Podcast appearances and mentions of Rod Liddle

The Brendan O'Neill Show is now available to watch on video. To make sure you never miss any of spiked's videos, subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@spiked  Rod Liddle – associate editor of the Spectator and Times Radio presenter – returns to The Brendan O'Neill Show. Rod and Brendan discuss the hollowness of Keir Starmer, the horrors of two-tier policing, and why Nigel Farage could be Britain's next prime minister. Order Brendan O'Neill's After the Pogrom now from:

Keir Starmer has signalled a potential U-turn regarding the winter energy payments. Back in March, the UK government changed the rules for the Winter Fuel Payment, so that from winter 2024/25, it was only available to households that received the Pension Credit or certain other means-tested benefits. This made it so that only 1.5 million pensioners received the payment, down from 10.8 million. UK Correspondent Rod Liddle told Mike Hosking reinstating them looks like a defeat for Starmer, as it was his government that axed the payments in the first place. He says the Prime Minister's in a difficult position. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The UK is set to spend more on defence. Prime Minister Keir Starmer's unveiled plans to lift the defence spend, signalling it could reach 3% of GDP at the next Parliament. He vowed to make Britain "a battle-ready, armour-clad nation”, and Defence Secretary John Healey says they're in a “new era of threat”, which demands a higher spend. UK Correspondent Rod Liddle told Mike Hosking that although many understand the need for increased defence, it's not understood where the money is going to come from. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are still many questions regarding the man who drove his car into a crowd in Liverpool. Fans of Liverpool Football Club had flooded the city's streets to celebrate its Premier League title win. Nearly 80 people were injured, and a 53-year-old local was arrested for attempted murder. UK Correspondent Rod Liddle told Mike Hosking one theory is that it was an accident. He said the driver may have simply followed the ambulance and upon finding themselves surrounded by screaming people, didn't know what to do. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A day of celebrations has turned violent in the UK after a car collided with pedestrians at Liverpool Football Club's victory parade. Authorities say a 53-year-old white British man has been arrested and the area has been evacuated. 47 people were injured – 27 were taken to hospital, two with serious injuries, and 20 treated on scene. UK Correspondent Rod Liddle told Mike Hosking it doesn't appear to be connected to terrorism at this stage. He says the motives are a complete mystery. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nine years after the Brexit vote, a new UK–EU deal promises smoother trade and deeper cooperation — but is it the end of the Brexit saga or just another chapter? Bronwen Maddox digs into what the deal really means with Rod Liddle and Nicolai von Ondarza, from political fallout to Britain's shifting role on the world stage. Read our latest: The dissolution of the PKK could transform Turkey's domestic politics and foreign policy The Pandemic Agreement may weaken, rather than strengthen multilateralism Escalating conflict in Tripoli exposes the realities of false stability – and international neglect in Libya Presented by Bronwen Maddox. Produced by Amanda Nunn. 'Independent Thinking' is an Indio Media production for Chatham House. Read the Spring issue of The World Today  Listen to The Climate Briefing podcast

The UK Government has saved the troubled British Steel Company. It will mean a steel mill in Scunthorpe will be saved after negotiations with its Chinese owners reportedly broke down. The bill gives the UK Business Secretary the control of the company and the right to use police powers if necessary to ensure workers are paid. UK Correspondent Rod Liddle told Mike Hosking Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner says the raw materials to keep the mill running have been paid for. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Michael Phillips, who defended Kristie Higgs in her landmark free speech case, was on Times Radio with Rod Liddle. Last week, after a dramatic six-year battle, the Court of Appeal ruled in Kristie's favour, resetting the legal landscape on freedom of speech and religion in the workplace. Rod Liddle by the sheer number of Christians contacting the Christian Legal Centre for help because they had been put out of job for saying or posting something which appeared offensive. Read more about Kristie's win here: https://christianconcern.com/ccpressreleases/kristie-higgs-wins-as-court-of-appeal-rules-dismissal-for-free-speech-is-illegal/

Prince Andrew seems to be standing on increasingly thin ice. The UK has upheld a ban of an alleged Chinese spy who formed an "unusual degree of trust" with Prince Andrew. The British Home Office banned the man on national security grounds in March 2023, believing the relationship could be used for political interference. UK Correspondent Rod Liddle told Heather du Plessis-Allan that he keeps getting himself into trouble. He thinks it's inevitable that King Charles will cut his brother out of royal proceedings altogether. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to a special festive episode of The Edition podcast, where we will be taking you through the pages of The Spectator's Christmas triple issue. Up first: our review of the year – and what a year it has been. At the start of 2024, the outcome of the US election looked very different, the UK had a different Prime Minister, and The Spectator had a different editor! Luckily, The Spectator's regular columnists are on hand to declare what they got right – and wrong – throughout the year, and whether they're optimistic for 2025. Rod Liddle, Matthew Parris, Mary Wakefield and Lionel Shriver take us through everything from Trump to trans (03:24). Next: ‘Good riddance 2024' – in his own alternative review of the year, Roger Lewis declares 2024 one to forget. The actor Robert Bathurst voices a special out-loud version of the article, taking us through the year in Roger's typically acerbic style (28:37). Then: the unsung heroes at Christmas time. While most of the country will be sitting down to Christmas dinner, hundreds of people will face an atypical day, not least of all those deployed on the Royal Navy's Continuous At Sea Deterrent mission. Journalist Ali Kefford takes us through the relentless schedule of Royal Navy submariners in the Christmas issue, and explores the strangely isolating but oddly communal experience of Christmas at sea, where the traditions of land meet the peculiarities of life under the water. To explain what it's really like, Ali joins the podcast alongside naval officer Alex Kubara (42:56). And finally: the prescient politics of Tintin. Few characters have captured the spirit of adventure quite like Tintin, the intrepid boy reporter with a knack for stumbling into international intrigue. From the deserts of Arabia to the jungles of South America – and even to the moon – Tintin has been a global icon of curiosity and courage for nearly a century. In the Christmas magazine former foreign correspondent and ‘Tintinologist' Michael Farr celebrates the genius of the Belgian reporter and how politics was never far from Hergé's agenda. To take us through a history of Tintin, and to understand its appeal and influence, we're joined by Michael and another author who took inspiration from the character, Anthony Horowitz (52:18). Throughout the podcast, you will also hear from The Spectator's agony aunt Dear Mary, and the special celebrity guests who have sought her advice in this year's Christmas magazine, including Jacob Rees-Mogg (27:07), James MacMillan (50:51) and Sophie Winkleman (1:09:49). Hosted by William Moore and Lara Prendergast. Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Patrick Gibbons.

Welcome to a special festive episode of The Edition podcast, where we will be taking you through the pages of The Spectator's Christmas triple issue. Up first: our review of the year – and what a year it has been. At the start of 2024, the outcome of the US election looked very different, the UK had a different Prime Minister, and The Spectator had a different editor! Luckily, The Spectator's regular columnists are on hand to declare what they got right – and wrong – throughout the year, and whether they're optimistic for 2025. Rod Liddle, Matthew Parris, Mary Wakefield and Lionel Shriver take us through everything from Trump to trans (03:24). Next: ‘Good riddance 2024' – in his own alternative review of the year, Roger Lewis declares 2024 one to forget. The actor Robert Bathurst voices a special out-loud version of the article, taking us through the year in Roger's typically acerbic style (28:37). Then: the unsung heroes at Christmas time. While most of the country will be sitting down to Christmas dinner, hundreds of people will face an atypical day, not least of all those deployed on the Royal Navy's Continuous At Sea Deterrent mission. Journalist Ali Kefford takes us through the relentless schedule of Royal Navy submariners in the Christmas issue, and explores the strangely isolating but oddly communal experience of Christmas at sea, where the traditions of land meet the peculiarities of life under the water. To explain what it's really like, Ali joins the podcast alongside naval officer Alex Kubara (42:56). And finally: the prescient politics of Tintin. Few characters have captured the spirit of adventure quite like Tintin, the intrepid boy reporter with a knack for stumbling into international intrigue. From the deserts of Arabia to the jungles of South America – and even to the moon – Tintin has been a global icon of curiosity and courage for nearly a century. In the Christmas magazine former foreign correspondent and ‘Tintinologist' Michael Farr celebrates the genius of the Belgian reporter and how politics was never far from Hergé's agenda. To take us through a history of Tintin, and to understand its appeal and influence, we're joined by Michael and another author who took inspiration from the character, Anthony Horowitz (52:18). Throughout the podcast, you will also hear from The Spectator's agony aunt Dear Mary, and the special celebrity guests who have sought her advice in this year's Christmas magazine, including Jacob Rees-Mogg (27:07), James MacMillan (50:51) and Sophie Winkleman (1:09:49). Hosted by William Moore and Lara Prendergast. Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Patrick Gibbons.

Both the US and UK leaders say they're committed to promoting a peaceful formation of a new government in Syria. Rebels are in control of the country and former President Bashar al-Assad has fled to Russia. UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer told the BBC his diplomats will be engaging intensively with allies in the region. He says there are no tears for Assad but there needs to be a peaceful transition. UK Correspondent Rod Liddle told Heather du Plessis-Allan that the UK Government has announced that applications for asylum from Syria are going to be put on hold, and they're considering sending some back. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Football Governance Bill is currently being considered in the House of Lords. It's designed to establish an independent football regulator. No team in the football pyramid will be allowed to play professionally without the regulator's permission. Does the Premier League really require these sorts of regulations? Will such a rigid system, and unprecedented powers, change the game for the better? Paul Goodman, Senior Fellow at Policy Exchange, wrote about the bill in The Spectator. He discusses alongside Rod Liddle, Spectator columnist, and Freddy Gray.

Kemi Badenoch has been elected as the UK Conservatives new leader. The 44-year-old is vowing to turn the Tory's around. Badenoch's election marks the first time a woman of colour has led a major political party in the UK. UK correspondent Rod Liddle tells Mike Hosking there is a suspicion that the public will like Badenoch, bucking the trend of a big party cycling through several leaders before the next election. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Alex Forsyth presents political discussion from Sunderland Minster.

A divisive bill has had its first reading in the UK's House of Commons. Labour MP Kim Leadbeater has introduced her Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill, setting off an emotional debate. It would allow mentally competent, terminally ill adults with six months or less left to live the right to choose to end their lives with medical help. UK Correspondent Rod Liddle told Mike Hosking that there's a “fairly clean” split in the House, the left largely in favour of the bill, and the right largely against. He says the bill is controversial, difficult, and very emotive, and will be debated at the end of November. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new frontrunner has emerged in the race for the Tory leadership. James Cleverly has shot to the top after the latest vote, taking 39 of the 120 votes. Kemi Badenoch and Robert Jenrick are battling for a spot in the final two, taking 29 and 30 votes respectively, and Tom Tugendhat fell short at only 20 votes. UK Correspondent Rod Liddle told Mike Hosking that Badenoch is almost certain to become the next leader of the Conservative Party. He said that her win would be bad news for Starmer, as of all the candidates lined up to potentially replace Rishi Sunak, she is the one who could cause the most damage at the dispatch box. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The UK Prime Minister's chief of staff has quit her role, saying she “risked becoming a distraction”. Sue Gray was caught up in a conflict over pay, after the BBC revealed that her salary was higher than Prime Minister Sir Kier Starmer's. UK Correspondent Rod Liddle told Mike Hosking that this is quite a remarkable decision. He said that in the last six to eight months, Starmer hasn't sacked anyone despite there being calls. Liddle says the howl within his own camp had become so grave that he could do nothing other than accept the resignation. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Conservatives annual conference in Birmingham – essentially one big job interview. By Wednesday afternoon the Conservatives should be a lot closer to knowing who their next leader will be. The selected candidates are Robert Jenrick, James Cleverly, Kemi Badenoch and Tom Tugendhat with Rishi Sunak as the leader. Tens of thousands of council homes sit empty as the waitlist grows. Rod Little told Heather du Plessis-Allan that today it was Tugendhat who seems to be one of the outsiders. Liddle states the general thinking is that this will come down to a final between Badenoch from the right and Jenrick from the centre left. Liddle believes that it's looking more like the conservative MPs will try to get rid of Badenoch before it gets to the final. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rod Liddle joins Mike to discuss the ever corrupt Labour party as well Lee Anderson MP talking about Reform UK making inroads against Labour and the Tories plus, Robert Jenrick pushes his Tory leadership campaign. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Questions are arising over the BBC's handling of disgraced broadcaster Huw Edwards' child abuse images case.  The former news anchor has been given a suspended six-month sentence for soliciting indecent images of children.  UK Correspondent Rod Liddle told Mike Hosking the BBC still paid Edwards his salary after being arrested and has now asked for it to be paid back.  He says there's a view the BBC protects those it values from public scrutiny.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Princess of Wales has announced she's completed chemotherapy, calling it a relief.   In a personal video released by Kensington Palace, Catherine says her focus is on staying cancer free, and she has a long path ahead to full recovery.   She also says she'll undertake more public engagements in the coming months.   UK correspondent Rod Liddle told Mike Hosking the video has gone down well.   He says Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has wished her all the best and is glad she's through her chemo, and all people would likely think the same.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rescuers are scrambling to search for six people, including British tech mogul Mike Lynch, who are missing after a tornado capsized a super yacht off the coast of Sicily.   There were 22 aboard when the yacht sank, 15 have been rescued, including a New Zealand citizen.  One person is confirmed dead.  UK Correspondent Rod Liddle told Mike Hosking the ship's mast was snapped in half when the storm hit, which caused the yacht to lose balance and capsize.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Millions of Brits are out of work and not looking for more.  Official figures show that inactivity is sitting at 9.41 million, or 22.2% of the working age population, which is up 350,000 from 2023.  UK Correspondent Rod Liddle told Mike Hosking that while some of those people are students and people taking early retirement, there's still a residue of 4-5 million people who either haven't gone back to work or haven't started.  He said that he suspects several things are to blame for this: an influx of foreign-born workers, mental illness and ill health, and a lack of incentive and benefits to being in the workforce.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A man has been arrested after a stabbing in London's Leicester Square that's left an 11-year-old girl needing hospital treatment, and a 34-year-old woman with minor injuries.  Police aren't treating the incident as terror-related.  UK police forces remain on high alert after days of riots earlier this month, which were triggered by online posts wrongly identifying a suspected killer of three girls in northern England as an Islamist migrant.  UK Correspondent Rod Liddle told Mike Hosking that immediately after the attack, the right came online saying that it's happened again and that they're up to no good.  He said that there's no evidence whatsoever that the attacker was Muslim, however there is a fair bit of evidence that the person who stopped the attack and took the knife off of him was.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The UK Prime Minister is vowing swift action as authorities brace for fresh unrest.  There's been escalating violence in far-right riots since the fatal stabbing of three girls in a Merseyside dance class in Southport last week.  More than 500 people have been arrested so far, and thousands of counter protesters have also mobilised across the country.  A rioter who punched a police officer in the face in Southport has been jailed for three years - the longest prison sentence so far over the far-right disorder.  UK Correspondent Rod Liddle told Mike Hosking that Sir Keir Starmer promises 540 jail spaces have been cleared for rioters.  He says it should be enough spaces to deal with this, as the biggest riot saw around 40 people arrested.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The British Government has suspended seven Labour MPs for six months after they voted against an amendment to scrap the UK's two-child benefit cap.  The Scottish National Party had voted to end the policy, which prevents almost all parents from claiming child tax credit for more than two children.  The amendment was rejected by 363 votes to 103, but seven MPs from the ruling Labour Party voted in favour of the amendment.  UK correspondent Rod Liddle says among those suspended included ex-Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Tories are in for a restructure after their defeat in the UK election.  Former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has resigned as leader of the Conservative Party, saying in his speech that he has “heard your anger”.  UK Correspondent Rod Liddle told Mike Hosking that nobodies looking forward to the Conservative Leadership election, as it will “usually be a b**** fest” and remind everyone of the people who used to run them.  He said that Kemi Badenoch is currently out in front, with a strong showing from Tom Tugendhat, and Suella Braverman.  Liddle told him that if there was a vote tomorrow, the right would win, but historically the person at the front of a Tory Leadership contest never actually wins.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It was a punishing election for conservative and national parties across the UK.  Overall, Labour gained 211 seats, giving them a firm majority in the House of Commons, leader Keir Starmer becoming the new Prime Minister.  UK Correspondent Rod Liddle told Andrew Dickens that although Labour was elected with a massive majority, it's only just under 2% more than they got when Jeremy Corbyn was the leader of the party.  He said that it's absolutely clear that nobody within the country wants Labour or the Tories to run the country, and he thinks they know that.  Liddle said Labour knows they have a lot of winning over to do before they go into the next election, five years from now.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A punishing result looks likely for Rishi Sunak's Tory party with all signs pointing to Labour having the UK election in the bag.   Labour leader Keir Starmer is expected to take a sweeping victory with a campaign for change propelling his popularity.   The Conservative Party has held power for 14 years, but it's steadily losing its grip on the back of numerous broken promises.  UK Correspondent Rod Liddle told Mike Hosking that there's no enthusiasm out there.  He said the general consensus from voters is that Labour can't do any worse than the Tories.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Polls are still suggesting a Labour victory ahead of this week's UK general election.  Labour leader Keir Starmer remains the clear contender against Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and the Conservative Party.  UK Correspondent Rod Liddle told Mike Hosking that most polls are predicting a 240 majority for the Labour party.  He thinks that this is underestimating both a shy Tory vote and those who do not wish to give Labour a carte blanche.  Liddle suspects the majority will be smaller than predicted.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Who should you vote for on the 4th of July? A week ahead of the general election, UnHerd's Freddie Sayers and Tom McTague host an alternative hustings to size up the competition. Our all-star cast includes Peter Hitchens arguing for the Tories (even though he wants to destroy them), Rod Liddle for the SDP, Rowenna Davis for Labour, Matt Goodwin for Reform and UnHerd's Florence Read for the Greens, plus more special guests to be announced soon. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Reform may have hit its peak but it's position in the polls is a cause for concern for the Tories.  The party had a surge over the weekend, leaving it ahead of the Conservative Party in the polls, but their lead is “nowhere near enough” to concern Labour, UK Correspondent Rod Liddle said.  He told Mike Hosking that it's enough to ensure the Tories are down to between 50 to 70 seats at most.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With the rocket hurtling towards the election, what do its inhabitants make of the latest manifesto madness?In light of the latest inflation figures Liam thinks the Conservatives need to be more honest about tax hikes, whilst Allison thinks that Reform's policies are what should have been in the Conservative Party Manifesto, and might help pull back some disillusioned voters.Also joining your co-pilots for a return mission to the rocket is journalist and the Social Democratic Party candidate for Middlesbrough South, Rod Liddle, who gives the co-pilots an update on his campaign and the ‘soft' deal his party has struck with Reform UK.And is it coming home? Allison gives her take on the Euros…Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/a/ak-ao/allison-pearson/ |Read Allison ‘Watching England with my menfolk introduced me to some odd rituals – and Gary Lineker's Next range': https://www.telegraph.co.uk/columnists/2024/06/19/england-euro-2024-gary-lineker-next-range-bbc/ |Need help subscribing or reviewing? Learn more about podcasts here: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/radio/podcasts/podcast-can-find-best-ones-listen/ |Email: planetnormal@telegraph.co.uk |For 30 days' free access to The Telegraph: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/normal | Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Reform UK has launched their manifesto for the general election.  A YouGov poll has placed Reform ahead of the Tories by one percent, Reform sitting at 19% and the Tories at 18%.  UK Correspondent Rod Liddle told Mike Hosking that it's a second resurrection for leader Nigel Farage.  He said that national polls are suggesting the parties are neck and neck, and if the trajectory is right at the moment, it may translate into Reform getting four or five seats in Parliament.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rishi Sunak is struggling to recover after his blunder during the D-Day commemorations.  The Prime Minister left the commemorations early, deciding to return home to continue his election campaign instead of joining other world leaders to pay their respects.  He's apologised for the decision, saying that “on reflection, that was a mistake and I apologise.”  UK Correspondent Rod Liddle told Mike Hosking that for a period of time over Saturday morning into Sunday afternoon, it looked like he might be standing down.  He said that it was a terrible misjudgement, and it's very difficult to see how he can recover from the blunder.   LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It was a fiery debate in the UK ahead of the election.   Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Labour party challenger Keir Starmer have gone head-to-head in the first face to face.   Starmer's questioned the Conservative's leader's belief his economic plan's working.   He says Sunak knows inflation's going up and energy prices are going up in the autumn, and if he'd thought the plan was working, why's the election being called now.   Sunak says that's ironic, because Starmer's called for an election since he got the job.   He says the plan is working, people are only starting to feel the benefits now, but inflation is normal, wages are growing, and taxes are being cut.  UK Correspondent Rod Liddle told Mike Hosking that Sunak won easily and convincingly. He said that his win wasn't enough to reverse the polls, but it's maybe enough to shove 2-3%.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Things are heating up as the UK moves closer to its general election.  The election is generally a two-horse race between the two major parties, the Conservatives and Labour, but UK Correspondent Rod Liddle says nobody really seems to want either horse.  He said that there's no great enthusiasm for Labour, with a poll saying that only 15% of the public are firmly in their camp, and there's certainly no appetite for the Tories anymore.  Current PM Rishi Sunak has announced the reintroduction of mandatory military service should the Conservatives make it back into power.  He said that he believes twelve months of service would help foster the “national spirit” that emerged during the pandemic.  Liddle said that it seems to be a bizarre, out of the blue policy which a good many members of his own party have cheerfully derided.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has confirmed a general election will take place July 4th.   It comes as the ruling Conservative party trails Labour by 20 points in the polls.   UK political commentator Rod Liddle told Mike Hosking that despite that, Labour's not in a good position with its deputy being investigated by police and split views over Gaza.   He says they're also in trouble in that no one really knows what they stand for, but that might not matter as the polls show everyone's had enough of the Tories.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's a day of shame after an inquiry into Britain's infected blood scandal suggests a cover up.  More than 30,000 people received infected blood and products in the 1970s and 80s from the state-funded National Health Service.  3000 people died and thousands more contracted hepatitis or HIV.  The inquiry's found the government hid the truth to save face and expense.  British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is pledging financial compensation for those impacted.  He says they'll pay whatever the scheme costs, with details laid out tomorrow.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Another MP has left the Tories.  Former Conservative MP Natalie Elphicke has crossed the floor, joining up with the Labour Party.  She quit just moments before Prime Minister's Questions, hitting out at Rishi Sunak's “tired and chaotic government”.  UK Correspondent Rod Liddle told Mike Hosking that most of the anger at her move is coming from the from the Labour Party.  He said that one front bencher said that there are many people on the Conservative benches they'd welcome over before Elphicke.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's not boding well for the Tories in the wake of the local elections.  The Conservative Party has lost over 500 councillors, making it the worst result not only in living memory but in the party's history.  UK Correspondent Rod Liddle told Mike Hosking that the results came in during a glorious week for Rishi Sunak, but it did him no favours at all.  He said they're in a position now where there's pretty much nothing they can do.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over the last decade and a half, the pervasive use of smartphones has become the norm across the western world. Yet we're still unaware of the precise long-term consequences. For those brought up without smartphones (or without the internet!) we may not even be in a position to know the full extent of the most negative effects upon child development and socialisation. As politicians consider banning smartphones from schools, is there also some drastic reflection the Church needs to do too? How can Christians encourage parents to make wise choices to help their children thrive against the technological tide? If, as some authors suggest, smartphones have made children more anxious and lonely, how might Christians show them a better way? RESOURCES: - Jonathan Haidt, "The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness" (Penguin, 2024) - Rod Liddle, ‘Kids and Smartphones: An Inconvenient Truth', The Spectator (24th Feb 2024) - Tony Reinke, 12 Ways Your Phone Is Changing You (Crossway, 2017) - Anthony Esolen, 10 Ways To Destroy the Imagination of Your Child (ISI Books, 2013)

A tense standoff between a London police officer and an antisemitism campaigner has sparked outrage.  Gideon Falter, CEO of the Campaign Against Antisemitism, was blocked by an officer from crossing a road near to a pro-Palestine march.  Falter was wearing a yarmulke and according to the officer looked ‘openly Jewish', and by crossing the road in that area was ‘provoking' the protestors and risking his safety.  UK Correspondent Rod Liddle told Mike Hosking that this incident goes against the Police's word that the marches are peaceable.   Well, if they're peaceable, he said, there wouldn't be a problem with a bloke in a yarmulke crossing the road, would there?   LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The UK is walking a tightrope in their response to Iran's attack on Israel.  More than 300 projectiles were launched on Israel by Iran in retaliation for a strike on its consulate in Syria two weeks ago.  UK Correspondent Rod Liddle told Mike Hosking that the attack on Israel has bolstered them amongst their allies, Britain among them.  However, he said, PM Rishi Sunak is hampered by having David Cameron in the Foreign Office, who's beliefs are antithetical to most of what is wanted by Israel.   Liddle said that Sunak will continue to say that they support Israel, but will be mediated by his Foreign Secretary who says that Israel should do nothing more to try get rid of Hamas.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pressure is being heaped on Israel after their airstrike killed seven aid workers in Gaza.  UK Correspondent Rod Liddle says that the mood and temper in the UK is changing when it comes to Israel.  Previously the support for Israel has been fairly steadfast, with the Labour Party leader refusing to be too critical of their refusal to demand ceasefires.  However, Liddle told Mike Hosking, the attack has sparked anger even within the conservative government.  He said that while they have been offered a profuse apology and Rishi Sunak has demanded an explanation from Netanyahu, they were told there won't be one due to an ongoing investigation.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rumours a coup is brewing in the UK Conservative Party likely hold little truth.  In the last few days MP Penny Mordaunt has been at the centre of speculation that she's trying to oust the prime minister, after which she'll step into his place.  UK Correspondent Rod Liddle told Mike Hosking that while there is disquiet within the Conservative Party's backbenches regarding Rishi Sunak's performance, a coup is unlikely.  He said the Tories aren't used to the fact that its them the country hates, not just Sunak, his trust, or those who came before.  People are sick of the conservatives, Liddle said.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to a slightly new format for the Edition podcast! Each week we will be talking about the magazine – as per usual – but trying to give a little more insight into the process behind putting The Spectator bed each week. On the podcast this week: the cost of Britain's mass worklessness. According to The Spectator's calculations, had workforce participation stayed at the same rate as in 2019, the economy would be 1.7 per cent larger now and an end-of-year recession could have been avoided. As things stand, joblessness is coexisting with job vacancies in a way that should be economically impossible, writes Kate Andrews in the cover story. She joins the podcast alongside Paul Nowak, general secretary of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), to debate the problems plaguing Britain's workforce. (03:11) Also on the podcast:  Lara and Will discuss some of their favourite pieces from the magazine, including Mark Mason's piece on anti-depressive quality of cricket and Anne Robinson's fantastic diary. (18:29) Then: In the arts section of the magazine, Calvin Po writes the lead. He asks whether a Labour government will allow architects to reshape houses as part of their flagship housebuilding plans. Telegraph columnist and author of Home Truths Liam Halligan joins the podcast to discuss Labour's plans, whether they are realistic and if we can start to build better and more beautifully under a Labour government. (21:32) And finally: In his column this week Rod Liddle says that smartphones are all too successful and advocates for banning them altogether for children. Interestingly, he argues that we give children smartphones not for their convenience, but for the convenience of parents. He joins the podcast alongside Miranda Wilson, co-founder of Teched Off, a group which campaigns to keep young people safe online. Our editor Fraser Nelson also stops by to give his thoughts. (33:38) Hosted by William Moore and Lara Prendergast. Produced by Oscar Edmondson. If there are any areas of the magazine that you are particularly interested in or any questions you have for Will and Lara, please email: podcast@spectator.co.uk. We will try and answer as many as we can in next week's episode. 

Welcome to a slightly new format for the Edition podcast! Each week we will be talking about the magazine – as per usual – but trying to give a little more insight into the process behind putting The Spectator bed each week. On the podcast this week: the cost of Britain's mass worklessness. According to The Spectator's calculations, had workforce participation stayed at the same rate as in 2019, the economy would be 1.7 per cent larger now and an end-of-year recession could have been avoided. As things stand, joblessness is coexisting with job vacancies in a way that should be economically impossible, writes Kate Andrews in the cover story. She joins the podcast alongside Paul Nowak, general secretary of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), to debate the problems plaguing Britain's workforce. (03:11) Also on the podcast:  Lara and Will discuss some of their favourite pieces from the magazine, including Mark Mason's piece on anti-depressive quality of cricket and Anne Robinson's fantastic diary. (18:29) Then: In the arts section of the magazine, Calvin Po writes the lead. He asks whether a Labour government will allow architects to reshape houses as part of their flagship housebuilding plans. Telegraph columnist and author of Home Truths Liam Halligan joins the podcast to discuss Labour's plans, whether they are realistic and if we can start to build better and more beautifully under a Labour government. (21:32) And finally: In his column this week Rod Liddle says that smartphones are all too successful and advocates for banning them altogether for children. Interestingly, he argues that we give children smartphones not for their convenience, but for the convenience of parents. He joins the podcast alongside Miranda Wilson, co-founder of Teched Off, a group which campaigns to keep young people safe online. Our editor Fraser Nelson also stops by to give his thoughts. (33:38) Hosted by William Moore and Lara Prendergast. Produced by Oscar Edmondson.  If there are any areas of the magazine that you are particularly interested in or any questions you have for Will and Lara, please email: podcast@spectator.co.uk. We will try and answer as many as we can in next week's episode. 

On the podcast this week: Boris Johnson writes The Spectator's cover piece, urging the West to supply more military assistance to Ukraine, in order to bring a swift end to the war. Former commander of the joint forces Sir Richard Barrons and The Spectator's Svitlana Morenets join the podcast to ask why aren't we giving Ukraine what it needs? (01:21) Also on the podcast:  Charlie Taylor, His Majesty's chief prisons inspector, writes in the magazine about the state of crisis in British prisons. This is in light of Daniel Khalife's escape from Wandsworth prison last week. Charlie is joined by David Shipley, commentator and former inmate at Wandsworth to discuss the state of crisis in British prisons. (16:37) And finally:  In the arts section of the magazine Rod Liddle writes about the new Rolling Stones single, supposedly their best in decades. He joins the podcast alongside Will Hodgkinson, chief rock and pop critic at the Times to debate whether rock and roll really is dead. (25:34) Hosted by William Moore and Lara Prendergast.  Produced by Oscar Edmondson.