Best of the Spectator Spectator Out Loud: James Heale, William Atkinson, David Shipley, Angus Colwell and Aidan Hartley
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Oct 6, 2025 Aidan Hartley, a writer and broadcaster, takes listeners on an adventurous journey through paleoanthropology as he recounts his field visit to Lake Turkana. He vividly describes the thrill of trekking in Kenya, searching for Neolithic standing stones and exploring ancient burial sites. Hartley highlights the fascinating discoveries and local artifacts that shed light on humanity's past. His storytelling combines excitement and education, making the ancient world come alive for all who listen.
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Conference Was A 'Holiday From Reality'
- James Heale observes Labour's conference felt upbeat but detached from electoral reality.
- He argues Starmer bought time but faces deep doubts over strategy and tax choices.
Move Beyond The Thatcher Cult
- William Atkinson warns Thatcher veneration prevents creative Conservative policy-making.
- He urges learning from Thatcher's method, not idolising a simplified ideological caricature.
Sarkozy And French Prison Practices
- David Shipley recounts French sentencing practice where guilt and sentence are decided together.
- He notes Sarkozy may be placed in a small vulnerable-prisoners unit with larger cells and early-release possibilities.
