James Cook

In this lively discussion recorded at the Edinburgh Fringe, James Cook, Scotland Editor, shares insights on the intricate dynamics of Scottish politics. Des Clarke, host of Breaking The News, brings humor into the mix while Ailbhe Rea, Associate Editor at Bloomberg UK, analyzes the political ramifications of Benjamin Netanyahu's Gaza plan and Keir Starmer's response. The trio also dives into Kemi Badenoch's confession about exposing a cheating classmate, blending serious topics with comedic anecdotes from the festival.

In this episode, James Cook, Scotland editor and presenter, and political correspondent Alex Forsyth discuss the UK Supreme Court's ruling that the legal definition of a woman is based on biological sex. They delve into the implications for women's rights and the trans community, highlighting diverse reactions. The conversation touches on the evolving landscape of gender recognition laws and political ramifications for parties like Labour under Keir Starmer. With insights into societal discussions, this engaging talk captures the complexities of gender and legal definitions.

In this engaging discussion, journalist Anthony Zurcher, along with newscast presenters Chris Mason and James Cook, delve into Donald Trump’s return as the 47th president. They dissect his inaugural speech, highlighting its implications for ongoing conflicts like the war in Ukraine. The group explores Trump's mixed messages on immigration and his self-proclaimed peacemaker role, while also examining social media reactions. The conversation touches on the impact of inflation and populism on power dynamics, reflecting on how these shifts might influence global politics.

Sarah Smith, a seasoned journalist and former BBC News Washington correspondent, joins James Cook, BBC News' Scotland Editor, for a lively discussion from the Edinburgh Fringe. They dive into the surreal experience of covering Donald Trump and the chaotic energy of media reporting. The conversation touches on Trump's eyebrow-raising comments about nuclear submarines and the cultural impact of celebrity endorsements, particularly focusing on a controversial commercial. Humor and politics intertwine as they explore Scottish identity and the challenges of live broadcasting.

Sarah Smith, BBC's North America editor, and James Cook, Scotland editor, dive into the intriguing meeting between Donald Trump and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer in Scotland. They discuss Trump's bold claims about negotiating a ceasefire in Gaza and reducing the deadline for Ukraine's deal. The conversation also highlights the peculiar backdrop of a golf course for such serious discussions, blending politics with Trump's business interests. Their insights provide a captivating look at the ongoing tensions and dynamics surrounding these international events.