Former British politician David Blunkett joins the podcast to discuss the impact of losing industry in the 1980s on his politics, his experience growing up blind, comparisons between Neil Kinnock and Tony Blair, leftist groups and CIA funding, and challenges faced during industrial upheaval and societal fears.

After the resignation of Liz Truss the UK will soon have its third prime minister this year. Britain has long been considered a politically stable nation. So has something changed? The governing Conservative Party is divided on many issues, including the country’s future direction post-Brexit. The opposition Labour Party has also struggled to accommodate different views on economic and social policy. Meanwhile the two-party system is being challenged by shifting demographics, a rural-urban divide and strengthening support for Scottish nationalists. So what lies at the heart of the turmoil in the British political system and where does it go from here?Ritula Shah is joined by a panel of expert guests.Professor Tim Bale - Professor of Politics at Queen Mary University of London and author of the upcoming book The Conservative Party After Brexit: Turmoil and Transformation.Polly Toynbee - Guardian columnist and co-author of The Lost Decade: 2010–2020, and What Lies Ahead for Britain.Sir John Curtice - Professor of Politics at the University of Strathclyde and a leading expert on public opinion.Also featuring:David Blunkett (Lord Blunkett) - Former UK Home Secretary in Tony Blair's Labour government.Producers: Paul Schuster and Ellen Otzen.

David Blunkett, former Labour cabinet minister and political veteran, offers his insights on Keir Starmer's recent diplomatic successes and leadership style. He discusses the government's welfare cuts and draws lessons from Alastair Campbell on effective communication. Meanwhile, Anna Foster, the new BBC Radio 4 presenter, reflects on her career journey, the importance of community engagement, and the evolving landscape of journalism. Together, they highlight the urgent challenges of youth unemployment and the need for coherent policies in today's fragmented society.

David Blunkett, a former Labour cabinet member, joins Wes Streeting MP, Baroness Taylor, and Henry Tufnell MP to dissect Keir Starmer's intense and passionate speech at the Labour Party Conference. They discuss themes of anger and urgency, addressing pressing issues like immigration and social care. The guests reflect on the importance of a constructive narrative while acknowledging the challenges the party faces. Despite a serious tone, they express optimism about the Labour Party's direction, highlighting a positive atmosphere amid external media criticisms.

Former Home Secretary and Labour Party politician, David Blunkett, discusses challenges post-9/11, regrets on crime policies, and the future of the Labour Party. Topics include government reforms, collaboration in immigration, challenges as a blind individual in society, and impact of a blind political figure in global disorder.