Coffee House Shots Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 01/02/2026
Feb 1, 2026
Zack (Zach) Polanski, Green Party leader focused on housing and the environment, outlines a plan for local rent controls. Steve Reed, senior Labour politician experienced in government and security, discusses engagement with China and national security risks. They also touch on new Epstein files naming public figures and the politics around diplomatic trade deals. Short, sharp political roundup.
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Epstein Files Rekindle Questions For The Powerful
- New Epstein files link Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and Peter Mandelson to Jeffrey Epstein's circle, raising fresh questions about past relationships.
- Steve Reed says anyone with relevant information has a moral obligation to share it to help victims seek justice.
China Visit: Trade Gains Versus Security Risks
- Keir Starmer returned from China with trade and visa concessions but faced criticism over engagement risks with Beijing.
- Steve Reed argues the UK must balance economic benefits with security, keeping 'eyes wide open' on human-rights and security concerns.
Targeted Rent Controls Backed By Local Data
- Zack Polanski calls for rent controls targeted by mayoral powers or nationally to curb spiralling rents.
- He advises designing controls based on local incomes, affordability, and housing stock to avoid the pitfalls seen abroad.