Navigating Political Reactions and Party Funding

The UK government is redefining extremism. But there are warnings that the new guidance could curb free speech and ensnare legitimate organisations. The FT’s Lucy Fisher is joined by colleagues Robert Shrimsley and Stephen Bush to discuss the pushback from multiple Tory factions and Labour. They also dissect the row over racist comments allegedly made by the Conservatives’ biggest donor, and how it has prompted questions about Rishi Sunak’s leadership. Plus, Hannah White from the Institute for Government joins the panel, outlining a new plan designed to make it easier for future prime ministers to get things done.

Clip: BBC

Follow Lucy on X: @LOS_Fisher, Robert @robertshrimsley, Stephen Bush @stephenkb

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The delicate balance in policing extremism

Conservatives’ biggest donor embroiled in alleged racism dispute

Why Sunak’s latest blunder troubles MPs

How Labour would roll back the frontiers of Brexit 

Former UK prime ministers call for reform of the ‘centre’ of government

Power with purpose: Final report of the Commission on the Centre of Government

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Presented by Lucy Fisher. Produced by Audrey Tinline with Leah Qiunn. Manuela Saragosa is the executive producer. Audio mix and original music by Breen Turner. The FT’s head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 

Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com

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