The New Statesman: politics and culture The government must address the graduate job crisis | Politics with Anoosh Chakelian
Aug 15, 2025
The podcast dives into the mounting pressures on Keir Starmer's leadership, asking if he'll face a vote of no confidence. It tackles the fragmentation within the Labour Party and debates around Reform UK's push to scrap net zero. Controversial political scandals involving figures like the Clintons come under scrutiny, questioning elite accountability. The discussion extends to the pressing issue of graduate underemployment, highlighting the disconnect between government job creation and graduate aspirations, warning of potential political fallout.
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Why Labour MPs Resist A Quick Coup
- Labour MPs avoid a leadership coup partly because removing Starmer would look chaotic after his election win.
- Internal pressure or poor May 2026 election results are more likely triggers than an immediate no-confidence vote.
Leadership Change Could Empower Reform UK
- Replacing Starmer risks handing Reform UK a major political gift by appearing chaotic and indistinguishable from Conservatives.
- A leadership change could boost Reform's message that traditional parties are failing to govern.
Who Could Replace Starmer
- Angela Rayner is the clear front-runner if Starmer leaves due to her popularity with members and relative distance from unpopular government decisions.
- Wes Streeting and Andy Burnham are also frequently mentioned as plausible successors.