Robert Shrimsley

In this engaging discussion, Robert Shrimsley, an insightful commentator on British and international politics, and Gideon Rachman, the FT's Chief Foreign Affairs Commentator, dive into the shifting dynamics between Europe and the US. They grapple with the potential rearmament across Europe amid rising threats and analyze America's reliability as an ally. The episode also features a look at the emerging right-wing movement, blending politics with faith and reshaping cultural narratives, all while assessing the implications for identity and defense in a changing world.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer had wanted to kick off the new year with a strong domestic start, tackling the cost of living crisis head on, in the hopes of improving his dire poll ratings. Instead, he has found himself firefighting on the international front, trying to navigate Donald Trump’s foreign policy frenzy.How will Starmer manage his ‘special relationship’ with the US president in light of recent events? Where do Trump’s latest actions leave Nato, especially with regard to Ukraine? And what does all this global uncertainty mean for the Labour leader’s agenda at home?Host George Parker discusses the balancing act facing the government with the FT’s deputy opinion editor Miranda Green, chief political commentator Robert Shrimsley and acting Whitehall correspondent David Sheppard.Follow George, Miranda, Robert & David Want more? Strategic supplication is Europe’s only Trump policyFrance and UK commit to deploying troops under proposed Ukraine peace dealUK armed forces warn of £28bn defence funding shortfallGreenland’s future must be decided by island and Denmark, Starmer warns Trump‘Not in my name’: Labour’s new towns battleAnd sign up here for Stephen Bush's morning newsletter, Inside Politics, for straight-talking insight into the stories that matter, plus puns and tongue-(mostly)-in-cheek analysis. Get 30 days free.Political Fix was presented by George Parker, and produced by Lulu Smyth and Julia Webster. Flo Phillips is the executive producer. Sound engineering by Simon Panayi. Manuela Saragosa is the FT’s acting co-head of audio.What did you think of this episode? Let us know at politicalfix@ft.comClip from UK ParliamentRead a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this engaging discussion, FT correspondents Robert Shrimsley and Anna Gross tackle the UK Supreme Court's defining ruling on the legal definition of a woman, emphasizing its implications for gender identity and political dynamics. They delve into how this decision affects single-sex spaces and the Labour Party's challenges around trans rights. Additionally, they analyze the government's intervention in British Steel, exploring financial struggles and broader geopolitical ramifications. Both guests provide keen insights into the ever-evolving political landscape.

Robert Shrimsley and Jim Pickard, both FT correspondents, dive into Labour's recent immigration crackdown led by Keir Starmer. They dissect Starmer's controversial speech about the UK becoming an 'island of strangers' and the end of social care visas. The guests explore the party's internal divisions over immigration policy and the potential impact on their voter base. Additionally, they touch on the urgent reforms needed in the male prison system and the complex political landscape facing Labour amidst economic challenges.

In this engaging discussion, Stephen Bush, Robert Shrimsley, and Anna Gross delve into Keir Starmer’s ambitious 'Project Chainsaw,' aimed at reforming the NHS amidst a backdrop of political tension. They dissect the controversial abolition of NHS England and its implications for public services. The trio also explores the brewing Labour rebellion over welfare cuts and the pressures mounting from within the party. With insights into the challenges of welfare reform and the complexities of navigating public sentiment, this conversation is packed with crucial political analysis.

This discussion features Robert Shrimsley, a correspondent for the Financial Times, Sam Fleming, the FT's economics editor, and Jennifer Williams, its northern correspondent. They dive into UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves' pivotal decisions on winter fuel payments and massive transport funding. The guests dissect the implications of rising defense spending, imminent fiscal cuts, and the evolving role of the Conservative Party's reputation. They also highlight the urgent need for equitable investment in northern transport, calling for a renewed government commitment for public trust.

Joined by Robert Shrimsley, Chief political commentator at the Financial Times, David Sheppard, Whitehall editor, and Miranda Green, Deputy opinion editor, the panel dives into Kemi Badenoch's recent conference speech and its potential impact on party dynamics. They discuss whether her pledge to scrap stamp duty reflects strength or desperation and analyze the implications for competition with Labour and Reform UK. The conversation also touches on a collapsed spying case involving China, raising questions about governmental transparency and strategy.

Lucy Fisher hosts a riveting discussion with Financial Times experts Robert Shrimsley, Stephen Bush, and Jim Pickard. They delve into Labour's tumultuous path ahead, spotlighting Sir Keir Starmer's struggles with low popularity and pressing issues like the NHS and immigration. The team analyzes Kemi Badenoch’s challenge in the Conservative Party, the implications of potential tax rises, and the looming local elections. They even explore how Donald Trump's potential return may reshape UK politics, adding another layer of complexity to an uncertain year.

Robert Shrimsley, an FT columnist, and Stephen Bush, a political commentator, dive into the turmoil facing Rachel Reeves amidst bond market chaos. They explore the battle between economic management and market forces, questioning who truly holds power. The discussion also highlights the UK's stagnation, critiques past economic decisions, and assesses the political fallout within the Labour Party. Additionally, they consider new leadership in pensions and the opposition's response to pressing issues, all while navigating the complexities of UK foreign policy.

Robert Shrimsley offers keen insights into British politics, alongside Stephen Bush, author of the acclaimed Inside Politics newsletter, and Laura Hughes, the Financial Times' public policy correspondent. They delve into the heated debate over the assisted dying bill, questioning the removal of judicial approval and its implications for safeguards. The conversation also touches on the emotional and ethical dimensions of end-of-life choices, public sentiment, and the intersection of political beliefs and healthcare equity. Additionally, they analyze the impact of recent developments in the Ukraine conflict and UK defense spending needs.