Coffee House Shots Keir can't catch a break
Jul 7, 2025
Tim Shipman, a political commentator for The Spectator, joins to unpack Keir Starmer's turbulent week. They discuss a mounting rebellion over support for special educational needs, reflecting deep internal dissent within the Labour Party. Concerns about legally enforceable support for vulnerable children raise questions among MPs. The conversation also explores Neil Kinnock’s wealth tax proposal as a potential financial lifeline, while pondering its risks of pushing billionaires abroad. Tune in for a witty and insightful take on pressing political issues.
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SEND Support Strains Budgets
- The financial strain of supporting children with special educational needs (SEND) is threatening local councils' budgets.
- Labour faces internal conflict balancing financial constraints against their commitment to support vulnerable children.
Rising Diagnoses Impact SEND Debate
- The rise in SEND claims partly arises from increased diagnoses of ADHD and autism, raising questions about resource allocation.
- Labour struggles to advocate for reform without alienating its core supporters who oppose cuts.
Labour’s Internal Strains Threaten Majority
- Labour’s internal divisions could threaten their parliamentary majority and distract from front-foot political campaigning.
- The party risks ineffectiveness if consumed by internal affairs and challenged by populist right forces.