Former prime minister David Cameron discusses his surprising appointment as Foreign Secretary and the challenges faced by the ruling Conservative party. The podcast also covers how Israel has kept its airspace open during the conflict in Gaza, and the labor activism among China's delivery drivers.
David Cameron's appointment as Foreign Secretary is a strategic move to gain popularity and attract voters, but it may also be viewed unfavorably by those who hold him responsible for Brexit.
Israel has implemented various measures and adaptations to keep its airspace open during the conflict in Gaza, ensuring the safety of passengers and aircraft while uplifting the country's morale.
Deep dives
David Cameron's Surprise Appointment as Foreign Secretary
Former Prime Minister David Cameron has been appointed as the Foreign Secretary by the current Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. This unexpected move aims to attract voters who may have positive memories of Cameron and could help boost Sunak's popularity in the upcoming elections. However, some voters may still hold Cameron responsible for Brexit and view his appointment unfavorably. The shuffle in the cabinet reflects a certain level of desperation within the Conservative Party as they navigate through political challenges and internal conflicts.
Israel's Ability to Keep Airspace Open Amid Deepening Conflict
Despite ongoing conflict with Gaza, Israel has managed to keep its airspace open and airports operational. This is crucial for transporting troops, diplomats, and cargo, as well as uplifting the morale of the country. Various measures and adaptations have been implemented to mitigate the threat of rocket attacks, including adjusting flight routes, shortening the time spent on the tarmac, and enhancing cooperation between civilian and military air traffic controllers. Additional precautions, such as carrying more fuel and allocating flights to a terminal with better protection, have also been taken to ensure the safety of passengers and aircraft.
Quiet Labor Activism: The Battle for Better Conditions Among Chinese Delivery Drivers
China's food delivery drivers face low pay and challenging working conditions. While some drivers have openly protested for better wages and conditions, others have adopted quieter tactics to put pressure on their employers. These tactics include collectively logging out of delivery apps during peak hours, causing delays and disruptions that impact the companies. These mini strikes have shown some effectiveness in negotiating improved compensation and forcing supervisors to be more lenient with fines. While the Chinese government has responded to public backlash by demanding better working conditions, little change has been observed on the ground, leaving drivers to strive for incremental improvements.
Former prime minister David Cameron is back from the political wilderness—and his appointment as foreign secretary reveals much about the state of the ruling Conservative party. We ask how Israel has kept its airspace open during the conflict in Gaza, even as the threat of missiles has grown (10:11). And China’s long-suffering delivery drivers fight more quietly to improve their lot (17:04).
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