Former Chancellor George Osborne warns Labour leader Keir Starmer to offer more to avoid one-term wonder status. Topics include inflation hitting target, election strategies, and debate on two-child limit policy. Ed suggests planning for first year in office.
Labour leader Keir Starmer may need to offer more to avoid being a one-term wonder.
Rishi Sunak's election strategy may be off track despite hitting Bank of England targets.
Debate over abolishing the two-child limit on welfare benefits intensifies for Labour.
Deep dives
Podcast Episode Overview
In the podcast episode, the discussion revolves around the ongoing UK general election campaign and the surprising turn of events in France with Macron's decision to call an early parliamentary election. Macron's risky move to confront the far right and the left has backfired, leaving his position at risk. The podcast delves into the implications of Macron's decision and the potential outcomes for France's political landscape.
Impact of Inflation on Public Perception
The episode highlights the contrasting views of Rishi Sunak and Labour's response to the inflation hitting the Bank of England's target at 2%. While Sunak sees it as a positive achievement, Labour criticizes the government for failing to address the continuing cost-of-living crisis. The discussion suggests a disconnect between the official statistics and public sentiment regarding the economy and taxation.
Two-Child Limit Policy Debate
The podcast explores the controversial two-child limit on welfare benefits introduced in the 2015 budget and its impact on families. The policy's effects on child poverty and fairness are debated, with differing views on whether the restriction should be maintained. The discussion delves into the challenging decisions facing Keir Starmer and the potential implications of reversing or modifying the policy.
Keir Starmer as a Human Rights Lawyer
The episode highlights Keir Starmer's background as a human rights lawyer, emphasizing his dedication to cases involving death penalty sentences globally. Insights from colleagues like Helena Kennedy shed light on Starmer's commitment to defending human rights and balancing individual interests with community welfare. The podcast explores how Starmer's legal experience influences his approach to politics as a leader.
Comparing Legal and Political Decision-Making
The podcast juxtaposes the aspects of legal decision-making, characterized by precision and pragmatism, with the challenges of political leadership. It examines how Starmer's transition from a lawyer to a politician involves navigating complex issues such as foreign policy, human rights, economic decisions, and public perception. The discussions point out the nuances in Starmer's leadership style and the potential challenges he may face as a Prime Minister-in-waiting.
Keir Starmer looks on track for a victory that could even surpass the landslide of ‘97. But how much is this a rejection of the Tories? George Osborne warns that unless the Labour leader can offer more, he may find himself turfed out after just one term. Ed suggests Starmer and Rachel Reeves should be thinking now about their first year in office, not just making it through the next fortnight.
Plus, inflation has hit the Bank of England target of 2%. It should be good news for Rishi Sunak, so why do Ed and George think it proves he’s gotten his election strategy all wrong?
And, should the “two-child limit” be abolished? Labour are under increasing pressure to scrap the policy George implemented. George and Ed go head to head on what’s fair and right when it comes to kids, tax breaks and who gets them…
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Production support: Miriam Hall
Producer: Ned Miles
Technical Producer: Will Gibson Smith and Oliver Geraghty
Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford
