PoliticsJOE Podcast

Keir Starmer faces fierce questioning over the OBR resignation and controversial budget. Kemi Badenoch expertly criticizes government leaks, while Laura and Ben unpack Rachel Reeves' past claims about chess and her career. They delve into the implications of scrapping jury trials and the potential impact on victims and justice. The conversation shifts to the role of political theatre in shaping public perception and culminates in a discussion on cultural depictions of juries in media. It's a mix of politics, strategy, and social commentary!

Laura and Seán dive into the autumn budget and the ensuing controversy over the OBR's forecast leak and Richard Hughes' resignation. They debate whether the Chancellor was misled about the budget deficit and discuss the OBR's role in shaping economic policy. The impact of the budget on various demographics is also examined, highlighting how single middle earners, especially those dubbed 'Nick 30s,' may face financial strain. The conversation expands to generational inequality and the shifting political landscape as traditional voting patterns evolve.

Ava and Laura share their journey home from the chaotic conference in Liverpool, where a new political party's future was at stake. They delve into the debate over collective leadership versus a single leader, highlighting Zahra Sultana's fiery speech and its mixed reception. Concerns about turnout and legitimacy lead to discussions of the democratic ideals and practical challenges of their new model. Meanwhile, the energy around member-led democracy shines through, as they reflect on the party's evolving identity and the logistical headaches post-conference.

In a thought-provoking discussion, author and digital rights activist Cory Doctorow dives into his book, Enshittification. He outlines the three-stage process of enshittification, using Facebook as a case study for how tech companies prioritize profit over user experience. Cory explores the impact of anti-circumvention laws on competition and the alarming trend of digital locks in everyday devices. He advocates for policy changes to reclaim technological autonomy and addresses the necessity of fighting corporate power for a fairer future.

Ava and Laura report live from the Your Party conference amidst chaos following Zarah Sultana's boycott. They dive into factional disputes and the expulsions of members linked to the Socialist Workers Party. The debate over dual party membership heats up, reflecting tensions within the group. Members express a desire for strong working-class policies, prioritizing action over infighting. The hosts highlight the missed opportunity to distinguish themselves from other parties, emphasizing the critical next steps for leadership and unity.

Grace Blakeley, a political economist and author of 'Vulture Capitalism,' joins to dissect the recent Budget's impact on wealth inequality. She highlights the modest wealth tax moves and income tax threshold freeze that hit low earners and graduates the hardest. Discussing the limited effects of the mansion tax and lobbying influences, she advocates for structural reforms like public ownership and improving social housing. Blakeley also critiques the flawed 'growth will save us' narrative and emphasizes the need to strengthen the labor movement to redistribute power.

In this engaging discussion, Richard Murphy, a former chartered accountant and tax campaigner, dissects Rachel Reeves' latest Budget. He argues that the budget is incoherent and fails to adequately tax wealth, with changes favoring the wealthy. Murphy highlights the impact of frozen tax thresholds on low earners and advocates for alternative funding measures like CGT equalization. He emphasizes the importance of targeted support for the hospitality sector, underscoring its role in youth employment and social wellbeing.

We were outside the mother of Parliaments this afternoon on College Green with our instant reaction to the Budget, which was conveniently leaked an hour before the Chancellor Rachel Reeves took to the despatch box. Ava and Laura are joined by Labour MP Natalie Fleet and SNP MP Stephen Flynn who give their instant reaction to the goings on in the chamber, and what it means for the rest of the country.Subscribe to How to Rebuild Britain now: https://linktr.ee/howtorebuildbritain Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ava and Laura discuss rumours that Zarah Sultana, co-founder of Your Party, considered defecting to the Green Party. What's going on with the British left, and what might come next?Subscribe to How to Rebuild Britain now: https://linktr.ee/howtorebuildbritain Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On Laura Kuenssberg yesterday Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander hinted that Labour might scrap the two-child benefit cap in Wednesday's budget. Mel Stride was not happy about this revelation. Ava and Seán discuss.Subscribe to How to Rebuild Britain now: https://linktr.ee/howtorebuildbritain Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.