Sam Fleming

Sam Fleming, the FT economics editor, shares insights into Labour's challenges as the party grapples with a projected £22 billion deficit. He highlights the difficult balance of increasing taxes while maintaining voter support. The discussion delves into the political climate, revealing struggles within party leadership and the urgency of effective governance. They also touch on the Tory leadership race and the need for Labour to communicate its vision of hope amidst the gloom, examining the broader implications for UK economic and diplomatic relations.

Join George Parker, UK political editor for the Financial Times; Sam Fleming, Economics editor; and Soumaya Keynes, Financial Times columnist, as they dissect the UK’s recent budget strategies. They discuss the implications of a £40bn tax increase and £100bn in capital spending to revitalize a struggling economy. Explore how public investments may affect private sector growth and the contrasting reactions from political parties. Delve into the potential impacts of upcoming US elections and the challenges of maintaining economic transparency.

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.