Robert Shrimsley, Executive Editor and FT columnist, teams up with Harriet Fitch Little, FT Weekend Magazine's food and drink editor from the Cotswolds, to dive into the indulgent world of 'Rivals.' They tackle the show's depiction of 1980s class dynamics, sex, and the often chaotic relationships among posh country-dwellers. The duo debates the strengths of the adaptation, the cultural significance of Jilly Cooper’s writing, and shares personal anecdotes about media consumption and community-driven clothing swaps.

Lucy Fisher assembles the Political Fix team to discuss the surprise snap general election in the UK. They dive into party campaigns, Rishi Sunak's decision, potential TV debates, Labour's readiness, Nigel Farage's non-candidacy impact, and election strategies.

In this discussion, guests Robert Shrimsley, a keen commentator on British politics, Miranda Green, who critiques Labour's performance, and Jim Pickard, a Financial Times journalist, assess Labour's first 100 days in government under Sir Keir Starmer. They dive into Labour's successes and stumbling blocks, particularly its recent workers' rights legislation. Additionally, they analyze the evolving Conservative leadership race, focusing on the surprising exit of James Cleverly and the competition between right-wing contenders Kemi Badenoch and Robert Jenrick.

Miranda Green, a savvy political commentator, joins Robert Shrimsley, a political analyst focused on Labour's dynamics, alongside economics editor Sam Fleming, and foreign affairs expert Gideon Rachman. They dissect the unexpectedly muted atmosphere at Labour's conference following a big election win. Discussions include Starmer's efforts in New York to bolster international relations, the challenges of balancing fiscal policies with capital spending, and the impacts of good governance on public perception amidst rising populism.

Lucy Fisher, a political journalist, leads an insightful discussion featuring Robert Shrimsley, George Parker, and Sarah Neville, who examine a government report declaring the NHS in critical condition. They explore whether Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer can successfully reform the health service amidst looming political challenges. The conversation also delves into younger generations' shifting views on healthcare sustainability and the urgent need to boost NHS staff morale, emphasizing the political ramifications and economic impacts of health policy in the UK.

Rachel Reeves, the UK's chancellor, discusses the daunting £20 billion financial shortfall that may lead to tax increases. George Parker, political editor at the Financial Times, along with Stephen Bush and Robert Shrimsley, analyze government options amid this uncertainty. Gill Plimmer highlights the controversial cancellation of the HS2 rail link and its far-reaching implications for transportation and regional economies. The conversation sheds light on the delicate balance between fiscal responsibility and public expectations.

FT journalists and political experts dissect Keir Starmer's election victory, Tory collapse, Reform Party's rise, and potential policies including tax increases, education reforms, defense spending, and Brexit deals. Discussions on SNP decline, Liberal Democrats' strategies, and the challenges ahead for the new Labour government.

Financial Times columnist Robert Shrimsley discusses the potential snap UK election, the country's productivity issues, and the absence of Brexit in the upcoming political landscape. Will this election offer solutions or deepen existing fractures? Dive into the political drama and economic challenges facing the UK in this insightful podcast episode.

The podcast explores the UK's new extremism definition and its impact on free speech. They discuss the controversy around racist comments by a top Tory donor affecting Rishi Sunak's leadership. Also, Labour's plans post-Brexit and proposals to improve government efficiency are highlighted. The episode delves into party funding dynamics and the challenges of addressing racism in politics.

Robert Shrimsley has written a satirical column for the FT for years, and this week we talk through one where he gives advice to his older self. As it turns out, forecasting who you might become is an exercise in recognising who you are now – and coming to terms with your genuine interests and limitations. Then Lilah speaks with Alice Lascelles, the FT’s drinks contributor, about the rise of non-alcoholic beverages. Turns out, making a cocktail that’s non-alcoholic and good is the ultimate challenge for bartenders. --------------Want to say hi? We love hearing from you. Email us at ftweekendpodcast@ft.com. We’re on Twitter @ftweekendpod, and Lilah is on Instagram and Twitter @lilahrap. --------------Links:– Robert is the FT’s UK chief political commentator and UK editor-at-large. He has two columns, one on UK politics and one in the FT Weekend Magazine– Robert’s ‘Advice to my older self’ column: https://on.ft.com/41GYoy2 – Another column by Robert: ‘What’s with all the farmer’s markets?’: https://on.ft.com/3IgOIU8 – One more column by Robert: ‘Humanity has built AI in its own image, heaven help us’: https://on.ft.com/41QmfLW – Alice’s column on the World Alcohol Free awards: https://on.ft.com/3IgsGAX –Robert is on Twitter at @robertshrimsley. Alice is on Instagram and Twitter @alicelascelles.--------------Special offers for Weekend listeners, from 50% off a digital subscription to a $1/£1/€1 trial are here: http://ft.com/weekendpodcast.--------------Original music by Metaphor Music. Mixing and sound design by Breen Turner and Sam Giovinco. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.