Podcast appearances and mentions of james heale

Continuing his tour across the country, Andy Burnham has been in Barrow-in-Furness backing Starmer's investment plan into nuclear submarines. This ties together with a commitment to reindustrialise Britain and promise more apprenticeships for NEETs. But despite policy pledges on employment, the economy and social care this week – small boats have been a story dominating the headlines. Natasha Feroze speaks to Noa Hoffman and James Heale about why Burnham has avoided this issue of immigration so far, and whether the fun could be over for the Prime Minister next week. 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.

It's Wednesday, which means there's another announcement from Downing Street. Yes, another one. Today, Andy Burnham is talking social care, and this time, he wants to build a 'cross-party consensus' to fix the broken system. Unfortunately neither Kemi Badenoch nor Sir Ed Davey were able to attend in person, but in a far more successful assemblage, James Heale, Tim Shipman, and Isabel Hardman have come together to talk over the details of what was announced. Tim also assesses what direction the new PM may be heading in over assisted dying legislation.You can read Isabel's piece on Andy's social care plans hereProduced by Henry Lloyd and Ed Parker.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.

It's a day dedicated to the NEETs (again) with the Prime Minister announcing his plans to prevent swathes of future NEETs coming to the fore. With proposals to widen the participation and provenance of his Manchester Baccalaureate, and giving more powers to Mayors over education, Andy Burnham is seeking to break with Blair, as he pushes vocational skills over academia. Natasha Feroze is joined by James Heale and Michael Simmons to talk over the plans and dig into the numbers underlining the ongoing crisis.Produced by Henry Lloyd.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.

A week on from the start of Andy Burnham's premiership, and Westminster is bracing for another innings of announcements from the government. Among them, after meeting Volodymyr Zelenskyy today, the PM will be announcing fresh decisions on defence spending on Thursday. The government are also plotting out their plans for changes to adult social care this week, while Whitehall is still suffering from the recent influencer outbreak. James Heale is joined by Noa Hoffman to pick up on the key stories, and assess how they might play out in the coming days.Produced by Henry Lloyd and Natasha Feroze.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.

On this week's Spectator Out Loud: James Heale explains what the Opposition parties plan to do now that Andy Burnham is in No 10; Iona Bain explains why premium bonds are a pointless way to save for your child, and what to do instead; Tali Fraser asks whether we should be rolling back the years and all return to a barter economy; and finally, James Phillips reviews Biological War: A Scenario by Annie Jacobsen, giving us all a very friendly flashback to 2020. Produced and presented by Henry Lloyd. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the magazine this week, James Heale writes that Kemi Badenoch was in an upbeat mood when she addressed her troops last week. ‘This time last year,' she told the 1922 Committee, ‘people said Jenrick was taking over the party, Starmer was steady and Farage would be the next prime minister. A year later, Rob is under police investigation, Starmer has resigned and Farage is not even an MP.'It is a reminder of how quickly the wheel of politics can turn. So what is Badenoch's grand plan for taking on Burnham?Also today, No. 10 North is officially open for business – but has anyone really thought it through?Noa Hoffman speaks to Tim Shipman 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.

On this week's Spectator Out Loud: James Heale explains what the Opposition parties plan to do now that Andy Burnham is in No 10; Iona Bain explains why premium bonds are a pointless way to save for your child, and what to do instead; Tali Fraser asks whether we should be rolling back the years and all return to a barter economy; and finally, James Phillips reviews Biological War: A Scenario by Annie Jacobsen, giving us all a very friendly flashback to 2020. Produced and presented by Henry Lloyd.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.

In a busy week for British politics, LBC's Iain Dale joins Tim Shipman and James Heale to discuss his new book, Have I Said Too Much? Iain speaks frankly about standing as a Conservative candidate at two general elections – and his fateful attempt to fight a third. James asks what makes a good political book, while Tim delves into the 2005 Conservative leadership election and Iain's role in approving the infamous ‘It's DD for me' T-shirts.Iain also reflects on his friendship with the late Ann Widdecombe, and on how she came to be defined both by the strength of her convictions and her renowned sense of humour.Produced by Henry Lloyd. 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.

Appointment into Andy Burnham's new cabinet went late into the evening: Wes Streeting to defence, plus the comeback queens – Louise Haigh, Lucy Powell and Angela Rayner all into senior posts in government. Noa Hoffman, James Heale and Tim Shipman discuss the new appointments and Andy Burnham's morning policy announcements. 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.

Andy Burnham has continued to announce his new cabinet: John Healey as Chancellor, Ed Miliband as Foreign Secretary and Shabana Mahmood remains in the Home Office. Now ten of Starmer's most trusted ministers have either been sacked or quit. What could come of Angela Rayner? And what could be the consequences of having some of the most powerful people in Labour on the backbenches? Natasha Feroze speaks to Noa Hoffman & James Heale. 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.

As Andy Burnham unveils his first Cabinet, join Tim Shipman and James Heale for a special live edition of Coffee House. Who's in, who's out? What do the appointments reveal about Burnham's priorities, and might they hint at the likely direction of his premiership? Along with a panel of familiar faces and special guests, get the only analysis you'll need as the political implications begin to unfold.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.

As Andy Burnham unveils his first Cabinet, join Tim Shipman and James Heale for a special live edition of Coffee House. Who's in, who's out? What do the appointments reveal about Burnham's priorities, and might they hint at the likely direction of his premiership? Along with a panel of familiar faces and special guests, get the only analysis you'll need as the political implications begin to unfold. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andy Burnham will today be crowned Labour leader, before entering Downing Street on Monday. His first speech is expected to argue that Labour has lost touch with the working-class communities it was founded to represent – and to promise a new era of devolution, economic intervention and northern political power.Meanwhile, the shape of Burnham's government is beginning to emerge. Ed Miliband now appears unlikely to become chancellor, amid concerns that he would be too powerful and too closely associated with Labour's north London intellectual set. What does his apparent rejection reveal about the party's new dividing lines? And, as details emerge of a possible 'policy blitz' in the first days of Burnham's premiership, could a wealth tax be on the cards?Noa Hoffman speaks to Tim Shipman 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.

Rachel Reeves has delivered what is likely to be her valedictory Mansion House speech, defending her record on growth, borrowing and the public finances. But with businesses counting the cost of higher employers' National Insurance and Labour preparing for a change of government, what will her legacy be?Meanwhile, the race to become Andy Burnham's chancellor appears to be shifting. Ed Miliband was once seen as the frontrunner, but some around Burnham fear that he would be too powerful – and too resistant to their plans for devolution and Treasury reform. Shabana Mahmood is now being tipped for the job, but would moving her from the Home Office prove a costly mistake?Noa Hoffman speaks to James Heale and Michael Simmons.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.

Keir Starmer has delivered his final PMQs. It was a more cordial occasion compared to most weeks, with Kemi Badenoch exchanging jokes with the outgoing Prime Minister over their previous clashes amid a more sombre tone given the murder of Ann Widdecombe. But will this final speech go down in history? And how will Andy Burnham do things differently?Noa Hoffman speaks to James Heale and Tim Shipman. 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.

Kemi Badenoch has declared war on the Tory wets, removing the whip from Gavin Barwell after Theresa May's former chief of staff criticised her leadership and opposed the party's positions on net zero and the ECHR. Her allies insist this is not a purge, but proof that the Conservatives have changed. Is Badenoch finally imposing discipline on her party – or narrowing a broad church that is already struggling to fill its pews?Meanwhile, Andy Burnham has addressed the Parliamentary Labour Party, promising to listen to MPs and preside over a broader, more inclusive Labour party. But the demands are already piling up, from immigration and rural policy to coastal communities. Can Burnham keep everyone happy once he enters Downing Street – and will those championing him turn against him when he finally has to say no?Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Noa Hoffman.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.

The murder of Ann Widdecombe has sent shockwaves through Westminster and reignited the debate over politicians' security. But with questions still unanswered about the motive for the attack, Reform's response has already become politically charged. Is Nigel Farage right to argue that threats against him and his party have not been taken seriously – or is he ‘weaponising' Widdecombe's death for political advantage?Meanwhile, Andy Burnham is preparing to enter Downing Street, but Westminster is still struggling to work out what kind of prime minister he will be. Labour MPs are cautiously optimistic, yet many remain unconvinced that Burnham has the tactical judgement needed when the pressure mounts. With 322 MPs having backed him, his first challenge may be managing the expectations of the hundreds who will miss out on government jobs. Can he turn goodwill into authority – or will his opponents define him before he has a chance to define himself?Plus: Nigel Farage remains under pressure over his finances: is this his 'Mandelson' scandal? Tim Shipman speaks to 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.

Nominations openned today for the next Labour leader and – spoiler alert – it looks as though Andy Burnham might clinch it. We strongly suspect he will be the only person to put his name forward, after Al Carns pulled out and rowed in behind the MP for Makerfield.In the background, Burnham's preparations for government are continuing, including a surprise intervention on foreign affairs and an email to the PLP setting out how he hopes to restore hope and a sense of togetherness to the Labour party. One key part of that plan is to soften the whips' office into something resembling an HR department, under which MPs would be free to vote against the government if they wished. That will please a lot of MPs – but is it sustainable?Noa Hoffman speaks to James Heale and Chris Curtis MP.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.

Everyone in Westminster is trying desperately to peer inside Andy Burnham's head and work out what ‘Manchesterism' really is – and in the magazine this week, Tali Fraser offers the definitive take. Rather than being a mixture of vibes and ‘business-friendly socialism', it's roots lie in the 'Manchester liberalism' of Richard Cobden and John Bright, from which a direct line can be drawn to Margaret Thatcher. It turns out that the Manchester success story did not begin with a socialist rejection of neoliberalism, but by courting business. Will Burnham be able to sell that to the PLP? Or will he come unstuck on contact with the Labour left, in much the same way Starmer did?Noa Hoffman speaks to James Heale and Tali Fraser.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.

Nigel Farage's Clacton by-election gamble has not gone quite to plan: the major parties have called his bluff and refused to stand. Is this now a Potemkin by-election – or has Farage still succeeded in changing the narrative on Reform's funding row?Oscar Edmondson speaks to Tim Shipman and James Heale about whether Farage is returning to what he does best: insurgency, grievance and a fight with the establishment. Will Count Binface and Laurence Fox make the contest look ridiculous – or will Farage's supporters still hear the tune he is playing?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.

Nigel Farage has resigned as an MP to force a by-election in Clacton, where he intends to stand again.It comes as scrutiny mounts over Reform UK's funding, the £5 million gift Farage received from the businessman Christopher Harborne and his association with the convicted criminal George Cottrell. So rather than wait for a ruling from the parliamentary standards commissioner, Farage will be out on the doorsteps in Clacton, fighting what he is branding a ‘people vs the establishment' referendum. It is a risky strategy, but one that plays to Farage's strengths as a campaigner. Will Labour and the Tories call his bluff and leave him with egg on his face? Or should we prepare for the by-election of the ages?Noa Hoffman discusses the story with James Heale and William Atkinson.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.

Nigel Farage is facing fresh questions over his finances, after reports about George Cottrell – ‘Posh George' – and his role in funding staff and security for Reform before the 2024 election. The party says this was personal, not political – but could the row yet become a problem for Farage? And if he is suspended from parliament, would a recall petition be a disaster, or the perfect rallying cry?Meanwhile, Andy Burnham is preparing for government, but the size of the task is becoming clearer. With access talks under way, who will make it into his cabinet – and who will be his chancellor?Tim Shipman speaks to 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.

Ben Wright is joined by Labour MP Anna Dixon, Conservative former minister Jesse Norman and commentator Miranda Green from the Financial Times. They discuss Keir Starmer's attempt to frame his legacy, and the domestic and international challenges facing the new Prime Minister. James Heale - deputy political editor of The Spectator - brings additional insight and analysis. Ben also interviews Layla Moran - Lib Dem chair of the Health and Social Care Committee - about the prospects for reforming adult social care, if Andy Burnham enters Downing St.

Boris is (sort of) on manoeuvres, as Tim Shipman reports in this week's magazine. There are signs that the former Conservative prime minister and one-time editor of this magazine could emerge from his frontline political hiatus to throw his weight behind the Tory cause. He has already been advising Kemi Badenoch and is said to be driven, in part, by a ‘hatred' of Nigel Farage. Should Reform fear the return of Boris?It has been a damaging month for Reform, following the Makerfield by-election, a plateau in the polls, rumbling questions about Farage's £5 million gift and now suggestions that he did not declare his full property portfolio to parliament. Has Reform peaked?Oscar Edmondson speaks to Tim Shipman 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.

As the nation holds its breath to see if England will be progressing in the World Cup, the bottles of Pol Roger are on ice for the post-match after party: the Spectator's summer party, taking place this evening. Opening the doors of the Spectator to listeners of Coffee House Shots, James Heale, Freddy Gray, Noa Hoffman and Tim Shipman talk about their favourite memories, how to survive events like this – and which politicians handle their drink best. Plus, with Starmer on the way out, will Labour politicians be partying – or plotting?Produced by Patrick Gibbons.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.

As the nation holds its breath to see if England will be progressing in the World Cup, the bottles of Pol Roger are on ice for the post-match after party: the Spectator's summer party, taking place this evening. Opening the doors of the Spectator to listeners of Coffee House Shots, James Heale, Freddy Gray, Noa Hoffman and Tim Shipman talk about their favourite memories, how to survive events like this – and which politicians handle their drink best. Plus, with Starmer on the way out, will Labour politicians be partying – or plotting?Produced by Patrick Gibbons. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Defence Investment Plan is published today in Parliament. All eyes are on how much Dan Jarvis managed to secure (£15 billion), given the dramatic resignations of Al Cairns and John Healey over funding. Noa Hoffman speaks to James Heale and Tim Shipman about the plans, plus a scoop from The Spectator's John Connolly – its been revealed that DEI has taken precedence over number counting in the Treasury... 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.

Andy Burnham has set out his big pitch to the country: a ten-year plan for devolution, reindustrialisation and a new ‘Number 10 of the North'. But, as he prepares to enter Downing Street, does he have anything like the ten years he wants to deliver it? And who will pay? Is Middle England about to be squeezed to fund Burnham's vision?James Heale speaks to Tim Shipman.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.

We are on course for yet another prime minister – our seventh in just ten years. With statistics like that, and after watching the now-familiar pattern of leaders arriving with promises of hopeful change only to collapse into inertia and scandal, it is little wonder that many assume Britain has become ungovernable. But is that really true? Or have we simply had a uniquely bad crop of prime ministers, each sent packing because of their own mistakes?James Heale speaks to Tim Shipman and Luke Tryl.Produced (for the final time) by Megan McElroy. We all wish her luck at Politico! 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.

We are on course for yet another prime minister – our seventh in just ten years. With statistics like that, and after watching the now-familiar pattern of leaders arriving with promises of hopeful change only to collapse into inertia and scandal, it is little wonder that many assume Britain has become ungovernable. But is that really true? Or have we simply had a uniquely bad crop of prime ministers, each sent packing because of their own mistakes?James Heale speaks to Tim Shipman and Luke Tryl.Produced (for the final time) by Megan McElroy. We all wish her luck at Politico! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A second defence minister has resigned in protest at Keir Starmer's failure to fund Britain's armed forces. Al Carns, a former Royal Marines colonel, has followed John Healey out of the Ministry of Defence, warning that the government is letting down those in uniform – and taking aim at both the defence investment plan and Labour's handling of Northern Ireland veterans.Starmer has now appointed Dan Jarvis as Defence Secretary, but the brief increasingly looks like a poisoned chalice. With the Strategic Defence Review still unfunded, ministers sent out to defend a plan they have not seen, and the Prime Minister heading to the G7 and Nato summit under pressure, has Starmer's strongest claim to leadership – defence and foreign affairs – collapsed?James Heale speaks to Tim Shipman.Produced by 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.

John Healey has resigned as Defence Secretary. In a blistering letter to the Prime Minister, he said: ‘You have been unable, and the Treasury has been unwilling, to commit the resources that the nation needs to defend the country at this time of rising threats.'This comes after Keir Starmer failed even to secure the derisory sum of money he had demanded from the Treasury and the cabinet to modernise Britain's forces following the recommendations of the Strategic Defence Review. The timing is equally devastating, as Starmer is heading to the G7 summit on Monday, where he will have to face Donald Trump.So what does this mean for Starmer's premiership? Will more resignations follow – or will the missiles turn on the Treasury and Rachel Reeves's reluctance to cough up? And who will take on the poisoned chalice of the defence brief now?Noa Hoffman speaks to Tim Shipman 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.

With the Makerfield by-election next week, Keir Starmer is in the business of legacy-building. In a speech this morning to coincide with London Tech Week, the Prime Minister announced a clampdown on social media usage among under-18s, and in particular on the circulation of naked images on smartphones and other devices among under-18s.The intention is to shift emphasis on to tech companies such as Apple and Google, requiring them to prevent children from seeing sexually explicit images on their phones and other devices. But, in true Starmer fashion, no new law was announced – only a deadline for big tech to change its ways, or else he will do … something.This is being read throughout Westminster as an attempt at legacy-building. So how will Keir Starmer's premiership be remembered?James Heale and Tim Shipman discuss.Produced by 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.

On this week's Spectator Out Loud: Lisa Haseldine reports from Armenia; Michael Simmons argues neoliberalism has never really been tried; Patrick Smith explains why he takes frog poison; and finally, Toby Young wonders why Nigel Farage cares if he has been banned from Desert Island Discs. Plus: the Reform UK leader reveals – exclusively to James Heale – what he would choose if he went on the show. Produced and presented by Patrick Gibbons. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week's Spectator Out Loud: Lisa Haseldine reports from Armenia; Michael Simmons argues neoliberalism has never really been tried; Patrick Smith explains why he takes frog poison; and finally, Toby Young wonders why Nigel Farage cares if he has been banned from Desert Island Discs. Plus: the Reform UK leader reveals – exclusively to James Heale – what he would choose if he went on the show. Produced and presented by Patrick Gibbons.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.

James Heale is in Makerfield ahead of one of the most consequential by-elections of all time, where Andy Burnham is hoping to return to Westminster and stop Reform's Robert Kenyon – the local plumber backed by Nigel Farage. On the ground, James hears from voters split between Labour and Reform, with some hoping Burnham can hold the line and others asking what he has really done for the area.He also sits down with Nigel Farage to discuss Reform's chances, the party's NHS policy, Rupert Lowe's Restore Britain challenge, and why Farage thinks Burnham would be even worse than Starmer in No. 10.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.

James Heale is in Makerfield ahead of one of the most consequential by-elections of all time, where Andy Burnham is hoping to return to Westminster and stop Reform's Robert Kenyon – the local plumber backed by Nigel Farage. On the ground, James hears from voters split between Labour and Reform, with some hoping Burnham can hold the line and others asking what he has really done for the area.He also sits down with Nigel Farage to discuss Reform's chances, the party's NHS policy, Rupert Lowe's Restore Britain challenge, and why Farage thinks Burnham would be even worse than Starmer in No. 10. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last night, candidates from the five main parties in Makerfield came together for a special episode of Question Time. With four non-politicians taking on Andy Burnham, who came out on top?Tim Shipman, James Heale and Noa Hoffman digest the debate, assess Burnham's performance, and discuss the main newsline – one that sent less than enormous shockwaves through Westminster: Burnham confirming that he would run in a Labour leadership contest.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.

Canvassing in Makerfield continues at pace ahead of the by-election in two weeks time, so we dispatched Megan McElroy and James Heale to the north to report from the ground. They discuss each party's ground game, why it looks like a Labour–Reform shoot-out, whether Restore will split the vote on the right and – most importantly – Nigel Farage's Desert Island Discs.This comes after revelations in Lord Ashcroft's book claimed that Farage has effectively been banned from appearing on the programme, a story that has dominated the papers over the last 48 hours, evidencing the continued interest in brand Farage. James spoke with Nigel earlier this morning and can bring the Reform leader's favourite tracks, book and luxury item exclusively to Coffee House Shots listeners.Produced by Megan McElroy 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.

As Parliament returns from recess, the latest files related to Peter Mandelson's appointment as UK ambassador to the US are due to be released today. How bad could they be for Labour? Tim Shipman joins James Heale to discuss – has the self-styled 'Prince of Darkness' proven to be more a ghost of Christmas past for the government?Plus: Mandelson isn't the only ghost haunting British politics today. Tim and James discuss the ghost of Christmas present, the scandal facing the SNP. Former party treasurer – and husband to Nicola Sturgeon – Peter Murrell pled guilty to charges of embezzlement, prompting the former First Minister to deliver a teary interview to the BBC at the weekend. How believable did they find Sturgeon? And, with two by-elections on the horizon, what consequences could there be for the SNP?Finally: the boys discuss the latest poll showing Trade Union support ebbing away from Labour towards Reform. So – continuing the Dickensian metaphor (sorry) – could this be Labour's very own ghost of Christmas future?Produced by Megan McElroy and Patrick Gibbons.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.

When it comes to political vision, Keir Starmer's premiership has been something of a vacuum – and power abhors a vacuum. So cue Tony Blair, who this week has rushed in with a 5,000-word essay on what is wrong with Labour and, depending on who you listen to, either an outdated or radical view of where Britain should be as a country.This has galvanised Andy Burnham, Wes Streeting and (finally) Keir Starmer to put down on paper their vision for the country and how to solve the biggest issues we face. But whose is more convincing?Oscar Edmondson discusses the question with James Heale and Rachel Wolf, founding partner at Public First and author of the 2019 manifesto.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.

There have been a number of critiques of Tony Blair's 5,000-word intervention on Labour and the country this week, but none more astute than Lord Wood's. One of Labour's foremost thinkers, Lord Wood joins James Heale for this special edition of Saturday Shots to discuss where Blair is right, where he is wrong, and why neither the Labour or Conservative Party have recovered from the financial crash. 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.

When it comes to political vision, Keir Starmer's premiership has been something of a vacuum – and power abhors a vacuum. So cue Tony Blair, who this week has rushed in with a 5,000-word essay on what is wrong with Labour and, depending on who you listen to, either an outdated or radical view of where Britain should be as a country.This has galvanised Andy Burnham, Wes Streeting and (finally) Keir Starmer to put down on paper their vision for the country and how to solve the biggest issues we face. But whose is more convincing?Oscar Edmondson discusses the question with James Heale and Rachel Wolf, founding partner at Public First and author of the 2019 manifesto.Produced by Oscar Edmondson.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

More than 600,000 16 to 24-year-olds are neither in work nor looking for a job. Youth worklessness is now costing Britain £125 billion a year – almost double the country's entire defence budget.Those are the findings of Alan Milburn's new review into youth worklessness, who warns that the UK is facing an ‘urgent national crisis'. But is it already too late?Noa Hoffman is joined by James Heale and Michael Simmons to discuss.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.

Peter Murrell, the SNP's former chief executive and Nicola Sturgeon's estranged husband, has admitted embezzling £400,000 in party funds. The guilty plea has revived questions about what senior figures in the SNP knew, how long the scandal had been going on, and what happens next. To discuss the story, including some of the ridiculous purchases including a couple of hairdryers (for a bald man) and £2600 salt and pepper shakers, James Heale and Michael Simmons join 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.

On today's Saturday shots, James Heale is joined by former Conservative MP Steve Baker to discuss the fallout from Wes Streeting's resignation and the ‘orgy of chaos' that has ensued.Steve takes James inside the dark arts of a Westminster coup: why numbers matter, why you should pay attention to individual grievances, the importance of discipline – and why Labour's rebels may already be getting it wrong. As Andy Burnham plots his return, do the people of Makerfield really want to be caught up in a by-election that will not be about local issues? And is Burnham as good as he thinks he is?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.

After days of deliberation, Wes Streeting has finally quit Keir Starmer's government. At the stroke of 1 p.m., the Ilford MP resigned as Health Secretary in a two-page letter that laid out his differences with the Prime Minister. He details, at length, the results the pair have achieved in government and says they offer ‘good reasons for me to remain in post'. But: ‘As you know from our conversation earlier this week, having lost confidence in your leadership, I have concluded that it would be dishonourable and unprincipled to do so.'So there we go – the starting gun has been fired on the Labour leadership race... or has it? Noa Hoffman, James Heale and Tim Shipman discuss how this carefully worded resignation leaves the door open for Andy Burnham.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.

Wes Streeting is/was expected to make his move today for the Labour leadership – but does he have the numbers? There was some frantic briefing last night, with competing claims about who has the required number of MPs and who might be prepared to give up their seat to Andy Burnham. It almost takes us back to the days of Tory infighting.But the big news this morning is that Angela Rayner has been cleared by HMRC. In an incredibly well-timed judgment, there is now nothing standing in her way from making her own bid for the top job. So where are we on Thursday morning? What should we expect from the next 48 hours?James Heale speaks to Tim Shipman and James Lyons, former director of strategic communications in Number 10.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.

The Prime Minister is digging his heels in. Keir Starmer has told his cabinet that he is not going anywhere, despite a growing list of MPs calling for him to go.At 9.30 a.m., Starmer was greeted by his senior ministers, many of whom now believe the game is up. So is this his ‘put up or shut up' moment? Will anyone move today – and if they do, what happens next?Tim Shipman and James Heale join Noa Hoffman to assess Starmer's fight for survival, the mood inside Labour, and where we go from here.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.

Keir Starmer has given what was billed as a make-or-break having spent the weekend under fire from his own party. He tried to strike a more urgent tone, promising bigger arguments, closer ties with Europe (which is basically already happening) and action on British Steel (subject to consultation). But with Labour still haemorrhaging votes on all sides, is this enough to steady his leadership – or has the party already begun to look beyond him?Tim Shipman and James Heale discuss Starmer's speech, the Labour figures waiting in the wings – from Wes Streeting and Angela Rayner to Andy Burnham and Ed Miliband – and what Reform, the Tory party, the Lib Dems, the SNP and the Green party do next after a dramatic set of local elections.Produced by 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.