The LRB Podcast On Politics: Labour's Problems
Sep 17, 2025
In this lively discussion, Chris Mullin, a veteran journalist and former Labour MP, joins historian Andy Beckett and journalist Morgan Jones. They delve into Labour's current struggles under Keir Starmer, examining the fallout from scandals and voter discontent. The trio debates the party's communication failures, especially around taxation and public services. They also explore Labour's identity crisis, its historical echoes of leadership challenges, and how to reconnect with an evolving electorate. Expect insights on the balancing act between engaging traditional supporters and modern priorities!
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Shallow Electoral Base Threatens Stability
- Labour entered government on a shallow base despite a big majority because it won just 33% of the vote.
- Chris Mullin warns this fragile mandate makes politics volatile and vulnerable to new right-wing challengers.
Achievements Are Muted By Cautious Centrist Messaging
- The government under-communicates its achievements and mutes policy wins to avoid upsetting hostile media.
- Andy Beckett says this centrism pulls back even modest social-democratic reforms from public emphasis.
Feeding Frenzies Distort Political Decision-Making
- Modern media dynamics and social platforms create persistent feeding frenzies that dominate political attention.
- Chris Mullin observes that constant 'breaking news' pressure distorts policymaking and spooks ministers.
