Political Thinking with Nick Robinson 'Build Baby Build': The new housing secretary, Steve Reed
Sep 12, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Steve Reed, the newly appointed Housing Secretary, shares insights from his role in the whirlwind reshuffle that followed Angela Rayner's departure. He emphasizes the urgent need for 1.5 million homes to address the housing crisis and discusses the challenge of reconnecting Labour with voters through effective communication. Reed also tackles the complexities of housing development and the importance of inclusivity, all while navigating modern political dynamics. His personal anecdotes add depth to the conversation about rebuilding trust in politics.
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Called In A Whirlwind
- Steve Reed describes waiting by the phone and being surprised by a whirlwind reshuffle that moved him from DEFRA to Housing Secretary.
- He immediately switched focus from water regulation to building 1.5 million homes and reorganising local government.
In My Shorts After The Win
- Reed recounts being at home in his shorts watching people walk down Downing Street after the election and then rushed to get a suit.
- The story illustrates Westminster's abrupt ceremonial demands and the personal chaos of political life.
Use Short Visual Language
- Use vivid, short language to explain big policy goals so both the public and civil servants understand priorities.
- Reed deliberately adopted 'build baby build' to signal concrete ambition for housing and motivate his team.