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Adrian Goldberg discusses whether tactical voting or even a 'progressive partnership' of parties on the centre and left of UK politics could frustrate Nigel Farage's hopes of becoming PM, despite Reform's lead in the polls. Produced in Birmingham by Adrian Goldberg and Harvey White. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
As Reform UK continue to top the polls, this week we're looking at why so many voters are turning away from the two main parties and looking in Nigel Farage's direction, and what they need to do to convert the curious into an election-winning majority.So PoliticsHome has teamed up once again with the polling and strategy gurus at Thinks Insight, who have conducted focus groups with a host of Labour and Conservative voters thinking of backing Reform next time round, asking why they are ditching their previous party. So to help host Alain Tolhurst assess the results of this work and look at how and why the political landscape of the UK is changing, he is joined by Allie Jennings, director at Thinks, along with leading academic Paula Surridge, Professor of Political Sociology at Bristol University, and PolHome editor Adam Payne.To sign up for our newsletters click herePresented by Alain Tolhurst, produced by Nick Hilton and edited by Ewan Cameron for Podot
Nigel Farage vs Keir Starmer: Who's Public Enemy No. 1? #NigelFarage #KeirStarmer #UKPolitics #Jon Gaunt #Guardian #FaragePM #ReformUK #Jon Gaunt Nigel Farage is back in the spotlight — and under fire. After new attacks from The Guardian and Keir Starmer over comments he allegedly made at just 13 years old, the question is louder than ever: Is Farage really Public Enemy No. 1, or is he becoming the people's number one choice for Prime Minister? In today's episode, we break down:
The Prime Minister has called on Nigel Farage to explain the reports of racist comments the reform leader allegedly made as a school boy. Farage has denied making the comments and called the allegations “without foundation“. The Guardian reported this week that he had picked on Jewish boys at Dulwich college when he was there at school and had sung offensive racist songs. Much of their reporting had been aired a decade earlier by Michael Crick - broadcaster and Farage biographer. We invited him onto the Newsagents studio to ask if he thought Farage was racist then, and now?The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal -> https://nordvpn.com/thenewsagents Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee
Neither Kemi Badenoch nor Keir Starmer performed very well at Prime Minister's Questions: both fluffed their lines early on. Badenoch managed to suggest the Budget had already happened, while Starmer got lost during an attack on Tory economic policy. But while Badenoch was back to the kind of poor delivery that had previously upset so many of her Conservative colleagues, Starmer still came off worse.The most interesting exchange was with Reform Chief Whip Lee Anderson, who goaded Starmer to ‘be a man' and ensure that all the cancelled local elections go ahead next year. This facilitated an exchange about recent allegations regarding Nigel Farage's behaviour when he was a schoolboy. Is this one going to follow the Reform leader around? And how do you actually pronounce ‘Farage'?Lucy Dunn speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Heale.Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.For more Spectator podcasts, go to spectator.co.uk/podcasts.Contact us: podcast@spectator.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Reform UK has set out its plans to plug a £25bn hole in the economy, and the policies essentially amount to one thing: making it more expensive to be a foreigner in Britain.But the press conference got a bit frosty when Camilla asked Nigel Farage who his pick for chancellor would be.Meanwhile, in another central London conference centre, the Conservatives were announcing...not very much at all. But things got interesting when Kemi Badenoch called out a Guardian journalist who was in the room.Camilla and Tim assess the credibility of the Tories' and Reform's economic plans and, crucially, bemoan the declining quality of press conference snacks.We want to hear from you! Email us at thedailyt@telegraph.co.uk or find @dailytpodcast on TikTok, Instagram and X► Sign up to our most popular newsletter, From the Editor. Look forward to receiving free-thinking comment and the day's biggest stories, every morning. telegraph.co.uk/fromtheeditorProducer: Lilian Fawcett and Georgia CoanSenior Producer: John CadiganVideo Producer: Will WaltersStudio Operator: Meghan SearleExecutive Producer: Charlotte SeligmanSocial Producer: Nada AggourEditor: Camilla Tominey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In den USA geht Donald Trump seit Beginn seiner zweiten Amtszeit mit Anschuldigungen, Milliardenklagen und gekürzten Geldern gegen kritische Medien im eigenen Land vor. Nun treffen die Drohungen des US-Präsidenten erstmals auch ein europäisches Medium: die BBC in London. Vordergründig geht es um einen journalistischen Fehler in einer Doku über den Präsidenten. Aber was steckt dahinter? Mit ARD-Korrespondent Christoph Prössl schauen wir, wie die Debatte um die BBC derart hochkochen konnte und, wie sich Medien gegen solche Angriffe wappnen können. Alle Entwicklungen im Fall Trump gegen die BBC: https://www.tagesschau.de/thema/bbc In dieser früheren 11KM-Folge geht es um Donald Trumps Angriffe auf US-Medien: https://1.ard.de/11KM_Trump_Medien Und in dieser Folge mit unserem Gast Christoph Prössl geht's um die aktuelle Stimmung in Großbritannien und den Aufstieg von “Reform UK”: https://1.ard.de/11KM_Rechtspopulisten_Grossbritannien Hier geht's zu “Urban Pop”, unserem Podcast-Tipp: https://1.ard.de/urban-pop Diese und viele weitere Folgen von 11KM findet ihr überall da, wo es Podcasts gibt, auch hier in der ARD Audiothek: https://www.ardaudiothek.de/sendung/11km-der-tagesschau-podcast/12200383/ An dieser Folge waren beteiligt: Folgenautoren: Lisa Hentschel, Moritz Fehrle Mitarbeit: Marc Hoffmann Host: David Krause Produktion: Christiane Gerheuser-Kamp, Ruth Ostermann, Marie-Noelle Svihla und Lisa Krumme Planung: Caspar von Au und Hardy Funk Distribution: Kerstin Ammermann Redaktionsleitung: Fumiko Lipp und Nicole Dienemann 11KM: der tagesschau-Podcast wird produziert von BR24 und NDR Info. Die redaktionelle Verantwortung für diese Episode liegt beim NDR.
TO RUSSIA WITH LOVE - FROM EUROPE'S RADICAL RIGHT, AND EX-BREXIT PARTY MEP NATHAN GILL!Nick Cohen and Arthur Snell - the author and ex-diplomat - discuss political corruption and treason - following the sentencing of Nathan Gill, the former Brexit Party MEP and ex-leader of UKIP in Wales. They discuss the deply disturbing case of Gill- convicted of eight counts of bribery, after an investigation by Counter Terrorism Policing uncovered how he received payment in return for making statements which supported the presence of pro-Russian media outlets in Ukraine.Arthur explains the enduring love affair between Putin's Russia and Europe's Radical Right politicians. Gill and others have collaborated with pro-Kremlin politicians to spread anti-Ukrainian propaganda. Nick and Arthur explore the unique aspects of corruption across different countries and highlighted an upcoming trial involving charges of bribery related to pro-Kremlin propaganda activities. The discussion concluded with an examination of the complex relationship between the radical right in Western countries and Russian President Vladimir Putin.Russian Influence in European PoliticsArthur explains the widespread pro-Russian sentiment among far-right European politicians, noting examples like Farage's admiration for Putin and Tice's connection to a Russian financier. He emphasises that while Nathan Gill's influence was limited, his propaganda echoed broader Russian efforts to insert pro-Russian narratives into mainstream media Nick highlights how Russian disinformation, amplified through social media and media outlets, can shape public opinion, referencing instances like Nigel Farage's paid appearances on Russia Today, the Putin propaganda channel now banned from UK airwaves. Both Arthur and Nick agree about the reluctance of British authorities to investigate Russian interference, particularly in the context of Brexit, due to political sensitivities.Read all about itArthur Snell's substack column is Not all doom & his regular inciteful podcast is Behind the Lines. Arthur's first not fiction book is How Britain Broke the World: War, Greed and Blunders from Kosovo to Afghanistan, 1997-2022 .Nick Cohen's @NickCohen4 latest Substack column Writing from London on politics and culture from the UK and beyond. Read Nick's latest column, Can Europe resist Trump's gangsterism? Does it have the willpower to try? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In the latest episode of the Better Places Podcast, Concilio's Sam Griffiths is joined by Professor Tony Travers of the London School of Economics, to discuss the upcoming local elections in London in May 2026. Tony is the leading academic expert on London's government and politics, and this fascinating discussion explores the forces changing London politically and how they are making the elections next year increasingly hard to predict. The topics Tony and Sam cover include: - How is the rise of so-called ‘Pro-Gaza independent' groups in parts of East London going to challenge Labour's traditional dominance in these areas, and what ideology drives these new campaigners? - How will the new Green party leader Zack Polanski, and his energetic brand of ‘eco-populism', impact the race and tempt younger votes away from Labour? - Are the Liberal Democrats poised to make gains, not just in their traditional strongholds in South-West London but also in the centre of the city? - Can the Conservatives stage a fightback and take back control of their former ‘flagship' councils like Westminster and Wandsworth? - What will the Reform UK factor be? How will Farage's upstart party disrupt the contest and what councils could they win? - And finally, what does this upheaval mean for planning and development in the capital? This is an indispensable briefing on the current state of the race to control London's councils next year, and if you want to understand how planning and development could change in the capital as a result. Concilio will shortly be launching the first in a series of London local election reports – giving you data-led analysis of the key council races, the latest news on campaigns and candidates, and our analysis of what it could mean for the property sector. To sign up to receive the first report when it is released, please click here or email londonelections@conciliocomms.com.
We sit here bravely tackling listener questions hurled at us from every corner of the globe — completely unprepared and slightly afraid. We don't see them until we hit record, which explains a lot. As for Grzegorz's name, William took one look and noped out like a man dodging a spelling bee in Polish. He respects names too much to turn them into interpretive dance.Paul, from Queensland, Australia places the first question for discussion today- “Nothing is morally right or morally wrong. Right, wrong and morality don't even exist in some people's eyes. The world is not just meaningless, but also absurd. What do you think?”William kicks things off by declaring humans are the cosmic equivalent of a plot twist no one saw coming — absurd creatures who somehow made it this far despite centuries of questionable decisions and poor impulse control. Stuart zooms out and says, “Nope, it's all absurd,” pointing to algae that spent two billion years evolving and making oxygen like the world's slowest intern. William agrees, but finds beauty in the chaos — Earth's lucky lottery of moon tilts, Jupiter's debris vacuuming, and rotational chill make life both ridiculous and miraculous. Stuart questions morality itself, wondering if it's just a group project we all pretend to understand. William, meanwhile, marvels at humanity's obsession with upgrades, even though we're all headed for the same existential exit — suggesting we cherish the people who make the absurdity worthwhile.Grzegorz, from Opole, Poland sets the next question- “Is Reform UK really a political party outside of the UK establishment?”William shuts it down with a firm “No. End of episode,” like a man refusing to debate whether water is wet. Stuart's intrigued that the question came from someone outside the UK — or maybe just someone pretending to be exotic while living in Croydon. He agrees: Reform UK isn't some rebellious outsider, no matter how many pub speeches say otherwise. William adds, noting Farage is basically the Hogwarts head boy of the establishment — all robes, no magic. He vents that Farage is a walking cartoon of privilege, somewhere between a monocle and a Boris Johnson impersonator. Starmer, he concedes, has made some eyebrow-raising moves, but at least he doesn't look like he was grown in a Westminster petri dish.What do you make of this discussion? Do you have a question that you'd like us to discuss? Let us know by sending an email to thepeoplescountryside@gmail.comSign the Petition - Improve The Oxfordshire Countryside Accessibility For All Disabilities And Abilities: change.org/ImproveTheOxfordshireCountrysideAccessibilityForAllDisabilitiesAndAbilitiesWe like to give you an ad free experience. We also like our audience to be relatively small and engaged, we're not after numbers.This podcast's overall themes are nature, philosophy, climate, the human condition, sustainability, and social justice. Help us to spread the impact of the podcast by sharing this link with 5 friends podfollow.com/ThePeoplesCountrysideEnvironmentalDebatePodcast , support our work through Patreon patreon.com/thepeoplescountryside. Find out all about the podcast via this one simple link: linktr.ee/thepeoplescountryside
In Episode 230, Dave comes out of the gate swinging by discussing the ACA, the shutdown, and what there Dems are so peeved about. From there, he discusses Trump's order to the DOJ to investigate the big four meat packers for collusion, price fixing, and price manipulation. Dave then looks across the pond and discusses the EU's desire for their own spy agency and English voters getting behind Farage too fix their economy. Dave closes the show discusses the proposed revamp of the USDA's SNAP program. Support Dave by visiting his new website at Two Rivers Outfitter for all of your preparedness needs and you can also visit his Etsy shop at DesignsbyDandTStore for fun clothing and merchandise options. Two Rivers Outfitter merchandise is available on both the Two Rivers Outfitter and the davidjkershner.com websites. Available for Purchase - Fiction: When Rome Stumbles | Hannibal is at the Gates | By the Dawn's Early Light | Colder Weather | A Time for Reckoning (paperback versions) | Fiction Series (paperback) | Fiction Series (audio) Available for Purchase - Non-Fiction: Preparing to Prepare (electronic/paperback) | Home Remedies (electronic/paperback) | Just a Small Gathering (paperback) | Just a Small Gathering (electronic)
Ever wondered about the stories being the most beautiful and interesting parliaments around the world? Introducing Assembly Required, a beautifully designed coffee table book featuring almost 300 pages of parliaments around the world, highlighting their history and their designs.Use code ARstarmer for 10% off*: https://toolong.news/collections/assembly-required In this week's episode of Starmergeddon, we apologise for missing a week of UK political drama, but Rory and Ben are back for round two of recording to talk through current polling, BBC resignations and upcoming budgets... //////////////////////////////////////////////////////Our mission is to explain news and politics in an impartial, efficient, and accessible way, balancing import and interest while fostering independent thought.TLDR is a completely independent & privately owned media company that's not afraid to tackle the issues we think are most important. The channel is run by a small group of young people, with us hoping to pass on our enthusiasm for politics to other young people. We are primarily fan sourced with most of our funding coming from donations and ad revenue. No shady corporations, no one telling us what to say. We can't wait to grow further and help more people get informed. Help support us by subscribing, engaging and sharing. Thanks!*Any Assembly Required book or bundle including Assembly Required.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Carl, Stelios, and Firas discuss how the BBC's lies about Trump backfired completely, Farage's plan for small businesses, and the future balkanisation of the West. We've just released Stelios' new course Ancient Greek Virtue Ethics! Check it out and start exploring the ideas that shaped Western thought Enrol Here.
Trumps Midterm Woes, Mamdani topples Dynasty & Farage Next UK PM | Global Digest S07E03 by Capital FM
On tonight's friday night show we take a wee look at the NYC Mayor situation, the UKs Prison DEBACLE, Farage's focus on crime and the Florida guy who shot people over eggs. JUST ANOTHER WEEK IN THE WORST TIMELINE IN THE SPACE TIME CONT. Here are some links i really hope you click: Patreon
Andrew Bailey said he intends to remain governor of the Bank of England until his term expires, addressing comments from populist leader Nigel Farage who has suggested he would replace Bailey if he became prime minister. He speaks with Bloomberg's Francine Lacqua after the central bank voted to hold interest rates at 4%.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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:
This week on The Trawl, Marina and Jemma wade through a week so grim it makes the John Lewis Christmas ad look like a cry for help.From Rachel Reeves' gloomy pre-budget spin to Nigel Farage's bright idea that young people should earn less (apparently poverty builds character), the Trawl ladies cover it all. There's a reality check on the cost of living, a brutal look at the online reaction to the LNER train stabbings, and a dose of festive existentialism courtesy of Waitrose and a raver dad.It's politics, propaganda and pudding bowls of hypocrisy — all served with the usual mix of outrage, wit, and a few well-aimed “go f*** yourselfs”.Thank you for sharing and do tweet us @MarinaPurkiss @jemmaforte @TheTrawlPodcast Patreonhttps://patreon.com/TheTrawlPodcast Youtubehttps://www.youtube.com/@TheTrawl Twitterhttps://twitter.com/TheTrawlPodcastIf you've even mildly enjoyed The Trawl, you'll love the unfiltered, no-holds-barred extras from Jemma & Marina over on Patreon, including:• Exclusive episodes of The Trawl Goss – where Jemma and Marina spill backstage gossip, dive into their personal lives, and often forget the mic is on• Early access to The Trawl Meets…• Glorious ad-free episodesPlus, there's a bell-free community of over 3,300 legends sparking brilliant chat.And it's your way to support the pod which the ladies pour their hearts, souls (and occasional anxiety) into. All for your listening pleasure and reassurance that through this geopolitical s**tstorm… you're not alone.Come join the fun:https://www.patreon.com/TheTrawlPodcast?utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week - from vegan sea gulls to stunning football - the new study that destroys the fairy tales of Farage, Badenoch and even Octopus….The exit tax that gives a budget clue, poisonous tap water and what did privatisation ever do for us? Musk descends deeper into his hole …. and Reform's promises evaporate on contact. An awesome listener observation - a tale of two bacons in the Guardian ….and Dale fact checks himself - with FFS.
After decades of waving away electoral reform, Labour and the Tories suddenly have a reason to question First Past The Post – the nightmare prospect of a Reform government. Has proportional representation's time finally come? How might it happen? And what system would work for Britain? Proud elections wonk David Klemperer of the Institute for Policy Research at the University of Bath joins Rachel Cunliffe and Andrew Harrison for the world's first Single Transferable Podcast. ESCAPE ROUTES • Rachel recommends K-Pop Demon Hunters on Netflix. • David recommends West End Girl by Lily Allen. • Andrew recommends the 30th anniversary reissue of Different Class by Pulp. www.patreon.com/ohgodwhatnow Presented by Andrew Harrison and Rachel Cunliffe. Audio and video production by Chris Jones. Art direction: James Parrett. Theme tune by Cornershop. Managing Editor: Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. OH GOD, WHAT NOW? is a Podmasters production. www.podmasters.co.uk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
With Reform leading in the polls, Nigel Farage is determined to ensure that nothing can impede its growth. This morning he sought to bolster his credibility on an area that the Tories think could be his Achilles heel: the economy.Reform's £90 billion programme of tax cuts promised at the last election has been constantly used as a stick with which to beat its leader. So today, Farage took to the stage in the City, to – once again – formally bury ‘Our Contract with You' – the platform on which he was elected in July last year. This morning's speech was all about Reform claiming the mantle of fiscal conservatism and claiming that the party can be trusted with the nation's savings. Who will win the battle to be the party of fiscal credibility? Michael Simmons speaks to James Heale and James Nation, former deputy head of the Prime Minister's policy unit and Treasury special adviser to Rishi Sunak. Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Megan McElroy. Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.For more Spectator podcasts, go to spectator.co.uk/podcasts.Contact us: podcast@spectator.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today, Nigel Farage set out his updated vision for the UK economy.At a speech and press conference in London, The Reform UK leader talked tax, immigration, welfare, Brexit and his days working in the City.The New Statesman's Ethan Croft was at the event.Ethan joins Oli Dugmore to discuss.LISTEN AD-FREE:
Nigel Farage promised to set out his fiscal stall in a major speech in the City of London, but what did he actually say? Pippa Crerar and Kiran Stacey discuss Farage's retreat from its election promise to cut £90bn of taxes, his failure to commit to the pensions triple lock and his desire to woo the wealthy. Meanwhile, Rachel Reeves continues to labour on the autumn budget. What's going on behind the scenes? Send your thoughts and questions to politicsweeklyuk@theguardian.com. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod
Reform has set out its plan for the British economy, but will the sums add up? And why has Farage recycled a Nick Clegg slogan from 2011? Hugo Rifkind unpacks the politics of today with Seb Payne and Charlotte Ivers Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
As speculation grows as to what could and could not be included in the budget, do Reform UK have a credible and alternative plan for the economy?Sam and Anne discuss how and where Nigel Farage will pitch his party on the economic front ahead of a key speech in the city, described by some as “bombproof."The duo also consider which sectors could be impacted by the upcoming budget and how the government might sell potential tax rises to voters.
How a trip to the West Bank in her teens set the Coventry MP on a path into politicsZarah Sultana joins Nick in the studio a few weeks before the launch of her new party with Jeremy Corbyn.In the interview, they discuss her positions on NATO, the state of Israel, seeking power, and why she likened her relationship with Corbyn to the Gallagher brothersProducer: Daniel Kraemer Research: Chloe Desave Editor: Giles Edwards
British politics feels stalled and the only people benefiting are Farage and the quick-fix demagogues of Reform UK. Why is the debate about our national future frozen and what can we do about it? Special guest Ben Ansell – author of Why Politics Fails – joins us to talk it over. Plus, a But Your Emails special where we answer as many of your questions as is humanly possible. And in the Extra Bit for Patreon people only… where did the obsession with Hallowe'en come from? ESCAPE ROUTES • Jonn recommends Alan Johnson's memoir This Boy • Ben has been reading the Robert Harris Cicero trilogy. Book One is Imperium • Ros has been reading The Endless Country by Sami Kent • Hannah has been watching The Diplomat on Netflix and listening to Lily Allen's new album • Buy books through our affiliate bookshop and you'll help fund Oh God What Now? by earning us a small commission for every sale. Bookshop.org's fees help support independent bookshops too. If you want to find out more about Energise Africa and register as an investor, visit energiseafrica.com/ogwn . www.patreon.com/ohgodwhatnow Presented by Ros Taylor with Hannah Fearn and Jonn Elledge. Audio Production by: Tom Taylor. Art direction: James Parrett. Theme tune by Cornershop. Managing Editor: Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. OH GOD, WHAT NOW? is a Podmasters production. www.podmasters.co.uk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
The Deputy PM believes that Labour can beat the threat of the populist right, Nigel Farage and Reform. Lammy says that Labour can achieve this by tackling the cost of living crisis, uniting the centre and left of British politics and putting security first.Oli Dugmore sat down with David Lammy to discuss his plan.Read: Nigel Farage can be stoppedLISTEN AD-FREE:
With Jeremy Corbyn's Your Party suffering some teething problems, host Patrick Baker delves into the art of starting a new political outfit. Corbyn himself speaks to POLITICO's Bethany Dawson at one of the many Your Party regional assemblies happening across the country. With tensions between Corbyn and co-leader Zarah Sultana simmering as the duo try to get their start up off the ground, Labour insider Sienna Rodgers of The House magazine explains the roots of the discord and how rival factions have been undermining the party's progress at an early stage. Patrick sits down with former Change UK MP Gavin Shuker in Nando's, site of one of the now-extinct party's early summits, to discuss the pitfalls of starting a new venture in Westminster. Journalist Catherine Mayer, who co-founded the Women's Equality Party alongside comedian Sandi Toksvig, lifts the lid on the curious underworld of smaller political parties and the outsized impact they can have on our politics. Professor Alan Sked, the founder of UKIP, tells the story of arguably the U.K.'s most consequential political newbie and describes how he slowly lost control of the party to Nigel Farage. And Reform UK board member and Farage's former press secretary Gawain Towler sets out how he believes the U.K.'s current insurgent can complete its journey from newcomer to party of power. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Rachel Reeves admits breaking housing rules after failing to get a licence to rent out her Dulwich home, but Keir Starmer says an apology is enough. A penny for Angela Rayner's thoughts - she too claimed she was wrongly advised - the prime minister and his Chancellor face a nervous morning to see the reaction. Plus, Sam's been inside the Spectator Awards, where Lucy Powell and Shabana Mahmood jovially took aim at some of their Labour colleagues - and Nigel Farage vowed to take on Westminster's elite.
Tussentijdse verkiezingen voor één zetel in het regionale parlement van Wales. Je zou niet verwachten dat de uitslag daarvan de Britse media domineert, laat staan dat je er verregaande conclusies over de toekomst van de politiek van het Verenigd Koninkrijk aan zou moeten verbinden. Toch is de uitslag veelzeggend. De zetel was sinds mensenheugenis in handen van Labour. Dat is nu niet meer zo. Maar het verlies van Labour is niet de meest interessante ontwikkeling. Verwacht werd namelijk dat de Reform-partij van Nigel Farage er met de winst vandoor zou gaan. Maar het werd de Welsh centrum-linkse nationalistische partij Plaid Cymru. Die partij blijkt veel beter in staat een weerwoord tegen Farage te bieden dan de gevestigde orde. En dát is een interessant voorteken voor de gemeenteraadsverkiezingen in het voorjaar. Ook in deze aflevering Een vacature voor het opvoeden van een peuter tot Engelse gentleman. Als je de juiste papieren en afkomst hebt, kun je er 180 duizend pond per jaar mee verdienen. Over Van Bekhovens Britten In van Bekhovens Britten praten Lia van Bekhoven en Connor Clerx elke week over de grootste nieuwsonderwerpen en de belangrijkste ontwikkelingen in het Verenigd Koninkrijk. Van Brexit naar binnenlandse politiek, van de Royals tot de tabloids. Waarom fascineert het VK Nederlanders meer dan zo veel andere Europese landen? Welke rol speelt het vooralsnog Verenigd Koninkrijk in Europa, nu het woord Brexit uit het Britse leven lijkt verbannen, maar de gevolgen van de beslissing om uit de EU te stappen iedere dag duidelijker worden? De Britse monarchie, en daarmee de staat, staat voor grote veranderingen na de dood van Queen Elisabeth en de kroning van haar zoon Charles. De populariteit van het Koningshuis staat op een dieptepunt. Hoe verandert de Britse monarchie onder koning Charles, en welke gevolgen heeft dat voor de Gemenebest? In Van Bekhovens Britten analyseren Lia en Connor een Koninkrijk met tanende welvaart, invloed en macht. De Conservatieve Partij leverde veertien jaar op rij de premier, maar nu heeft Labour onder Keir Starmer de teugels in handen. Hoe ziet het VK er onder Keir Starmer uit? En hoe gaan de ‘gewone’ Britten, voor zover die bestaan, daar mee om? Al deze vragen en meer komen aan bod in Van Bekhovens Britten. Een kritische blik op het Verenigd Koninkrijk, waar het een race tussen Noord-Ierland en Schotland lijkt te worden wie zich het eerst af kan scheiden van het VK. Hoe lang blijft het Koninkrijk verenigd? Na ruim 45 jaar onder de Britten heeft Lia van Bekhoven een unieke kijk op het Verenigd Koninkrijk. Als inwoner, maar zeker geen anglofiel, heeft ze een scherpe blik op het nieuws, de politiek, de monarchie en het dagelijkse leven aan de overkant van de Noordzee. Elke woensdag krijg je een nieuwe podcast over het leven van Van Bekhovens Britten in je podcastapp. Scherpe analyses, diepgang waar op de radio geen tijd voor is en een flinke portie humor. Abonneer en mis geen aflevering. Over Lia Lia van Bekhoven is correspondent Verenigd Koninkrijk voor onder andere BNR Nieuwsradio, VRT, Knack en Elsevier en is regelmatig in talkshows te zien als duider van het nieuws uit het VK. Ze woont sinds 1976 in Londen, en is naast correspondent voor radio, televisie en geschreven media ook auteur van de boeken Mama gaat uit dansen, het erfgoed van Diana, prinses van Wales (1997), Land van de gespleten God, Noord-Ierland en de troubles (2000), In Londen, 9 wandelingen door de Britse hoofdstad (2009) en Klein-Brittannië (2022). Over Connor Connor Clerx is presentator en podcastmaker bij BNR Nieuwsradio. Hij werkt sinds 2017 voor BNR en was voorheen regelmatig te horen in De Ochtendspits, Boekestijn en de Wijk en BNR Breekt. Als podcastmaker werkte hij de afgelopen tijd aan onder andere De Taxi-oorlog, Kuipers en de Kosmos, Splijtstof, Baan door het Brein en Welkom in de AI-Fabriek. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On Nick Ferrari at Breakfast, King Charles heckled over Prince Andrew links to Epstein during cathedral visit. The heckler known as 'L' joins Nick'Terrifying' scenes of masked Muslim protesters on the streets of east London like a 'foreign invading army', claims Nigel FarageAll this and more on Nick Ferrari: The Whole Show Podcast
Finally, Rachel Reeves cites the Brexit deal as one reason why the economy is failing and why she will have to raise taxes in the budget. But is it too little, too late? Rock & Roll Politics - The Christmas Special is live at Kings Place on the 8th of December. Tickets are available now at the Kings Place website here. Subscribe to Patreon to take part in my exclusive live event on the 20th November, plus ad-free podcasts arriving in your feed a day early and bonus podcasts and live events. Written and presented by Steve Richards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Former UKIP leader Henry Bolton joins Andrew Gold on Heretics for one of the most explosive political interviews of the year. From the scandal that ended his career to his warnings of Britain's looming collapse, Bolton opens up about everything — corruption in Westminster, mass immigration, Islamic influence in the Balkans, and whether the UK is heading toward civil war. SPONSORS: Get up to 45% off Ekster with my code ANDREWGOLDHERETICS: https://partner.ekster.com/andrewgoldheretics Go to https://TryFum.com/HERETICS and use code HERETICS to get your free FÜM Topper when you order your Journey Pack today! Use Code ANDREW FOR 25% OFF Plaud Note: https://bit.ly/4nJWt7j Plaud Note Pro: https://bit.ly/423JiWv Grab your free seat to the 2-Day AI Mastermind: https://link.outskill.com/ANDREWS2 Cut your wireless bill to 15 bucks a month at https://mintmobile.com/heretics Start your MyHeritage journey now with a 14-day free trial using my link: https://bit.ly/AndrewGoldMyHeritage Follow Henry Bolton on X: https://x.com/_henrybolton/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@henrybolton.obe Substack: https://substack.com/@henrybolton Bolton reveals shocking insider stories from his time in military, policing, and politics, explaining how Britain's leaders are failing to protect the nation's values — and why he believes serious conflict is now inevitable. He also discusses his infamous relationship with Jo Marney, the media witch hunt that followed, and how figures like Andrew Marr and Piers Morgan shaped the narrative against him. This is a no-holds-barred conversation about power, betrayal, and the future of Britain — from the Notting Hill arrests to Islamic cultural expansion in Europe. If you care about freedom of speech, national identity, and the survival of Western democracy, you won't want to miss this one. #HereticsPodcast #HenryBolton #BritishPolitics Join the 30k heretics on my mailing list: https://andrewgoldheretics.com Check out my new documentary channel: https://youtube.com/@andrewgoldinvestigates Andrew on X: https://twitter.com/andrewgold_ok Insta: https://www.instagram.com/andrewgold_ok Heretics YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@andrewgoldheretics Chapters: 0:00 Henry Bolton Highlights 1:42 Henry Bolton's Military & Police Career 3:12 Affair With Jo Marney 5:42 The Crazy Accusations 8:27 The People Out There Who Destroyed Him 11:10 What Henry Would Like To Do To Them 14:10 Andrew Marr, Piers Morgan & Her Age 16:00 The Tommy Rally & The Death of Britain 18:40 The Urban Liberal Elite 21:05 Everyone Ignored The Notting Hill Arrests! 23:40 Are We Heading For Civil War? 27:15 Blair, Cameron, Boris… 29:40 What The Balkans Teach Us 32:10 Why We Have Albanian Immigrants 35:40 We Are Now Terrorists For This Reason 37:40 Islamic Dominance In the Balkans 40:10 Stopping Albanians Building Mosques 42:40 Putting the Emphasis on Them 45:40 We're In Serious Trouble 48:40 Reform, Farage & The Country 51:40 How Tony Blair Ruined The Country 56:50 A Heretic Henry Bolton Admires Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
I respond Labour's battering in Caerphilly (and the Tories dismal 2%). I also investigate Farage's flounce out of PMQs and ask whether it's political or performative. The Lib Dems get some flak too, as it turns out they may have been feeding Starmer advance warning of their questions. And then there's the question of the small boats hokey-pokey... CATCH ME ON MY TOUR ‘Basic Bloke 2: There's No Bloke Without Fire'. Book tickets here: https://www.livenation.co.uk/geoff-norcott-tickets-adp1252793 JOIN the Podcast Patreon and receive each episode early, AD-FREE & with bonus content https://www.patreon.com/geoffnorcott?fan_landing=true Join my MAILING LIST for priority Tour booking & special offers https://signup.ymlp.com/xgyueuwbgmgb
With every new poll predicting a Reform win at the next general election, the party continues its preparation for government. James Heale joins Oscar Edmondson and Tim Shipman to talk about his article in the magazine looking at what – or who – is shaping Reform's intellectual revolution. Cambridge intellectual James Orr, close friend to J.D. Vance, has recently joined as an adviser, following in the footsteps of recent defector Danny Kruger, who was widely seen as an intellectual heavyweight on Conservative benches. Tim also discusses his piece looking at the narrative Rachel Reeves is trying to set ahead of next month's budget. Tim says she has four audiences and is trying to direct the blame elsewhere – namely at the Conservatives. But, with no end in sight for Britain's economic doom loop – and as Farage tries to boost the economic credibility of Reform, could voters start to look elsewhere for some shock medicine?Produced by Patrick Gibbons and Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.For more Spectator podcasts, go to spectator.co.uk/podcasts.Contact us: podcast@spectator.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Is populism saving the UK — or destroying it from within? Across Britain, a new wave of populism is rewriting politics. But the question remains: is this the cure for the chaos, or just another symptom of it? Today's episode dives deep into that question — connecting the dots between the UK's rise of Reform UK and the populist movements shaking the U.S. Studio Sponsor: Cardio Miracle - "Unlock the secret to a healthier heart, increased energy levels, and transform your cardiovascular fitness like never before.": CardioMiracle.com/TBNS From Nigel Farage to Andy Burnham, the battle lines are clear — populism is no longer a fringe idea. It's mainstream, reshaping everything from immigration to the economy. But while Britain experiments with four competing political tribes, Americans are left wondering if a fractured system might actually be worse than our own two-party gridlock. Ted Newson joins Brian to unpack how populism — once the voice of the working class — has evolved into something more volatile. Together, they examine how leaders like Trump, Corbyn, and Farage harness emotion over principle, and what that means for liberty, democracy, and the everyday person just trying to make sense of it all. They also compare the U.S. and U.K. political structures head-to-head — from the way populist movements rise, to why America's “podcast revolution” became the biggest political shift since cable news. And yes, Brian brings the heat: challenging whether populism built on vibes instead of values can ever truly last. If you care about the direction of the West, this is a must-watch. It's not just about Britain's elections — it's about whether any democracy can survive when everyone's chasing popularity instead of principles. ❤️ Order Cardio Miracle (CardioMiracle.com/TBNS) for 15% off and take a step towards better heart health and overall well-being!
In the one-hundred-and-eighty-third episode, we explore the Think of the Children Fallacy, starting with Trump attacking trans people, and claiming people grab children to get across the border, and then how QAnon pivoted from wacky conspiracies to just lies.In Mark's British Politics Corner, we look at Kemi Badenoch and Nigel Farage pretending their hardline stance on immigration is "for the children" and Farage and Peter Kyle MP squaring off about the Online Safety Bill.In the Fallacy in the Wild section, we check out examples from Beauty and the Beast, A Bit of Fry and Laurie, and Futurama.Jim and Mark go head to head in Fake News, the game in which Mark has to guess which one of three Trump quotes Jim made up.Then we talk about the Pentagon's press corps walking out.And finally, we round up some of the other crazy Trump stories from the past week.The full show notes for this episode can be found at https://fallacioustrump.com/ft183 You can contact the guys at pod@fallacioustrump.com, on BlueSky @FallaciousTrump, Discord at fallacioustrump.com/discord or facebook at facebook.com/groups/fallacioustrumpAnd you can buy our T-shirts here: https://fallacioustrump.com/teeSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/fallacious-trump/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Is Trump selling peace to the highest bidder? Is the Farage surge in Wales a warning shot for Westminster? Why is the UK going backwards again on mental health? Join Rory and Alastair as they answer all these questions and more. __________ Get more from The Rest Is Politics with TRIP+. Enjoy bonus episodes, ad-free listening, early access, live show ticket priority, our members' newsletter, and private Discord community – plus exclusive mini-series like The Rise and Fall of Rupert Murdoch. Start your 7-day free trial today at therestispolitics.com. __________ The Rest Is Politics is powered by Fuse Energy. The Rest Is Politics is powered by Fuse Energy. Fuse are giving away free TRIP Plus membership for all of 2025 to new sign ups
https://thecommunists.org/2025/09/26/leaflets/reform-scapegoating-migrants-to-save-capitalism/ Nigel Farage is simply one more player in a game of ‘divide and rule' that the British ruling class has been directing for 200 years. With the Labour and Tory parties both drained of credibility, the ruling class has been training up a new reserve team, which is now ready to be brought into play. Farage's job is to pose as an ‘outsider' the establishment doesn't want us to listen to – all while his party and its anti-migrant rhetoric are given massive promotion in establishment media. The aim is both to keep workers putting their faith in the increasingly distrusted parliamentary system, and to persuade them to direct their anger and frustration at other workers rather than at the capitalist system and those who rule it. (Download this leaflet as a pdf.) Subscribe! Donate! Join us in building a bright future for humanity! www.thecommunists.org www.lalkar.org www.redyouth.org Telegram: t.me/thecommunists Twitter: twitter.com/cpgbml Soundcloud: @proletarianradio Rumble: rumble.com/c/theCommunists Odysee: odysee.com/@proletariantv:2 Facebook: www.facebook.com/cpgbml Online Shop: https://shop.thecommunists.org/ Education Program: Each one teach one! www.londonworker.org/education-programme/ Join the struggle www.thecommunists.org/join/ Donate: www.thecommunists.org/donate/
James Johnson – co-founder of JL Partners – talks to Fraser Myers about the Reform UK surge, why a second term for Labour is more likely than you think, and why the Tories need to stop chasing the ‘liberal centrist' vote. See the spiked podcast and Last Orders live at the Battle of Ideas festival on 18 and 19 October. Get 20 per cent off with the promo code SPIKED: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/battle-of-ideas-festival-2025-tickets-1055046124359?discount=SPIKED Read spiked: https://www.spiked-online.com/ Support spiked: https://www.spiked-online.com/support/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
After the collapse of the China spying case, do we have to accept that Britain is way past being able to spar with Beijing? Especially when we depend so much on their students? Green MP Siân Berry talks about the party's future under new eco-populist leader Zach Polanski, how to square green infrastructure with their support's suspicion of development, and whether the Greens would enter a coalition with Labour to keep Farage out. And in the Extra Bit for Patreon people… Sunak's back, sort of. What do ex-PMs get up to these days? And the terror of the A.I. Margaret Thatcher ChatBot. • Our partner pod American Friction just won Best News and Politics show at the Independent Podcast Awards. Listen and see what you've been missing. ESCAPE ROUTES • Raf recommends Film Club on BBC iPlayer. • Rachel recommends The Finest Hotel In Kabul by Lise Doucet. • Siân Berry recommends The French Lieutenant's Woman . • Ros recommends The Line on ITVX. Buy The Finest Hotel In Kabul through our affiliate bookshop and you'll help fund OGWN by earning us a small commission for every sale. Bookshop.org's fees help support independent bookshops too. • Head to nakedwines.co.uk/ohgodwhatnow to get 6 top-rated wines from our sponsor Naked Wines for £39.99, delivery included. • Get our exclusive NordVPN deal here: nordvpn.com/ohgodwhatnow. It's risk- free with Nord's 30-day money back guarantee! • Advertisers! Want to reach smart, engaged, influential people with money to spend? (Yes, they do exist). Some 3.5 MILLION people download and watch our podcasts every month – and they love our shows. Why not get YOUR brand in front of our influential listeners with podcast advertising? Contact ads@podmasters.co.uk to find out more • Back us on Patreon for ad-free listening, bonus materials and more. Written and presented by Ros Taylor with Rachel Cunliffe and Rafael Behr. Audio production by Tom Taylor. Theme music by Cornershop. Art direction: James Parrett. Produced by award-winning Chris Jones. Managing Editor: award-winning Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. OH GOD, WHAT NOW? is a Podmasters production. www.podmasters.co.uk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Jemma and Marina begin by playing tribute to the incomparable Diane Keaton, Hollywood icon and absolute legend, who sadly died on October 11th at the age of 79.Then, the Trawl ladies dive headfirst into the political mayhem: there are some Zack Polanski clips to stir you up and news on how the Greens are seeing a surge in popularity and indeed the polls, which can only be attributed to his refreshing approach. His style of comms is best demonstrated during a moment of “Penis Chat” chaos courtesy of Piers Morgan (of course).Marina and Jemma unpack why boldness matters so much in this political moment, how one CEO proved trickle-down economics is a con, and why Farage's latest U-turn reeks of desperation. Plus: there's Russian connections, media silence, soybeans (yep), and a truly excellent pudding.Thank you for sharing and do tweet us @MarinaPurkiss @jemmaforte @TheTrawlPodcast Patreonhttps://patreon.com/TheTrawlPodcast Youtubehttps://www.youtube.com/@TheTrawl Twitterhttps://twitter.com/TheTrawlPodcastIf you've even mildly enjoyed The Trawl, you'll love the unfiltered, no-holds-barred extras from Jemma & Marina over on Patreon, including:• Exclusive episodes of The Trawl Goss – where Jemma and Marina spill backstage gossip, dive into their personal lives, and often forget the mic is on• Early access to The Trawl Meets…• Glorious ad-free episodesPlus, there's a bell-free community of over 3,300 legends sparking brilliant chat.And it's your way to support the pod which the ladies pour their hearts, souls (and occasional anxiety) into. All for your listening pleasure and reassurance that through this geopolitical s**tstorm… you're not alone.Come join the fun:https://www.patreon.com/TheTrawlPodcast?utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this special live episode recorded in front of pupils from Hill House and Hayfield schools in Doncaster, David talks to political scientist Rob Ford about whether Nigel Farage is really going to be the UK's next PM. Is there anything comparable to the prospect of a Farage premiership in British political history? What are the electoral routes that might lead Farage to No 10? What are the events or scandals that might derail him? Plus we hear from the pupils as well – what do they think of Reform and its leader? Next time on Fixing Democracy: What is TikTok doing to Politics? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
#NigelFarage #ReformUK #UKGeneralElection #JonGaunt #FarageForPM #IllegalImmigration #SmallBoatsCrisis #KeirStarmer #UKPolitics Britain is boiling over. A bombshell mega-poll shows Nigel Farage's Reform UK on track for the biggest Commons majority in modern history, while Keir Starmer's popularity crashes to record lows. With the country deeply divided over illegal immigration, the small boats crisis, rising antisemitism, and questions of national identity, millions feel betrayed by the political elite. The next general election isn't for four long years — but the British people are demanding real change now. In tonight's show, Jon Gaunt asks the explosive question:
2025-10-14 | Silicon Wafers 028 | DAILY UPDATES | Right-wing authoritarian populism is gaining sway around the world, exemplified in the US by the phenomenon of Trump's MAGA movement, across Europe and in the UK by Farage's latest pop-up populist part Reform, and by Tommy Robinson. This episode explores the assets, agents and useful idiots of the Kremlin, how they seek to leverage populism, and what we know about support and financing for extremist movements, politicians and contrarian voices by the Kremlin. We dive into the phenomenon of paradigm shifting, 'pop-up' populist parties, that often resemble Kremlin projects, such as Reform UK, Farage and his associates. Especially explore the topic through the lens of Pekka Kallioniemi and his Vatnik Soup series of profiles, which sadly has come to an end, publishing it's final episode this week.----------Partner on this video: KYIV OF MINE Watch the trailer now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=arJUcE1rxY0'Kyiv of Mine' is a documentary series about Ukraine's beautiful capital, Kyiv. The film production began in 2018, and much has changed since then. It is now 2025, and this story is far from over.https://www.youtube.com/@UCz6UbVKfqutH-N7WXnC5Ykg https://www.kyivofmine.com/#theprojectKyiv of Mine is fast paced, beautifully filmed, humorous, fun, insightful, heartbreaking, moving, hopeful. The very antithesis in fact of a doom-laden and worthy wartime documentary. This is a work that is extraordinarily uplifting. My friend Operator Starsky says the film is “Made with so much love. The film series will make you laugh and cry.” ----------Autumn Harvest: Silicon Curtain (Goal €22,000)This is super important. We'll be supporting troops in Pokrovsk, Kharkiv, and other regions where the trucks are needed the most. There are so many Battalions in Ukraine, fighting to defend our freedoms, but lack basics such as vehicles. These are destroyed on a regular basis, and lack of transport is costs lives, and Ukrainian territory. Once again Silicon Curtain has teamed up with Car4Ukraine and a group of wonderful creators to provide much-needed assistance: https://car4ukraine.com/campaigns/autumn-harvest-silicon-curtain----------SOURCES: Ukraine: The Latest by The Telegraph team ---https://open.spotify.com/show/6cnkk1J0I1UqtxTYVUL4Fe?si=fb9c151d2f21405a In Moscow's Shadows, hosted by Mark Galeotti ---https://open.spotify.com/show/1NKCazxYstY6o8vhpGQSjF?si=4215e2d786a44d64 Russian Roulette hosted by Max Bergmann and Dr. Maria Snegovaya ---https://podcasts.apple.com/tw/podcast/russian-roulette/id1112258664?l=en-GB Hosted by Michael Naki ---https://www.youtube.com/@MackNack Faygin Live channel ---https://www.youtube.com/@FeyginLive Hromadske channel ---https://www.youtube.com/@hromadske_ua Hosted by Vitaly Portnikov ---https://www.youtube.com/@portnikov Hosted by Vladimir Milov ---https://www.youtube.com/@Vladimir_Milov Sternenko channel ---https://www.youtube.com/@STERNENKO The Power Vertical with Brian Whitmore https://www.powervertical.org/ ----------SILICON CURTAIN FILM FUNDRAISERA project to make a documentary film in Ukraine, to raise awareness of Ukraine's struggle and in supporting a team running aid convoys to Ukraine's front-line towns.https://buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtain/extras----------
Reform UK's Nigel Farage is preparing to drop his promise to deliver £90bn of tax cuts, saying his party will reduce public spending first. Is this a more credible position, and is it in response to Tory attacks?Hugo Rifkind unpacks the politics of the day with Carol Lewis and Patrick Kidd Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
At 85, the venerable Jeffrey Archer has lived through enough crises to stay calm and carry on whatever the stormy political weather. The best-selling author—who has sold 275 million books and, as a Conservative MP and party chairman, served Margaret Thatcher for 11 years—speaks with the authority of someone who witnessed the Iron Lady's firm politics up close and personal. But Mrs Thatcher isn't the only British grande dame who Archer now mourns. His latest William Warwick thriller End Game, set against the backdrop of the 2012 London Olympics, is the story of a plot against Queen Elizabeth II, the beloved monarch who, in contrast with Mrs T, unified Britain. And then there's what Archer definitely calls his “final novel”—a World War II story to be published next year that he believes will be “bigger than Cain and Abel.” But he also weighs in on today's political chaos in Britain and America: Trump's absurd contradictions, the chilling specter of Farage and Robinson, Starmer's political problems, and why Maggie would have known exactly how to handle them all.1. Archer's Final Chapter At 85, Archer announces his next book will be his last. After 50 years and 275 million books sold, he's on the 17th draft of a WWII novel about September 15, 1941—a day when the war “could have ended” if Hitler hadn't changed his mind three times. He believes it's “bigger than Kane and Abel.”2. Thatcher Would Have Dominated Trump Archer, who served Thatcher for 11 years, believes she would have “handled Trump very well” and that “Trump would be in awe of her.” He compares it to her successful management of Reagan, Gorbachev, and Chirac—knowing exactly “what to do with each one.”3. Farage Could Be 30 Seats From Power Archer reveals he warned David Cameron a decade ago to neutralize Farage by making him a Lord. Cameron ignored the advice when Farage polled at 0%. Now Farage leads in polls and could be “only 30 seats short of forming a government”—despite having no one in his party with governing experience.4. Britain Has Peaked Archer sees 2012's Olympics as Britain's high-water mark. Since then: five Conservative leaders in six years, Starmer's rapid collapse, potential bankruptcy from an aging population, and a declining interest in the monarchy among young people. “Top people are not going into politics anymore.”5. AI Threatens the Next Generation of Writers While grateful his 50-year career predated artificial intelligence, Archer worries about the future. He's discussed with his children ensuring no AI-generated “Jeffrey Archer” books appear after his death, calling it “a cop-out.” The odds for aspiring writers have never been tougher: 1,000 manuscripts submitted weekly, only one published.Keen On America is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit keenon.substack.com/subscribe
What tactic did Donald Trump steal from Gordon Brown? What can we learn from when Labour beat UKIP in the 2012 Rotherham by-election when it comes to taking on Farage? As a New Labour alumnus, why does John Healey think there was more patience for change in 1997 compared to 2024? Rory and Alastair are joined by John Healey, The Secretary of State for Defence, to discuss all this and more. For Leading listeners, there's free access to the Wordsmith Academy - plus their report on the future of legal skills. Visit https://www.wordsmithai/politics To save your company time and money, open a Revolut Business account today via https://www.revolut.com/rb/leading, and add money to your account by 31st of December 2025 to get a £200 welcome bonus or equivalent in your local currency. Feature availability varies by plan. This offer's available for New Business customers in the UK, US, Australia and Ireland. Fees and Terms & Conditions apply. For US customers, Revolut is not a bank. Banking services and card issuance are provided by Lead Bank, Member FDIC. Visa® and Mastercard® cards issued under license. Funds are FDIC insured up to $250,000 through Lead Bank, in the event Lead Bank fails. Fees may apply. See full terms in description. For Irish customers, Revolut Bank UAB is authorised and regulated by the Bank of Lithuania in the Republic of Lithuania and by the European Central Bank and is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland for conduct of business rules. For AU customers, consider PDS & TMD at revolut.com/en-AU. Revolut Payments Australia Pty Ltd (AFSL 517589). Join The Rest Is Politics Plus: Start your free trial at therestispolitics.com to unlock exclusive bonus content – including Rory and Alastair's miniseries – plus ad-free listening, early access to episodes and live show tickets, an exclusive members' newsletter, discounted book prices, and a private chatroom on Discord. Instagram: @restispolitics Twitter: @RestIsPolitics Email: restispolitics@gmail.com Social Producer: Celine Charles Producer: Alice Horrell Senior Producer: Nicole Maslen Head of Politics: Tom Whiter Exec Producers: Tony Pastor + Jack Davenport Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
The Labour leader entered conference with the polls against him and Reform UK snapping at his heels. He came out fighting – but was it enough to change his critics' minds? Helen Pidd. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/infocus