Podcast appearances and mentions of Rachel Reeves

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.

Rachel Reeves announced seven policy changes outside of the normal fiscal calendar, and Claire Hancott breaks down exactly what they mean for business owners and the people running them. From the mileage rate increase that's been frozen for 15 years to the VAT cut on kids' hospitality that might never reach consumers, this episode cuts through the noise to tell you what actually changes for your business and what is just headlines. Key topics covered: The 12-month vehicle excise duty holiday for HGVs and why it will not move the dial for most transport businesses immediately Mileage rates rising from 45p to 55p per mile, backdated to April 6, and the double-edged sword for employers who pay staff mileage The fuel duty freeze and what it actually means in pounds and pence for HGV operators The VAT cut to 5% on children's hospitality and attractions, and why most businesses will not pass it on to consumers Free bus travel for children in August only, food tariff cuts on 100 products, and the limited help for farmers ⭐ Rate, Review & Share this episode with fellow business owners, and let's grow together! ⭐ Subscribe to the weekly newsletter to get Expert Advice Straight to Your Inbox: https://www.profitcashgrowth.com/subscribe ⭐ Get a Free copy of Claire's book Profit By Numbers: https://www.profitcashgrowth.com/book   VALUABLE RESOURCES Website LinkedIn YouTube Facebook ABOUT THE HOST: Claire Hancott through Profit Cash Growth helps 7 & 8 figure business owners to increase their profit, improve their cashflow and grow their business using their numbers. As a finance director & chartered management accountant, Claire has nearly 20 years' experience in finance and running businesses of her own. This gives her a unique insight into the information and support business owners need to grow a financially successful business. Claire passionately believes that every business should be run by the numbers because the numbers in your business are telling you a story about what is and isn't working and where your opportunities lie. Claire's mission is to provide insightful management accounts, reports and advice to business owners and support them to make smarter decisions.    *The content of this podcast is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute professional advice.

Quy chế cho sinh viên vay tiền để đóng học phí và trang trải các khoản ăn ở trong ba năm đại học đang gặp khủng hoảng vì tiền nợ của hàng triệu cựu sinh viên nay lên tới con số nhiều tỷ bảng. Quốc hội Anh đã phải mở cuộc điều tra để xem các công ty tín dụng học phí (student loan companies) có thu lãi suất quá cao từ người tốt nghiệp đại học phải trả góp hay không. Thông tín viên Nguyễn Giang, hiện là nghiên cứu sinh ở ĐH City St George's, University of London theo dõi chủ đề này đã lâu, trước hết, điểm sơ qua tình trạng cho vay tiền để trả học phí, rồi trả nợ dần sau khi có bằng cử nhân ở Anh hiện nay ra sao: TT.  Nguyễn Giang: Báo chí Anh vào tuần thứ nhì của tháng 3/2026 đã đồng loạt đưa tin về một số liệu được công bố nói rằng có tới 2,8 triệu cựu sinh viên tại Anh (đại học, thạc sĩ) đã nợ chừng £50.000 mỗi người, với một cá nhân nợ kỷ lục, 314.256 bảng Anh tương đương 421 nghìn USD. Trên cả nước, thống kê Quốc hội nêu ra cho thấy núi nợ tiền cho sinh viên vay, còn gọi là “student loan”, đã lên tới gần 300 tỷ bảng sau nhiều thập niên. Điều đáng nói, đây là các khoản chưa trả được. Số tiền lãi họ phải trả đã lên tới 15 tỷ bảng. Quốc hội Anh đang điều tra xem hệ thống cho sinh viên vay tiền như hiện nay, so với ý tưởng ban đầu, hơn 20 năm trước, có bị biến tướng đi hay không. Các báo nói, hồi tiền học chỉ có 1-3 nghìn bảng/năm thì tiền cho vay hay trợ cấp không đáng bao nhiêu, nhưng nay thì nó đã thành một loại tiền cho vay nặng lãi. Anh có thể nhắc đôi nét về quy chế cho vay để người trẻ ở Anh có thể học đại học được hình thành ra sao? Vì sao đến nay lại là vấn đề? Nói về nguồn gốc của hệ thống này thì từ thời Tony Blair làm thủ tướng Anh, đảng Lao động, với các khẩu hiệu cấp tiến, đề cao bình đẳng cơ hội, đã quyết định mở rộng quyền nhận tiền vay của chính phủ để sinh viên có thể trả học phí. Khi đó, sáng kiến này nhắm tới mục tiêu cao hơn là phổ cập đại học ở Anh. Cùng lúc, Anh quốc muốn thị trường hóa hệ thống đại học để tăng tính cạnh tranh. Đây là hai tiêu chí ban đầu tưởng là phù hợp, không đối chọi nhau, nhưng tới này thì mới rõ là có mâu thuẫn. Cụ thể hơn, trên thực tế, trước đó, từ năm 1990 công ty “Student Loan”đã được lập ra và được Chính phủ Anh bảo trợ, để cấp trợ cấp sinh hoạt cho sinh viên ở Anh. Chỉ những em nào không có tiền trợ cấp từ gia đình (vì thu nhập thấp) thì mới được nhận. Đến năm 1998 thì Luật Giáo dục Đại học cho phép các đại học thu phí 1000 bảng Anh/năm với mỗi sinh viên và bỏ các khoản trợ cấp (grant). Thay vào đó, sinh viên được quyền vay tiền trả góp, hệt như mua bất động sản, để trả học phí. Tới năm 2006, học phí ở Anh tăng lên 3.000 bảng/năm/một sinh viên. Và để điều chỉnh lại thì người ta bỏ quy chế tiền cho vay “như vay tín dụng địa ốc” (mortgage) mà chuyển thành một hệ thống phức tạp hơn, có chọn lọc. Tùy vào thu nhập của cha mẹ mà con cái họ là sinh viên sẽ được nhận tiền vay để chi vào: học phí, tiền ăn ở hoặc cả hai. Câu chuyện ở đây là giá sinh hoạt tăng nhanh ở Anh, nay lên tới chừng 6000 bảng/năm, và học phí cũng năm nay lên tới gần 10 nghìn bảng/năm. Vì thế, các khoản cho vay này cộng lại cho một năm học, với sinh viên nội địa Anh cũng khoảng 15-16 nghìn bảng, tương đương 20 nghìn USD. Ba năm học để lấy tấm bằng cử nhân là 60 nghìn USD. Sau khi tốt nghiệp, các em phải trả cả gốc lẫn lãi, mà lãi suất thì từ 6-9%/năm, cao hơn cả tiền vay mua nhà trả góp. Tạo ra các khoảng nợ lớn cho mỗi cá nhân. Với cả nước thì một thống kê của Quốc hội Anh năm 2025 cho thấy con số tổng nợ của nhiều thế hệ sinh viên ở Anh là 292 tỷ bảng, tương đương 389 tỷ USD, cao hơn GDP của một số nước. Tác động kinh tế-xã hội của các khoản ‘nợ học phí' này ra sao với nước Anh? Đầu tiên, mức nợ này là gánh nặng cho nhà nước vì Chính phủ Anh là bên bảo đảm cho các khoản nợ đó. Sinh viên ra trường không có việc làm hoặc làm chưa đủ lương ở mức nhất định thì họ chưa phải trả nợ. Sau 30 năm mà vẫn không trả nợ được thì chính quyền sẽ xóa nợ cho họ. Vấn đề là khi đó, việc xóa nợ chính là làm thâm hụt ngân sách nhà nước chứ không đơn giản là muốn xóa thì xóa. Thứ hai, từ góc độ sinh viên mới ra trường thì thị trường việc làm ở Anh ngày càng khó khăn. Thống kê quý III/2025 cho thấy số thất nghiệp trong giới trẻ dưới 24 tuổi đang ở mức cao, 15,9%. Kể cả khi tiền học phí (tuition) không tăng nữa do bị ấn định bởi chính phủ ở mức gần 10 nghìn bảng cho sinh viên nội địa những năm qua), chi phí ăn ở (maintenance loan) tăng lên quá 6 nghìn/năm, tiền đi lại tàu xe cũng tăng. Nên dù chỉ vay các khoản đó cộng lại, các em sẽ vẫn mắc nợ lớn sau khi tốt nghiệp. Thế nhưng nếu bỏ quy chế cho vay tiền trả góp để học đại học thì hàng trăm nghìn công dân Anh trẻ tuổi sẽ không có cơ hội học đại học. Vì vấn đề mang tính cấu trúc của hệ thống giáo dục - học phí đại học ở Anh cao hơn nhiều so với ở các nước thuộc Liên minh châu Âu, nên ai vay thì sẽ mắc nợ lớn và gần như suốt đời. Đang có một thế hệ không thể mua nhà. Các số liệu tháng 3/2026 nói trước đây, tuổi ở Anh của người mua căn hộ, ngôi nhà đầu tiên (bằng tiền vay trả góp) là 29. Tức là sau khi có bằng cử nhân, đi làm 6-7 năm là có thể mua nhà. Còn nay, tuổi đó đẩy lên 34, tức là ai may mắn có việc làm thì 10-11 năm sau mới có thể tiết kiệm đủ khoản tiền thế chấp và có hợp đồng lao động tốt để mua nhà. Tiền nợ “student loan” đóng vai trò quan trọng trong việc trả vốn lẫn lãi hàng tháng, người trẻ có việc làm, có còn bao nhiêu để tiết kiệm rồi mua nhà hay không? Chính phủ Anh có biện pháp gì chưa ? Quốc hội vừa mở cuộc điều tra. Vào ngày 12/03/2026, Chủ tịch Ủy ban Ngân khố (Treasury Committee) của Hạ viện, bà Meg Hillier, cho biết: "Cuộc điều tra là để tìm hiểu xem các mục tiêu của quy chế cho vay này có công bằng (fairness) hay không, hay là nó đang bất công bằng cách nào đó đối với người đã tốt nghiệp đại học". Một trong những đối tượng của cuộc điều tra là tiền cho vay gọi là Plan 2 (Kế hoạch số 2), áp dụng vào giai đoạn 2012 và 2023, với số sinh viên, cựu sinh viên nay mắc nợ là 5,8 triệu người. Bộ trưởng Tài chính Rachel Reeves nêu ra một số điều chỉnh như đóng băng ngưỡng lương mà người học xong đại học có được khi đi làm ở mức thấp £29.385 bảng/năm từ năm 2027. Nhưng điều này cũng bị chỉ trích. Các vấn đề khác liên quan? Cũng nhân việc này, báo chí nói về nạn người nước ngoài như công dân Rumani định cư ở Anh sau Brexit bị cho là chiếm đa số trong số “vụ lừa đảo vay tiền ‘student loan' rồi trốn, không học và cũng không ở lại Anh nữa”. Số liệu từ báo chí nói trong giai đoạn 2019/2020 có chừng 25 nghìn công dân Rumani vay tiền học đại học, thì điều này khá bình thường, tương đương chừng 19 nghìn công dân Ba Lan ở Anh vay tiền học. Vì họ là công dân EU có thẻ định cư ở Anh thì được tính như sinh viên nội địa. Nhưng giai đoạn 2023/24 đột nhiên có tới 78.325 người Rumani vay tiền học, và cuộc điều tra của báo Telegraph nói có khá nhiều trường hợp họ ghi danh vào một trường nào đó, nhận tiền nhà nước cho vay, rồi bỏ học hoặc về nước của họ sống. Đây là vấn đề mang tính hình sự, nhưng nó cũng nói lên một thực tế là việc cho vay quá dễ dãi, kiểm soát nhiều lỗ hổng. Vì sao người nước ngoài ở Anh vẫn có thể vay tiền để học đại học? Người Việt Nam có quyền đó không? Không phải tất cả các công dân ngoại quốc ở Anh có quyền đó, chỉ có công dân khối EU đã định cư ở Anh và phải sống ở Anh tối thiểu là 3 năm trước khi nộp đơn xin vay tiền học phí. Đây là ưu tiên cho công dân EU sau Hiệp định Brexit (2021). Những công dân EU khác không đạt được tiêu chuẩn này thì không được. Công dân các nước ngoài EU như Việt Nam thì lại càng không được, trừ khi họ có thẻ định cư ở Anh. Tôi xin nói tiếp về câu chuyện hiện nay ở Anh còn điều gì nữa. Với sinh viên ở Anh thì còn một vấn đề nữa là ngôn từ. Các công ty cho vay tiền học từng quảng cáo hợp đồng “không khác gì hợp đồng mua điện thoại 30 tháng” và né tránh câu chữ về nợ nần. Họ quảng cáo khá nhiều trên mạng xã hội. Tôi cũng thấy, nói như thể đây là khoản từ thiện, ai ở Anh có giấy tờ định cư, có quốc tịch là được “hưởng quyền lợi” đó, được vay tới 24 nghìn bảng để có tấm bằng đại học. Thực tế thì đây là khoản nợ bạn phải trả với lãi suất rất cao. Giới trẻ cần được giáo dục để không ký tiền vay một cách dễ dàng rồi mắc nợ. Xin nói là ai đã vay mà bỏ học, bị đuổi học thì cũng vẫn phải trả nợ. Vấn đề sẽ đi về đâu? Chính phủ Anh có giải pháp hay chưa và nếu có thì đi theo hướng nào? Hiện nay trong Nghị viện Anh, Đảng LibDem đề xuất bỏ cách đóng băng ngưỡng phải trả tiền vay, hiện bị khóa ở mức thấp £29,385 bảng/năm – ai có thu nhập đạt ngưỡng này là phải trả góp tiền đó. Nếu để ngưỡng này tăng theo lạm phát, thì những ai thu nhập cao hơn mới phải trả, giảm sức ép nợ nần. Ngoài ra, có sáng kiến yêu cầu đổi tên “student loan” (tiền cho sinh viên vay) thành “graduate tax” (thuế đại học), để ai cũng thấy là có trách nhiệm. Có tiếng nói đòi cắt giảm phần trăm lãi suất hiện ở mức 6,2% đến 8–9%/năm, rất cao. Có ý kiến nói Chính phủ cần lập ra quỹ cứu trợ “ân xá” tiền học, trả thay sinh viên một phần. Hiện chưa rõ Bộ Tài chính có muốn như vậy không. Vấn đề rất là lớn, và chưa biết có giải pháp nào khả thi không trong những năm tới. Còn trong những tháng tới thì tôi tin là khó. Chỉ trong tháng 5-6 này, các học sinh tốt nghiệp phổ thông đã ghi danh vào đại học từ mùa thu năm nay rồi. Rồi sau hè là các em vào niên khóa đầu tiên, bằng tiền vay như các thế hệ đi trước. Tức là quy trình sẽ cứ chạy tiếp như vậy. Không có thay đổi chính sách nào kịp trong vòng 1-2 tháng. Có lẽ phải sang năm hoặc sau nữa mới có điều chỉnh chính sách này.

How have you had to cut back since the war in the Middle East sent the global economy into turmoil? What else would you like to see Rachel Reeves do to help with this summer cost-of-living crisis?Joining Iain Dale on Cross Question are the independent peer and free speech campaigner Baroness Claire Fox, economist Duncan Weldon, Labour MP Toby Perkins and Conservative London Assembly deputy leader Emma Best.

In the final episode of Season 3, CEO Nimesh Shah and Heather Powell take a look at some of the tax stories making headlines, including Andy Burnham's proposals for a land value tax and inheritance tax reform, and the latest developments surrounding Rachel Reeves' ISA plans. They discuss the practical implications that these policies could have for property owners, investors and taxpayers, while also examining whether headline-grabbing tax proposals can work in practice. To round off the season, Nimesh and Heather swap policy discussions for a light-hearted Tax Factor challenge, Nimesh tests Heather on how many UK taxes she can name in 60 seconds, before sharing some of the most surprising tax myths and misconceptions they've encountered throughout their careers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tiernan is in for Diane this week, chatting with Tatton about heatwaves and Rachel Reeves' Summer of Savings. They also spent far too long discussing and laughing about which animals would make the best MPs. Who we are Simple Politics does things differently. We exist to help you have better conversations about the issues and the changes that matter. We do so by being clear, accurate and impartial. Also, light-hearted, engaging and occasionally (but not as often as we think) amusing. It's not just about understanding the facts and the topics themselves but also looking at why different people hold the opinions they do. Those with whom you disagree aren't monsters. Understanding and respect are at the core of everything we do. Our core offering will always be free. Unfortunately, giving things away for free isn't a great business model. We've never been business people. But. We do need to make this work. We do so through our amazing supporters, who keep us going by buying stuff in our shop and making monthly donations. This podcast has been Produced by Stripped Media If you want to know more about this podcast and others produced by Stripped Media, please visit www.Stripped.media or email Producers@Stripped.Media to find out! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In what is perhaps the closest this podcast has ever come to releasing a raw audio file, your stoic hosts endure the scalding British atmosphere to discuss the scaldingly racist atmosphere at Tommy Robinson's coked up rally. We also bring you another Labour update as the competitors for the premiership take their marks, as well as Rachel Reeves' latest plan to pull their failing party out of the toilet. David rounds out the episode by reading us a modern-day forums moderator meltdown, as well as Reading Directly From The Book via a landlord newsletter website. Subscribe for three whole bonus episodes a month: https://www.patreon.com/praxiscast Watch streams: https://www.twitch.tv/praxiscast Buy shirts: https://praxiscast.teemill.com/ Follow us: https://bsky.app/profile/praxiscast.bsky.social Cast: Jamie - https://bsky.app/profile/reobinwagon.bsky.social David - https://bsky.app/profile/sanitarynaptime.bsky.social Alasdair - https://bsky.app/profile/ballistari.bsky.social

In the Makerfield by-election, Reform UK have put forward a local plumber in the hope of derailing Burnham's push for power — but a string of deeply questionable old social media posts has left the campaign wobbling. Meanwhile, on Reform's right flank, Rupert Lowe's Restore Britain party is threatening to split the vote after a Sunday Times poll put them on 7% — enough to potentially hand Labour the advantage.Back in Downing Street, Rachel Reeves is machine-gunning her colleagues. The question is whether she genuinely believes she can survive in post under an Andy Burnham leadership.Patrick Maguire, chief political commentator, The TimesLara Spirit, deputy political editor, The Sunday TimesProducers: Euan Dawtrey, Harry KitsonExecutive producer: Molly GuinnessPicture credit: Getty ImagesThis podcast was brought to you thanks to subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. To enjoy unlimited digital access to all our journalism subscribe here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

New immigration figures show two noteworthy things: arrivals are down but a lot of voters think arrivals are up. Meanwhile, Andy Burnham says those figures need to come down further – to the chagrin of some in Labour, and also us because he said that after we'd finished recording this episode. Alex and Kenny dig around the data from several sources and try, tentatively, to work out what's going on and why. And, in the week that Rachel Reeves was subjected to some particularly nasty heckling from a Reform supporter – only to have Nigel '£5million Security Donation' Farage offer to buy the heckelr a pint – they ask where the line should be drawn when it comes to public-politician interactions. Plus, burnout has been thrust into the spotlight by Greens MP Carla Denyer announcing she's taking a break. But what is it, what are the symptoms and what can you do about it? ***SPONSOR US AT ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠KO-FI.COM/QUIETRIOTPOD⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠*** • The stand-up at the start of the episode is Radu Isac • Burnout – info and advice • Burnout – the 42% rule • Latest net migration figures • British Future survey on migration perceptions • Alex Andreou's Podyssey ... look out for Sisyphus • Behind The Lines ... BH Monday 'naughty prince' content • We have put together a ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠BLUESKY STARTER PACK⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, if you would like to join us there • Email us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠quietriotpod@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Or visit our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.quietriotpod.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Cover image based on photo by chris robert on Unsplash Brought to you by Naomi Smith, Alex Andreou and Kenny Campbell. Quiet Riot is a Cooler Heads production. ***SPONSOR US AT ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠KO-FI.COM/QUIETRIOTPOD⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠*** Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Andy Burnham has officially launched his campaign today to be MP for Makerfield (read: Prime Minister). But what does he actually stand for? We've had briefings that, despite being the candidate of the soft left, he will stick to Rachel Reeves's fiscal rules and keep Shabana Mahmood's immigration reforms. He's flirted with nationalisation of utilities, but which exactly? What's the big pitch?Burnham's launch comes the day after some good news for the government, after net migration hit its lowest level since the pandemic. The number of people moving to Britain dropped to 171,000 in the 12 months to December, nearly half the figure recorded the year before. So why isn't the government shouting about it?Oscar Edmondson speaks to Michael Simmons 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 Labour leadership contest may be rumbling on in the background, but today Coffee House turns to the Conservatives – and whether Kemi Badenoch can really revive a party still reeling from electoral collapse.Her allies argue that Badenoch is beginning to cut through: from her conference speech to her response to Rachel Reeves's Budget, and her decision to sack Robert Jenrick. Her personal ratings have improved, even as the Tory brand remains deeply damaged. But is that enough? Can Badenoch turn the Conservatives into a serious vehicle for change? Is the Tory brand beyond repair? And could the party eventually find itself forced into some kind of deal with Reform?Tim Shipman is joined by Noa Hoffman and Boris Johnson's former director of communications Lee Cain to discuss Kemi's dilemma – and whether the Conservative party is dead, or merely resting.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 Labour leadership contest may be rumbling on in the background, but today Coffee House turns to the Conservatives – and whether Kemi Badenoch can really revive a party still reeling from electoral collapse.Her allies argue that Badenoch is beginning to cut through: from her conference speech to her response to Rachel Reeves's Budget, and her decision to sack Robert Jenrick. Her personal ratings have improved, even as the Tory brand remains deeply damaged. But is that enough? Can Badenoch turn the Conservatives into a serious vehicle for change? Is the Tory brand beyond repair? And could the party eventually find itself forced into some kind of deal with Reform?Tim Shipman is joined by Noa Hoffman and Boris Johnson's former director of communications Lee Cain to discuss Kemi's dilemma – and whether the Conservative party is dead, or merely resting.Produced by Oscar Edmondson. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the one-hundred-and-ninety-third episode, we look at the Definist Fallacy, starting with Trump redefining profit, temperament, and his opponents.In Mark's British Politics Corner, we look at definitions of socialism from Jeremy Corbyn, Mick Lynch, Kier Starmer, Rachel Reeves, Jonathan Reynolds, and James Cleverly.In the Fallacy in the Wild section, we check out examples from Friends, Babylon 5, and Andy Ngo on the Joe Rogan Experience podcast.Jim and Mark go head-to-head in Fake News, the game in which Mark has to guess which of three Trump quotes was made up by Jim.Then we talk about the insane "settlement agreement" between Trump and the DoJ.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/ft193 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/teeSubscribe to Fallacious Trump to make sure you never miss a logical fallacy. Rather than just mindless anti-Trump rhetoric, we apply skepticism and critical thinking to our Donald Trump analysis by exploring his liberal use of logical fallacies and cognitive biases, along with a bit of humor and news about US politics. (But there is also some of that much needed anti-Trump rhetoric.)Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

With food prices in the spotlight as Rachel Reeves pushes supermarkets to cap costs for consumers, this week's show starts further up the supply chain with pork and poultry producer Cranswick. The company reported another strong set of results, and Mark Robinson talks through the details.Discussion then turns to this week's Big Read on picking the perfect pension provider. In a week when the Pensions Commission outlined big gaps in the nation's savings, it's poignant to discuss what investors should consider when choosing a savings account. From charges to investment options, selecting the right home for your savings is vital. Helen Kirrane explains what to do.Finally, we cast our ears to palm oil producers in Indonesia, a country already feeling the impact of higher prices and where mooted export controls hit the industry this week. Julian Hofmann gives us the details on MP Evans and AEP Plantations.Timestamps00:00 Intro01:07 Cranswick13:07 How to pick a perfect pension pot23:13 Palm oil plantations Listen to more podcasts from Investors' Chronicle on Apple, Spotify and YouTubeInvestors' Chronicle has supported private investors in the UK for over 160 years by highlighting rewarding investment opportunities. Investors' Chronicle is a service by the Financial Times. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Whitehall Sources, Calum Macdonald, Jo Tanner, and James Nation pull back the curtain on another busy week at Westminster. After Andy Burnham was confirmed as Prime Minister, are the government now in crisis mode and will anything they do increase their approval ratings? Also on the show today: Why did the UK quietly loosen sanctions on refined Russian oil and diesel behind Europe's back? We break down the late-night technical notice that left ministers fumbling for answers.Bridget Phillipson called criticism of a social media video with Gemma Collins "snobbery," but why did the Department for Education's collaboration with her leave Special Educational Needs (SEND) parents and campaigners absolutely furious?Rachel Reeves announces a summer VAT holiday on theme parks, cinemas, and zoos while the government fights off rumours of supermarket food price caps. Is this smart cost-of-living policy or sheer desperation?And a brutal text exchange between Jonny Reynolds and suspended Labour MP Karl Turner goes viral on X. Is this sending completely the wrong message on mental health? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, the chancellor Rachel Reeves has announced a series of measures aimed at reducing the costs for families in the summer holidays. Ticket prices for families at various attractions such as theme parks, zoos and museums will be cheaper during the summer holidays through a cut to VAT, the chancellor has said. The government didn't however announce any major package of support aimed at energy costs. On Thursday it was also revealed that UK migration had dropped to 171,00 almost half of 2024's figure. Adam, Chris, Joe Pike and Helen Miller from the Institute for Fiscal Studies discuss. You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing newscast@bbc.co.uk or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes are released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXd Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Jack Maclaren with Shiler Mahmoudi. The social producer was Jem Westgate. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

DO RACHEL REEVES AND KEIR STARMER DESERVE TO BE HECKLED?  #RachelReeves #KeirStarmer #UKPolitics #JonGaunt #CommonSense #LaborHypocrisy #GeneralElectionNow #BritishValues  Rachel Reeves got a reality check today! A "white van man" heckled the Chancellor at a petrol station, and now the political class is in a total meltdown. The pearl-clutching commentators are out in force, whining about "civility" and "manners" in UK politics. Rachel even had the patronising cheek to say that the man heckling her "wasn't a very British thing to do!" Really, Rach? Since when did you become the arbiter of what is or isn't British? I'd say standing up to a hypocrite and speaking your mind is about as British as it gets!  I'll tell you what manners are, Rach! Manners are NOT lying on your CV. Manners are NOT lying in your manifesto. And manners are certainly NOT ripping off pensioners' fuel allowances while you sit smugly in Whitehall!  If these hypocrites want to talk about manners, let's start with the basic decency of telling the truth to the British public. They want us to stay quiet while they dismantle the country? I don't think so. It's time to test this "stinking smug hypocrisy" with a General Election! HAVE YOUR SAY: Is heckling a legitimate form of protest when politicians stop listening? Or have we lost our way? I'll be reading your comments and reactions throughout the show—get stuck in!

With Andy Burnham inching closer to a return to Westminster, Sam White, Keir Starmer's former chief-of-staff, joins the podcast team to explore what happens next - and what the prime minister can do while this drama plays out around him. If Burnham makes it to Number 10, then he will follow a path once trodden by Boris Johnson  in being a mayor turned prime minister. So what skills does the mayoralty provide - and how might they be transferable to Downing Street? Plus: What is in Rachel Reeves's economic support package and will it meet the scale of the Iran crisis?  Catherine Haddon presents.With Hannah Keenan and Tom Pope. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Married at First Sight UK has been pulled off air after allegations of rape during filming were made by former participants. What does this tell us about safeguarding in reality TV? Why might Rachel Reeves's newly announced cuts on food tariffs negatively affect our health? And why has a football club admitted to spying?Jeevan Vasager is joined by The Observer's James Tapper, Madeleine Parr and Andrew Butler as they battle it out and pitch the top stories of the day. Note: This episode contains mentions of sexual violence and suicide.**We want to hear what you think! Email us at: newsmeeting@observer.co.uk Follow us on Social Media: @ObserverUK on X @theobserveruk on Instagram and TikTok@theobserveruk.bsky.social‬ on bluesky Host: Jeevan VasagerProducer: Amalie SortlandExecutive Producer: Poppy BullardTo find out more about The Observer:Subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentHead to our website observer.co.uk Download the Observer app – for a listening experience curated by our journalists Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

British politics has moved at a rapid pace the last week, with Andy Burnham securing his root to parliament, Wes Streeting reigniting Brexit debates, and a defiant No. 10 fighting on through all of it. Ed Balls and George Osborne examine the leadership race, the manoeuvres being made by Streeting to court the Labour faithful and how Burnham is having to campaign on two fronts. Why is the cabinet silent? Is Starmer right to cling on? Will the King of the North be coronated should he return to parliament? What if he loses? The pair then examine the economic prospectus of both Burnham and Streeting, contrasting it with the cost of living support announced by Rachel Reeves today. They detail the limitations of any government to combat inflation, the holes in plans both contenders have spoken of and the risk a governing party faces openly debating policy like this.Finally, they take a trip across the Atlantic to California and the final stages of the gubernatorial primary. George's mate Steve Hilton has maintained his frontrunner status amidst a split Democratic field, but can he actually win come November? The odds are stacked against him, but Ed and George caution not to count him out.We love hearing from you, so please don't forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question or send a question to our social media handles:

The Office for National Statistics has released the migration figures for the last quarter — and whilst the government is celebrating, Julia Hartley-Brewer isn't buying it. She's joined by Reform UK Councillor and Deputy Leader of Durham County Council Darren Grimes, who forcefully argues that nobody voted for the rampant levels of migration over the past decades. From David Cameron's broken promise of reducing it to tens of thousands, to Boris Johnson's staggering 944,000 net arrivals, the British public have been consistently lied to — and are now footing the bill in housing, healthcare, schools, and council translation contracts running into the tens of thousands.Former Head of UK Border Force Tony Smith then joins to drill down into the raw data. Net migration is down to 171,000 — but 88,000 new asylum claims, a 3% boat removal rate, and nearly a fifth of the UK population now foreign-born tells a very different story.Also: Julia discusses the viral clip of Rachel Reeves getting heckled at a Leeds petrol station… and her questioning the British-ness of her heckler. Plus, the Reform candidate for the Makerfield by-election faces media scrutiny over deleted tweets.Julia Hartley-Brewer broadcasts on Talk from Monday to Thursday, 10AM to 1PM.Available on YouTube and streaming platforms, along with DAB+ radio and your smart speaker. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves had to hit back at a heckler while trying to answer questions from the media at a stand-up. Reeves was announcing that a planned increase in fuel duty would be scrapped to help consumers at a petrol station - while a man yelled pro-Reform comments from his truck. UK correspondent Enda Brady explained why more politicians in the UK seem to be copping backlash from certain fringe groups. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Would a voluntary agreement between supermarket bosses and the Chancellor to cap the prices of food basics help those struggling on low incomes? Is the biggest threat to the UK now higher inflation or higher unemployment? And could Andy Burnham, as Prime Minister, take control of water and energy without destroying the public finances? Steph and Robert discuss Rachel Reeves' plans to protect living standards from Trump's Iran war shock, and try to work out what Andy Burnham means when he says his “Manchesterism” is the end of neoliberalism. The Rest is Money is brought to you by Octopus Energy, Britain's smart energy pioneer. Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠the⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠restismoney@goalhanger.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@TheRestIsMoney⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@TheRestIsMoney⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@RestIsMoney⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Advertise with us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Partnerships@goalhanger.com⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After a fortnight of local and national elections drama - can the machinery of government get back moving again amid global instability?With the Straits of Hormuz still shut, Sam and Anne examine a raft of announcements coming from the Treasury. Is Rachel Reeves about to open a massive argument with the NIMBYs on the right to launch judicial reviews?Away from the levers of government, the duo look ahead to some upcoming by-elections and explain the rules around the coverage of electoral events.All the candidates standing in the Makerfield by-election can be found here.

Scrutiny of Andy Burnham, Labour's candidate for Makerfield, continues. As the Labour party wrangles over who should be leader, Andy Burnham is hoping a successful campaign in Makerfield will prove to party and country that he can beat Reform and turn a hitherto spectacularly unpopular government around. But after his U-turn on Brexit, now his commitment to trans ideology is coming under fire… as his previous comments suggesting that trans-identified men should have access to women-only spaces emerged. Meanwhile, Rachel Reeves has reportedly been discussing voluntary price caps with supermarkets – to keep the prices of essential goods down. Immediately, a furious reaction from retail groups ensued. Karl Turner MP calls it ‘nearly the barmiest idea I've ever heard'. Julia Hartley-Brewer broadcasts on Talk from Monday to Thursday, 10AM to 1PM.Available on YouTube and streaming platforms, along with DAB+ radio and your smart speaker. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Elon Musk loses in his lawsuit against OpenAI boss Sam Altman. Elsewhere, Rachel Reeves says she will relax banking regulations, and Sean hears from the director of a golf academy who has known US PGA Championship winner Aaron Rai since he was a teen.

Mark Dolan reacts as Andy Burnham faced accusations of political contortion after retreating on EU rejoining and endorsing Rachel Reeves's borrowing rules. Labour polling showed Burnham preferred over Starmer, while Wes Streeting's leadership hopes suffered sharp rejection from party members. Wider favourability data suggest that Burnham could unite Labour's fractured base, though Brexit-sensitive Makerfield remains a crucial test.Wake up with Talk Breakfast in full on YouTube, DAB+ radio, Freeview 280, Fire TV, Samsung TV Plus or the Talk App on your TV from 6am every morning. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Die Britse minister van Finansies, Rachel Reeves, sê die land se jongste groeisyfers toon die regering het die regte ekonomiese plan. Die ekonomie het in die eerste kwartaal met 0,6-persent gegroei toe produksie en die boubedryf goed presteer het ondanks hoër energiekoste weens die Iranse konflik. Reeves sê ekonomiese bestendigheid moenie nou in gevaar gestel word nie, en waarsku teen 'n moontlike leierskapsuitdaging teen eerste minister Keir Starmer:

Join hosts Jon Bruford and Fintan Costello as they dive into the intricacies of government decision-making, UK gambling industry impacts, and US gambling evolution, with insightful comments from seasoned journalist Matthew Lynn. This episode unravels the complex relationship between politics, economics, and gambling regulation across the UK and US –perfect for industry insiders and curious listeners alike.Things we talk about, but in a list: The short-termism of political leaders, especially in economic policymaking, exemplified by UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves' gambling tax decisionsThe economic and social impact of tax increases on the UK high street gambling industry and related sectors like horse racingUS gambling landscape: legal sports betting expansion, prediction markets, and tribal influence in regulationThe influence of political and economic backgrounds of leaders on fiscal decisions and public industry healthThe chaotic nature of political leaks and media strategy around budgets and tax policiesPotential future developments in US gambling regulation and the role of tribal governmentsChoice quotes: Matthew Lynn: "Rachel Reeves, who's a pretty terrible Chancellor in my view, put up gambling duty quite significantly in the last budget. And it's clearly backfiring."Matthew Lynn: "The gambling industry is a major British industry. It's also a major industry on the high street. Go to any high street anywhere in Britain, you get to see a bookmaker."Jon Bruford: "The gambling industry is the easy puppy to kick."Fintan Costello: "The shop closures would probably happen anyway, because a lot of the tax changes were aimed at the online gambling rather than the land-based stuff."Chapters and all that, but add 30 seconds or so because of the sexy music. Also there are a lot of them so you might want to sit down before you read this: 00:00 - Introduction to the podcast's international focus and hosts' banter 01:14 - Insights into the UK's political stance on immigration and industry reflections 02:42 - Sponsorship mentions and industry service providers (OptiMove, GLI) explained 05:13 - Overview of upcoming industry events and awards in gambling 07:11 - Guest Matthew Lynn joins to discuss UK fiscal policy, gambling taxes, and political decision-making 12:15 - Deep dive into the UK's recent gambling duty hike and industry repercussions 14:08 - The broader economic effects of tax policies on high street gambling venues and related industries 19:33 - Critique of Rachel Reeves' short-term fiscal strategies and their long-term risks 20:02 - The impact of increased taxes on the UK gambling industry and potential spillover into horse racing 22:15 - Discussion on political short-termism, government indecisiveness, and the importance of experienced leadership 23:36 - US gambling landscape: regulation of sports betting in various states, prediction markets, and federal vs state oversight 38:34 - The emerging dominance of prediction markets and the strategic influence of tribes in US gambling regulation 44:36 - US political and economic updates: President Biden, foreign policy, and upcoming challenges for the US 55:24 - Final reflections on government chaos, industry resilience, and unpredictable futuresResources & Links:Matthew on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-lynn-0b131a1/As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their vibrant and excellent support that makes all of this… magic… possible.Optimove, who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses just plain work better. Optimove, your support helps us to keep creating content for an industry that probably thinks we disappeared years ago.Then of course there is Clarion Gaming, no hang on World Gaming, providers of the magnificent ICE expo and iGB Live! in London. There is simply nobody better at what they do.And the new-ish members of the family, the excellent Gaming Laboratories International. GLI is a world-class Testing, Inspections and Certification company committed to delivering the highest quality land-based, lottery, and iGaming testing and assessment services, working in more than 710 jurisdictions.For more information, visit gaminglabs.com.The Gambling Files podcast delves into the business side of the betting world. Each week, join Jon Bruford and Fintan Costello as they discuss current hot topics with world-leading gambling experts.Website: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3A57jkRSubscribe on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4cs6ReF Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheGamblingFilesPodcast Fintan Costello on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fintancostello/ Jon Bruford on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-bruford-84346636/ Follow the podcast on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-gambling-files-podcast/ Sponsorship enquiries: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/contact/ Get our newsletter: https://thegamblingfilestldr.substack.com/

Andy Briggs, chief executive of Standard Life, joins the Big Boss Interview to discuss the war in Iran, pension reform,and the growing risk that millions of people are not putting enough aside for later life.Briggs says pension savers should not panic about the conflict in the Middle East, arguing that most economists expect short-term volatility rather than lasting structural damage to investments. Standard Life, which looks after 12 million customers and manages more than £300 billion in assets, believes pensions should be viewed over decades. Workplace retirement saving continued through COVID, the Ukraine inflation shock and the Liz Truss mini-budget fallout, because contributions are taken from gross pay before workers see their wages.Briggs addresses concerns about a potential AI bubble, noting that much of the funding flowing into artificial intelligence is now debt-based, which could create risks if companies fail to generate sufficient cash to service that debt.The new Pension Schemes Act — the biggest overhaul of the sector in more than a decade — has his broad support, particularly the push for greater scale and investment in productive assets such as infrastructure and growth equity. UK pension savers have generated real returns of around 4% per annum over the past decade, compared with 5.2% in Canada and 5.5% in Australia. The biggest difference, he says, is exposure to private assets. He draws a clear line at mandation, however, arguing that investment decisions should remain a matter of customer choice rather than government compulsion.Briggs is emphatic that pensions policy needs long-term, cross-party consensus rather than budget-cycle speculation. He points to the damage caused by rumours ahead of Rachel Reeves's budget, when thousands of customers withdrew their tax-free cash prematurely — only for the policy to remain unchanged, leaving those savers worse off.The current auto-enrolment minimum of 8% of salary is no longer sufficient, he warns, calling for a gradual increase to 12%. Without change, 60% of people could reach retirement in the 2040s without enough for a decent standard of living. The crisis is partly hidden because today's retirees still benefit from defined benefit pensions built up earlier in their careers — a cushion that is rapidly disappearing.Briggs concedes the UK is "not sufficiently financially literate" on pensions and expresses concern for younger generations struggling to find secure work. Greater pension investment in the UK economy, he argues, could stimulate growth, improve infrastructure and create better jobs — benefiting both savers and the wider economy.Presenter: Felicity Hannah Producer: Olie D'Albertanson Editor: Henry Jones01:54 Andy Briggs joins the pod - discusses political upheaval. 06:00 War in Iran impact on pension savers 08:19 AI bubble concerns & tech stock exposure 09:58 Pension drawdowns around the Reeves budget 11:32 Pension Scheme Act & mandation 17:02 Returns gap vs Canada & Australia 22:20 Pension adequacy & the case for 12% 24:05 60% face inadequate retirement by the 2040s 26:35 Young people & the retirement challenge 30:50 Financial literacy admission 36:10 Personal reflections on careers & opportunity

Zack Polanski's Green Party surge comes under fierce scrutiny as Julia Hartley-Brewer asks whether the bubble has finally burst amid allegations of antisemitism, radical policies and growing questions over the party leader's past claims.Former Senior Military Intelligence Officer Philip Ingram MBE joins Julia to examine the Greens' controversial platform — from wealth taxes and net zero targets to leaving NATO, scrapping Trident and legalising drugs — and whether protest voters are now seeing what lies beneath the party's “nice” image.As local elections loom, the pressure on Keir Starmer intensifies. With Labour facing potentially disastrous results in Wales, Scotland, London and the Red Wall, Julia and Philip discuss whether the Prime Minister could soon face rebellion from his own MPs, a major reshuffle, or even a leadership challenge. Rachel Reeves' future also comes under the spotlight as UK borrowing costs rise and the markets react nervously to Labour's economic direction.Then, Julia turns to the escalating Iran crisis. Donald Trump's shifting position on escorting tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, fears of military escalation, and the West's ability — or inability — to confront hostile regimes are all on the table.Also on the podcast, Spiked Online's Brendan O'Neill delivers a blistering assessment of Zack Polanski, the Green Party, antisemitism allegations and what the rise of radical protest politics says about Britain today. He also weighs in on Labour's collapse in its traditional heartlands and whether anyone — from Andy Burnham to Angela Rayner, Wes Streeting or Ed Miliband — can rescue the party from freefall.Julia Hartley-Brewer broadcasts on Talk from Monday to Thursday, 10AM to 1PM.Available on YouTube and streaming platforms, along with DAB+ radio and your smart speaker. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With days until the local and national elections – amid some grim polling projections – are Labour facing a double-edged threat from both the left and right of British politics?As instability in the Middle East intensifies, Keir Starmer is preparing to host a summit to tackle antisemitism, but will Labour's punchy attack on the Greens – including claims of antisemitic remarks made by their candidates – cut through with the voters?Away from the campaigning Sam and Anne assess the state of potential leadership challengers. Are they ready and can they realistically force the Prime Minister's hand?Plus, have Rachel Reeves' warnings to the U.S. that the war with Iran would be “folly' come back to haunt her?

It's been a long time in the making and the idea has run through successive governments, but a new law to improve the life of those who rent their home has finally kicked in.Whether it's much-needed or much-feared depends what side of the landlord fence you are on, but what's not in doubt is that the Renters' Rights Act is a massive shake-up.The assured shorthold tenancy system that has been the backbone of renting a home for almost 40 years has been torn up and replaced with rolling contracts that tenants can get out of with two months' notice.Landlords, however, will find it much harder to get their property back, put the rent up, or even turn down pets.So, is this what the rental market needs, or is it likely to backfire as some property experts warn?With decades of experience of renting, covering the property market - and even helping with a family business that's involved in it - Georgie Frost, Helen Crane and Simon Lambert dig into the Renters' Rights Act.Plus, on this episode, the Bank of England held rates but could it really need to raise them three times this year and what's behind the rocketing number of 45p taxpayers and why isn't it Rachel Reeves' fault?And finally, travel experts this week revealed where is still cheap to fly to for summer, so do you fancy a holiday in Cork, Dortmund or that old Wags' favourite Baden-Baden?Follow us on Instagram @dmgnewmedia.Follow us on TikTok @dmgnewmediaFollow us on X @dmgnewmediaEmail us hello@dmgmedia.co.ukText us 020 7938 6000.Hosts: Georgie Frost, Simon Lambert, Lee Boyce, Helen CraneProducer: Georgie Frost Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Does Keir Starmer have confidence in Rachel Reeves? Kemi Badenoch pressed the Prime Minister on his Chancellor's future at PMQs – and he declined to answer, twice. Westminster (and Twitter) is now awash with reshuffle rumours.No 10 has since issued a denial, but the damage may already be done, raising a familiar question: is Keir Starmer just bad at politics?With recess looming and Labour braced for a battering at the local elections, Tim Shipman and Noa Hoffman join Megan McElroy 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.

How much did Brexit cost the UK? Would rejoining make us much richer? And if US managers are PSG players, are British ones more like Aston Villa's? Robert talks to Stanford Professor Nick Bloom about his influential forecast, recently adopted by Rachel Reeves, that quitting the EU made Britain 8% or £240bn poorer than it would otherwise have been. The Rest is Money is brought to you by Octopus Energy, Britain's smart energy pioneer. Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠the⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠restismoney@goalhanger.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@TheRestIsMoney⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@TheRestIsMoney⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@RestIsMoney⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Advertise with us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Partnerships@goalhanger.com⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Keir Starmer faced a fired-up Kemi Badenoch at the final Prime Minister's Questions before the local elections this lunchtime, with the PM refusing to explicitly rule out sacking his Chancellor, Rachel Reeves.Camilla Tominey and Tim Stanley are live at Warwick University with special guest Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg as part of the Daily T: On the Road, who says he has heard Andy Burnham is ready for a leadership challenge immediately after May 7.They also discuss the creeping rise of sectarian and political violence, with an antisemitic attack in Golders Green, North London, and Nigel Farage admitting to this newspaper that his home had been “firebombed”.

Keir Starmer is facing fresh questions over the Peter Mandelson vetting scandal after the explosive evidence from former senior civil servant Olly Robbins — and the pressure on No.10 is building. Julia Hartley-Brewer asks: is the Prime Minister a dead man walking? With claims of disquiet from inside Downing Street, accusations of “jobs for the boys”, and Labour figures openly turning on their own leader, this row is fast becoming a full-blown crisis for Starmer.Joined by former Conservative adviser Claire Pearsall and independent MP Karl Turner, Julia tears into the toxic culture at the heart of government, whether Starmer misled Parliament, and why Labour nerves are jangling after PMQs and before the local elections. If the drip-drip of revelations continues, can No.10 survive the summer — or is this the scandal that finally breaks him?Also: Julia reacts to the alarming poll showing half of young people would never fight for Britain, asking what it says about patriotism, identity and whether this country is still worth defending. There's also the growing fallout from the Iran crisis and disruption in the Strait of Hormuz, with warnings of higher fuel costs, rising energy bills, supply chain shocks and fresh pain for British households already squeezed by Rachel Reeves' faltering economy.And fury too over the tobacco and vapes bill, as MPs wave through a lifetime smoking ban for anyone born after 2008 — a common-sense health measure, or another open goal for smugglers, black-market gangs and the nanny state?Julia Hartley-Brewer broadcasts on Talk from Monday to Thursday, 10AM to 1PM.Available on YouTube and streaming platforms, along with DAB+ radio and your smart speaker. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fresh off the back of our latest episodes Ed Balls and George Osborne get an answer to their queries around the curate eggs and a follow up to the Libya crisis series on age in politics. In politics, particularly the Tories, you're considered young at 40 or 50 while in tech it makes you ancient. Why is this? Youth is often seen as a negative in politics, but is there value to not being weighed down by your experiences? Then the pair answer a question from the Barclays Brief podcast on the gilt markets, and options open to Rachel Reeves should higher energy prices limit her fiscal headroom. They explain why her options are severely limited coming into the second half of this the parliament and what options are still available for her.Baroness Jo Valentine then asks a question around rail development at Heathrow should the third runway be developed. They point to past projects like the Millennium Dome and Olympic Park as pointers on what you should and shouldn't do, while exploring why planning often takes so long in Britain.Finally, they address a question on many people's minds: what happens if we're plunged into active war? They discuss whether the government should better prepare the public for this event, and what areas of weakness the government should address to better protect the public in future. We love hearing from you, so please don't forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question.Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad- free join Political Currency Gold or our Kitchen Cabinet. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

President Trump says Israel and Lebanon have agreed to a ten day ceasefire following "excellent conversations" with both the Lebanese President, Joseph Aoun, and Israel's Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu. Also: Peter Mandelson, the former Labour peer, failed his security vetting clearance but the decision was overruled by the Foreign Office to ensure he could take up his post as ambassador to the US. And the Chancellor, Rachel Reeves says there has been a “very positive” start to the year for the economy.

The Middle East conflict raged on during our Easter break and George Osborne comes back to us with news from Washington and word from friends in high places, like incoming Fed Chair Kevin Warsh. He and Ed Balls discuss the failed peace talks from George's other mate, JD Vance, and where things go from here. They then weigh in on the UK's shifting tone towards the Trump administration, and why they're becoming more critical. It's aiding them for now, but will it come back to bite them? The ongoing defence spending dilemma also rears its head with Labour peer George Robertson openly critcising the Government. The pair predict this will come to be the biggest challenge for Rachel Reeves and the Treasury in this year's budget.Earlier this week the International Monetary Fund forecast that Britain would be one of the countries worst hit by the Iran war. Ed explains why he disagrees with this assessment, and how the Bank of England can avoid debilitating inflation. George cautions that Reeves is in a tough spot, and faces some unpopular choices should the IMF's forecast come to fruition. Finally, George sheds some light on emerging cybersecurity threats particularly Anthropic's Mythos model. Alarms are ringing in Washington over this model, with the new threats of AI on defence and security becoming clear. George highlights the risk and opportunity inherent in these technological innovations, and they call for regulation as these models become more and more advanced.We love hearing from you, so please don't forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note of your question.Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad- free join Political Currency Gold or our Kitchen Cabinet. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:

Today, an undercover BBC investigation has found evidence of law firms and legal advisors helping migrants pretend to be gay to get asylum.Migrants were advised to take staged photos at nightclubs, attend LGBT events and to go to GPs pretending to be depressed to obtain medical evidence to support their cases. Adam and Chris are joined by BBC politics investigation correspondent Billy Kenber, who uncovered the story.In response to our findings, the Home Office said: "Anyone found trying to exploit the system will face the full force of the law, including removal from the UK."Plus, Adam also checks in with Faisal, who's in the US at the IMF's annual conference. He fills us in on the indirect war of words between Rachel Reeves and her US counterpart, Scott Bessent.You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing newscast@bbc.co.uk or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXd Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Anna Harris with Shiler Mahmoudi. The social producer was Joe Wilkinson. The technical producer was Jonathan Greer. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

World finance ministers meeting in Washington have been voicing their anger and frustration at the US because of the financial strains being placed on the global economy caused by its military offensive in the Middle East. Rachel Reeves from the UK described the US-Israeli war with Iran as 'folly' while France's finance minister Roland Lescure called for renewed efforts to unblock the Strait of Hormuz. The calls come as Iran's military widens its threats on shipping the Gulf to include the Red Sea and the Gulf of Oman - if the US naval blockade of Iranian ports continues. The International Monetary Fund has been warning of the risk of a global recession at its Spring Conference in Washington DC. There was further evidence of these concerns today. Hermes is the latest fashion house, after LVMH and Gucci-owner Kering to say sales have been weaker than expected at the start of this year...with spending hit both in the Middle East, but also fewer tourists visiting Paris and buying handbags and designer clothes. And there has been continued unrest in parts of India over wages, as the increased costs of living caused by the crisis continue to hurt the economy. Also in the programme - are hedge fund managers cashing in on the uncertainty of whether firms will receive refunds on tariffs?And we discover why Google is clamping down on so-called ‘back button hijacking'...when sites mess with your browser so you can't leave.Presenter: Leanna Byrne Senior Producer: Craig Henderson

What's behind the rebound in many software names this week? Jefferies' Brent Thill breaks down some potential drivers. Then What Meta's deal with Broadcom signals about Mark Zuckerberg's larger AI ambitions and strategy. Plus, the U.K.'s Rachel Reeves, Chancellor of the Exchequer, with a warning about the Iran War's impact on growth for the country. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Theodore Cazals (@trueslazac) explains why French president Emmanuel Macron is unpopular, and why the French political system has entered a period of stability anyway.  William Kedjanyi (@KeejayOV3), Paul Krishnamurty (@paulmotty), and Pip Moss (@PipsFunFacts) analyze how British Prime Minister Keir Starmer could hold on to power.   Timestamps 0:10: Chougule introduces France segment 1:26: Chougule introduces UK segment 2:28: Intro ends 4:29: France interview begins 4:36: Cazals background 5:32: Cazals connection to prediction markets 6:50: Why Cazals lost money in prediction markets 11:44: Macron's approval ratings 12:53: French political system 13:37: Macron's political brand 17:13: Yellow Vest Movement 22:24: France Polymarkets 22:30: Macron out of office? 23:24: Impeachment 23:59: French legislative elections 25:52: Lecornu 26:14: Prime Ministers 26:58: Elisabeth Borne 30:48: Budget cuts 32:06: Pension reform 32:45: Reappointment of Lecornu 33:54: Lecornu out? 36:50: France segment ends 37:05: UK segment begins 37:18: Personnel changes? 38:53: Rachel Reeves out? 39:51: Cabinet reshuffle? 40:11: Starmer resigns? 41:37: Blair-Brown rivalry 43:28: Starmer relationship with MPs 44:11: Boris Johnson's ouster 45:43: Foreign policy 45:54: Starmer-Trump relationship 46:25: Greenland 49:05: Odds on Starmer leaving in 2026 Bet on French and British politics at Polymarket.com, the world's largest prediction market. Get notified whenever a new meetup is scheduled and learn more about the Forecasting Meetup Network here: https://bit.ly/forecastingmeetupnetwork ​Join our Discord to connect with others in the community between monthly meetups: https://discord.com/invite/hFn3yukSwv

Trump promised America lower prices, cheaper gas, no more foreign wars and worldwide respect. Instead his Iran rampage has dynamited the world economy, skyrocketed oil prices, and bogged the US down in a worsening military quagmire – and no-one is coming to help. As MAGA squabbles over the future, has Trumpism been torpedo'd by the only person who could destroy it: Donald Trump? Plus, an economic tsunami is arriving from the Strait of Hormuz just when Rachel Reeves doesn't need it. Is Britain ready for Cost of Living Crisis II? And who will pay the political price? And in the Extra Bit: America discovers the Baked Potato. What could possibly go wrong?  “The madman theory of foreign policy only works if you're not actually a madman.”  ESCAPE ROUTES • Hannah recommends the Ill-Advised podcast with Bill Nighy • Matt saw Baz Lurhmann's Romeo + Juliet for the first time in 30 years and loved it.  • Zoë recommends the new series of Married At First Sight Australia. • Seth has been reading The Man Who Sold Honours by Stephen Bates www.patreon.com/ohgodwhatnow Presented by Zoë Grünewald with Hannah Fearn, Matt Green and Seth Thévoz.  Audio Production by Robin Leeburn. 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

Today, we try and get to the bottom of whether or not Iran and the US might be meeting at the negotiating table.Whilst President Trump has previously said the two countries have already had productive conversations, Iran has denied the reports.Lyse Doucet, chief international correspondent and Parham Ghobadi, senior reporter for BBC Persian explain who might be involved if talks do go ahead and the latest we know about what's happening inside Iran. Plus, Faisal Islam joins Adam for a deep dive into how all the uncertainty is affecting the economy. They unpack Rachel Reeves' address to the House of Commons today and the measures she might take if the situation continues to escalate. Apply for tickets to Castfest here https://www.bbc.co.uk/showsandtours/shows/castfest-2026You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing newscast@bbc.co.uk or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXd Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Anna Harris with Shiler Mahmoudi. The social producers were Jem Westgate, Beth Pritchard and Sophie Millward. The technical producer was James Piper. The assistant editor was Jack Maclaren. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Today, President Zelensky has been in London to agree a new defence partnership with the UK, with Downing Street hoping to unite “Ukrainian expertise and the UK's industrial base" to manufacture drones. But while Starmer and Zelensky were meeting one side of the Atlantic, President Trump was changing his mind on whether he needs Nato support in the Strait of Hormuz again.During a meeting with the Irish Taoiseach, Micheál Martin, President Trump hit out at Starmer again. Adam and Chris discuss Zelensky's visit and President Trump's change of heart.Plus, economics editor Faisal Islam joins Adam, fresh from looking at quantum computers with Rachel Reeves, to discuss the Chancellor's annual Mais Lecture which covered AI, closer ties with Europe, and possible plans to devolve tax revenue spending.You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing newscast@bbc.co.uk or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXd Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Anna Harris with Shiler Mahmoudi and Harry Craig. The social producers were Jem Westgate and Joe Wilkinson. The technical producer was James Piper. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

The Chancellor will deliver the annual Mais lecture today and is expected to focus on closer alignment with the EU, AI and improving Britain's economic geography ('levelling up' in all but name). While her comments on Europe might gain the most headlines, we're more curious about what she will say over AI – given the current geopolitical context. Given the energy requirements of AI, the Iran crisis has only further exposed the holes in Britain's energy policy – can Rachel Reeves convince Ed Miliband to adapt his policies? And is this about the Chancellor's political headroom as much as the economic?Plus: President Zelensky is in town to sign a defence pact with the UK, while Nicola Sturgeon and Humza Yusuf are expected to give their final speeches in the Scottish Parliament before standing down as MSPs. Tim Shipman and Michael Simmons join Patrick Gibbons to reflect on their legacies.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.

Two big topics on the agenda today as Keir Starmer has his pitch – again – on the cost of living. He told us towards the start of the year that every minute not spent tackling the cost of living was a minute wasted, so what has he been doing in all that time?Also today, ahead of her Mais Lecture this week, Rachel Reeves has been laying the groundwork for closer ties with the European Union. This does seem like a change of rhetoric from the Chancellor, who is openly suggesting that Brexit was a mistake. So what would closer ties look like? And is this the only lever that remains for her to deliver growth?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.