Political analysts and journalists discuss Keir Starmer's leadership style, party discipline, Kamala Harris' campaign rally, and James Cleverly's video. They analyze PMQs, foreign affairs, and UK's actions against Russia. The podcast touches on child poverty, career changes, and party strategies.
Keir Starmer endorses Ukraine's NATO membership, emphasizing unity.
Rishi Sunak urges support for Ukraine, highlighting NATO summit success.
Tempest fighter jet program strengthens alliances, crucial for sovereign capability.
Deep dives
Ukraine's Path to NATO Membership
Rishi Sunak praises the irreversible path of Ukraine to NATO membership and discusses the importance of NATO allies deciding who joins, emphasizing the successful transition and support from the recent NATO summit.
Encouraging Allies to Support Ukraine
Rishi Sunak highlights the provision of military capabilities to Ukraine and urges other countries, like Germany, to provide further support, indicating the importance of unity and support for Ukrainian defense against Russian aggression.
Legal Basis for Sanctions on Russia
Rishi Sunak acknowledges the legal and diplomatic efforts of the UK, alongside allies, in establishing a basis for sanctions and seizing Russian assets to fund Ukrainian reconstruction, seeking confirmation from the Prime Minister to continue this work.
Keir Starmer's Handling of Foreign Policy and Unity
Keir Starmer addresses concerns around Russian claims on Ukrainian territory, endorsing Ukraine's path to NATO membership and highlighting the necessity for NATO allies to decide on membership while emphasizing unity and the success of the NATO summit discussions.
Debate Over Defense Spending and Tough Choices for the Labour Party
The podcast episode delves into a debate over defense spending, highlighting the challenges faced by the Labour Party in making fiscal decisions. The discussion revolves around the historical context of defense spending, emphasizing the political difficulties associated with allocating funds to defense over other priorities like welfare or the NHS. The episode underscores the intricate policy trade-offs that arise in allocating resources, especially when additional funds are required for defense.
Importance of the Tempest Fighter Jet Programme and Partnership Discussions with Saudi Arabia
Another key focus of the podcast is the significance of the Tempest fighter jet programme and ongoing discussions with Saudi Arabia to potentially join the initiative. The speakers stress the importance of the programme as a crucial sovereign capability and its role in strengthening alliances with countries like Italy and Japan. The episode highlights the progress made on the £12 billion Tempest program and the strategic importance of continuing positive conversations with Saudi Arabia. It further emphasizes the need to maintain momentum in the program and the collaborative efforts involving multiple nations.
PMQs is back, and this time it's Rishi Sunak putting questions to new prime minister Sir Keir Starmer.
Matt unpacks the action from the new-look Commons chamber with the help of Patrick Maguire and Lara Spirit, as both party leaders are unusually consensual and polite.
Plus: Columnists Alice Thomson and Robert Crampton discuss Starmer's ruthless streak after suspending seven rebel MPs, Kamala Harris' first presidential campaign rally, and James Cleverly's leadership video.
