In this discussion, guests Robert Shrimsley, a keen commentator on British politics, Miranda Green, who critiques Labour's performance, and Jim Pickard, a Financial Times journalist, assess Labour's first 100 days in government under Sir Keir Starmer. They dive into Labour's successes and stumbling blocks, particularly its recent workers' rights legislation. Additionally, they analyze the evolving Conservative leadership race, focusing on the surprising exit of James Cleverly and the competition between right-wing contenders Kemi Badenoch and Robert Jenrick.
The first 100 days of Labour under Keir Starmer have been critiqued for a lack of coherence and clear objectives, leading to increased scrutiny.
Labour's new employment rights legislation, while significant, faces criticism for delayed implementation despite urgent public demand for reform.
Deep dives
BP's Transition to Lower Carbon Energy
BP is making significant strides towards incorporating lower carbon energy solutions within the UK, highlighted by the design of two hydrogen plants. While BP continues to maintain oil and gas operations in the North Sea, there is a clear strategy to diversify energy sources. The company has successfully raised its global annual investment in lower carbon and other transition businesses from approximately 3% in 2019 to around 23% in 2023. This shift underscores BP’s commitment to supporting the UK's energy transition while still balancing its traditional energy activities.
Labour's First 100 Days Assessment
The first 100 days of the Labour administration have been described as rocky and underwhelming, with government performance evaluated through the lens of past administrations. Critics indicate a lack of coherence and substantive details in the five key missions announced prior to the election, as well as delayed budget announcements contributing to a sense of drift. The absence of a clear narrative around their objectives has led to increased scrutiny and negative press coverage, overshadowing more positive initiatives. Overall, the lack of visible government direction raises concerns about the administration’s governing capabilities and preparedness.
Changes in Keir Starmer's Leadership Team
The recent reshuffling in Keir Starmer’s leadership team, marked by the departure of chief of staff Sue Gray and the appointment of Morgan McSweeney, signals a possible shift in the government's direction. McSweeney, associated with a more traditional Labour approach, is expected to influence change, moving the narrative towards a central ground focused on governance and accountability. While there are differing perspectives on McSweeney's effectiveness, his track record in grassroots politics suggests he might be well-positioned to invigorate the party's outreach. This transition is crucial as the Labour government aims to refine its approach and project a more cohesive image amidst ongoing challenges.
Labour's Employment Rights Legislation
The unveiling of Labour's employment rights legislation has been heralded as a significant milestone, though many aspects are set to be implemented over the coming years. Key components include the introduction of day-one rights for workers alongside a new probation status that extends the initial evaluation period. However, most of the changes won't take effect until 2026 at the earliest, which raises concerns about the pace of actual reform. This delay contrasts with the urgent public demand for improvements in employment protections and illustrates the balancing act between providing guarantees to workers and satisfying business interests.
As Labour reaches 100 days in government we take stock of how Sir Keir Starmer and his team have performed. Host Lucy Fisher is joined by Political Fix regulars Robert Shrimsley, Miranda Green and Jim Pickard to assess Labour’s stumbles – as well as its achievements – as the party gets to grips with power. The panel also examines what made it into Labour's flagship workers’ rights legislation – finally published this week. Plus, after the surprise elimination of moderate candidate James Cleverly from the Tory leadership race, how is the final stretch of the contest shaping up between rightwingers Kemi Badenoch and Robert Jenrick?
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Presented by Lucy Fisher. Produced by Clare Williamson with Mischa Frankl-Duval. The executive producer is Manuela Saragosa. Audio mix and original music by Breen Turner. Andrew Giorgiades and Rod Fitzgerald were the studio engineers.