Mel Stride

Join Mel Stride, a Member of Parliament and former Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer, as he shares his journey from business to politics. He candidly discusses his concerns about youth entrepreneurship and how the Conservative Party is reshaping its economic narrative. The conversation dives into the need for tax reforms to boost growth and enhance mobility, while addressing the pressing challenges of an ageing population. Stride emphasizes the significance of long-term planning in navigating the UK's economic landscape, all with a touch of humor.

Jeremy Bowen, BBC International Editor based in Paris, provides insightful analysis on the ongoing Ukraine conflict and European support efforts. Mel Stride, Shadow Chancellor, shares his take on the recent Spring Statement, dissecting fiscal strategies and challenges posed by historical debt and the pandemic. The conversation takes a lighter turn with a humorous quiz that uses ice hockey metaphors to explore political language. Together, they navigate the complexities of diplomacy, economic forecasting, and the need for thoughtful reforms in disability benefits.

In this engaging discussion, Mel Stride, Shadow Chancellor, dives into the UK's ambitious net-zero target and the challenges surrounding its feasibility. He tackles Kemi Badenoch's bold claim that achieving this goal is 'impossible.' The conversation also sheds light on the stark contrasts in economic policies and the impact on small businesses, amid rising scrutiny of the Labour Party's fiscal strategies. Stride emphasizes the need for balancing environmental commitments with economic realities, making for a compelling exploration of current political dynamics.