74. Kwasi Kwarteng: Liz Truss, becoming Chancellor, and Britain on the brink (Part 2)
May 19, 2024
auto_awesome
Former Chancellor of the Exchequer, Kwasi Kwarteng, discusses Liz Truss, Boris Johnson, and the disastrous Truss-Kwarteng mini-budget. The podcast delves into the challenges of modern politics, decision-making under pressure, and Brexit outcomes. Reflects on past political decisions, leadership styles, and political judgment.
Reflects on Liz Truss and Boris Johnson's rise to power in Tory Party.
Highlights the need for a balanced policy approach amidst tax cuts.
Stresses the importance of engaging with diverse political views and maintaining diplomacy.
Deep dives
Impressions of Quasi
Quasi Stewart, a former politician, showcases intelligence and depth in conversation, revealing nuanced insights. Despite errors in judgment, he candidly discusses his mistakes, demonstrating a mix of understanding and self-reflection.
Political Ideology and Decision Making
Stewart's ideological approach to political decision-making centers on tax cuts to spur growth. However, the realization that strategic need to balance rapid tax cuts with other measures emerges. The importance of a visionary yet practical policy approach is underscored.
Political Perspective and Temperament
Quasi Stewart's political stand aligns with growth-centric policies while showcasing measured diplomacy. Assessing leaders' temperaments, like Boris Johnson and Theresa May, Stewart reflects on the blends of virtues and vices across party lines.
Historical and Cultural Insights
Knowledgeable about history and Latin literature, Stewart's references and interpretations provide a glimpse into his intellectual depth. The blend of historical references with contemporary political analysis enriches the conversation.
Personal Interactions and Judgment
Stewart's approach to engaging with varied political views highlights his ability to connect with others. His nuanced judgment and willingness to engage in challenging conversations reflect a balanced approach to political discourse.
Why did the Tory Party choose to make Liz Truss and Boris Johnson prime minister? How does it feel to be the second shortest-serving chancellor in post-war history? What was the true thinking behind the disastrous Truss-Kwarteng mini-budget?
On today's episode of Leading, Rory and Alastair are joined for the second and final episode of their conversation with former Chancellor of the Exchequer, Kwasi Kwarteng.
TRIP Plus:
Become a member of The Rest Is Politics Plus to support the podcast, receive our exclusive newsletter, enjoy ad-free listening to both TRIP and Leading, benefit from discount book prices on titles mentioned on the pod, join our Discord chatroom, and receive early access to live show tickets and Question Time episodes.