Podcasts about Universal Credit

What happens when a pub landlord shares a sofa with a TV elite? My must re-watch moments: 1. The Tragic Murder of Adam's Father (36:02) 2. The "Media Class" Hypocrisy (19:38) 3. The "Bus Stop Test" & National Identity (06:42) SUPPORT MY GUEST: Sub to www.youtube.com/@adambrooksmedia In this explosive interview, Adam Brooks (the "Essex Publican") reveals the shocking truth about what the TV establishment actually says to him when the cameras stop rolling. From being called "akin to the Taliban" to witnessing evidence "vanish" from the Metropolitan lock-up after his father's tragic murder, Adam's story is a raw, unfiltered look at the massive class divide and the "culty" mindset of the liberal elite. SPONSORS: Go to https://boncharge.com  and use code HERETICS to save 15%. Go to https://surfshark.com/heretics for 4 extra months of Surfshark  Get an exclusive 15% discount on Saily data plans! Use code andrewgold at checkout. Download Saily app or go to https://saily.com/andrewgold   Check Plaud UK: https://bit.ly/40Gzdh1  | US: https://bit.ly/475MQKe Notepro: https://bit.ly/479tWSR Organise your life: https://akiflow.pro/Heretics  Earn up to 4 per cent on gold, paid in gold: https://www.monetary-metals.com/heretics/  Cut your wireless bill to 15 bucks a month at https://mintmobile.com/heretics  We dive deep into the topics the mainstream media is too terrified to touch: the "Great British Pub Test," the reality of mass immigration on our trains and streets, and why the establishment is desperate to label anyone with a different opinion as "far-right." Is Britain facing a silent takeover, or is a massive political uprising just around the corner? Adam doesn't hold back on Reform UK, the dangers facing our communities, and the heartbreaking reason he'll never stop fighting for his daughters' future. This is the interview they don't want you to see. #AdamBrooks #MediaElite #GreatBritain #Politics #FreeSpeech #ReformUK #Immigration #BritishCulture #Truth #AndrewGold #Heretics Join the 30k heretics on my mailing list: https://andrewgoldheretics.com  Check out my new documentary channel: https://youtube.com/@andrewgoldinvestigates  Andrew on X: https://twitter.com/andrewgold_ok   Insta: https://www.instagram.com/andrewgold_ok Heretics YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@andrewgoldheretics Chapters:  00:00 – The Secret "Media Class" Who Controls Your TV 00:46 – Insulted Off-Camera: "They Think I'm a Commoner" 00:54 – The Tragic Murder of My Father & The "Missing" Evidence 02:19 – The Death of the British Pub: Why Your Local is Dying 04:02 – The Changing Face of Britain: "I Feel Like a Foreigner" 06:42 – The "Bus Stop Test": Has Our Culture Already Collapsed? 08:03 – Why White People are "Demonized" for Protecting Heritage 10:50 – The Benefit Loophole: 1.3 Million Foreigners on Universal Credit? 13:30 – The Hidden Danger in Our Hotels: Why No One is Safe 15:58 – Covered Up by Authorities? The Shocking Stats They Hide 19:38 – Backstage Drama: Being Called the "Taliban" by Journalists 22:06 – The Court Ruling That Proves Your Rights Don't Matter 25:10 – Will Reform UK Actually Win? The Final Hope for Britain 31:15 – Exposing the "Far-Right" Label: The Establishment's Favorite Weapon 36:02 – The Gangster Hit: My Dad Was a Boxing Legend 45:41 – AI, Communism, & The Uncertain Future for Our Children 48:44 – The "Woke Nonsense" That's Finally Collapsing 54:12 – The One Tweet That Could End Your Career Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tony Blair has dropped a political bombshell on Keir Starmer's desk. In a scathing 5,700-word essay, the former Prime Minister and three-time election winner says Labour has no coherent plan to fix Britain, is governing from a "soft left comfort zone," and will lose the next general election unless it ditches net zero, slashes the welfare bill, stops the boats, and stops pretending that swapping leaders is the same as changing course.Julia Hartley-Brewer is joined by former Conservative Party leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith, who finds remarkably little to disagree with in Blair's brutal assessment, despite their different parties. He breaks down exactly where this government went wrong — arriving with a historic landslide on just 33% of the vote and then standing completely still. No plan. No direction. Just a budget that hammered small businesses with national insurance hikes, a soaring minimum wage, and crippling business rates — the very engine room of British jobs and growth.IDS also reflects on his own record reforming welfare under Universal Credit — cutting between £28 and £32 billion from the budget and delivering the lowest number of workless households since records began — and why Labour's half-hearted attempts to repeat that are doomed to fail.Also: the Makerfield by-election is descending into farce, with Reform and the newly formed Restore Britain tearing chunks out of each other while Andy Burnham eyes the prize. Is this just a parade of oversized egos? Plus, Nicola Sturgeon and the motorhome that apparently nobody saw — for two years, on her mother-in-law's driveway.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.

Social security has been undergoing a quiet revolution across the UK. While attention has focused on the roll-out of Universal Credit, many other aspects of the benefits system are devolved, allowing governments in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland to take different approaches to welfare. As newly elected MSs and MSPs prepare to take their seats in the Senedd and the Scottish Parliament, and as the issue of welfare reform continues to loom large over Westminster, understanding what these differences are, and what reforms have worked well, could help to improve the system for everyone. What are the key differences in social security across the four nations of the UK, and is it fair that families may be entitled to very different amounts in different parts of the UK? Which reforms have worked best, and hold lessons for other governments? Should we go further in devolving social security, or does the partially-devolved, partially-reserved nature of social security cause problems for claimants in devolved nations? And what are the wider lessons for welfare reform? The Resolution Foundation hosted an event to debate and answer these questions. Following a presentation of highlights from new research by the Safety Nets project, funded by the Nuffield Foundation and which the Resolution Foundation has contributed to, on social security across the four nations, we will hear from leading experts on what lessons can be learned for further welfare reform.

Thinking about going freelance but worried about losing your Universal Credit? Good news, you don't have to choose. In this episode, I'm breaking down how Universal Credit actually works for self-employed people, and why it might be more flexible than you think. What we cover: Why Universal Credit isn't just for employed people, freelancers can claim too The Minimum Income Floor explained (and why it probably won't affect you straight away) The 12-month startup period and how it gives you breathing room to build your client base How to report your income and expenses monthly through your UC Journal What counts as an allowable business expense Why your work coach is your biggest ally, and their limitations too Action steps: ✓ Check your eligibility on Government Universal Credit Information ✓ Keep track of money actually received, not just invoiced ✓ Log your allowable expenses monthly (equipment, software, travel, home working costs and more) ✓ Consider a tool like FreeAgent to prepare for Making Tax Digital ✓ Ask your work coach about your startup period and whether the Minimum Income Floor applies to you Resources mentioned: Government Universal Credit Information |  FreeAgent (affiliate link)| Order my book: The Freelance Lifestyle: Your Friendly Guide to Starting a Freelance Business ⚠️ Recorded April 2026: always double-check current rules on gov.uk as these can change. Subscribe for more quick, actionable freelance tips you can enjoy during a tea break! Timestamps: 0:00 – Introduction 0:19 – Can Freelancers Claim Universal Credit? (Overview) 0:55 – Universal Credit Eligibility for Self-Employed People 2:09 – What Is the Minimum Income Floor and How Does It Affect You? 3:24 – The 12-Month Startup Period: How to Qualify and What It Means 5:00 – How to Report Your Income and Expenses to Universal Credit 7:00 – Universal Credit as a Tool to Grow Your Freelance Business Follow me on Instagram Follow me on Bluesky Email: hello@emmacossey.com  Come join us in the free Freelance Lifestylers Facebook group Want more support? Check out the Freelance Lifestyle School courses and membership. Join the Freelance Lifestyle Discord Community: https://discord.gg/RKYkReS5Cz

Jeremy Kyle takes on the civil service who have been caught abusing their holidays and pretending to work in the office. Jeremy talks to Dave Penman from the Union, Peter Bleksley, Jack Elsom from The Sun and Robert Bates on 1.5. million migrants claiming Universal Credit.Wake up with Talk Breakfast in full on YouTube, DAB+ radio, Freeview 280, Fire TV, Samsung TV Plus or the Talk App on your TV from 6am every morning. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Julia Hartley-Brewer and Claire Pearsall discuss the news that Australia is preparing to receive - and arrest - ISIS linked families. With Chris Phillips, former counter terror officer, she questions the repatriation of “walking time bombs” who may have committed serious crimes following Islamist radicalisation. The conversation shifts to the latest health panic: the Hantavirus. As British passengers self-isolate following a cruise, Julia asks whether we are witnessing another bout of state-sponsored scaremongering. Professor Carl Heneghan joins to provide a dose of reality on the actual risks of human-to-human transmission.Finally, Julia unleashes on the "immorality" of Britain's welfare system. With news that 1.5 million migrants are claiming Universal Credit, Julia and Claire debate the collapse of the social contract, as civil servants "swing the lead" at home and Britain deals with the culture of a lack of shame in living off the taxpayer.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.

Oil is in short supply as the Middle East conflict continues. Donald Trump has told the UK to “build up some delayed courage, go to the Strait, and just TAKE IT.” Economist Duncan Weldon joins the pod team to discuss what the government can actually do to respond to rising energy prices. The message to consumers so far is keep calm and carry on as usual. But will this messaging hold - and, if not, how bad could things get - and how quickly?  And finally: It's a long time since we first heard about Universal Credit. But this major government project has, albeit a little late, nearly reached completion. Nick Timmins, author of a new IfG report on UC, takes a look at a troubled but ultimately successful - maybe - journey. Alex Thomas presents. With Jill Rutter. Produced by Milo Hynes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Thank you to McDonald's UK for sponsoring this episode. To check out our episode with Amazon, click here: https://youtu.be/nIXLXoF33dY Pat McFadden on Youth Unemployment, Apprenticeships, and How AI Will Change Work | Jimmy's Jobs of the Future Pat McFadden, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, joins Jimmy's Jobs of the Future to discuss the UK's youth jobs crisis, with nearly a million young people not in education, employment or training and over half never having had a job, despite 50,000 manufacturing vacancies. He reflects on his first jobs (paper round, supermarket night shifts, dishwasher at Edinburgh's Viva Mexico, Fringe work), his path into politics, and how social media and 24-hour news have changed government and debate. McFadden outlines new incentives for employers: £3,000 to hire a young person on Universal Credit for six months and £2,000 for small firms taking on young apprentices, which can total £5,000. He addresses youth sickness and mental health, arguing support should focus on improving life outcomes and work opportunities, and shares a cautiously optimistic view of AI as both job-destroying and job-creating. Timestamps 00:00 Intro 01:27 First Job Paper Round 03:04 Family Roots and Siblings 05:06 Path Into Politics 06:11 Student Jobs and Fringe 08:04 Where Saturday Jobs Went 09:27 NEETs and Youth Inactivity 13:30 Making It a National Cause 14:26 Hiring Bonuses Explained 18:17 What Makes a Good Job 21:06 AI and the Future of Work 25:29 If Graduating Today 25:49 Career Paths And Optimism 26:34 Studying Politics At Edinburgh 27:40 Finding Confidence And Belonging 29:19 Leaving Home For University 31:12 How Politics Has Changed 34:01 Parliament As Clip Culture 35:12 Advice For New MPs 36:37 Governing In A Faster World 38:06 Risk Aversion And Getting Things Done 39:45 Mental Health And Welfare Reform 42:51 Influencers And The Arc Of Work 45:00 Quickfire Questions And Wrap ********** Follow us on socials! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jimmysjobs Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jimmysjobsofthefuture Twitter / X: https://www.twitter.com/JimmyM Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmy-mcloughlin-obe/ Want to come on the show? hello@jobsofthefuture.co Sponsor the show or Partner with us: sunny@jobsofthefuture.co Check out our clips channel here! ⬇️ https://www.youtube.com/@JimmysJobsClips Credits: Host / Exec Producer: Jimmy McLoughlin OBE Producer: Sunny Winter https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunnywinter/ Junior Producer: Thuy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What happens when the welfare state designs its technology to side-eye first and ask questions later? In this episode of Compromising Positions, we get hands-on with Big Brother Watch's “Suspicion by Design” report, unpacking how the UK Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) uses algorithmic profiling and AI systems to detect Universal Credit fraud and why defaulting to suspicion is a dangerous position for any government to take.This episode is a measured examination of welfare AI, algorithmic decision-making, and what happens to trust, consent, and dignity when systems are built to watch first and explain never.Expect socio-technical theory, legal realities, real-world harms, and the kind of uncomfortable questions policymakers really don't like being asked.In This Episode, We Discuss:Suspicion Architecture: What happens when suspicion is a design choice. The Algorithmic Gaze meets Dataveillance: What happens when you can't opt out of AI lead services that are inherently bias against you.Why “Security Through Obscurity” Fails: We show why secrecy doesn't equal safety.Fraud Detection that Punishes the Many, not the Few: How to design AI systems that protect public funds without criminalising the people who need it most.Show NotesSuspicion by Design: What we know about the DWP's algorithmic black box, and what it tries to hide by Big Brother Watch (2025)Surveillance as Social Sorting: Privacy, Risk and Digital Discrimination by David Lyon (Ed) (2003)Information Technology and Dataveillance by Roger Clarke (1988; 3015)

In this episode the host Rosie Moss speaks with Caroline Booth. Caroline is a widowed mother of two and the driving force behind a powerful grassroots campaign to reform bereavement support in the UK, born from her own experience of sudden loss and systemic failure.Caroline's story begins with the unexpected loss of her husband Steve to aggressive bowel cancer. As she navigated the raw terrain of grief while raising two teenage sons, she quickly found herself caught in a bureaucratic maze—unable to access funds, unaware of her entitlements, and confronted by the limitations of a system that seemed designed to overlook her. Through candid reflection and honest frustration, Caroline details her journey from devastation to advocacy, sharing the real-life impacts of outdated policies, insufficient support, and public misperceptions. This conversation sheds light on how bereaved families are consistently let down, how contributory systems ignore lived complexity, and how a campaign powered by grief and solidarity is shifting the narrative. As Rosie notes, Caroline's strength is not just in surviving, but in using her voice so others don't face the same silence. “You look at your kids and you think, shit, actually, would I—how long could I pay my mortgage for if my husband died?”—a reflection many will carry forward.Caroline recounts her husband Steve's swift decline from bowel cancer and the shock of widowhood after 30 years together—and how that grief became a catalyst for action.She shares the disorienting reality of navigating bereavement support systems, where help is hard to access and few are told it exists—especially in the critical first three months.The conversation reveals how policy decisions, such as freezing the Bereavement Support Payment since 2017, have left families adrift in the face of rising living costs and funeral expenses.Public misconceptions—like seeing bereavement support as “taxpayer handouts”—block meaningful dialogue and spotlight society's discomfort with grief and dependency.Caroline's campaign draws attention to solo parents navigating Universal Credit and how flawed benefit structures penalize them further, often creating enduring disadvantage.The discussion explores the limits of life insurance and how caregiving roles disrupt financial security—reminding listeners that bereavement is rarely something one can fully prepare for.A grassroots petition, powerful community solidarity, and even a song release (“Warrior”) are all part of Caroline's effort to push for systemic change, one letter to Parliament at a time.

The roll out of Universal Credit began way back in April 2013, a process that has been beset by delays, design changes, controversy and criticism from across the political spectrum. But 13 years on, the roll out is almost complete and Universal Credit is here to stay. As we approach this crucial milestone and the Government is undertaking its own internal review of the benefit, now is a good opportunity to take fresh look at UC's design and structure and ask what operational changes could be made to improve the experience and outcomes for the seven million families claiming UC today. How could changes to Universal Credit improve income stability for its claimants? How could the interaction between the benefit system and work be smoother? What could be done to improve trust in Universal Credit? And can make Universal Credit be made to work better without breaking the bank?

Today, Laura and Paddy are joined by Joe Pike to look at government plans to offer young people on benefits taxpayer funded jobs in areas such as construction and hospitality. The goal is to tackle rising unemployment, with over 900,000 young people on Universal Credit looking for work. Plus, the team discuss Zarah Sultana's interview with Laura on the bumpy establishment of Your Party as well as the latest defection from the tories to Reform.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/4guXgXdNewscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenters were Laura Kuenssberg and Paddy O'Connell, joined by Joe Pike. It was made by Anna Harris with Sophie Millward. The social producer was Darren Dutton. The technical producer was Jonny Hall. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

The Daily Telegraph's political editor, Ben Riley-Smith, analyses the latest developments at Westminster.Following further fallout from Rachel Reeves' Budget, and accusations that she misled the public about the state of the public finances, Ben speaks to two members of the Treasury select committee who have been investigating the issue: Labour MP, Yuan Yang, and Conservative MP, Dame Harriet Baldwin.After the Prime Minister signalled that the government would make a fresh attempt to reform the welfare system, Ben is joined by the Labour chair of the Work and Pensions select committee, Debbie Abrahams, and the former Conservative Work and Pensions Secretary, Sir Iain Duncan Smith, who introduced Universal Credit.Former Labour Home Secretary, Jack Straw, and former Conservative Justice Secretary, Alex Chalk, debate the government's proposals to reduce the number of jury trials.And the state of Anglo-German relations was in focus this week following a state visit by the German President. To discuss this Ben brings together two German-born British politicians: Former Labour MP, Baroness Gisela Stuart, and Wera Hobhouse, the Liberal Democrat MP for Bath.

Five years in business feels like both a lifetime and a blink. In this episode, I share the five biggest lessons I've learned running my online business - from building it during lockdown while on Universal Credit to creating consistent multi–six-figure years that align with my values, not burnout. I'm talking about the truth behind readiness, resilience, and what it really takes to build something that lasts.If you've ever questioned whether you're doing enough or wondered if you're too late, this one's for you. Spoiler: you're right on time. Here are the highlights:Why my 10k month meant more than money (03:15)The moment I stopped waiting to feel “ready” (10:35)How I learned nothing's ever as bad as it seems (19:36)The truth about client care and repeat success (24:20)Why focus will always beat frenzy (26:45)The biggest mindset shift behind long-term growth (28:45)To find out more:WebsiteInstagramDownload the FREE Everyday Sales Machine GuideFree Quarterly Clarity Mapping ToolThis podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

A woman who won tens of thousands on Premium Bonds, sold her home and spent a year abroad before falsely claiming thousands in benefits on her return to Kent has avoided prison. Between 2021 and 2024, she received more than £23,000 after making false statements to the Department for Work and Pensions.Also in today's podcast, you can hear from the Ashford MP who's weighed in on the troubles being faced by Reform UK at County Hall. Sojan Joseph has been telling us why KCC leader Linden Kemkaran should lose her job. Residents say it's “total rubbish” their town is well served by pharmacies while their only closed branch “sits there like a ghost” - and prevents new ones from opening.Jhoots, in the Rainham Shopping Precinct, closed in August after months of troubles meaning 40,000 people in the town have been without direct easy access.A prototype of the game Medway Fighter, based on the classic arcade game Street Fighter will debut at Electric Medway Festival this weekend. You can hear from the creative director who says it's a new way for people to engage with Medway's heritage. And in football, Gillingham assistant boss Richard Dobson says he doesn't want his players to be affected by their winless run when they face Salford City this weekend. The Gills have gone four League 2 matches without a win after a blistering start to the season. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The two-child limit stops most families on Universal Credit from claiming support for a third or later child — worth about £3,500 a year per child. Introduced in 2017, it's now at the centre of a political debate, with the Chancellor under pressure to scrap or reform it in the November Budget.Helen talks to IFS economists Tom Waters and Christine Farquharson about why the policy was introduced, how it's affected families and child poverty, and what the options are for changing or removing it.

 Tommy ROBINSON - Opportunist, Patriot or Ill-Informed? (Part 2)         The Black Spy Podcast 211, Season 22, Episode 0003 The 150,000-strong anti-immigration demonstration in central London, fronted by figures like Tommy Robinson, is a striking illustration of how immigration has become one of the most polarising issues in British politics. The march's overt targeting of Muslims and people of colour underscores the racialised framing of immigration, moving the debate far beyond policy detail and into the territory of national identity, culture, and belonging. The demonstration reflects a public mood that successive governments have helped to shape. For years, both Labour and the Conservatives have flirted with populist rhetoric on immigration. Labour, historically more cautious, now walks a tightrope between its traditional working-class base—some of whom are sceptical of immigration—and its progressive, urban supporters who view migration as essential to a modern Britain. This tension often leaves the party hesitant, reactive rather than proactive. The Conservatives, by contrast, have leaned heavily into the immigration debate, especially under recent leaderships. Their strategy has been to present themselves as the only party capable of “taking back control” of borders—first through Brexit, then through high-profile but controversial measures like the Rwanda deportation scheme. While such policies rarely deliver the promised results, they fuel a perception among parts of the electorate that the government is fighting a cultural battle against an “influx” of outsiders. In effect, the Conservatives have normalised elements of the very language and themes echoed by street movements like Robinson's. This creates a dangerous loop: populist protests pressure politicians, politicians adopt harsher rhetoric to shore up support, and protests grow bolder in turn. The London demonstration is therefore not just a one-off show of force but a symptom of how deeply immigration has become embedded in Britain's political fault lines—and how both major parties, albeit in different ways, are struggling to manage it. Rights of Asylum Seekers (while claim is pending) Employment: Not normally allowed to work.  May apply for permission to work only if their claim has been outstanding for over 12 months through no fault of their own.  If granted, work is restricted to jobs on the Shortage Occupation List. Financial Support: Eligible for Asylum Support (provided by the Home Office). Current rate: about £49.18 per person, per week (loaded onto an ASPEN debit card). Additional allowances may be given for pregnant women, babies, and young children. Housing: Provided with accommodation on a no-choice basis (can be shared housing or hostels, not chosen by the applicant). Must stay where the Home Office places them. Health Care: Entitled to use the NHS free of charge while their claim is being considered. Includes GP services, hospital care, and maternity care. Education: Children of asylum seekers have the right to attend state schools. Asylum seekers usually cannot access student loans for university. Rights of Recognised Refugees (once status is granted) ·    Employment: Full right to work in the UK. ·    Benefits: Full access to welfare benefits (e.g., Universal Credit, housing benefit, child benefit).  ·    Housing: Can apply for social housing and access homelessness assistance. ·    Health Care: Full NHS access on the same basis as UK citizens. ·    Education: Children can attend school; adults can access student finance for higher education. ·    Travel: May apply for a Refugee Travel Document to travel abroad (not valid for country of persecution). Hope you enjoy this week's episode and please don't forget to subscribe to the Black Spy Podcast for free, so you'll never miss another fascinating episode. To contact Firgas Esack of the DAPS Agency go to Linked In To contact Carlton King by utilising any of the following: To donate - Patreon.com/TheBlackSpyPodcast Email: carltonking2003@gmail.com Facebook: The Black Spy Podcast Facebook: Carlton King Author Twitter@Carlton_King Instagram@carltonkingauthor   To read Carlton's Autobiography: “Black Ops – The incredible true story of a (Black) British secret agent” Click the link below: https://amzn.eu/d/fmzzq9h

FOLLOW UP: JLR WOES STILL CONTINUEJLR have put back their proposed production restart from 24 September to 1 October as they continue to try and deal with the hack on their systems where the effects became apparent on 1 September. What has only started to be appreciated is the knock-on effect the closures have had on suppliers to the company. Staff have been told to apply for Universal Credit, due to stopped wages, and many are calling on a furlough scheme to be instigated by the Government. To read more about the ongoing issues for JLR, click this Autocar article link here. To gain an understanding of the affects down the supply chain, click this article link from The Record. CITROËN ISSUES NEW NO-DRIVE WARNINGCitroën UK has issued a new no-drive warning, covering the C3, ë-C3, C3 Aircross and ë-C3Aircross, due to potential brake failure. This no-drive notice is on top of the other two the company is already dealing with. Click this Autocar article link here to read more. PORSCHE DELAY EV MOVE GIVING VW GROUP $6BN PROFIT HITPorsche has announced that they are delaying their move to EVs as had been expected. The Panamera and Cayenne will have ICE and hybrid options into 2030, rather than going all electric. Likewise the new 718 models. The projected hit to Volkswagen Group profits is a smidgen under $6 billion, following this move. You can read more by clicking this Yahoo! Finance article link here. NISSAN SHRINKS LONDON DESIGN STUDIO AND CLOSES OTHERSNissan cost cutting efforts have been turned to the design studios across the globe. Those in California and Brazil will be shut, with the Paddington studio expected to lose some staff numbers too. Click this Autocar article link here. FORD CUTS JOBS IN GERMANYDue to much weaker than expected sales of the Explorer and Capri, Ford has announced that it is cutting up to 1,000 jobs at their Cologne factory. This is on top of the previous 2,900 jobs that went at the end of 2024.If you wish to read more, click this Autocar article link here. TOM MATANO HAS PASSED AWAYTom Matano was the designer of the first two generations of the Mazda MX-5 and has sadly passed away on 20 September 2025, aged 76. He had a long career where he worked for GM, BMW and then onto Mazda. To learn more about him and his career, click this Classic & Sports Car article link here. BUFFETT SELLS ENTIRE BYD STAKEWarren Buffett, the renowned investor, has sold his entire stake in the Chinese EV maker BYD. This is the first time since 2008 that Berkshire Hathaway did not hold any stock in the company. Click this article link from Fortune for more information. TOYOTA AE86 ENGINE BLOCKS BEING BUILT AGAINToyota is building the parts...

Tommy ROBINSON -  Opportunist, Patriot or Ill-Informed? (Part 1) The Black Spy Podcast 211, Season 22, Episode 0002 The 150,000-strong anti-immigration demonstration in central London, fronted by figures like Tommy Robinson, is a striking illustration of how immigration has become one of the most polarising issues in British politics. The march's overt targeting of Muslims and people of colour underscores the racialised framing of immigration, moving the debate far beyond policy detail and into the territory of national identity, culture, and belonging. The demonstration reflects a public mood that successive governments have helped to shape. For years, both Labour and the Conservatives have flirted with populist rhetoric on immigration. Labour, historically more cautious, now walks a tightrope between its traditional working-class base—some of whom are sceptical of immigration—and its progressive, urban supporters who view migration as essential to a modern Britain. This tension often leaves the party hesitant, reactive rather than proactive. The Conservatives, by contrast, have leaned heavily into the immigration debate, especially under recent leaderships. Their strategy has been to present themselves as the only party capable of “taking back control” of borders—first through Brexit, then through high-profile but controversial measures like the Rwanda deportation scheme. While such policies rarely deliver the promised results, they fuel a perception among parts of the electorate that the government is fighting a cultural battle against an “influx” of outsiders. In effect, the Conservatives have normalised elements of the very language and themes echoed by street movements like Robinson's. This creates a dangerous loop: populist protests pressure politicians, politicians adopt harsher rhetoric to shore up support, and protests grow bolder in turn. The London demonstration is therefore not just a one-off show of force but a symptom of how deeply immigration has become embedded in Britain's political fault lines—and how both major parties, albeit in different ways, are struggling to manage it. Rights of Asylum Seekers (while claim is pending) Employment: Not normally allowed to work.  May apply for permission to work only if their claim has been outstanding for over 12 months through no fault of their own.  If granted, work is restricted to jobs on the Shortage Occupation List. Financial Support: Eligible for Asylum Support (provided by the Home Office). Current rate: about £49.18 per person, per week (loaded onto an ASPEN debit card). Additional allowances may be given for pregnant women, babies, and young children. Housing: Provided with accommodation on a no-choice basis (can be shared housing or hostels, not chosen by the applicant). Must stay where the Home Office places them. Health Care: Entitled to use the NHS free of charge while their claim is being considered. Includes GP services, hospital care, and maternity care. Education: Children of asylum seekers have the right to attend state schools. Asylum seekers usually cannot access student loans for university. Rights of Recognised Refugees (once status is granted) ·    Employment: Full right to work in the UK. ·    Benefits: Full access to welfare benefits (e.g., Universal Credit, housing benefit, child benefit).  ·    Housing: Can apply for social housing and access homelessness assistance. ·    Health Care: Full NHS access on the same basis as UK citizens. ·    Education: Children can attend school; adults can access student finance for higher education. ·    Travel: May apply for a Refugee Travel Document to travel abroad (not valid for country of persecution). Please don't forget to subscribe to the Black Spy Podcast for free, so you'll never miss another fascinating episode. To contact Firgas Esack of the DAPS Agency go to Linked In To contact Carlton King by utilising any of the following: To donate - Patreon.com/TheBlackSpyPodcast Email: carltonking2003@gmail.com Facebook: The Black Spy Podcast Facebook: Carlton King Author Twitter@Carlton_King Instagram@carltonkingauthor   To read Carlton's Autobiography: “Black Ops – The incredible true story of a (Black) British secret agent” Click the link below: https://amzn.eu/d/fmzzq9h

Javvad Malik and Erich Kron are back with tea, shade, and tech news, taking on three fresh cyber disasters that are making folks sweat: JLR's Cyber Chaos: A hack shut down Jaguar Land Rover's IT & production lines, and now its supply chain workers are being told to apply for Universal Credit. When “just a hack” looks more like a national employment crisis.  Teenagers + Scattered Spider = TfL Attack Fallout: Two teens are now charged for allegedly being part of the Scattered Spider crew that hacked Transport for London last August. From Oyster cards to APIs—this one's got lots of teeth.  SonicWall: “Oops, Backups Leaked (a Little Bit)”: Under 5% of SonicWall users impacted by exposed firewall backup prefs. Credentials were encrypted but still, enough info was accessible to give attackers a run for their money. Reset everything. Like now.  Buckle up: we'll laugh, we'll cringe, and we'll figure out what this means for real people doing real work in security. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Stories from the show: JLR hack could see thousands laid off - MP https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cwyrqxj3eqqo U.K. Arrests Two Teen Scattered Spider Hackers Linked to August 2024 TfL Cyber Attack https://thehackernews.com/2025/09/uk-arrest-two-teen-scattered-spider.html SonicWall Urges Password Resets After Cloud Backup Breach Affecting Under 5% of Customers https://thehackernews.com/2025/09/sonicwall-urges-password-resets-after.html  

Free school meals are set to be extended to families on Universal Credit from September next year. A new report says serving more free school meals could create a great opportunity for British farmers, to supply the extra fruit and vegetables needed. The report commissioned by Sustain, the alliance for better food and farming, warns that the opportunity could be missed unless action is taken to improve procurement of British produce in school catering. We discuss why successive government promises on procuring British food for the public sector have proven difficult to put into practice. And hooded eyelids, camouflaged feathers, and a strange unearthly call: the Nightjars of Cannock Chase in Staffordshire.Presenter: Anna Hill Producer: Sarah Swadling

After weeks of debate and political rebellion, proposed changes to the health element of Universal Credit have cleared the House of Commons.The government's bill sets out that new claimants from April 2026, who have limited capacity to work and have been approved to receive the health top-up of the benefit, will receive £50 a week, compared to £97 for current claimants who will continue to receive that amount. The Universal Credit Bill is expected to be classed as a money bill, meaning it could become law after one month, with or without the approval of the House of Lords.Emma Tracey gets reaction and analysis from Big Issue reporter, Isabella McRae, Conservative counsellor Lana Hempsall and Jeremy Bernhaut from Rethink Mental Illness.Presented by Emma Tracey Sound mixed by Dave O'Neill Produced by Beth Rose and Adele Armstrong Editor: Damon Rose

It's been a fast-moving day in the House of Commons as MPs voted to send the welfare bill on the next stage of its journey through parliament, but it's been far from clear-cut.Halfway through the impassioned debate from MPs on the effects of eligibility changes to benefits, the government offered up another concession - to delay any changes to one of them, Pip, until after a report involving disabled people is published in Autumn 2026.Many disabled campaigners are pleased with this change, but worried changes to the health element of Universal Credit for new claimants still currently stands. To explain the day's events and make sense of it all, we hear from Warren Kirwan from Scope, Fazilet Hadi from Disability Rights UK and Dan Bloom from Politico. Presented by Emma Tracey Sound mixed by Mike Regaard and Dave O'Neill Produced and edited by Damon Rose and Beth Rose (not related!)

The government is expected to announce a significant compromise on planned benefits changes to placate Labour rebels. Multiple sources tell the BBC existing claimants of the Personal Independence Payment (Pip) will continue to receive what they currently get, as will recipients of the health element of Universal Credit. Instead, planned cuts will only hit future claimants. Ministers are also expected to fast-track a £1bn support plan originally scheduled for 2029.As the Trump administration rounds on US media for its reporting of strikes in Iran, we ask why two different agencies came up with differing assessments of the damage caused by the strikes.And Anna Wintour is stepping back from her role as editor-in-chief of American Vogue, we reflect on her unique place in fashion.

The UK Government has made some concessions to its plans for changes to Personal Independence Payments and Universal Credit. Although there are some grey areas, with a better update on Monday June 30th, they have made the following proposed updates, which will go before Parliament on July 1st. RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Roisin Jacklin, from RNIB's Campaigns Team, to look at some of the suggested changes. If you'd like to read more on this, go to rnib.in/welfare-update #RNIBConnect Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underline with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font. 

This week, young Food Ambassador Dev Sharma hosts a very special panel discussion to celebrate the Government's announcement that free school meal eligibility will be expanded to all children in households on Universal Credit, lifting 100,000 children out of poverty, and giving access to a hot, healthy school lunch to around 500,000 more pupils.Dev is joined on the panel Rushda, a 16-year-old Food Ambassador from Halifax, Dr Sam Rushworth, the MP for Bishop Auckland, and Reema Reid, Headteacher of Holydale Primary School in London.Click here for the Food Foundation Manifesto, here for the Broken Plate report, and here to sign up for the newsletter. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It is rare to see the President so visibly frustrated (see The Apprentice, circa 2004), but after Iran and Israel seemingly ignored his ceasefire announcement – and his plea on Truth Social, ‘PLEASE DO NOT VIOLATE IT!' – Donald Trump has come down hard on both sides. In a clip taken this afternoon he exclaimed: ‘These are countries who have been fighting so long and so hard, that they don't know what the f*** they're doing.' Succinctly put by the President.The exchange of fire could be the expected tit-for-tat seen after the announcement of ceasefires in other global conflicts, but it has dampened the mood at Nato, which world leaders were approaching with cautious optimism, believing the road to de-escalation was clearing. What happens next?Also on the podcast, Keir Starmer is facing a huge rebellion less than a year after coming into power. Overnight, scores of Starmer's MPs have signed a reasoned amendment to the Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payment Bill. This would effectively kill the bill at its second reading in the Commons on Tuesday. Can he de-escalate the precarious domestic situation?Lucy Dunn speaks to James Heale and Michael Stephens.Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

It is rare to see the President so visibly frustrated (see The Apprentice, circa 2004), but after Iran and Israel seemingly ignored his ceasefire announcement – and his plea on Truth Social, ‘PLEASE DO NOT VIOLATE IT!' – Donald Trump has come down hard on both sides. In a clip taken this afternoon he exclaimed: ‘These are countries who have been fighting so long and so hard, that they don't know what the f*** they're doing.' Succinctly put by the President.The exchange of fire could be the expected tit-for-tat seen after the announcement of ceasefires in other global conflicts, but it has dampened the mood at Nato, which world leaders were approaching with cautious optimism, believing the road to de-escalation was clearing. What happens next?Also on the podcast, Keir Starmer is facing a huge rebellion less than a year after coming into power. Overnight, scores of Starmer's MPs have signed a reasoned amendment to the Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payment Bill. This would effectively kill the bill at its second reading in the Commons on Tuesday. Can he de-escalate the precarious domestic situation?Lucy Dunn speaks to James Heale and Michael Stephens.Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

The government have published their Universal Credit and Personal Independent Payment Bill, but there is growing concern among visually impaired people about what all of this actually means for their benefits. In Touch reconvenes some people in the know to try to provide information about what the bill, in its current form, means for visually impaired people.Presenter: Peter White Producer: Beth Hemmings Production Coordinator: Paul Holloway Website image description: Peter White sits smiling in the centre of the image and he is wearing a dark green jumper. Above Peter's head is the BBC logo (three separate white squares house each of the three letters). Bottom centre and overlaying the image are the words "In Touch" and the Radio 4 logo (the word ‘radio' in a bold white font, with the number 4 inside of a white circle). The background is a bright mid-blue with two rectangles angled diagonally to the right. Both are behind Peter, one is a darker blue and the other is a lighter blue.

The much-awaited government bill introducing benefits changes has been published today and officially introduced to parliament, kicking off the process of getting it into law.There were no surprises in the snappily-named Universal Credit and Personal Independent Payment Bill which outlined and confirmed the tightening of Pip eligibility and acknowledged the concession that there will be a 13-week transition period for those whose benefits are being withdrawn. Lots of you got in touch with questions about what this all means - so Access All presenter, Emma Tracey, BBC Social Affairs Correspondent Michael Buchanan and Yahoo News UK journalist, Jasmine Andersson, join up with BBC 5 Live Drive to answer them.Presenter: Emma Tracey Sound mix: Dave O'Neill Series Producer: Beth Rose Editor: Damon Rose And with special thanks to the Five Live Drive team, especially Kirsty Macaulay!

Almost 15 years on from the coalition government's white paper Universal Credit: Welfare that Works, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has finally concluded that its overhaul of the benefits systems is nearly complete. A few thousand people are yet to be transferred from tax credits, income support and Jobseeker's Allowance, and a rather larger numbers are still on Employment and Support Allowance, but the DWP is confident of completion by the end of the year. The Universal Credit programme board has been closed down and the department plans to publish its version of “lessons learned” from a programme that was meant to have taken seven years from the white paper but will have taken 15. So what can this and future governments learn from the delivery of this major reform programme? How was the Universal Credit project turned around from near disaster in 2013? And, as it nears completion, what is the impact of Universal Credit? To explore these questions and more, the IfG was delighted to bring together an expert panel featuring: Neil Couling, the Senior Responsible Owner for Universal Credit for a decade until March this year Tom Loosemore, Co-founder of Public Digital and Co-author of Nesta's report on how to transform government services Jill Rutter, Senior Fellow at the Institute for Government Tom Waters, Associate Director of the Institute for Fiscal Studies The event was chaired by Nicholas Timmins, Senior Fellow at the Institute for Government and author of the IfG's 2016 report Universal Credit: From Disaster to Recovery?

(music) (10 hours) Universal Credit | LMBYTS #1343 | 1st May 2025 by Jason Newland

(music) Universal Credit | LMBYTS #1343 | 1st May 2025 by Jason Newland

(no music) (10 hours) Universal Credit | LMBYTS #1343 | 1st May 2025 by Jason Newland

(no music) Universal Credit | LMBYTS #1343 | 1st May 2025 by Jason Newland

(music) (5 hours) Universal Credit | LMBYTS #1343 | 1st May 2025 by Jason Newland

(no music) (5 hours) Universal Credit | LMBYTS #1343 | 1st May 2025 by Jason Newland

(music) Universal Credit | LMBYTS #1343 | 1st May 2025 by Jason Newland

(music) (10 hours) Universal Credit | LMBYTS #1343 | 1st May 2025 by Jason Newland

(no music) Universal Credit | LMBYTS #1343 | 1st May 2025 by Jason Newland

(no music) (10 hours) Universal Credit | LMBYTS #1343 | 1st May 2025 by Jason Newland

(no music) (5 hours) Universal Credit | LMBYTS #1343 | 1st May 2025 by Jason Newland

(music) (5 hours) Universal Credit | LMBYTS #1343 | 1st May 2025 by Jason Newland

Watch the Q&A session here:  https://youtu.be/cjJSWgvHZKwThis lecture puts forth the ethical and economic case for a basic income, enabling financial security and therefore a better quality of life for all. Financial insecurity affects one's ability to make rational decisions – studies show it even lowers short-term IQ – making it even harder to improve one's circumstances in the long run. Furthermore, unlike means-tested social assistance schemes like Universal Credit, a basic income does not involve a severe ‘poverty trap' and thus, contrary to critics, increases the incentive to take low-paying jobs. This lecture includes findings from a series of BI pilots across the world which Dr Standing has been involved in.This lecture was recorded by Guy Standing on 19th March 2025 at Barnard's Inn Hall, London.Guy Standing is a Professorial Research Associate and former Professor of Development Studies at SOAS University of London. From August 2006 until January 2013, he was Professor of Economic Security at the University of Bath in the UK. Between April 2006 and February 2009, he was also Professor of Labour Economics at Monash University, Melbourne, Australia. He has written and edited books on labour economics, labour market policy, unemployment, labour market flexibility, structural adjustment policies, social protection policy, rentier capitalism and its predations, and the need to revive the commons. His most recent books are The Politics of Time: Gaining Control in the Age of Uncertainty (2023), The Blue Commons: Rescuing the Economy of the Sea (2022), Battling Eight Giants: Basic Income Now (2020) and Plunder of the Commons: A Manifesto for Sharing Public Wealth (2019).The transcript of the lecture is available from the Gresham College website: https://www.gresham.ac.uk/watch-now/case-basic-incomeGresham College has offered free public lectures for over 400 years, thanks to the generosity of our supporters. There are currently over 2,500 lectures free to access. We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to learn from some of the greatest minds. To support Gresham College's mission, please consider making a donation: https://www.gresham.ac.uk/get-involved/support-us/make-donation/donate-today Website:  https://gresham.ac.ukX: https://x.com/GreshamCollegeFacebook: https://facebook.com/greshamcollegeInstagram: https://instagram.com/greshamcollegeBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/greshamcollege.bsky.social TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@greshamcollegeSupport Us: https://www.gresham.ac.uk/get-involved/support-us/make-donation/donate-todaySupport the show

Sir Stephen Timms, the minister for Social Security and Disability talks to Emma Tracey about the proposed £5bn worth of welfare cuts the government recently announced.The Minister explains the Labour government's thought process around the planned changes which include tightening up eligibility for Personal Independence Payment and explains why people under the age of 22 will no longer get the health top-up to Universal Credit.Sir Stephen also reacts to news that Disabled and Deaf People's Organisations (DPPO) are considering stepping back from working with him as a result of the plans.Presented by Emma Tracey Produced by Alex Collins Sound mixed by Mike Regaard Edited by Beth Rose and Damon Rose

This afternoon, Rachel Reeves made good on her promise to deliver only one fiscal set piece per calendar year by announcing what is widely being considered a Budget... this precedes a spending review in the summer and an actual Budget in the autumn. The headline is that the Chancellor had to find £15 billion in spending cuts to restore her headroom and keep within her own ‘ironclad' fiscal rules. This comes after the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) confirmed that the £9.9 billion margin she left herself in the autumn has disappeared. The OBR has also halved its growth projections – bleak news for the government. Among the announcements: further welfare cuts after the OBR was not satisfied with the original package; some ‘final adjustments' to Universal Credit, with the standard allowance rising from £92 per week in 2025–26 to £106 per week by 2029–30; around 10,000 civil service jobs are for the chop; defence spending will rise, at the expense of international aid; and a new target to reduce the cost of running government by 15 per cent. But what is most striking is the extent to which the government is now beholden to the OBR. Who is running this government? Can Labour deliver on growth? Katy Balls speaks to Michael Gove and David Miles, member of the OBR's Budget Responsibility Committee. Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

After weeks of speculation, Liz Kendall has confirmed what benefits are to be axed in order to save £5 billion from the welfare bill - but at what cost for sick and disabled people?Keir Starmer says the rising benefit bill is “devastating for public finances” and has “wreaked a terrible human cost”. But many of his own Labour MPs have accused him of selling cuts as compassion and in the words of Clive Lewis “causing pain for millions”. Zoë Grünewald steps in for Nish to survey the fallout with Coco. And the cuts don't stop there - NHS England's abolition and unprecedented cost-cutting could see up to 30,000 jobs lost. Zoë and Coco discuss the “high-stakes” move, which the Institute of Fiscal Studies has said is “not fully thought through”.Next up, the Tories and Reform are trying to seize the news-agenda with a pair of not-so special special announcements. And Coco has one of her own… CHECK OUT THESE DEALS FROM OUR SPONSORS VOY https://www.joinvoy.com/psukSHOPIFY https://www.shopify.co.uk/podsavetheuk GuestsMikey ErhardtZoë Grünewald Audio CreditsSky NewsBBC Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/podsavetheuk.crooked.comInsta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@PodSavetheUK

Rachel Reeves, Austerity, and the Future of Public Spending:Rachel Reeves is taking Labour in a bold new direction—one that looks a lot like austerity. With billions in welfare cuts on the table, including restrictions on disability benefits and reductions in civil service jobs, the Chancellor is making it clear that fiscal responsibility is her top priority. But is this a necessary course correction, or a political miscalculation that could alienate voters? In this episode, we break down the details of the proposed £6 billion in welfare savings, the potential freezing of Personal Independence Payments (PIP), and the restructuring of Universal Credit. We'll also examine how these policies compare to past Conservative-led austerity measures—and why Reeves' approach may be even tougher than Trump's, who largely avoided welfare cuts. Is this a strategic move to reassure markets and prove Labour's economic credibility, or will it spark a backlash from both the public and Labour's own MPs? We explore the political risks, economic impact, and whether these cuts come too little, too late.

This week: The Spectator launches SPAFF The civil service does one thing right, writes The Spectator's data editor Michael Simmons: spaffing money away. The advent of Elon Musk's DOGE in the US has inspired The Spectator to launch our own war on wasteful spending – the Spectator Project Against Frivolous Funding, or SPAFF. Examples of waste range from the comic to the tragic. The Department for Work and Pensions, Michael writes, ‘bought one Universal Credit claimant a £1,500 e-bike after he persuaded his MP it would help him find self-employment'. There's money for a group trying to ‘decolonise' pole dancing; for a ‘socially engaged' practitioner to make a film about someone else getting an MBE; and for subscriptions to LinkedIn. Lord Agnew, who used to hold the ‘Pythonesque' title of ‘minister of state for efficiency and transformation', backs The Spectator's new SPAFF campaign and says total reform is the only option. Michael and Theo joined the podcast to discuss. (1:04) Next: is surrogacy a blessing or a sham? Debates about surrogacy have raged again following the announcement that the actress Lily Collins has had a baby via surrogate. Mary Wakefield says that there is a ‘sadness' behind surrogacy, and that babies could be affected by being separated from their birth mother. Surrogacy is illegal in many countries, such as Spain and Italy, and Mary worries about potential legal changes that would make it easier to pursue here in the UK. So, is surrogacy a lifeline for many couples looking to conceive, or is it a practice that we should be more concerned about? Mary joined the podcast to discuss alongside Sunshine Hanson. Sunshine is the president and co-founder of the US-based surrogacy agency Sunshine Is, and has also been a gestational surrogate three times. (16:26) And finally: is smoking sexy again? Flora Watkins revels at the news that Generation Z are shedding their vapes and taking up ‘real' smoking, saying that everyone looks ‘hotter with a fag in their mouth'. Disregarding familial disapproval, Flora says that smoking makes her feel cool, young and attractive. Does this mean that smoking is sexy again? And why is smoking proving more popular with younger generations? It appears that the proposed smoking ban, proposed by both the Conservatives and now Labour, is having the opposite effect. Flora joined the podcast - with a cigarette in hand - to discuss, alongside the writer Zak Asgard. (29:35)  Presented by Lara Prendergast and William Moore. Produced by Patrick Gibbons.

This week: The Spectator launches SPAFF The civil service does one thing right, writes The Spectator's data editor Michael Simmons: spaffing money away. The advent of Elon Musk's DOGE in the US has inspired The Spectator to launch our own war on wasteful spending – the Spectator Project Against Frivolous Funding, or SPAFF. Examples of waste range from the comic to the tragic. The Department for Work and Pensions, Michael writes, ‘bought one Universal Credit claimant a £1,500 e-bike after he persuaded his MP it would help him find self-employment'. There's money for a group trying to ‘decolonise' pole dancing; for a ‘socially engaged' practitioner to make a film about someone else getting an MBE; and for subscriptions to LinkedIn. Lord Agnew, who used to hold the ‘Pythonesque' title of ‘minister of state for efficiency and transformation', backs The Spectator's new SPAFF campaign and says total reform is the only option. Michael and Theo joined the podcast to discuss. (1:04) Next: is surrogacy a blessing or a sham? Debates about surrogacy have raged again following the announcement that the actress Lily Collins has had a baby via surrogate. Mary Wakefield says that there is a ‘sadness' behind surrogacy, and that babies could be affected by being separated from their birth mother. Surrogacy is illegal in many countries, such as Spain and Italy, and Mary worries about potential legal changes that would make it easier to pursue here in the UK. So, is surrogacy a lifeline for many couples looking to conceive, or is it a practice that we should be more concerned about? Mary joined the podcast to discuss alongside Sunshine Hanson. Sunshine is the president and co-founder of the US-based surrogacy agency Sunshine Is, and has also been a gestational surrogate three times. (16:26) And finally: is smoking sexy again? Flora Watkins revels at the news that Generation Z are shedding their vapes and taking up ‘real' smoking, saying that everyone looks ‘hotter with a fag in their mouth'. Disregarding familial disapproval, Flora says that smoking makes her feel cool, young and attractive. Does this mean that smoking is sexy again? And why is smoking proving more popular with younger generations? It appears that the proposed smoking ban, proposed by both the Conservatives and now Labour, is having the opposite effect. Flora joined the podcast - with a cigarette in hand - to discuss, alongside the writer Zak Asgard. (29:35)  Presented by Lara Prendergast and William Moore. Produced by Patrick Gibbons.