Shadow Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster
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We hear exclusively from French finance minister Roland Lescure who says his country would be willing to aid the U.S. in securing the Strait of Hormuz but would require the conflict to de-escalate first. UK Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves has warned the nation faces the possibility of higher inflation and borrowing costs due to the Iran war but tells CNBC it is on a far stronger footing today to absorb the shocks due to her fiscal reforms. Tehran fires a barrage of missile attacks at Tel Aviv following the killing of Iran's senior-most security chief Ali Larijani. In the U.S., top counter-terrorism director Joe Kent resigns over the decision to go to war. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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.
Rachel Reeves has used her ‘Mais Lecture' speech at Bayes Business School to announce a ‘deeper relationship' with the European Union, criticising Brexit for the damage it has done to the UK economy.Camilla, Tim and Allister Heath question why the Government is choosing to pursue closer relations with a bloc whose growth is a fraction of the United States', and ask whether it's more of an idealogical choice than a pragmatic one.Elsewhere, Camilla and Tim attend Reform's latest press conference, which saw Nigel Farage launch a competition promising to pay the energy bills of the winner and their entire street for a year. Speaking to The Daily T, Farage also had his say on his party's poll lead after YouGov were forced into changing how they show results following complaints from Reform.We want to hear from you! Email us at thedailyt@telegraph.co.uk or find @dailytpodcast on TikTok, Instagram and X► Sign up to our most popular newsletter, From the Editor. Look forward to receiving free-thinking comment and the day's biggest stories, every morning. telegraph.co.uk/fromtheeditorProducers: Lilian FawcettSenior Producer: John CadiganExecutive Producer: Charlotte SeligmanVideo Producer: James EnglandStudio Operator: Meghan SearleSocial Producer: Nada AggourEditor: Camilla Tominey 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.
It's been a few days since we last looked at the Persian Gulf crisis, and events are racing forward at such a pace that the only sensible approach is to take a step back and examine the deeper patterns. Behind the headlines about Trump's impulsive decision-making lies a far more consequential story: the moment when a medium-sized power with cheap drones and missiles can hold the world's energy supplies hostage, and the world's sole superpower finds itself with no good options.I begin with the decision-making in Washington—or rather, the absence of it. Trump, advised by Netanyahu and a handful of Fox News personalities, appears to have launched this war on a whim, assuming he could create "media noise" with no thought to an exit strategy. Military planners who understand the region have been overruled. The system of American governance has decayed to the point where a single egotistical hustler can launch the country into a no-win scenario.Why no-win? Because Iran has been preparing for this moment for years. Its arsenal of drones, rockets, missiles, mines, and attack boats makes the safe navigation of the Straits of Hormuz virtually impossible. The idea of an international naval flotilla—Trump's proposed solution—is laughable. You would have to maintain it forever, and Iran would interpret any passage not agreeable to them as a hostile act.I draw a historical parallel: the Dardanelles campaign of 1915. The reason the Allies landed at Gallipoli was because the first attempt to sail through the straits ended in disaster, with British and French ships sunk by shore-based fortifications. The Straits of Hormuz will become exactly that kind of killing zone. It doesn't matter how big your navy is. How many capital ships is America willing to sacrifice for a war Trump started on a whim? How many American lives before the outcry sweeps him from office?The asymmetry of war is changing. Cheap, mass-produced drones—with motorcycle engines and mobile phones for guidance—can overwhelm anti-missile systems like Patriot and THAAD. Aircraft carriers, the symbol of American power for eighty years, may no longer be the tools for enforcing world order that they once were. China has been signalling this for years with its spectacular drone displays over Beijing: "Imagine what we can do if we attach something to them."Then there are the geopolitical consequences. Europe will rapidly rapproche with Russia to access cheap hydrocarbons. The Ukraine war will likely be settled in Russia's favour. The push for renewables will gain a new argument: national security, liberation from Trump's whims. Rachel Reeves, the British Chancellor, has already signalled where the wind is blowing, choosing Ursula von der Leyen over Trump when asked.The special relationship is dying. Suez was a humiliation; this is worse. The British political class is finally waking up to the reality that clinging to America's coat-tails no longer offers protection—only entanglement in unwinnable wars.And then there's Israel. Nuclear-armed, increasingly isolated, and with an American public whose support has reached an all-time low. If America withdraws from the Gulf, what sense does it make to support Israel as Iran's key enemy? But Israel has always reserved the right to act unilaterally. The situation between Iran and Israel is the one that will continue, long after the current crisis resolves—if it resolves.I end with two possible futures: a quick resolution where Trump claims an illusory victory and moves on, or a protracted conflict that drags the world into an endless energy crisis. Either way, the lesson of North Korea has been learned: the only protection against American aggression is a nuclear weapon. Iran will never sign another enrichment treaty.Explaining History helps you understand the 20th Century through critical conversations and expert interviews. We connect the past to the present. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and share.▸ Support the Show & Get Exclusive ContentBecome a Patron: patreon.com/explaininghistory▸ Join the Community & Continue the ConversationFacebook Group: facebook.com/groups/ExplainingHistoryPodcastSubstack: theexplaininghistorypodcast.substack.com▸ Read Articles & Go DeeperWebsite: explaininghistory.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
President Trump urges the UK to send warships to the Strait of Hormuz, to help defend the vital shipping route from Iranian attacks. Israel says it's hit more than a-hundred Hezbollah command centres in the Lebanese capital Beirut. The chancellor, Rachel Reeves, says she has found extra money to offer support to people struggling with higher heating oil costs. Also: The public is invited to vote an new artwork to remember Northumberland's Sycamore Gap tree.
The conflict in the Middle East has already seen Keir Starmer fall out with Donald Trump - but will the economic fallout of war cause even bigger problems for the government? Former government adviser Tim Leunig joins the podcast to discuss what the prime minister and Rachel Reeves could do to ease a growing cost of living crisis. In a big week for the government, the controversial courts and tribunals bill returned to the House of Commons. The government is - in its words - “throwing the kitchen sink” at the problems facing the criminal justice system, but will its radical reforms have the desired effect? And Digital ID is back, with the government setting out its plans for “government by app” . But will it convince people of the merits of going digital? Presented by Catherine Haddon With Jill Rutter, Cassia Rowland and Tim Leunig Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Marco Amitrano, European boss of PwC, joins the Big Boss Interview to discuss the UK economy, artificial intelligence, business confidence and the case for loosening the government's fiscal rules to unlock infrastructure investment.Amitrano makes a direct appeal to Chancellor Rachel Reeves to reconsider the government's borrowing limits, arguing that strict fiscal rules risk preventing the investment needed for long-term economic growth. He says the UK faces what has been described to him as a £2 trillion infrastructure gap, spanning transport, digital networks and the energy grid. Relaxing borrowing restrictions, he argues, could allow government to invest alongside business in the technology, talent and infrastructure needed to make the UK globally competitive. Amitrano acknowledges that markets may initially react with higher borrowing costs, but says a transparent plan showing how spending would drive growth could reassure bond investors.Artificial intelligence is already reshaping the professional services sector, with Amitrano revealing that more than 80% of chief executives globally are making material investments in AI, and around 60% now see it as critical to their organisation's survival. He discusses how the technology is transforming how businesses operate, while pushing back against claims that AI is already replacing large numbers of graduate jobs. PwC recently reduced its graduate intake from around 1,500 to 1,300, but Amitrano says that decision was driven by a slowdown in demand following the November 2024 Budget, not automation. The firm still receives roughly 400,000 applications each year and uses AI only in the early stages of screening before human interviews.Before the recent escalation in the Middle East, Amitrano says business confidence had been showing signs of recovery. Falling finance costs, strong corporate balance sheets and wage inflation running ahead of cost inflation had created conditions for what he describes as potential economic “lift-off”. However, geopolitical tensions have reintroduced uncertainty, particularly around energy prices, where the UK remains the most expensive country in Europe for energy.He also reflects on the impact of the November 2024 Budget, which he describes as a miscalculation that combined several policies — workers' rights reforms, minimum wage increases and higher employer National Insurance contributions — in a way that made hiring feel riskier for businesses. Amitrano says that damaged the relationship between government and business, although dialogue has begun to improve through initiatives such as Keep Britain Working, which aims to bring economically inactive people back into the labour market.Presenter: Simon Jack Producer: Ollie Smith & Olie D'Albertanson02:32 AI transformation imperative for business survival 06:15 Graduate recruitment cut due to economic slowdown, not AI 10:07 AI in recruitment: screening 400,000 applications for 4,000 jobs 14:07 Value of university education beyond qualifications 19:37 November 2024 budget damaged business confidence 21:57 Middle East conflict derails UK economic recovery 26:32 Call for Rachel Reeves to relax fiscal rules for infrastructure 28:07 £2 trillion infrastructure gap: technology, talent and infrastructure spending needed
As the first tranche of documents relating to the hiring of Peter Mandelson are released, how bad will the fallout be for Keir Starmer and the government? Pippa Crerar is joined by Peter Walker to discuss. Plus, the fuel duty row that Rachel Reeves thought she could avoid. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod
The US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has said today will be the most intense day yet of American strikes on Iran. Over the weekend, Donald Trump claimed the war could soon be over – and suggested the US has already effectively won. He also took aim at Keir Starmer, accusing Britain of joining wars America has ‘already won'. Deputy and US editor Freddy Gray joins the podcast to explain what's really happening in Washington and why he believes the ‘special relationship' may be over – and not coming back.Economics editor Michael Simmons also joins to discuss the fallout. As oil prices surge and markets react, Reform UK is seizing on renewed pressure over the cost of living. What does the crisis mean for Rachel Reeves – and how serious could the economic consequences become? They both 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.
Rachel Reeves warns brits Trump's Iran war could hit them in their pockets, the £50 million London apartments owned by the new Iranian leader, and Ian Huntley's funeral could cost £3000.
Tim Shipman is joined by Isabel Hardman to discuss the domestic fallout from the conflict in Iran – from oil prices surging past $100 a barrel to renewed pressure on Britain's cost-of-living crisis.They examine how the rising price of energy could derail Labour's economic plans, why Rachel Reeves may face difficult choices on fuel duty and support for households, and whether Keir Starmer has the political authority to navigate another economic shock ahead of the May elections.They also debate the government's new ‘cohesion strategy' – including plans for an anti-Muslim hatred adviser and a broader crackdown on extremism – and ask whether Labour has found a coherent approach to integration, immigration and social cohesion, or whether the policy risks opening new divisions within the party.Produced by Megan McElroy and Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.For more Spectator podcasts, go to spectator.co.uk/podcasts.Contact us: podcast@spectator.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
A week into the Iran war and Sir Keir Starmer is scrambling to defend the UK's position on the conflict. Criticised by Donald Trump over blocking the US from using British military bases to launch initial strikes on Iran, and under pressure from allies such as Cyprus to do more to protect the region, the PM is also facing demands to participate in strikes from the British right. But polling suggests the UK public is broadly in line with his policy on the conflict. This week host Lucy Fisher is joined by the FT's chief political commentator Robert Shrimsley, deputy opinion editor Miranda Green and our economics editor, Sam Fleming, to discuss London's response to the war. Plus, the panel examines chancellor Rachel Reeves' spring forecast and the home secretary Shabana Mahmood's new immigration policy.Want more? Keir Starmer calls for de-escalation and defends his leadership over Iran attacksIn defence of hand-wringers and pearl-clutchersTrump threatens to cut trade with ‘terrible' Spain and calls Starmer ‘no Churchill'Rachel Reeves faces hazardous fiscal picture even without Iran warUK to further curtail rights of asylum seekersWealthy Dubai residents race back to UAE to avoid tax billsClips from: BBCWith Kevin Warsh nominated as the next Federal Reserve chair, join FT journalists on Thursday March 19 at 1pm (GMT) for an exclusive subscriber webinar exploring the future direction of the greenback, monetary policy and the global financial system. Register now for The Dollar under Trump at ft.com/trump-dollar and send us your questions.Sign up here for 30 free days of Stephen Bush's Inside Politics newsletter, winner of the World Association of News Publishers 2023 ‘Best Newsletter' award. Our email address is politicalfix@ft.comFollow Lucy on X: @LOS_Fisher and Bluesky; @lucyfisher.ft.com ;Robert: @robertshrimsley and @robertshrimsley.bsky.social; Sam @Sam1Fleming and Miranda: @greenmiranda and @greenmirandahere.bsky.socialPresented by Lucy Fisher. Produced by Clare Williamson and Laurence Knight. The executive producer is Manuela Saragosa. Audio mix by Sean McGarrity. The FT's head of audio is Cheryl Brumley.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Laura caught up with Jeremy Corbyn outside parliament yesterday after Rachel Reeves' Spring Forecast speech.Subscribe to How to Rebuild Britain now: https://linktr.ee/howtorebuildbritain Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Joining Carys this week is the activist, political influencer and creator of Everything Is Political Busayo Twins.Together, Carys and Busayo discuss the attacks on Iran by Israel and the United States, AI comopany Anthropic, the Green party leapfrogging Labour in voting intention polling, and Rachel Reeves' spring statement.Support us on PATREON - get bonus episodes, a weekly newsletter and become a part of our members-only WhatsApp community.Email us at info@overunderpod.comSign up to the newsletter at www.overunderpod.comFollow us on all socials @over_under_pod_Follow Busayo on instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/busayotwins
It's been a busy ol' week in the world of energy this week, not least due to the news from last weekend that the US and Isreal had bombed Iran. In the Episode of Energy Voice Out Loud, Ryan Duff is joined in the studio by Micheal Behr and E-FWD editor Ed Reed. First up, Ed discusses the headlines that have been dominating front pages all of this week and the impact attacks across the Middle East are having on the UAE, energy workers in the region, and oil prices as the trio get into a discussion about how global turbulence will impact the UK North Sea. Next, news editor Erikka Askeland headed down to London for the Future of the North Sea event the day after chancellor Rachel Reeves' spring statement. There she spoke with OEUK CEO Dave Whitehouse who was guarded ahead of an industry summit with the Chancellor. She also spoke to Myles Allen, head of atmospheric, oceanic and planetary physics at the University of Oxford who explained his "simple" solution to global climate change while delivering a UK carbon capture and storage industry beyond Acorn's wildest dreams. Finally, Ryan discusses Aberdeen services giant Wood and its string of ups and downs this week after it announced a court date to sign off on its takeover at the hands of Sidara and the Financial Conduct Authority slapped it with a £13 million fine, although it has managed to make the fee smaller since. Could the end of the Wood acquisition saga be coming to an end? Some industry commentators certainly think so.
Why hasn't there been a dramatic increase in the price of oil since Iran's retaliation aimed at key oil facilities and waterways? Are investors right not to worry too much yet? What will it take to end this? And following Trump's fury at Starmer over his reluctance to let them use UK air bases, is the special relationship over? With the continued unrest in the Middle East, Robert and Steph analyse the reaction of investors and look at what it means for the global economy. Plus they discuss whether this makes Rachel Reeves' spring statement redundant. 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 weeks of warnings from George Osborne and Ed Balls, Donald Trump has rolled the dice and launched Operation Epic Fury and Operation Rising Lion against Iran. The strikes sent shockwaves around the world, with many wondering what Trump's real motivations were. Why did Trump act now? What is his endgame? And what could the domestic and geopolitical consequences be?Ed and George unpack the strategic calculations behind the decision, from Middle East security to access to oil, and discuss the geopolitical fallout that may follow.The conflict in Iran has also brought about the starkest moment of disagreement between UK and US since the Vietnam war. Keir Starmer refused to follow the US and Israel, but how much was that position based on internal disagreements within Labour and the long political shadow of the Iraq War?Finally, the pair turn to Rachel Reeves' Spring Statement. Did the Chancellor miss the mark? With defence spending pressures rising and unresolved questions around student loans, they ask if the statement was unusually partisan despite delivering few major policy changes.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:
As the war in the Middle East enters its sixth day, questions remain over the Prime Minister's stance – but did a cabinet revolt shape the UK's response?Reports suggest Keir Starmer was in favour of granting the US access to UK military bases sooner, but was overruled by an alliance of Yvette Cooper, Ed Miliband, Rachel Reeves and Lord Hermer.Sam and Anne unpack the power dynamics at the top of government and the pressure the PM faces from international allies – some of whom are wondering which side Britain is on.Away from the conflict, Home Secretary Shabanna Mahmood unveils tougher immigration plans in a major speech - but will the rhetoric cross the line?Plus, the duo have insider gossip from Morgan McSweeney's leaving do.
Political commentator Mike Indian says that Kier Starmer's decision to stay out of the strikes on Iran is wise. There is no sense of an end-game plan. All this is a long way from Trump's first-term rhetoric of "no foreign wars". It is hard to see this as anything but naked aggression. We, however, have built our post-war security under the US nuclear umbrella and our failure to protect our bases merely highlights the cutbacks in our armed forces in the last 15 years or so. If we are smart, perhaps we will use the conflict as a spur to increase our defence budget. Has Starmer's refusal to help harmed the "Special Relationship"? That hasn't really existed since Bush and Blair. Iran will run out of ammunition before the Americans but what happens then? The muted reaction to the Spring Statement shows how quiet things have become on the Rachel Reeves' front. The forecasts for growth have been downgraded but the Chancellor is still on track to meet her tax and spending rules. A surge in inflation as a result of "events" could yet pose her problems. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
A spring budget statement in the middle of a global meltdown. Can it make sense even a little bit? Well, possibly. Our guest is someone who really can get under the skin of these issues – uber-economist and author Vicky Pryce. Join Naomi Smith, Alex Andreou and Kenny Campbell to find out (possibly) if Trump's Iranian adventure has rendered Rachel Reeves' Spring Statement redundant. And what of the Middle East meltdown? Can anybody make any sense of what is going on? ***SPONSOR US AT KO-FI.COM/QUIETRIOTPOD*** • Read fabulous stuff, expand your brain! Also ... GET VICKY'S NEW BOOK HERE. Pay attention to the New Economics Foundation Come on in ... our BLUESKY STARTER PACK will help you find your feet in the politer social media sphere... • Email us at quietriotpod@gmail.com. • Or visit our website www.quietriotpod.com. 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
If you would like to hear this week's episode in full, search 'Quite right!' wherever you are listening now.This week: Michael and Maddie debate the escalating crisis in Iran and ask whether Donald Trump truly has a strategy – and whether Keir Starmer has one at all.They examine what Trump's strikes are meant to achieve, whether regime change in Tehran is the real objective and why parts of the American right are uneasy about Israel's influence over US foreign policy.Turning to Westminster, they assess Britain's response. Has Starmer struck the right balance between caution and credibility – or has the crisis exposed the limits of Britain's military strength and global influence?Finally, they review Rachel Reeves's Spring Statement. With growth forecasts under scrutiny and public spending pressures mounting, is the Labour party sticking to a credible economic plan – or relying on economic crystal balls?Produced by Oscar Edmondson. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Yesterday, the Chancellor Rachel Reeves delivered her spring statement - an economic update - to the commons.With the news completely dominated by conflict in the Middle East, you would be forgiven for not noticing. In fact, many have deduced that this was exactly what the government were hoping for.Anoosh Chakelian is joined by Will Dunn to discuss.LISTEN AD-FREE:
The Middle East is at war - but how does the conflict end and what role will the UK play? Sir Alex Younger, the former head of the Secret Intelligence Service (MI6) joins the podcast team to discuss what the US strikes on Iran mean for the region, for the UK and for global security. Keir Starmer has said the UK will “not join regime change from the skies”, but huge questions remain over the extent of British involvement in the crisis - and the conflict is certain to have lasting consequences for this country. But just how ready is the UK to respond to a shock of this scale? Plus: Spring Forecast fall-out? The economy is sure to be affected but global events, but Rachel Reeves struck a bullish tone in her spring forecast on Tuesday. We review the numbers - and assess the chancellor's plan. Hannah White and Alex Thomas present. With Dan Haile and Jill Rutter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
“This is not Winston Churchill we are dealing with here” - the words of Donald Trump as he attacks Keir Starmer over the UK's approach to the Iran war - but does this mark a new low for the transatlantic relationship?As the conflict in the Middle East rages on, the UK deploy military hardware to Cyprus to protect its assets, is this a further sign the UK is being dragged into the war?Sam and Anne assess if events have overshadowed the Spring Forecast, examine where the UK stands in its special relationship with the United States and look at whether Whitehall is preparing for months of war.Remember, you can get a full analysis of the Rachel Reeves' Spring Forecast in Politics at Sam and Anne's The Debrief here
The Smart 7 is an award winning daily podcast, in association with METRO, that gives you everything you need to know in 7 minutes, at 7am, 7 days a week…With over 20 million downloads and consistently charting, including as No. 1 News Podcast on Spotify, we're a trusted source for people every day and we've won Gold at the Signal International Podcast awardsIf you're enjoying it, please follow, share, or even post a review, it all helps... Today's episode includes the following:https://x.com/i/status/2028822514130977201 https://x.com/i/status/2028819290950906342 https://x.com/i/status/2028881468219396421https://x.com/i/status/2028775362746880143 https://x.com/i/status/2028746334673441103 https://x.com/i/status/2028708196588855666https://x.com/i/status/2028966913615724827 https://x.com/i/status/2028817668975767850 https://x.com/i/status/2028829656116318287 Contact us over @TheSmart7pod or visit www.thesmart7.com or find out more at www.metro.co.uk Voiced by Jamie East, using AI, written by Liam Thompson, researched by Lucie Lewis and produced by Daft Doris. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Rachel Reeves has today delivered her much anticipated spring statement, her opportunity to address the looming energy crisis, the uncertainty in the Middle East and the crashing Labour market … unfortunately, she did none of the above.The Treasury promised that the spring statement was going to be boring – and at least it delivered on that pledge. For twenty painful minutes, Reeves rattled off her familiar lines about ‘stability' and Liz Truss. Is this another wasted opportunity for Labour and the Chancellor? What will it mean for her own ‘stability'?Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Michael Simmons.Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.For more Spectator podcasts, go to spectator.co.uk/podcasts.Contact us: podcast@spectator.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Investors turned to gold and the US dollar in the wake of the Iran conflict, and Gulf states are panicking as Iran targets them in retaliatory strikes. Plus,can the US economy handle the surging oil prices caused by the attacks? Mentioned in this podcast:What will war in Iran do to the global economy?Panic in the Gulf as Iran lashes out at US alliesWhat will be in Rachel Reeves' spring outlook for the UK economy?Investors turn to gold, not bonds, as haven from war in IranHedge funds rethink emerging market bets after US-Israel strikes on IranNote: The FT does not use generative AI to voice its podcasts Today's FT News Briefing was hosted and edited by Marc Filippino, and produced by Saffeya Ahmed and Nisha Patel. Our show was mixed by Kelly Garry. Additional help from Michael Lello. Our executive producer is Topher Forhecz. Cheryl Brumley is the FT's Global Head of Audio. The show's theme music is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Rachel Reeves has today delivered her much anticipated spring statement, her opportunity to address the looming energy crisis, the uncertainty in the Middle East and the crashing Labour market … unfortunately, she did none of the above.The Treasury promised that the spring statement was going to be boring – and at least it delivered on that pledge. For twenty painful minutes, Reeves rattled off her familiar lines about ‘stability' and Liz Truss. Is this another wasted opportunity for Labour and the Chancellor? What will it mean for her own ‘stability'?Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Michael Simmons.Produced by Oscar Edmondson. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The war launched by the United States and Israel against Iran has already rattled the global economy. Gas prices have jumped 30% to a three-year high, oil is surging, tankers are stuck in the Strait of Hormuz and refineries across the region are under attack. Stock markets from London to Tokyo are tumbling, and hopes of interest rate cuts in the UK and US are fading fast.So how serious is this economic shock? What happens if the conflict lasts weeks, as Donald Trump has suggested? And is Rachel Reeves's newly claimed fiscal headroom about to disappear as energy prices spike?Matt Frei speaks to our economics correspondent Helia Ebrahimi, and to Dr Neil Quilliam, a leading Middle East energy policy and geopolitics specialist at Chatham House. They explain how this war is reverberating through global markets, the risks to supply routes, the inflation threat, and how governments and central banks might respond.
Hosts Merryn Somerset Webb and John Stepek react to the Spring Statement, plus Bloomberg's exclusive interview with Chancellor Rachel Reeves. She sat down with Head of Economics and Government Stephanie Flanders on Tuesday, and discussed Britain's pending trade deal with the US, why it won't affect its view on the conflict with Iran, and the UK's economic future. Read more: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-03-03/reeves-says-uk-won-t-make-iran-decisions-based-on-us-trade-ties?srnd=homepage-uk Sign up to the subscriber event here: https://www.bloombergevents.com/ZZ3kna?utm_source=Podcast&utm_campaign=Podcast&utm_medium=Podcast&RefId=subSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rachel Reeves may have delivered her Spring Forecast – but have events in the Middle East made the chancellor's announcement redundant?With President Trump predicting the Iran conflict could continue for a further four to five weeks, the world is starting to realise the economic consequences.Global oil and gas prices are spiking and fuelling the threat of higher inflation and interest rates.Niall is joined by Sky's economics and data editor, Ed Conway, to discuss the effects on the UK economy – and why you might be feeling the pinch.Have you got a question for Niall? Email the show – why@sky.uk
The Chancellor has been on her feet in the Commons – the backdrop?The momentous conflict unfolding in the Middle East - so was it a “non-event” that dated almost immediately? Or did the Spring forecast give us clues to the direction of the government?Rachel Reeves reiterated that her economic plan was “the right plan” but have the government made certain assumptions and do the OBR agree with them?Sam at the Resolution Foundation thinktank and Anne in Berlin debrief the contents of Spring Forecast and pour over all key economic indicators - with a focus on areas which might be trouble down the tracks.
Keir Starmer faces fierce criticism after refusing to back US action against Iran — and then allowing limited “defensive” use of UK-US bases. As Donald Trump accuses the Prime Minister of weakness and political pandering to the Muslim vote, Alex Phillips' considers whether Keir Starmer is dithering and hiding behind international law. Mark Littlewood (Director of Popular Conservatism) weighs in on UK military capability, the threat from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), and whether Britain can afford to sit on the fence. Military analyst Elliot Wilson examines what the US and Israel can realistically achieve in Iran — from dismantling its nuclear capability to the risks and unknowns of regime change. And Peter Hitchens issues a stark warning about another Middle East war and the economic damage a wider conflict could inflict.Also: what this crisis could mean for oil and gas prices, Rachel Reeves' Spring Statement, and the growing backlash against Ed Miliband's energy policy as he is urged to scrap a fuel duty hike amid spiking oil and gas prices.Alex Phillips is stepping in for Julia Hartley-Brewer until Friday 6th March.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.
What are the consequences for oil and gas prices of Iran's retaliation? Will the primary impact be higher inflation or lower growth, and what does this mean for interest rates? And are we heading for a stock market crash? Robert and Steph also explain why the war is a nightmare for Rachel Reeves as she prepares tomorrow's spring statement and for Starmer's hopes of reducing the cost of living 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
Britain's banks have a hold over Rachel Reeves, declares Michael Simmons in the Spectator's cover piece this week. Almost two decades on from the 2008 financial crash, the UK has failed to reform the system and – as ordinary people face a cost-of-living crisis – Labour is in hock to big business. Is the Chancellor too close to the City?For this week's Edition, host Lara Prendergast is joined by economics editor Michael Simmons, columnist Lionel Shriver, and columnist from the Daily Mail Robert Hardman.As well as Labour's relationship with the banking industry, they discuss: the hit BBC show Industry; how the Royals have frozen out (former Prince) Andrew – and whether removing him from the line of succession is ‘performative' or not; Lionel's new book on immigration A Better Life; why young Brits increasingly want to be more Australian; and finally, what's so good about a moustache?Produced by Patrick Gibbons. Catch up with Industry S4 now on BBC iPlayer. Watch the season finale on Monday 2nd March on BBC One. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Britain's banks have a hold over Rachel Reeves, declares Michael Simmons in the Spectator's cover piece this week. Almost two decades on from the 2008 financial crash, the UK has failed to reform the system and – as ordinary people face a cost-of-living crisis – Labour is in hock to big business. Is the Chancellor too close to the City?For this week's Edition, host Lara Prendergast is joined by economics editor Michael Simmons, columnist Lionel Shriver, and columnist from the Daily Mail Robert Hardman.As well as Labour's relationship with the banking industry, they discuss: the hit BBC show Industry; how the Royals have frozen out (former Prince) Andrew – and whether removing him from the line of succession is ‘performative' or not; Lionel's new book on immigration A Better Life; why young Brits increasingly want to be more Australian; and finally, what's so good about a moustache?Produced by Patrick Gibbons. Catch up with Industry S4 now on BBC iPlayer. Watch the season finale on Monday 2nd March on BBC One.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.
UK and European markets reach record highs. That's despite the tariff turmoil since the Supreme Court struck down President Trump's liberation day plans. Danni dives into the latest on Meta's deal with AMD, Anthropic's latest plug ins and Paramount up the stakes in the bidding war for Warner Bros. Diageo's first results under Sir Dave Lewis show that not even Guinness couldn't steady the ship at the big brand giant, plus a £1 billion funding boost for UK self-driving tech firm Wayve. Cuts to the energy price cap and the odds of winning on Premium Bonds. Adam Rackley from the Cape Wrath Focus Fund tells Dan Coatsworth why he likes to invest when others are jumping ship. [00:10] – Welcome [01:34] – Markets are shrugging off the latest tariff drama...for now [08:45] – Danni Hewson has the latest on the AI arms race, with AMD, Meta and Anthropic [14:40] – Diageo results show 'Drastic Dave' has his work cut out [20:00] – Danni shares AJ Bell's consumer trends research findings [24:00] - UK self driving firm Wayve raises another £1 billion in a funding deal [27:45] - Bidding war for Warner Bros: Paramount comes back with a sweeter deal [30:00] – Energy price cap cut: Charlene Young looks at how this measures up against promised £150 cuts to bills [32:51] - Rachel Reeves delivers her Spring Statement next week; what might be in it? [38:11] – NS&I slashes premium bond prize funds rate and chances of winning [42:10] – Dan Coatsworth talks value investing with Cape Wrath Focus Fund
Polls are open in Gorton and Denton for the by-election but as we eagerly await the result we thought we'd discuss economics, because looking ahead to next week we've got the spring statement. It's not a major fiscal event – as Rachel Reeves will be anxious to point out – but one which is taking on lots more significance not least by what is being floated… which is not a huge amount. We are expecting a policy light announcement, although many are hoping there could be something in there on student loans. Will the Chancellor emerge from this statement stronger?Also on the podcast, The Spectator's cover piece focuses on the quid pro quo between the Exchequer and bankers and how this has come to define Rachel Reeves' treasury. Are Labour too close to the banks?Oscar Edmondson speaks to Tim Shipman and Michael Simmons.Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.For more Spectator podcasts, go to spectator.co.uk/podcasts.Contact us: podcast@spectator.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fire up the forecasts. Read up on the rules. Study the spending plans. And get ready for Rachel Reeves' big day in Parliament. Rupert Harrison, former chief of staff to George Osborne, joins the Inside Briefing team to preview the chancellor's spring forecast. It's not a budget. It's not a fiscal event. So it doesn't get a primetime post-PMQs slot in the Commons timetable. So what exactly is it for and how significant is this forecast for the government? What will we hear from Rachel Reeves? And what are chancellor's options - and the risks and possible rewards? Plus: The government's big spending announcement was on SEND reform. Do the sums add up and just what is the government trying to do? Hannah White presents. With Giles Wilkes, Dan Haile and Amber Dellar. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
After months of heated and passionate debate across the country and in the Houses of Parliament, is the assisted dying bill about to fall?Sam exclusively reveals that the government will not give additional time for the bill in the Lords – leaving little time to get it through before the end of the parliamentary session.Ahead of the spring forecast, the duo pore over policy areas pushing for further cash - especially student loans and defence - despite Rachel Reeves insisting this isn't a moment for increased spending.Plus, does the United States have the final say on whether the UK should sell off the Chagos Islands?
Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg, former Conservative government minister, comes on The Julia Hartley-Brewer Show to discuss why he agrees with Reform MP Robert Jenrick's economic plan to cut welfare to get the economy back on track. Their conversation comes on a day when inflation fell to 3% and unemployment for 16-24 year olds rose to 16.1%. The youth unemployment rate is the highest since 2020 and worse than the EU average - precipitating a crisis that could have ramifications for decades, as unemployment when you're young makes future work less likely. Meanwhile, Robert Jenrick MP, newly announced Treasury spokesman for Reform, made a major speech to the city. He confirmed Reform would maintain Bank of England independence, maintain the Office for Budget Responsibility and would crackdown on wasteful spending. He vowed to “defuse the benefits bomb”, including by reinstating the two child benefit cap and mandating in-person assessment for sickness or disability payments.The speech came hot on the heels of the announcement that inflation had dropped to 3% - a rare piece of good news for the shambolic chancellor of the exchequer Rachel Reeves. Shortly after Robert Jenrick's speech, it appeared there was disagreement between Mr Jenrick and Nigel Farage. Robert Jenrick vowed to maintain the triple lock on state pensions, whereas Nigel Farage said it was "open to debate".Also: How Sir Jacob would promote family-living, including by instating transferable tax allowances, and why it is a "tragedy" that 300,000 people were aborted last year.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.
2025 has been an unprecedented year. Donald Trump's tariff war, conflicts in the Middle East, Sudan and Ukraine, and breakneck innovation in AI have put enormous pressure on the existing world order. Now 2026 is set to be another test of resilience for the global economy. All eyes are on Rachel Reeves to deliver growth; how will the new Budget, anticipated to contain cuts and tax raises, shape the nation for the year to come? What does the rising wave of populism from left and right mean for the economic policies of incumbent parties in the UK, Europe, US and beyond? And how will the United States and China's battle for supremacy continue to impact us all? In February 2026, Chief Economics Commentator for the Financial Times Martin Wolf joined us to explore how these tensions will shape the world economy in the year ahead, and what new threats and opportunities could be on the horizon. Widely regarded as one of the world's most influential writers on the global economy and a multi-award-winning financial journalist, Wolf has been chronicling and analysing geopolitical and economic upheaval for nearly 40 years. He has written five bestselling books. His latest, The Crisis of Democratic Capitalism, maps out the implications of globalisation, technological development and the impact of democratic decline on the global economy. In partnership with Guinness Global Investors. This recording is part of The Intelligence Squared Economic Outlook series of events made in partnership with Guinness Global Investors, an independent British fund manager that helps both individuals and institutions harness the future drivers of growth to achieve their investment goals. To find out more visit: https://www.guinnessgi.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
2025 has been an unprecedented year. Donald Trump's tariff war, conflicts in the Middle East, Sudan and Ukraine, and breakneck innovation in AI have put enormous pressure on the existing world order. Now 2026 is set to be another test of resilience for the global economy. All eyes are on Rachel Reeves to deliver growth; how will the new Budget, anticipated to contain cuts and tax raises, shape the nation for the year to come? What does the rising wave of populism from left and right mean for the economic policies of incumbent parties in the UK, Europe, US and beyond? And how will the United States and China's battle for supremacy continue to impact us all? In February 2026, Chief Economics Commentator for the Financial Times Martin Wolf joined us to explore how these tensions will shape the world economy in the year ahead, and what new threats and opportunities could be on the horizon. Widely regarded as one of the world's most influential writers on the global economy and a multi-award-winning financial journalist, Wolf has been chronicling and analysing geopolitical and economic upheaval for nearly 40 years. He has written five bestselling books. His latest, The Crisis of Democratic Capitalism, maps out the implications of globalisation, technological development and the impact of democratic decline on the global economy. In partnership with Guinness Global Investors. This recording is part of The Intelligence Squared Economic Outlook series of events made in partnership with Guinness Global Investors, an independent British fund manager that helps both individuals and institutions harness the future drivers of growth to achieve their investment goals. To find out more visit: https://www.guinnessgi.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
A shake up is happening in the world of DIY investing. Some of the biggest investment platforms are overhauling their fees ahead of Rachel Reeves' big push to get Britain investing - and under pressure from upstarts offering much cheaper services.The biggest name of all, Hargreaves Lansdown, has cut its prices for most investors, yet this seems to have triggered a chunk to jump ship. So, why are some HL investors moving if things are getting cheaper - and is it time we all looked at our investment platform fees?Georgie Frost, Rachel Rickard Straus and Simon Lambert discuss the latest DIY investing battle and what it means for your portfolio - plus what you should look for if you do want cheaper investing or a helping hand.With nearly £1trillion in Isas, how did people build up such big pots and could they end up being a target for a tax raid.What's going on with the civil service pension meltdown?And finally, the most applied for jobs and the apprenticeships that can people dodge a massive student debt.
Former Night Time Economy Adviser for Greater Manchester, Sacha Lord, believes the hospitality industry is worse now than during Covid, calling out Keir Starmer as ‘Captain flip-flop'.He examines the fallout from the Rachel Reeves Budget and voices his 'sickening' regret over supporting the Labour Party. With warnings of a 'fish rotting from the head down' as leadership scandals for Keir Starmer continue, and economic 'flip-flops' push Labour toward a potential collapse. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Marina and Jemma wade through the moral swamp of Reform UK's latest masterplan: cutting beer duty by keeping children in poverty - because according to them the nation's biggest crisis is Dave paying £4.80 instead of £4.75 for his pint. Labour doesn't escape the drag either, with Rachel Reeves floating the idea that only graduates should pay for their degrees - a policy so anti‑youth it might as well come with a free copy of the Daily Mail. Meanwhile, Suella Braverman and Robert Jenrick manage to accidentally vote to abolish the two‑child benefit cap after wandering into the wrong lobby. God help us if these people end up running the country. Farage continues to dodge debates like it's an Olympic sport, all while his name keeps surfacing in the Epstein files. And across the pond, Trump tells a female reporter to “smile” when asked about a paedophile ring - because it's a smiley kind of subject, right? At least misogyny is the one thing he's always consistent on.Plus: dating‑app despair, cortisol levels that should come with a health warning, and a perfect clip capturing the spiritual emptiness of people who proudly declare they're “not political.”Thank you for sharing and please do follow us @MarinaPurkiss @jemmaforte @TheTrawlPodcast Patreonhttps://patreon.com/TheTrawlPodcast Youtubehttps://www.youtube.com/@TheTrawl Twitterhttps://twitter.com/TheTrawlPodcastIf you've even mildly enjoyed The Trawl, you'll love the unfiltered, no-holds-barred extras from Jemma & Marina over on Patreon, including:• Exclusive episodes of The Trawl Goss – where Jemma and Marina spill backstage gossip, dive into their personal lives, and often forget the mic is on• Early access to The Trawl Meets…• Glorious ad-free episodesPlus, there's a bell-free community of over 3,300 legends sparking brilliant chat.And it's your way to support the pod which the ladies pour their hearts, souls (and occasional anxiety) into. All for your listening pleasure and reassurance that through this geopolitical s**tstorm… you're not alone.Come join the fun:https://www.patreon.com/TheTrawlPodcast?utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Morse code transcription: vvv vvv Ghanem al Masarir I mocked the Saudi leader on YouTube then my phone was hacked and I was beaten up in London Blinkit, Swiggy, Instamart, Zepto Inside Indias ultra fast grocery deliveries Making schools phone free is near impossible. Do parents even want it Jeffrey Epstein invited The Duke to meet Russian woman Millions of Jeffrey Epstein files released by US justice department Harry Styles world tour only hits seven cities How tours are changing Rachel Reeves defends fair and reasonable student loans system Catherine OHara Pedro Pascal and Meryl Streep lead tributes A vaccine against murder Israel split over return of death penalty One wrong move and it could all go wrong the men clearing deadly undersea Russian mines
Another year, another U-turn. We expect that the Labour government will be forced to climb down on forthcoming increases to the business rates bills faced by pubs in England. This comes after ferocious industry backlash, spearheaded by figures such as Tom Kerridge, who has been out in the media this week drawing attention to the more than 100 per cent increase in costs some of his establishments are facing. Some are pointing to the slow unravelling of Rachel Reeves's Budget but – perhaps more damaging – is the optics of this: surely nothing mobilises deep England more than coming for our pubs. What impact will this have on Labour's credibility? And what impact will it have on Rachel Reeves's headroom?Oscar Edmondson speaks to Michael Simmons and Tim Shipman.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.