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Keir Starmer has been accused of leaving Andy Burnham with a £4.7bn black hole in defence funding. The government announced on Tuesday the defence investment plan, complete with a £15bn boost – but nearly £5bn would have to be found by a future chancellor. Allies of Burnham have called the announcement an ‘unexploded bomb', so what options does the PM-in-waiting have? Kiran Stacey and Jessica Elgot discuss the political fallout. Plus Kiran and Jess answer your questions on Labour, No 10 North and Burnham. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod
Andy Burnham will return to Westminster as an MP, and potential challenger to Keir Starmer, after decisively beating Reform UK to win the Makerfield byelection. Kiran Stacey and Jessica Elgot chat through what happens next. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod
After nights of violence across Belfast this week, politicians continue to call for calm, but what else can be done to stop the violence spreading? Plus, Jessica Elgot has been to Makerfield and spoken to undecided voters on the doorstep. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod
Wes Streeting has quit his cabinet role as health secretary and called on Keir Starmer to resign as prime minister after days of speculation. But Streeting did not launch his own challenge to trigger a leadership contest, so what could be next for Starmer's government? And has he left the door open for Andy Burnham to return? Lucy Hough speaks to the Guardian's deputy political editor, Jessica Elgot. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/infocus
Pippa Crerar and Jessica Elgot look at how the continuing and deepening conflict in the Middle East will hit people in the UK, and how it could impact May's elections. Plus, as parliament breaks for recess, has the assisted dying bill reached the end of the road?. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod
Reform UK has promised to create an ICE-style agency dedicated to mass deportations if the party came to power. Nigel Farage and his party's home affairs spokesperson, Zia Yusuf, have pledged to start a ‘UK Deportation Command' to remove thousands of people, under plans that have been condemned as ‘sadistic'. Lucy Hough speaks to the Guardian's deputy political editor Jessica Elgot – watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/infocus
Synopsis: Fifty years ago, factory floor workers at Lucas Aerospace challenged their company's focus on war machines with an innovative plan for socially useful production - and it could be just as relevant today.Make a tax deductible YEAR END DONATION and become a member go to LauraFlanders.org/donate. This show is made possible by you! Description [original release date July 2025]: Military budgets are skyrocketing across the globe, while funding for social needs—housing, healthcare, education—is being slashed. Politicians often justify this skewed spending by claiming it creates jobs. But what if the people doing those jobs had a say in how public money was used?Fifty years ago, workers at Lucas Aerospace, a U.K. military contractor, designed a visionary proposal known as the Lucas Plan: a worker-led alternative focused on socially useful production rather than weapons of war.In our special report, The Lucas Plan at 50: A Radical Investment in Society, Not the War Machine, Laura spoke with Hilary Wainwright, Co-Author of The Lucas Plan: A New Trade Unionism in the Making? And Co-Editor of Red Pepper magazine. Hilary is one of the voices behind that groundbreaking effort.What follows is the full, uncut conversation with Hilary—rich with lessons for today's movements for climate justice, peace, and economic democracy.Guest: Hilary Wainwright: Co-Author, The Lucas Plan: A New Trade Unionism in the Making?; Co-Editor Red Pepper magazine SPECIAL THANKS: Karen Bell, Joe Guinan, Steve Schofield ADDITIONAL CREW: Stanley Arlidge - Episode Producer, Clementine Malpas, Tiger Nest Films Full Conversation Release: While our weekly shows are edited to time for broadcast on Public TV and community radio, we offer to our members and podcast subscribers the full uncut conversation. These audio exclusives are made possible thanks to our member supporters. RESOURCES:- Watch the episode released on YouTube July 11th 5pm ET; PBS World Channel July 13th, and on over 300 public stations across the country (check your listings, or search here via zipcode) and airing on community radio (check here to see if your station airs the show) & available as a podcast July 16th.- Additional Uncut Conversation featuring Brian Salisbury: Former Lucas Aerospace Shop Steward from Season 6, Episode 215 - The Lucas Plan at 50: A Radical Investment in Society, Not the War MachineFull Episode Notes are located HERE. Recommended book:• “The Lucas Plan: A New Trade Unionism in the Making?” by Hilary Wainwright and Dave Elliott, Learn More Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes:Democracy & Capitalism: A Failed Experiment?: Watch / Listen: Uncut Conversation - EpisodeCommunity Wealth Building: An Economic Reset: Watch / Listen: Uncut Conversation - EpisodeDollars and Democracy: Participatory Budgeting: Watch / Listen: EpisodeFrom Cleveland, OH to Preston, UK. Community Wealth Building, Watch / Listen: Episode Related Articles and Resources:• A Lucas Plan For the Twenty First Century From Asset Manager Arsenal to Green Industrial Strategy, by Khern Rogsly, October 2024 - Common Welath• The Lucas Plan the Way to an Alternative Security Strategy, by Khem Royally, December 11, 2024, Rethinking Security• UK to cut green levies on businesses in bid to reduce energy costs and boost manufacturing, by Jessica Elgot and Rob Davies, June 22, 2025, The Guardian•. Decarbonising and diversifying defense in the US and the UK: A workers' enquiry for a Just Transition, Decarbonising-Defence.co.uk• Wortley Hall, the Worker's Stately home, a member of the co-operative union•. US Defense Secretary Called Europe ‘Pathetic.” Two BU Experts on Whether the Alliance Is Damaged, by Rich Barlow, March 27, 2025, Boston University Today• ‘I will not protect you': Trump Threatens to Abandon Nato Allies, Kaitlan Collins, October 11, 2024, CNN Laura Flanders and Friends Crew: Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer; Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O'Conner-Senior Consulting Producer. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and FriendsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraflandersandfriends/Blueky: https://bsky.app/profile/lfandfriends.bsky.socialFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraFlandersAndFriends/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lauraflandersandfriendsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFLRxVeYcB1H7DbuYZQG-lgLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lauraflandersandfriendsPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/lauraflandersandfriendsACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel
Synopsis: As global military spending skyrockets and social programs face drastic cuts, a 50-year-old alternative emerges as a beacon of hope: the Lucas Plan, born from workers' determination to repurpose their skills for societal good.Make a tax deductible YEAR END DONATION and become a member go to LauraFlanders.org/donate. This show is made possible by you! Description [Original release date July 2025]: With the passage of the Republicans' “Big Beautiful Bill” and NATO allies pledging to more than double their spending on defense as a portion of all economic output, military spending around the world is soaring, while spending on meeting social needs and the climate crisis is on the chopping block. Governments often justify spending public money this way by saying it will create good jobs, but what if the workers themselves had a say? Fifty years ago, employees at Lucas Aerospace, a huge military contractor in the United Kingdom came up with an alternative plan. Their approach, known as the Lucas Plan, used the workers' same expertise, but directed production away from bombs, towards goods that actually help society. In this special episode, Laura heads to the UK to interview some of the original workers involved in the Lucas Plan and investigates what one senior government minister at the time called "one of the most remarkable exercises in all of British industrial history.” As she says, it's as relevant now as the day it was conceived.“What we're talking about is a poor economic choice that's being made to posture . . . and look like a big military power in a world that's growing increasingly unstable.” - Khem Rogaly“One of the things that the Lucas Plan has done is actually made it fairly clear to people that there are choices. You're given the impression that you have to make weapons. No, you don't. You're given the choice . . . The issue here is who controls technology and who should control technology, and should it be used to free people or should it be used to enslave people?” - Philip AsquithGuests:• Brian Salisbury: Former Lucas Aerospace Shop Steward• Philip Asquith: Former Lucas Aerospace Shop Steward• Hilary Wainwright: Co-Author, The Lucas Plan: A New Trade Unionism in the Making?; Co-Editor Red Pepper magazine• Khem Rogaly: Senior Research Fellow, Commonwealth; Author, A Lucas Plan for the Twenty First Century: From Asset Manager Arsenal to Green Industrial Strategy ADDITIONAL CREW: Stanley Arlidge - Episode Producer, Clementine Malpas, Tiger Nest FilmsSPECIAL THANKS: Karen Bell, Joe Guinan, Steve Schofield MUSIC CREDITS: Thrum of Soil by Blue Dot Sessions and original sound design by Jeannie Hopper RESOURCES:- Watch the episode released on YouTube July 11th 5pm ET; PBS World Channel July 13th, and on over 300 public stations across the country (check your listings, or search here via zipcode) and airing on community radio (check here to see if your station airs the show) & available as a podcast July 16th.-Related Podcast: Uncut Conversation featuring Brian Salsibury, Former Lucas Aerospace Shop Steward-Related Podcast: Uncut Conversation featuring Hilary Wainwright, Co-Author, The Lucas Plan: A New Trade Unionism in the Making?; Co-Editor Red Pepper magazineFull Episode Notes are located HERE. Recommended book:• “The Lucas Plan: A New Trade Unionism in the Making?” by Hilary Wainwright and Dave Elliott, Learn More Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes:Democracy & Capitalism: A Failed Experiment?: Watch / Listen: Uncut Conversation - EpisodeCommunity Wealth Building: An Economic Reset: Watch / Listen: Uncut Conversation - EpisodeDollars and Democracy: Participatory Budgeting: Watch / Listen: Episode• From Cleveland, OH to Preston, UK. Community Wealth Building, Watch / Listen: Episode Related Articles and Resources:• A Lucas Plan For the Twenty First Century From Asset Manager Arsenal to Green Industrial Strategy, by Khern Rogsly, October 2024 - Common Welath• The Lucas Plan the Way to an Alternative Security Strategy, by Khem Royally, December 11, 2024, Rethinking Security• UK to cut green levies on businesses in bid to reduce energy costs and boost manufacturing, by Jessica Elgot and Rob Davies, June 22, 2025, The Guardian•. Decarbonising and diversifying defense in the US and the UK: A workers' enquiry for a Just Transition, Decarbonising-Defence.co.uk• Wortley Hall, the Worker's Stately home, a member of the co-operative union•. US Defense Secretary Called Europe ‘Pathetic.” Two BU Experts on Whether the Alliance Is Damaged, by Rich Barlow, March 27, 2025, Boston University Today• ‘I will not protect you': Trump Threatens to Abandon Nato Allies, Kaitlan Collins, October 11, 2024, CNN Laura Flanders and Friends Crew: Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer; Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O'Conner-Senior Consulting Producer. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and FriendsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraflandersandfriends/Blueky: https://bsky.app/profile/lfandfriends.bsky.socialFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraFlandersAndFriends/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lauraflandersandfriendsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFLRxVeYcB1H7DbuYZQG-lgLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lauraflandersandfriendsPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/lauraflandersandfriendsACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel
Synopsis: Fifty years ago, factory floor workers at Lucas Aerospace challenged their company's focus on war machines with an innovative plan for socially useful production - and it could be just as relevant today.Full Conversation Release: While our weekly shows are edited to time for broadcast on Public TV and community radio, we offer to our members and podcast subscribers the full uncut conversation. These audio exclusives are made possible thanks to our member supporters.Description [original release date July 2025]: Military budgets are skyrocketing across the globe, while funding for social needs—housing, healthcare, education—is being slashed. Politicians often justify this skewed spending by claiming it creates jobs. But what if the people doing those jobs had a say in how public money was used?Fifty years ago, workers at Lucas Aerospace, a U.K. military contractor, designed a visionary proposal known as the Lucas Plan: a worker-led alternative focused on socially useful production rather than weapons of war.In our special report, The Lucas Plan at 50: A Radical Investment in Society, Not the War Machine, Laura spoke with Brian Salisbury, a former Lucas Aerospace shop steward and one of the voices behind that groundbreaking effort. He comes from a proud family of Lucas workers: his father worked there for over 40 years. He himself worked for the company for 22 years at the Birmingham plant. At 90 years old today He says: “At a time when there's a lack of a political alternative narrative to neoliberalism the opportunity to put forward a response from the “bottom up” is essential given the direction of travel by those in power on either side of the Atlantic.”What follows is the full, uncut conversation with Brian—rich with lessons for today's movements for climate justice, peace, and economic democracy.Guest: Brian Salisbury: Former Lucas Aerospace Shop Steward SPECIAL THANKS: Karen Bell, Joe Guinan, Steve Schofield ADDITIONAL CREW: Stanley Arlidge - Episode Producer, Clementine Malpas, Tiger Nest Films Full Episode Notes are located HERE. Recommended book:• “The Lucas Plan: A New Trade Unionism in the Making?” by Hilary Wainwright and Dave Elliott, Learn More Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes:Democracy & Capitalism: A Failed Experiment?: Watch / Listen: Uncut Conversation - EpisodeCommunity Wealth Building: An Economic Reset: Watch / Listen: Uncut Conversation - EpisodeDollars and Democracy: Participatory Budgeting: Watch / Listen: Episode• From Cleveland, OH to Preston, UK. Community Wealth Building, Watch / Listen: Episode Related Articles and Resources:• A Lucas Plan For the Twenty First Century From Asset Manager Arsenal to Green Industrial Strategy, by Khern Rogsly, October 2024 - Common Welath• The Lucas Plan the Way to an Alternative Security Strategy, by Khem Royally, December 11, 2024, Rethinking Security• UK to cut green levies on businesses in bid to reduce energy costs and boost manufacturing, by Jessica Elgot and Rob Davies, June 22, 2025, The Guardian•. Decarbonising and diversifying defense in the US and the UK: A workers' enquiry for a Just Transition, Decarbonising-Defence.co.uk• Wortley Hall, the Worker's Stately home, a member of the co-operative union•. US Defense Secretary Called Europe ‘Pathetic.” Two BU Experts on Whether the Alliance Is Damaged, by Rich Barlow, March 27, 2025, Boston University Today• ‘I will not protect you': Trump Threatens to Abandon Nato Allies, Kaitlan Collins, October 11, 2024, CNN Laura Flanders and Friends Crew: Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer; Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O'Conner-Senior Consulting Producer. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and FriendsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraflandersandfriends/Blueky: https://bsky.app/profile/lfandfriends.bsky.socialFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraFlandersAndFriends/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lauraflandersandfriendsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFLRxVeYcB1H7DbuYZQG-lgLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lauraflandersandfriendsPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/lauraflandersandfriendsACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel
Shabana Mahmood's new immigration plans have been welcomed by Tommy Robinson. Jessica Elgot explains why. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/infocus
In a major speech this week, Reform UK set out how it would lower immigration. With controversial plans to deport hundreds of thousands of migrants and scrap key human rights protections, Nigel Farage described immigration as a ‘scourge' and an ‘invasion'. Was this a watershed moment in the way politicians talk about small boat crossings? And what is Labour's response? The Guardian's policy editor Kiran Stacey asks the deputy political editor Jessica Elgot. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod
Synopsis: Fifty years ago, factory floor workers at Lucas Aerospace challenged their company's focus on war machines with an innovative plan for socially useful production - and it could be just as relevant today.Full Conversation Release: While our weekly shows are edited to time for broadcast on Public TV and community radio, we offer to our members and podcast subscribers the full uncut conversation. These audio exclusives are made possible thanks to our member supporters.Description: Military budgets are skyrocketing across the globe, while funding for social needs—housing, healthcare, education—is being slashed. Politicians often justify this skewed spending by claiming it creates jobs. But what if the people doing those jobs had a say in how public money was used?Fifty years ago, workers at Lucas Aerospace, a U.K. military contractor, designed a visionary proposal known as the Lucas Plan: a worker-led alternative focused on socially useful production rather than weapons of war.In our special report, The Lucas Plan at 50: A Radical Investment in Society, Not the War Machine, Laura spoke with Hilary Wainwright, Co-Author of The Lucas Plan: A New Trade Unionism in the Making? And Co-Editor of Red Pepper magazine. Hilary is one of the voices behind that groundbreaking effort.What follows is the full, uncut conversation with Hilary—rich with lessons for today's movements for climate justice, peace, and economic democracy.Guest: Hilary Wainwright: Co-Author, The Lucas Plan: A New Trade Unionism in the Making?; Co-Editor Red Pepper magazine SPECIAL THANKS: Karen Bell, Joe Guinan, Steve Schofield ADDITIONAL CREW: Stanley Arlidge - Episode Producer, Clementine Malpas, Tiger Nest Films This show is made possible by you! To become a sustaining member go to LauraFlanders.org/donate RESOURCES:- Watch the episode released on YouTube July 11th 5pm ET; PBS World Channel July 13th, and on over 300 public stations across the country (check your listings, or search here via zipcode) and airing on community radio (check here to see if your station airs the show) & available as a podcast July 16th.- Additional Uncut Conversation featuring Brian Salisbury: Former Lucas Aerospace Shop Steward from Season 6, Episode 215 - The Lucas Plan at 50: A Radical Investment in Society, Not the War MachineFull Episode Notes are located HERE. Recommended book:• “The Lucas Plan: A New Trade Unionism in the Making?” by Hilary Wainwright and Dave Elliott, Learn More Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes:Democracy & Capitalism: A Failed Experiment?: Watch / Listen: Uncut Conversation - EpisodeCommunity Wealth Building: An Economic Reset: Watch / Listen: Uncut Conversation - EpisodeDollars and Democracy: Participatory Budgeting: Watch / Listen: EpisodeFrom Cleveland, OH to Preston, UK. Community Wealth Building, Watch / Listen: Episode Related Articles and Resources:• A Lucas Plan For the Twenty First Century From Asset Manager Arsenal to Green Industrial Strategy, by Khern Rogsly, October 2024 - Common Welath• The Lucas Plan the Way to an Alternative Security Strategy, by Khem Royally, December 11, 2024, Rethinking Security• UK to cut green levies on businesses in bid to reduce energy costs and boost manufacturing, by Jessica Elgot and Rob Davies, June 22, 2025, The Guardian•. Decarbonising and diversifying defense in the US and the UK: A workers' enquiry for a Just Transition, Decarbonising-Defence.co.uk• Wortley Hall, the Worker's Stately home, a member of the co-operative union•. US Defense Secretary Called Europe ‘Pathetic.” Two BU Experts on Whether the Alliance Is Damaged, by Rich Barlow, March 27, 2025, Boston University Today• ‘I will not protect you': Trump Threatens to Abandon Nato Allies, Kaitlan Collins, October 11, 2024, CNN Laura Flanders and Friends Crew: Laura Flanders, along with Sabrina Artel, Jeremiah Cothren, Veronica Delgado, Janet Hernandez, Jeannie Hopper, Gina Kim, Sarah Miller, Nat Needham, David Neuman, and Rory O'Conner. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and FriendsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraflandersandfriends/Blueky: https://bsky.app/profile/lfandfriends.bsky.socialFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraFlandersAndFriends/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lauraflandersandfriendsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFLRxVeYcB1H7DbuYZQG-lgLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lauraflandersandfriendsPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/lauraflandersandfriendsACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel
Synopsis: As military spending soars, how does the Lucas Plan present an alternative model?This show is made possible by you! To become a sustaining member go to LauraFlanders.org/donateDescription: With the passage of the Republicans' “Big Beautiful Bill” and NATO allies pledging to more than double their spending on defense as a portion of all economic output, military spending around the world is soaring, while spending on meeting social needs and the climate crisis is on the chopping block. Governments often justify spending public money this way by saying it will create good jobs, but what if the workers themselves had a say? Fifty years ago, employees at Lucas Aerospace, a huge military contractor in the United Kingdom came up with an alternative plan. Their approach, known as the Lucas Plan, used the workers' same expertise, but directed production away from bombs, towards goods that actually help society. In this special episode, Laura heads to the UK to interview some of the original workers involved in the Lucas Plan and investigates what one senior government minister at the time called "one of the most remarkable exercises in all of British industrial history.” As she says, it's as relevant now as the day it was conceived.“What we're talking about is a poor economic choice that's being made to posture . . . and look like a big military power in a world that's growing increasingly unstable.” - Khem Rogaly“One of the things that the Lucas Plan has done is actually made it fairly clear to people that there are choices. You're given the impression that you have to make weapons. No, you don't. You're given the choice . . . The issue here is who controls technology and who should control technology, and should it be used to free people or should it be used to enslave people?” - Philip AsquithGuests:• Brian Salisbury: Former Lucas Aerospace Shop Steward• Philip Asquith: Former Lucas Aerospace Shop Steward• Hilary Wainwright: Co-Author, The Lucas Plan: A New Trade Unionism in the Making?; Co-Editor Red Pepper magazine• Khem Rogaly: Senior Research Fellow, Commonwealth; Author, A Lucas Plan for the Twenty First Century: From Asset Manager Arsenal to Green Industrial StrategyADDITIONAL CREW: Stanley Arlidge - Episode Producer, Clementine Malpas, Tiger Nest FilmsSPECIAL THANKS: Karen Bell, Joe Guinan, Steve Schofield MUSIC CREDITS: Thrum of Soil by Blue Dot Sessions and original sound design by Jeannie HopperRESOURCES:- Watch the episode released on YouTube July 11th 5pm ET; PBS World Channel July 13th, and on over 300 public stations across the country (check your listings, or search here via zipcode) and airing on community radio (check here to see if your station airs the show) & available as a podcast July 16th.Full Episode Notes are located HERE. Recommended book:• “The Lucas Plan: A New Trade Unionism in the Making?” by Hilary Wainwright and Dave Elliott, Learn More Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes:Democracy & Capitalism: A Failed Experiment?: Watch / Listen: Uncut Conversation - EpisodeCommunity Wealth Building: An Economic Reset: Watch / Listen: Uncut Conversation - EpisodeDollars and Democracy: Participatory Budgeting: Watch / Listen: Episode• From Cleveland, OH to Preston, UK. Community Wealth Building, Watch / Listen: Episode Related Articles and Resources:• A Lucas Plan For the Twenty First Century From Asset Manager Arsenal to Green Industrial Strategy, by Khern Rogsly, October 2024 - Common Welath• The Lucas Plan the Way to an Alternative Security Strategy, by Khem Royally, December 11, 2024, Rethinking Security• UK to cut green levies on businesses in bid to reduce energy costs and boost manufacturing, by Jessica Elgot and Rob Davies, June 22, 2025, The Guardian•. Decarbonising and diversifying defense in the US and the UK: A workers' enquiry for a Just Transition, Decarbonising-Defence.co.uk• Wortley Hall, the Worker's Stately home, a member of the co-operative union•. US Defense Secretary Called Europe ‘Pathetic.” Two BU Experts on Whether the Alliance Is Damaged, by Rich Barlow, March 27, 2025, Boston University Today• ‘I will not protect you': Trump Threatens to Abandon Nato Allies, Kaitlan Collins, October 11, 2024, CNN Laura Flanders and Friends Crew: Laura Flanders, along with Sabrina Artel, Jeremiah Cothren, Veronica Delgado, Janet Hernandez, Jeannie Hopper, Gina Kim, Sarah Miller, Nat Needham, David Neuman, and Rory O'Conner. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and FriendsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraflandersandfriends/Blueky: https://bsky.app/profile/lfandfriends.bsky.socialFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraFlandersAndFriends/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lauraflandersandfriendsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFLRxVeYcB1H7DbuYZQG-lgLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lauraflandersandfriendsPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/lauraflandersandfriendsACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel
Synopsis: Fifty years ago, factory floor workers at Lucas Aerospace challenged their company's focus on war machines with an innovative plan for socially useful production - and it could be just as relevant today.Full Conversation Release: While our weekly shows are edited to time for broadcast on Public TV and community radio, we offer to our members and podcast subscribers the full uncut conversation. These audio exclusives are made possible thanks to our member supporters.Description: Military budgets are skyrocketing across the globe, while funding for social needs—housing, healthcare, education—is being slashed. Politicians often justify this skewed spending by claiming it creates jobs. But what if the people doing those jobs had a say in how public money was used?Fifty years ago, workers at Lucas Aerospace, a U.K. military contractor, designed a visionary proposal known as the Lucas Plan: a worker-led alternative focused on socially useful production rather than weapons of war.In our special report, The Lucas Plan at 50: A Radical Investment in Society, Not the War Machine, Laura spoke with Brian Salisbury, a former Lucas Aerospace shop steward and one of the voices behind that groundbreaking effort. He comes from a proud family of Lucas workers: his father worked there for over 40 years. He himself worked for the company for 22 years at the Birmingham plant. At 90 years old today He says: “At a time when there's a lack of a political alternative narrative to neoliberalism the opportunity to put forward a response from the “bottom up” is essential given the direction of travel by those in power on either side of the Atlantic.”What follows is the full, uncut conversation with Brian—rich with lessons for today's movements for climate justice, peace, and economic democracy.Guest: Brian Salisbury: Former Lucas Aerospace Shop Steward SAVE THE DATE July 16th 7pm EDT - Virtual Member Event via Zoom: Join Laura Flanders in conversation with FAIR Program Director and CounterSpin Host Janine Jackson about the future of public media, Bill Moyers' legacy and more. Plus, you'll get the chance to ask questions and learn more about upcoming episodes of Laura Flanders & Friends! Check your email inbox for your invite, or make a contribution at lauraflanders.org/donate or make it monthly at Patreon.com/LauraFlandersandFriends to receive a registration link. RESOURCES:- Watch the episode released on YouTube July 11th 5pm ET; PBS World Channel June 13th, and on over 300 public stations across the country (check your listings, or search here via zipcode) and airing on community radio (check here to see if your station airs the show) & available as a podcast July 16th.Full Episode Notes are located HERE. Recommended book:• “The Lucas Plan: A New Trade Unionism in the Making?” by Hilary Wainwright and Dave Elliott, Learn More Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes:Democracy & Capitalism: A Failed Experiment?: Watch / Listen: Uncut Conversation - EpisodeCommunity Wealth Building: An Economic Reset: Watch / Listen: Uncut Conversation - EpisodeDollars and Democracy: Participatory Budgeting: Watch / Listen: Episode• From Cleveland, OH to Preston, UK. Community Wealth Building, Watch / Listen: Episode Related Articles and Resources:• A Lucas Plan For the Twenty First Century From Asset Manager Arsenal to Green Industrial Strategy, by Khern Rogsly, October 2024 - Common Welath• The Lucas Plan the Way to an Alternative Security Strategy, by Khem Royally, December 11, 2024, Rethinking Security• UK to cut green levies on businesses in bid to reduce energy costs and boost manufacturing, by Jessica Elgot and Rob Davies, June 22, 2025, The Guardian•. Decarbonising and diversifying defense in the US and the UK: A workers' enquiry for a Just Transition, Decarbonising-Defence.co.uk• Wortley Hall, the Worker's Stately home, a member of the co-operative union•. US Defense Secretary Called Europe ‘Pathetic.” Two BU Experts on Whether the Alliance Is Damaged, by Rich Barlow, March 27, 2025, Boston University Today• ‘I will not protect you': Trump Threatens to Abandon Nato Allies, Kaitlan Collins, October 11, 2024, CNN Laura Flanders and Friends Crew: Laura Flanders, along with Sabrina Artel, Jeremiah Cothren, Veronica Delgado, Janet Hernandez, Jeannie Hopper, Gina Kim, Sarah Miller, Nat Needham, David Neuman, and Rory O'Conner. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and FriendsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraflandersandfriends/Blueky: https://bsky.app/profile/lfandfriends.bsky.socialFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraFlandersAndFriends/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lauraflandersandfriendsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFLRxVeYcB1H7DbuYZQG-lgLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lauraflandersandfriendsPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/lauraflandersandfriendsACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel
Guardian deputy political editor Jessica Elgot on whether the UK government – despite calling for de-escalation for weeks – might be dragged into the conflict in Iran This episode was recorded before Trump's announcement late on Monday that Iran and Israel had agreed to a ceasefire. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/infocus
As Israel and Iran trade escalating blows, and the horrific situation in Gaza continues, Trump has suggested the US could get directly involved. So how is Keir Starmer going to handle all this? And what could it mean for millions of Iranians? John Harris speaks to the Guardian's diplomatic editor, Patrick Wintour, and an Iranian woman who now lives in the UK. Plus, it's a rare week in British politics, with the House of Commons voting on two big social issues: abortion and assisted dying. Deputy political editor Jessica Elgot joins John to discuss. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod
Deputy political editor Jessica Elgot explains the new deal signed between Britain and the EU, and asks whether UK politics is finally over Brexit. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/infocus
The spotlight was back on the assisted dying bill this week after it was revealed that the requirement for a high court judge to decide on cases was to be scrapped. Those in favour of assisted dying say the change will make it safer, but does it undermine trust in the bill? Gaby Hinsliff, in for John Harris, talks to our deputy political editor, Jessica Elgot, about the changes, and asks Kit Malthouse and Jess Asato – MPs on different sides of the debate – what happens next Send your questions and feedback to politicsweeklyuk@theguardian.com. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod
Deputy political editor Jessica Elgot explains how the assisted dying bill came to the House of Commons this week, and how MPs are feeling about their vote. Dr Lucy Thomas speaks about her experience in palliative care and her fears if MPs vote the bill through. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/infocus
Ben Riley Smith of The Daily Telegraph looks back on the week in Westminster. In the week of the election of Donald Trump as the next US President, Ben discusses the implications of the result with Stewart Woods, Labour peer and former adviser to Gordon Brown and Sir Liam Fox, the former Conservative Defence Secretary - and International Trade Secretary during Donald Trump's first presidency.To discuss the impact of the changes to inheritance tax on farms Ben is joined by Liberal Democrat MP Sarah Dyke and the Deputy Director of the Institute for Fiscal Studies, Helen Miller.The former Universities Minister and Conservative peer, Jo Johnson, discusses the government's announcement, earlier this week, that tuition fees for students in England would rise next year.And, as the new Conservative party leader, Kemi Badenoch, faced Sir Keir Starmer for the first time at Prime Minister's Questions, Quentin Letts, political sketchwriter for the Daily Mail and Jessica Elgot, Deputy Political Editor of the Guardian give us their verdict.
It's coming up to 100 days since Labour took power, but its honeymoon period was cut short by a flurry of negative headlines. Will getting rid of Starmer's highest-paid aide help? Jessica Elgot reports. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/infocus
Far-right mobs have continued to threaten communities this week, with violence expected at asylum centres and law firms on Wednesday night. Keir Starmer has said he wants sentences handed out by the end of the week to those already arrested but does this leave the root causes of the violence untouched? Gaby Hinsliff speaks to the Guardian's deputy political editor, Jessica Elgot, and Nazir Afzal, the former chief prosecutor for the north-west of England. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod
The new Labour government gets its first chance to set a legislative agenda with the king's speech at the state opening of parliament. Jessica Elgot examines how radical it will be. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/infocus
After Labour's 2019 election defeat, Keir Starmer vowed to transform the party. Who are the advisers who have helped him shape it? Jessica Elgot reports. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/infocus
A week into the election, we explore party control of the media message and the gaffes that happen when things go wrong. We hear live from the Labour battle bus, talk to Boris Johnson's former social media strategist and look at the way the different campaigns are crafting their message on TikTok. Shona Ghosh, Senior Editor, Bloomberg; Martha Lane Fox, former Board Member, Twitter/X; Katy Balls, Political Editor, The Spectator; Sean Topham, Co-Founder, Topham Guerin; Jessica Elgot, Deputy Political Editor, The Guardian; Timandra Harkness, writer and author of Technology is Not the Problem; Sam Jeffers, Executive Director, Who Targets Me
Days after former deputy prime minister Dominic Raab's resignation, Sophy Ridge talks to the new man in the job, Oliver Dowden.They discuss if he believes Dominic Raab is a bully, the upcoming local elections, and whether Tory scandals are distracting from court backlogs.Plus Sir Ed Davey, leader of the Lib Dems, tells Sophy about the party "gaining momentum" and his thoughts on the Raab bullying report.To discuss these interviews in-depth, Sophy is joined by The Guardian's deputy political editor Jessica Elgot, as well as programme editor Scott Beasley.Producer: Emma Rae WoodhouseEditor: Philly Beaumont
It's the end of an era for two politicians: Nicola Sturgeon has announced she will quit as leader of the SNP and Jeremy Corbyn has been blocked from re-entering the Labour party by Keir Starmer. Gaby Hinsliff is in for John Harris and she speaks to Guardian deputy political editor Jessica Elgot and former Conservative cabinet minister David Gauke. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod
Over the next couple of months, thousands of teachers are due to strike across the UK. What is the government doing in response to their demand for an above-inflation pay increase? Jessica Elgot reports. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/infocus
The Conservative leadership race has been derailed by U-turns, highlighting the weaknesses of the candidates. But with Keir Starmer also seemingly unable to decide if Labour frontbenchers should or shouldn't join picket lines, the Guardian's John Harris is joined by our chief political correspondent, Jessica Elgot, and Gavin Barwell the former chief of staff to Theresa May to ask why we don't have any political leaders of substance any more. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod
In the final episode hosted by the Guardian's lobby team, Jessica Elgot and Aubrey Allegretti look at how the government is responding to the Ukraine crisis, and a criminal investigation into Downing Street parties. Jess is then joined by Heather Stewart and John Crace to look back at a wild few years in UK politics. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod
Jessica Elgot and Polly Toynbee question the prime minister's ability to apologise after Keir Starmer is harassed by an angry mob. Plus, Giles Kenningham and Tim Durant examine the staff shake-up at Downing Street. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod
Sue Gray's report into Covid lockdown rule-breaking in Downing Street has finally been published. Jessica Elgot analyses what it means for Boris Johnson's future. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/infocus
After a chaotic prime minister's questions on Wednesday, rumours circulated about which Tories were sending in letters of no confidence about Boris Johnson, and which were taking them back. Jessica Elgot and Polly Toynbee look at what lies ahead for the PM. Plus, Stewart Wood and Sonia Khan on the working culture in No 10 Downing Street. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod
A note from the Guardian's chief political correspondent, Jessica Elgot, as we head into 2022. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod
Scandals were rampant throughout the halls of parliament in 2021, with sleaze, affairs, party leadership tussles, and lockdown parties at No 10 Downing Street. So what should we expect from UK politics next year? Jessica Elgot, Heather Stewart and Rafael Behr make their predictions. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod
Rowena Mason and Zoe Williams look at the potential consequences of the bombshell video that has thrown doubt on Boris Johnson's repeated denials that there was a Christmas party at No 10 last year. Plus: Aubrey Allegretti, Peter Walker and Jessica Elgot look at what the byelections tell us about the need for a progressive alliance. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod
As the PM contradicts his own scientists, Jessica Elgot and Gaby Hinsliff discuss the government's response to the new Omicron Covid variant. Plus: is Keir Starmer's new shadow cabinet an election-winning Labour team? Starmer's former director of communications Ben Nunn gives us his take in an exclusive first interview since he resigned last summer. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod
As row over MPs' second jobs escalates, the Conservative party's sleaze scandal is not going away. Jessica Elgot and Rafael Behr assess how damaging this could get for the Tories. Plus: the Guardian's sketch writer John Crace on writing satire during a year of chaos in Westminster. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod
Following the death of the MP for Southend West, the second killing of an MP in five years, Jessica Elgot and Dan Sabbagh look at the security measures in place for public figures and what more could be done to keep them safe. Plus, Rupa Huq MP tells Aubrey Allegretti about the value, and risks, of constituency surgeries. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod
In a 90-minute speech rounding off the Labour party conference, Keir Starmer promised a ‘strong plan for government' and attacked his counterpart in Downing Street, calling him a ‘showman'. Jessica Elgot and the lobby team in Brighton bring us the highlights and lowlights of the event. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod
The Labour party meets this weekend in Brighton for its first in-person annual conference since Keir Starmer won the leadership. Jessica Elgot explains why it could define his future prospects. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/infocus
There's a new cabinet in town – or at least a different one than yesterday. Aubrey Allegretti and Rowena Mason look at the winners and losers of Boris Johnson's reshuffle. Plus, Jessica Elgot and Rafael Behr analyse the government's Covid winter plan. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod
In the last episode of our special summer series, Jessica Elgot asks her guests: Who is the elusive David Frost? When did he become such a Eurosceptic? And how will the continuous fallout from Brexit affect his legacy?. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod
Taking a break from our summer series, Jessica Elgot and Dan Sabbagh discuss what the UK government can do after the Taliban completed their takeover of Afghanistan much more quickly than many ministers were expecting. How do they plan to help thousands of stranded Afghans looking for asylum?. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod
In the first episode of our special summer series, Jessica Elgot asks her guests: who is the new Health Secretary, Sajid Javid? How did he rise to the top? What makes him tick? And is he as funny as some claim he is?. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod
Jessica Elgot and Polly Toynbee discuss a purge of so-called far-left factions from the Labour party. Plus, as Boris Johnson again delays the social care overhaul, Heather Stewart, David Gauke, Jill Rutter and Ryan Shorthouse look at the future for his premiership goals. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod
Jessica Elgot and Martin Kettle discuss the government's narrow win to slash foreign aid spending. Plus, Sienna Rodgers, Will Tanner and Sunder Katwala reflect on how politicians are waking up to a progressive patriotism. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod
Jessica Elgot and Rafael Behr discuss Matt Hancock's departure and the issues facing the new health secretary, Sajid Javid. Plus, after one of the nastiest campaigns in UK politics in recent times, will the Batley and Spen byelection cause another electoral upset for Labour?. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod
Jessica Elgot and Martin Kettle discuss the political fallout of the announced delay to the lifting of coronavirus restrictions in England. Plus: Peter Walker is joined by Sonia Sodha and Katy Balls to ask why MPs are so keen to get involved in the perennial culture wars. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod
We look at the prospects for the two women in the race for the Conservative Party leadership. Is there a chance the UK may see its third female Prime Minister? We hear from Rachel Sylvester, the award winning journalist who has interviewed them both and from Jessica Elgot, chief political correspondent for the Guardian about the view from the parliamentary lobby as MPs make their minds up ahead of the first ballot on Thursday. You don't need qualifications to teach your children about science. The science blogger Nanogirl, aka Dr Michelle Dickinson, who set up a nanomechanical testing lab in New Zealand has created a cookbook to teach children about cooking and science at the same time. Michelle talks about the significance of nanotechnology and easy ways for non-scientific parents to get their children into it.Emilie Pine, an associate professor at University College, Dublin has written her first non-academic book, Notes to Self, a collection of essays about what it is to be a woman. She talks to Jenni about the taboo subjects she explores including infertility, miscarriage, menstruation and the effects of alcoholism in a family.Kenya's High Court has ruled against campaigners seeking to overturn a law banning gay sex. Gay sex in Kenya is punishable by up to 14 years in prison, although it is not clear whether there have ever been any convictions. Two women talk about the impact of this ruling on them and other queer women in Kenya.