Will Dunn

Will Dunn, the Business editor for the New Statesman, joins Rachel Cunliffe and Andrew Marr to dissect the complexities of a proposed wealth tax in the UK. They discuss the challenges of accurately assessing wealth and the fear of the super-rich fleeing the country. Dunn suggests that reforms to existing tax structures might be more effective in tackling wealth inequality. The conversation also touches on unintended consequences of tax policies and highlights the chaos of politicians' reliance on disappearing message apps, blending humor with serious implications.

Torsten Bell, Labour MP for Swansea West and former chief executive of the Resolution Foundation, joins business editor Will Dunn to delve into Britain's economic landscape. They discuss the alarming rise in inequality and stagnant wages, emphasizing the urgent need for effective policy changes. Bell also highlights the impact of declining interest rates on asset prices and ownership trends, drawing parallels with Victorian Britain. They critically examine taxation complexities and the feasibility of introducing a wealth tax, pushing for more progressive reforms to address systemic challenges.

In this engaging discussion, Will Dunn, the Business editor at The New Statesman, and Freddie Hayward, the US correspondent, dive into the chaos caused by recent tariffs from the Trump administration. They analyze the significant downturn in global stock markets and forecast the potential for a recession. The duo also unpacks the complexities of US-China trade relations and the impact of tariffs on international trade dynamics, revealing crucial insights into political maneuvering and economic strategies that could reshape future trade deals.

Andrew Marr, a veteran political journalist and political editor for the New Statesman, teams up with Will Dunn, the business editor, to dissect the latest reforms proposed by the UK Prime Minister. They dive into the implications of scrapping NHS England and slashing quangos, discussing the ambitious vision of 'Starmerism' for a more focused state. The duo also highlights the growing challenges in the welfare system, particularly concerning mental health and long-term sickness, while advocating for better support for low-income individuals seeking employment.

Will Dunn, Business editor for The New Statesman, dissects Keir Starmer's ambitious pledge to raise defense spending, revealing the tangled math behind these budget promises. Phil Whittaker, GP and health writer, reflects on the upheaval in NHS leadership, particularly following Amanda Pritchard’s resignation. They delve into the urgent reforms needed in the healthcare system, while exploring how increased defense budgets could clash with domestic needs. This lively discussion unpacks the critical interplay between national security and public health.