How To Win An Election Is Keir Really Never Here?
Nov 21, 2025
Michael Binyon, a seasoned foreign affairs commentator, and Lucy White, a political reporter from Bloomberg, dive into the political landscape. They debate whether Keir Starmer's absence from the G20 is warranted, explore the significance of side meetings at summits, and discuss China's controversial new embassy in London. The conversation also tackles the complexities of Ukraine's position and the implications of Trump's approach to diplomacy, while humorously touching on recent interactions with the press and even robot deliveries.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Value Lies In G20 Sidelines
- Gita Hari and guests argue the G20's formal communique is largely platitudes and pre-agreed text.
- Real value comes from side meetings and impromptu corridor diplomacy at the summit.
Delegate Routine Diplomacy
- Delegate routine international engagements to the foreign secretary when possible to avoid PM overload.
- Reserve the prime minister for moments that truly require a national leader's personal intervention.
Presence Amplifies Influence
- Keir Starmer's presence at G20 gives Britain a louder voice when big leaders are absent.
- Michael Binyon says personal representation can be crucial for behind-the-scenes breakthroughs.