Political Currency Will pubs be the next big Labour U-turn?
19 snips
Jan 8, 2026 Tensions are rising as Trump orders an attack on Venezuela, while European leaders contemplate their response. The discussion delves into Greenland's strategic value and whether Starmer’s focus on the cost of living will resonate with the public. The hosts question the implications of Labour's recent U-turns, especially concerning farmers' inheritance tax and upcoming decisions on pub business rates. Amidst mounting pressure on Starmer, they ponder whether these reversals will strengthen or undermine the government's credibility.
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Trump Framed Venezuela As A Domestic Win
- The Venezuela action is driven by Donald Trump’s domestic political calculus as much as foreign policy aims.
- Trump openly links the operation to securing oil and domestic economic benefits, removing any pretense of a higher moral cause.
Europe’s Tightrope Between Rule-Book and Realpolitik
- European leaders must balance calling out US lawlessness with keeping cooperation on security and Ukraine.
- Keir Starmer opts for tightrope realpolitik: limited public criticism to preserve US cooperation.
Thatcher Era US Sidestepping Anecdote
- Ed Balls recounts a Downing Street dinner where US figures discussed past unilateral actions like Grenada.
- The story illustrates longstanding UK frustration at being sidelined by US interventions.