Politics Weekly UK Best of: Angela Rayner, Nicola Sturgeon, Catherine Ashton and Andy Burnham – podcast
Dec 22, 2025
Nicola Sturgeon, the former First Minister of Scotland and author of 'Frankly,' shares candid insights about her resignation and the personal fallout from her ex-husband's arrest. She discusses the complexities of gender recognition and feminism. Catherine Ashton, former EU commissioner, reflects on her experiences as a woman in leadership, touching on international politics and the media savvy of Donald Trump. Ashton also speculates on Trump's potential dynamics with UK leaders, particularly Keir Starmer, offering a fascinating view on global leadership.
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Working-Class Comeback
- Angela Rayner described returning to the backbenches after a tax scandal and making a powerful comeback defending the Employment Rights Bill.
- She framed her career as proving someone from a council estate can competently run high office and inspire others.
Surprise And Political Humanity
- Nicola Sturgeon insists she genuinely did not know about the alleged embezzlement by her then-husband and describes being relaxed after deciding to stand down.
- She argues people find it hard to believe politicians can be human and surprised by unfolding events.
Weaponisation Of Gender Debate
- Nicola Sturgeon reflects that gender-recognition debates were weaponised and diverted attention from broader threats to women's rights.
- She maintains support for trans rights while criticising how the debate was hijacked by hostile elements.