenoch secured her leadership or is this the next Tory psychodrama? And, could Nigel Farage be inviting the biggest threat to his leadership by accepting Jenrick? The pair look at the ongoing protests in Iran, and Donald Trump's changing stance on whether American forces will be deployed in the region. They also look at how Labour should respond, and question the silence from certain political voices on the left. After a roundup of U-turns last week the Labour government has delivered yet another rollback with their mandatory Digital ID cards. Why can't the government, in Wes Streeting's words, get it right the first time? And finally, the ongoing feud between Fed Chair Jerome Powell and Trump turned from a cold war to a hot one last weekend, with a criminal investigation into Powell being launched and the Fed releasing a response. Ed and George examine the possible repercussions of this, and the threats Trump's demands of the Fed pose. We love hearing from you, so please don't forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question. Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad- free join Political Currency Gold or our Kitchen Cabinet. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

In the first EMQs of 2026 Ed Balls and George Osborne answer the most important question for any politician: what was your snakiest move? The pair share each of their proudest (and least proud) moments of cunning, as well as some hard-won advice on when being snakey can pay off. They then turn to a question missed from our last ‘What If' episode from Australian cabinet member Chris Bowen, who wonders what would happen if John Smith had lived. What would have become of Tony Blair, Gordon Brown, and, most importantly, Ed?George's old Downing Street colleague Craig Oliver also asks a question concerning the gap between establishment and public opinion on AI which allows George to flex his new OpenAI knowledge. Finally, they answer the question on everyone's minds: what was their favourite song from the Eras Tour? We love hearing from you, so please don't forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question. Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad- free join Political Currency Gold or our Kitchen Cabinet. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

2026 has begun dramatically, with Donald Trump ordering an attack on Venezuela, plus has had aggressive rhetoric against Greenland and other parts of Latin America. Ed Balls and George Osborne discuss how leaders in Europe should respond. Why has the US set their sights on securing Greenland? Is Keir Starmer's careful response the right approach? And just how much is Trump being motivated by oil?As Donald Trump sets the tone internationally, Keir Starmer is under pressure to make his latest domestic relaunch cut through. By focusing on the cost of living, can the government tap into one of the British public's key policy concerns? Or is this mission too broad, and a hostage to fate?Finally, the pair examine whether Labour is becoming the U-turn government… From farmer's inheritance tax, to a potential U-turn on pubs' business rates, is it a timely course correction? Or does it give the impression that the government doesn't know what they are doing?We love hearing from you, so please don't forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question.Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad- free join Political Currency Gold or our Kitchen Cabinet. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

What if the Brexit vote was flipped? Would George Osborne actually be our… former Prime Minister? And what would have happened during the Covid-19 outbreak in that case?George Osborne and Ed Balls are back with another ‘What if' episode, thinking about some of the most consequential sliding doors moments in modern politics. Looking further back, what if it was actually Neil Kinnock who had won the 1992 election? How might Black Wednesday have played out under a Labour government? Finally, they imagine a showdown between Obama and Trump for a third term in 2028. Can Trump really stand constitutionally? Would it be wise for the Democrats to run Obama or is there a better candidate to beat Trump? Thanks for listening. Remember Kitchen Cabinet members get exclusive access to live EMQs recordings, briefings from the team, and an exclusive Political Currency mug.

Can Sir Ed Davey really take the fight to the right when it comes to the next election? In this special episode of Political Currency, Ed Balls speaks to the Liberal Democrat leader - and his politician of the year from 2024. In this wide-ranging conversation, the two Eds talk about Ed Davey's passion for care provision and his deeply personal connection to the issue. Ed Balls also asks Ed about his time in the Coalition government with George Osborne and they reflect on their shared school days - including time spent out of the classroom. But will Ed Balls finally return the history notes he lost?Plus, with Nigel Farage's Reform rising up the ranks, Ed Balls asks Ed Davey if he would go into a coalition with Nigel Farage at the next general election. Don't forget to vote for us as the Political Podcast Award's People's Choice of the year. Follow the link to vote: https://politicalpodcastawards.co.uk/the-peoples-choice-award/ And we love hearing from you, so please don't forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question.EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/politicalcurrency Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee!Thanks for listening. Remember Kitchen Cabinet members get exclusive access to live EMQs recordings, briefings from the team, and an exclusive Political Currency mug: tr.ee/gift-pc

How has 2025 changed the outlook for Britain's political parties? George Osborne and Ed Balls reflect on the events that have defined public opinion and led to unprecedented changes in the polls. What went wrong for Keir Starmer's government? Why does Kemi Badenoch's leadership now look more stable? They also name what could potentially be the four most influential moments of 2026. Are losses in the Scottish, Welsh and local elections inevitable for Labour? Will the US mid-terms signal a resurgence or decline for Donald Trump? Could US-China state visits present an opportunity for a stronger relationship between the countries? And just how significant will the first OBR forecast since the Budget be, when it arrives in the spring?Finally, Ed and George crown their Politicians of the Year, and take a look back at some of the best, worst, and most surprising political moments of 2025.Don't forget to vote for us as the Political Podcast Award's People's Choice of the year. Follow the link to vote: https://politicalpodcastawards.co.uk/the-peoples-choice-award/ And we love hearing from you, so please don't forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question.Plus, why not give the gift of Political Currency this Christmas! Kitchen Cabinet members get a Christmas card from Ed and George, a Political Currency mug and even more exclusive perks including our newsletter and access to live events. Sign yourself or a loved one (or an enemy) up today: tr.ee/gift-pcPlease note: Kitchen Cabinet is only available via Patreon.EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/politicalcurrency Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee!Credits:Research: Sam BurtonProduction: Paige Reynolds and Eve JonesVideo Editor: Maha Al-BadrawiExecutive Producer: Ellie CliffordPolitical Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network.Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

George Osborne and Ed Balls reminisce on their most challenging interviewers…school children. George recalls being asked what seven times eight was, while Ed recounts misfires over school lunches. They also speculate on which Tory MP was glad to be sacked by Rishi Sunak…Elsewhere, they look at the peculiar case of the Canadian Conservatives where election loser Pierre Poilievre has continued on as leader, and wonder if there are any British equivalents. This allows George to show off his unexpected Harold Wilson impression. They also question Labour's continued refusal to consider rejoining the Customs Union, and whether the US/India trade deals are an acceptable substitute. Finally, they give Keir Starmer some benefit of the doubt, as a passionate listener makes the case for Labour's vision and successes from their first year in government.We love hearing from you, so please don't forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question.EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/politicalcurrency Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee!Thanks for listening. Remember Kitchen Cabinet members get exclusive access to live EMQs recordings, briefings from the team, and an exclusive Political Currency mug PLUS a very special Christmas card from Ed and George: tr.ee/gift-pcCredits:Research: Sam BurtonProduction: Caillin McDaid & Ellie Jay Video Editor: Danny PapeExecutive Producer: Ellie CliffordPolitical Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does the White House really think about Europe? George Osborne and Ed Balls take a look at President Trump's new national strategy. George plays devil's advocate for the plan, while Ed suggests that it could reveal JD Vance's big strategy for 2028… They then turn to the US domestic agenda, and weigh up whether the Trump economy really is A+++. They look at the impact of the tariffs, the upcoming appointment of a new Federal Reserve chair, and how rising prices could cost the Republicans in the midterms.Finally, they look at Hollywood and shine a light on Trump's role in Netflix and Paramount's bidding war for Warner Bros. They weigh up the impacts of these bids, the role of Jared Kushner, and why something similar couldn't happen in the UK…Don't forget to vote for us as the Political Podcast Award's People's Choice of the year. Follow the link to vote: https://politicalpodcastawards.co.uk/the-peoples-choice-award/ And we love hearing from you, so please don't forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question.Why not gift the gift of Political Currency! Kitchen Cabinet members get a Christmas card from Ed and George, a Political Currency mug and even more exclusive perks including our newsletter and access to live events. Sign yourself or a loved one (or an enemy) up today: tr.ee/gift-pcCredits:Research: Sam BurtonProduction: Caillin McDaid & Ellie Jay Video Editor: Danny PapeExecutive Producer: Ellie CliffordPolitical Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Will any government be brave enough to abolish the triple lock on pensions? The cost-saving case has been made by many, but Ed Balls and George Osborne explain why it could be politically calamitous to try and ditch it. They debate William Hague's theory that, were Rachel Reeves sacked, Keir Starmer would follow and look back at how chancellors and Prime Minister's fates have been intertwined. Plus - why is Keir Starmer always doodling during PMQs? Is he following the brilliant debate strategy of Obama, or easily bored when being questioned?Finally, in a preview of our upcoming ‘What If' EMQs, Ed and George imagine how the 2024 election could have gone, had Reeves followed a path like John Smith in 1992. Would she have avoided her budget nightmares? Or, would we still have Rishi Sunak as Prime Minister?Don't forget to send in questions for our upcoming Christmas and ‘What If' themed EMQs episodes. You can send those to questions@politicalcurrency, and make sure to include a voice note!Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad-free join Political Currency Gold. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

The drama rages on, one week after Chancellor Rachel Reeves stood at the dispatch box to deliver her second Budget. Richard Hughes has resigned as OBR chair following the catastrophic budget leak and calls for Rachel Reeves to do the same have not let up. Ed Balls and George Osborne look at the “shambolic” fallout of the budget, and how Labour have once again grasped defeat from the jaws of victory in yet another communications disaster for the party. Then, the pair discuss David Lammy's drastic measures to scrap juries for the majority of cases in England and Wales. Is this the biggest change to our justice system since the Magna Carta or a necessary step to solve the mounting backlog of cases, bringing the courts to the brink? And why on earth didn't anybody prepare the ground for it?Finally, Ed and George look across the channel to the rise of the far right in Germany and France. With the AfD and National Rally looking on the cusp of electoral victory and Reform's path to power looking inevitable, what lessons can Keir Starmer learn from his European allies to stop Nigel Farage securing the keys to No 10? Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad- free join Political Currency Gold or our Kitchen Cabinet. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

How many times did Gordon Brown save Tony Blair from a calamitous decision? Ed Balls and George Osborne recount the times chancellors stepped in to save their PM from disaster. Does George wish he'd done it a bit more with David Cameron?And why does the Opposition leader respond to the budget and not the shadow chancellor? Ed and George try to work it out, but are not quite sure themselves - please write in! They also delve into the minimum wage rise from the budget, and signal pressing issues Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves must tackle down the line.Finally, the pair share their dream jobs - other than Prime Minister, of course - with Ed's being a suitably political answer and George's being typically wide-ranging from his previous roles.We love hearing from you, so please don't forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question. Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad-free join Political Currency Gold. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

Does Rachel Reeves have a credible plan for growth? One day on from her Budget Statement, George Osborne and Ed Balls debate her headline measures and ask if she's built enough of a narrative to save her job. Health Secretary Wes Streeting asks about two Osbornian policies: the sugar tax and two-child limit. How can Labour win the argument?They also talk about the disastrous OBR leak, whether anyone will be sacked, and ask how it stacks up to some of the biggest leaks in budget history… Is it worse than Ken Clarke in 1996? Or the Evening Standard beating George to the punch in 2013?Finally, they briefly turn to the war in Ukraine and debate the peace negotiations. The big question now is whether Putin has been strong-armed into signing a peace treaty, and if that means a lasting cease-fire is in sight.Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad- free join Political Currency Gold or our Kitchen Cabinet. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

After months of speculation, briefings and leaks, Rachel Reeves has finally delivered her fated second budget. Has she done enough to save herself, Keir Starmer, and the Labour government?In a special YouTube LIVE episode, Ed Balls and George Osborne give their immediate reaction to the Chancellor's budget. They dive into who the budget was for, the overtly political tone, and whether Reeves stood by her manifesto pledges.Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad-free join Political Currency Gold. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

With politics fraying and radical parties growing in strength, could the Tories and Labour come together and merge into a grand coalition of the centre? Surely George Osborne and Ed Balls have proven on this podcast that great things can happen when the two parties come together… And, as budget week looms, former Treasury civil servant Jill Rutter asks how Ed and George would get themselves out of the hole Rachel Reeves is in IF there were no political repercussions? And they wonder whether we are still feeling the effects of the mini-budget or if it's unfair for Rachel Reeves to continue blaming Liz Truss for the economic woes? Plus, they explain why too much preparation ahead of a great speech can actually be a bad thing. ~Do you want the opportunity to own a piece of British political history? In memory of the brilliant civil servant Chris Martin, a magnificent Jeroboam of Pol Roger, Winston Churchill's favourite champagne bearing the signatures of all nine living British Prime Ministers is being auctioned to raise money for Sarcoma UK. Place your bid here: https://astarauction.com/Chrismartinquiz The link will remain open until 10:30pm on the 27th November.~Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad-free join Political Currency Gold. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

A dramatic U-turn from Labour has stopped them from breaking their manifesto, but it has also left the Budget looking messy and wide open to risk. The expected income tax rise has been shelved in favour of what some insiders call a “smorgasbord” of smaller taxes. In this episode of Political Currency, Ed Balls and George Osborne dig into whether this was a rushed scramble or a smart political play. - and the extent to which it has knocked Rachel Reeves off the story she had been shaping in the run up to Budget week.Away from the Budget noise, all eyes turned to Shabana Mahmood and her sweeping overhaul of the asylum and refugee system. The announcement has split Labour supporters. Is this the arrival of what some are already calling "Mahmoodism"? And will these measures work in practice, or just push parts of the left toward the Greens or the Lib Dems?Finally, George and Ed look from Tehran to California, where George's former colleague Steve Hilton is suddenly leading the race for governor. Can his Trump style rhetoric, polished social media - and even the promise to control the weather - deliver an upset in a solidly Democrat state?You can access the link to the Chris Martin auction here: https://astarauction.com/Chrismartinquiz The link will remain open until 10:30pm on the 27th November.Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad-free join Political Currency Gold. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

What is the real purpose of Prime Minister's Questions? As an ‘infuriated' listener asks why the Speaker can't force politicians to answer, George Osborne breaks down why PMQs is ‘political theatre' and what most people misunderstand about it, while Ed Balls explains why David Lammy's recent performance revealed the real procedural power the Speaker holds.Then, prompted by a question from Shadow Cabinet minister Victoria Atkins, the pair break down when cross-party support actually works, and when it's just a ‘bear trap' for the opposition.And, reporting from the COP summit in Brazil, the hosts of the Outrage & Optimism podcast ask why the UK failed to put money into the 'Tropical Forests Forever' facility, leading Ed and George to discuss the 'crumbled' political consensus on foreign aid.Finally, the pair delve into the reality of rejoining the EU. Could the UK get the same deal as before? And what's the real obstacle to rejoining - could it be the Euro, the non-negotiable issue of free movement, or something else altogether?Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad-free join Political Currency Gold. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

A bizarre briefing war has exploded in Westminster, with Wes Streeting accused of plotting a coup against Keir Starmer. Ed Balls and George Osborne analyse the ‘toxic culture' in Number 10: who was really behind the briefing, and has this ‘self-destructive' move inadvertently strengthened Streeting while fatally weakening the Prime Minister?Meanwhile, the BBC is in turmoil, with its Director General and Head of News resigning over the Donald Trump Panorama controversy. With George himself now tipped for the top job, the pair unpack the corporate governance collapse. And, can Donald Trump really win his $1 billion lawsuit against the British broadcaster?Finally, Ed and George turn to Donald Trump snubbing the G20 over his claims of a "genocide" in South Africa. They explore the deepening divisions in the MAGA movement over controversial figures like Nick Fuentes, and ask if this identity politics of the "woke right" is a brand that Nigel Farage is about to import to the UK.Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad-free join Political Currency Gold. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

What political rival would you share a 12-hour flight with? Ed Balls and George Osborne dive into this very question, revealing the old foes and opposite numbers who would make the best long-haul companions.And can an unpopular leader tank a popular policy? The pair debate how a leader's image affects a government, and whether an unpopular messenger will derail a popular message no matter what. They also examine the meaning of 'fairness' in politics, and whether Labour or the Tories can truly lay claim to the term.Finally, Ed's new title as a "Lifelong Learning Ambassador" sparks a discussion on the 'Cinderella service' of adult skills and why no government can seem to get it right.Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad-free join Political Currency Gold. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

Rachel Reeves has set the stage for a dramatic Budget, seemingly signaling a "massive political gamble" by preparing to raise taxes on working people. Ed Balls and George Osborne analyse her pitch-rolling: has she boxed herself in, becoming the market's "guarantor" against her own party? And can she possibly sell this to an already-squeezed public?Meanwhile, Kemi Badenoch marks one year as Conservative leader - but, despite her sharp "waffle bomb" attack on the Chancellor, her poll ratings remain dire. Ed and George assess her performance: has she successfully stabilised the party's finances, or did she waste a year on identity politics instead of the economy? Plus, the pair explore why even Nigel Farage is suddenly pivoting away from tax cuts.And, what can a "Democratic Socialist" mayor in New York teach UK politics? Ed and George debate the real lessons from Zoran Mandani's shock victory - is it about left-wing policy, or a masterclass in new communication and building the broad coalitions that Starmer, Badenoch, and Farage all need?Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad-free join Political Currency Gold. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

Why won't Labour make rejoining the EU its new "silver bullet" against Nigel Farage? A listener challenges Ed Balls and George Osborne on tackling the "political third rail" of Brexit. Ed argues the EU wouldn't even want the UK back on its old terms - likely forcing the Euro and Schengen - while George predicts Britain will inevitably "creep back" towards the Single Market.Then, a direct question from the Gates Foundation confronts the former Chancellors on the 40% cut to foreign aid. George, the Chancellor who delivered the 0.7% target, blasts the "remarkably silent" and "compliant" aid community, delivering a stark warning to "get louder" or face even more cuts.Plus, with Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman stepping down, could Ed and George be the new hosts of Strictly Come Dancing? The pair reveal how unscripted the podcast really is, George shares his favorite TikTok restaurant reviewer, and Ed reacts to his "hot phase" going viral on social media…Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad-free join Political Currency Gold. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

Keir Starmer has weathered one of the most brutal weeks of his tenure. The Caerphilly by-election collapse, a divisive Deputy Leadership election, and the mistaken release of a high-risk prisoner have ignited leadership speculation and exposed deep party tensions. Ed Balls and George Osborne debate where it's all gone wrong, and whether Starmer can hold on.The pair then look ahead to the Budget and Rachel Reeves's fiscal black hole. Can she uphold Labour's 'tax lock' manifesto pledge, or will she be forced to raise one of the 'big three' taxes? Ed and George analyse a choice that could be make-or-break for the government.Finally, they dive into Donald Trump's whirlwind Asia tour. Following his major summit with Xi Jinping, they ask: is his tariff doctrine a chaotic madman theory, or is it successfully strong-arming new 'America First' trade deals?Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad-free join Political Currency Gold. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

Season 8 of Lessons I Learned in Law continues in partnership with Wordsmith AI, the legal-AI platform built for in-house teams.This week, Scott is joined by James Sullivan, an experienced General Counsel and business leader who most recently served as Group General Counsel at Bitstamp, one of the world's longest-standing cryptocurrency exchanges.James shares an inside look at what it's like leading legal in the fast-moving world of digital assets — an industry that blends rapid innovation with complex regulation. With a background spanning GC, Chief Risk Officer, COO, and compliance leadership roles, he reflects on how stepping beyond pure legal work has shaped his perspective on what makes an effective in-house function.His lessons are refreshingly practical. He explains why every GC should define their own role and make legal's work matter to the business, how to know your own value and bring the right version of yourself to each organisation, and why it's vital to own your career path — being brave enough to change direction when it no longer fits.From negotiating a global remit to completing an executive MBA, James's story blends commercial thinking with curiosity, adaptability, and a deep sense of purpose.Guest Recommendations

Is the centre ground of British politics dead? A 15-year-old listener challenges George Osborne and Ed Balls on the surge of Reform and the Greens, forcing them to ask if the centre can truly fight back against populism.And why are bats, newts, and even spiders causing such chaos for British planning? The pair dive into the costly industry of species protection, discussing hundred-million-pound bat tunnels, a town centre stopped by spiders, and historic dockyards left unrenovated due to nesting birds.Plus, the real historical reason for Parliament's subsidised bars, ‘sleepovers with mummies' at the British Museum and George sets the record straight on what he actually did in his second government job as First Secretary of State.Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad-free join Political Currency Gold. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

As Chancellor Rachel Reeves prepares for a tough Budget, a new narrative is emerging: it's all Brexit's fault. Ed Balls and George Osborne examine whether the 'Brexit blame game' is a smart political strategy or a 'backward-looking excuse' that voters won't buy. And they discuss if it's too late for Labour to build a compelling economic story.Then, the pair dive into the 'appalling' turmoil inside Keir Starmer's No. 10. Are 'staggering' and 'juvenile' briefings against the new Cabinet Secretary a sign of a government in chaos? And as the Prince Andrew saga dominates the headlines, they debate the 'endgame' for the Senior Royal and why George believes it's time for the Prime Minister to step in.Plus, with George reporting from San Francisco, the pair give their take on the AI boom. With 'eye-watering valuations' for companies like OpenAI, is the world on the verge of an AI bubble bursting?Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad-free join Political Currency Gold. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

Has the collapse of the China spy trial permanently damaged the Prime Minister? Ed Balls and George Osborne discuss how the ongoing saga of who knew what and when is causing untold damage to the Government.And as Donald Trump declares ‘a new dawn' in the Middle East, with the ceasefire appearing to be holding in Gaza, the pair debate if the US President should get the Nobel peace prize and whether the UK government is ‘delusional' in thinking they had a hand in the process…Plus, with the larger parties not getting a look-in, will the Sennedd by-election in Wales next week be the beginning of the political earthquake that shakes the UK? Prompted by ITV Wales' National Correspondent Rob Osborne, Ed and George look at why Wales is often overlooked when it comes to nation-wide coverage and scrutiny. Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad-free join Political Currency Gold. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

Is the modern Conservative Party a repudiation of the Cameron-Osborne years? George Osborne is challenged by Ed Davey, who asks him to consider whether Kemi Badenoch's leadership means there's no place for him in the party he once helped lead.Then, Ed Balls sets the record straight on one of New Labour's defining policies, revealing the true story behind making the Bank of England independent and taking credit from both Gordon Brown and Tony Blair.Also on the agenda: the breaking of unwritten rules during party conference season, the politics of attending the Women's Rugby World Cup final, and the Brexit parallels of trying to reform the ECHR.To get episodes early and ad-free, join Political Currency Gold or the Kitchen Cabinet:

Empty chairs, misspelling Britain, and a surprisingly good speech from Kemi Badenoch have brought a rollercoaster Conservative conference to a close. Ed Balls and George Osborne weigh up whether the highs outweighed the lows and ask if Badenoch has bought herself more time. And, with the threat from Reform looming, they ask: is a pact still on the table?The pair then dissect one of the conference's biggest bombshells: the pledge to leave the ECHR. Is this another Brexit-in-the-making, or a savvy political move? And could Keir Starmer, the former human rights lawyer, be the one person with the credibility to reform the system and solve one of his biggest political headaches?Plus, Ed and George dive into the Whitehall blame game over the collapsed China spy case. As the government's top figures point fingers, Ed reveals a stunning conspiracy theory about what might really be going on behind the scenes…To get episodes early and ad-free, join Political Currency Gold or the Kitchen Cabinet:

Why is New Labour suddenly going viral on TikTok? In this week's Ex-Ministers' Questions, Ed Balls and George Osborne respond to their Gen Z fans who are remixing their greatest political moments into social media edits.With Labour conference just finished, Ed and George ask whether Keir Starmer is really a Blairite, a Brownite, or breaking with New Labour altogether. They also debate what Starmer and Rachel Reeves need to do to put Scottish Labour back in contention at the Holyrood elections next May.And before the Conservative conference begins in Manchester, George warns that the second year in opposition is always worse than the first, and sets out how the Tories and Kemi Badenoch might plot a comeback.To get episodes early and ad-free, join Political Currency Gold or the Kitchen Cabinet:

Keir Starmer went into the Labour Party Conference in a perilous position, fighting off a 'rolling assault' from within his own party. In a make-or-break speech, he shifted his fire from the Conservatives to a new opponent: Nigel Farage. Was this a clever tactic to unite his base and redefine the political battlefield, or a risky gamble that elevates his rival? George Osborne and Ed Balls analyse the strategy, the rhetoric, and whether the speech has truly changed anything outside the conference hall.And a bombshell has landed from Washington: Donald Trump, Benjamin Netanyahu, and the shock return of Tony Blair with a new Gaza peace plan. A week after clashing over whether the UK's role on the discussion around Palestine was irrelevant or a game-changer, Ed and George are back to debate who was right.Meanwhile, Chancellor Rachel Reeves quietly floats a major change to the UK's economic rulebook, proposing to scrap one of the OBR's two annual forecasts. Ed and George unpack a seemingly technical move with huge consequences for Britain's economic credibility.To get episodes early and ad-free, join Political Currency Gold or the Kitchen Cabinet:

When does a party conference go well? And when does disaster strike? Ahead of the main party conferences, Ed Balls and George Osborne dive into their memories to reveal what really happens behind the scenes.From George's first job as a Tory 'observer' faxing Tony Blair's speeches to No. 10, to Ed staying up so late he saw the breakfast TV crews setting up, they share the ultimate insider's guide to navigating this political “goldfish bowl”.The pair are joined by special contributors with their own incredible stories: Lord Eric Pickles on his bizarre role managing Denis Thatcher's applause; Sir Oliver Letwin with a powerful, first-hand account of the 1984 Brighton bombing; and journalist Nick Robinson on the moment he confronted a furious Prime Minister. Plus, Ed and George discuss what separates a good conference from a disastrous one, and why you should always be careful what you say in the lift…To get episodes early and ad-free, join Political Currency Gold or the Kitchen Cabinet:

Donald Trump's wild speech at the UN General Assembly has done more than just cause a diplomatic headache; it's exposed the deep tensions simmering just below the surface of Keir Starmer's government.His attack on Sadiq Khan saw senior ministers like Wes Streeting and Shabana Mahmood scrambling to respond, raising the question: in a party rife with leadership speculation, is loyalty still the best strategy? With mounting speculation that Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham is gearing up for a leadership challenge, Ed Balls and George Osborne dig into the manoeuvres and what they signal about the stability of Starmer's leadership, in a week where the UK also made its historic move to recognise the Palestinian state.Meanwhile, another great challenge looms for the government: the economy. With a reported £30 billion fiscal hole to fill, could a controversial wealth tax be the answer? And as the government seeks to respond to pressure on migration, is a return to ID cards the right move? George thinks the time has come for a digital identity scheme, but Ed is deeply sceptical it can work…To get episodes early and ad-free, join Political Currency Gold or the Kitchen Cabinet:

Richard Curtis, rom-com extraordinaire who put Notting Hill on the map is asking a question this week: he wants to know what areas Ed Balls and George Osborne are seeing progress and hope. Doom, gloom and cynicism are on hold - for a week, at least - for the pair to consider some more optimistic matters. Ed is hopeful about advancements on taking on diseases, while George considers the steps technology has improved people's lives.Meanwhile, Sadiq Khan asks about what they love most about London (spoiler: the tube gets a mention), and Seyi Akiwowo, the director of Glitch, a non-profit organisation campaigning to end online abuse, gets Ed and George thinking about hopeful advice for those casting their first vote and finding their political voice.To get episodes early and ad-free, join Political Currency Gold or the Kitchen Cabinet:

President Donald Trump is in town, so it's back to Windsor Castle for our Ed Balls! A podcast recording the morning after a lavish state banquet? Not a problem, it's all par for the course for Ed, who has apparently been catching up on Downton Abbey in preparation. He brought George Osborne up to speed on the events of the evening; who sat where and did he get to say hello to the 47th president? It's hard to believe the US President's visit could be considered a reprieve for Prime Minister Keir Starmer after a grueling two weeks back from summer recess. Soon after Angela Rayner made her sudden, tax-enforced exit the government faced its next drama: US Ambassador Peter Mandelson and his long, email-documented friendship with sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. A deputy leadership contest, scrutiny over Mandelson vetting process and - in recent days - questions over whether Andy Burnham is gunning for Starmer's job… It should be catnip for leader of the Tories, Kemi Badenoch - except Danny Kruger's gone and spoiled it by defecting to Reform! Meanwhile, the Federal Reserve has cut rates for the first time this year - while the Bank of England is holding firm at 4%. Ed and George take stock of the global economic position and what's next for the bond market after its moment of tumult earlier this month … To get episodes early and ad-free, join Political Currency Gold or the Kitchen Cabinet:

What really happens in the frantic first 24 hours of a new government job? This week on Ex-Ministers' Questions, Ed Balls and George Osborne lift the lid on the art of political survival. From the scramble of last-minute briefings to the insider secrets government drivers know before their ministers do, they swap stories on navigating the chaos of a reshuffle.Then it's from the Cabinet Office to the kitchen, as George grills Ed on one of Westminster's most notorious culinary conspiracies: Lasagna-gate. Was that dinner party at the Balls-Cooper house really a covert plot to bring down Ed Miliband?And after serving up some advice for a new podcasting rival, the duo look ahead: could a robot outshine a human as a political speechwriter? They put it to the test in real time, asking AI to pen a Shakespearean sonnet on the spot. The result? You'll have to hear it to believe it…To get episodes early and ad-free, join Political Currency Gold or the Kitchen Cabinet:

Peter Mandelson, the so-called “Prince of Darkness” got sacked this morning, thanks to fresh revelations of his lengthy friendship with sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Now all eyes are turning to his replacement … Could George Osborne himself be getting the call up for US Ambassador?He and Ed Balls consider what this sudden, inglorious end for Mandelson's diplomatic career means for the government. How could this affect the all-important upcoming state visit from US President Donald Trump, who himself is facing questions around his links to Epstein? It's not the only tumult for Keir Starmer's government, that was hoping to reset its way into a calmer period. The deputy leadership contest in the wake of Angela Rayner's resignation is underway. Ed and George consider if this may be a bigger problem for Starmer than was bargained for? Could Bridget Phillipson vs. Lucy Powell in fact be a proxy for Keir Starmer vs. Andy Burnham?To get episodes early and ad-free, join Political Currency Gold or the Kitchen Cabinet:

How should a politician respond when a voter blames all their problems on immigration? In this week's Ex-Ministers' Questions, Ed Balls and George Osborne offer competing strategies for handling difficult conversations on the doorstep. They also tackle a stark warning from a Gen Z listener: is the political establishment's failure to listen pushing an entire generation of young people towards Nigel Farage?Then, the pair turn to the insider's playbook of political survival. They debate the pros and cons of the 'chicken run' - is it cowardly for a senior MP to abandon a marginal seat for a safe one, or simply smart politics? Ed reflects on his own experience of staying to fight a losing battle, while George makes the case for jumping ship.Plus, a listener's confession about leaking a story to a newspaper diary column prompts a hilarious look at political gaffes. Ed is forced to relive the moment his ministerial car door hit a pedestrian, and shares a mortifying story involving a fellow minister and a pole dancing pole.To get episodes early and ad-free, join Political Currency Gold or the Kitchen Cabinet:

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

Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner has admitted to underpaying £40,000 in stamp duty, but says she won't resign. Xi Jinping has thrown a massive military parade in Beijing, Ed Balls is on the attack against Zack Polanski, and Graham Linehan has been ordered to stop tweeting after his arrest by the Metropolitan Police. With Michael […]

What if the great 'what if' moments of recent British history had turned out differently? Ed Balls and George Osborne dive into the political sliding doors that could have rewritten the last three decades. They debate whether Margaret Thatcher would have won the 1992 election if she hadn't been ousted, and how her legacy would have been transformed.Ed gives a behind-the-scenes account of the Blair-Brown transition and the so-called 'Curry House Plot', considering how Labour would have handled the 2008 financial crisis with Tony Blair still in No. 10. Then, the pair explore the huge question of whether Britain joining the Euro would have prevented Brexit, or simply led to a catastrophic economic crash.Plus, George reveals why he jumped for joy when Ed Miliband beat his brother David for the Labour leadership, and they discuss whether the result of that contest sealed Labour's fate in 2015.To get episodes early and ad-free, join Political Currency Gold or the Kitchen Cabinet: