Politics Weekly UK

The future of the steelworks in Scunthorpe has been hanging in the balance after the government stepped in to try and save it from collapse. So what happens next for the UK steel industry and the people of Scunthorpe? And why does it matter for our national security? Kiran Stacey speaks to Charlotte Brumpton-Childs, a national officer for the GMB union in Scunthorpe, and the Guardian’s political correspondent Eleni Courea. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod

As fears of a global recession continue in the wake of Donald Trump’s tariffs, Keir Starmer insists the UK should keep a cool head. But with markets in turmoil and a looming economic crisis, does the prime minister need to be bolder? John Harris asks the Guardian columnist Gaby Hinsliff. Plus, he speaks to Daisy Cooper, deputy leader of the Liberal Democrats, about whether people should ‘buy British’ to combat the tariffs. -- Listen to John discuss how music helped him connect with his autistic son on the Today in Focus podcast here: https://www.theguardian.com/news/audio/2025/apr/04/how-the-beatles-helped-my-autistic-son-find-his-voice-podcast --. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod

After weeks of cosying up to Donald Trump, the UK has still been hit with 10% tariffs on exports to the US, which is bad news for the economy and the public finances. So, how tough could things get for Britain? And how should Keir Starmer’s government respond? John Harris asks the former UK ambassador to the US Kim Darroch and the Guardian columnist Polly Toynbee. Send your questions and feedback to politicsweeklyuk@theguardian.com. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod

The podcast examines the potential fallout from Donald Trump's tariffs on the UK government's financial plans. It explores the delicate trade negotiations and their implications for the cost-of-living crisis. Discussion also highlights the contrast between rising living wages and increasing poverty rates, reflecting voter anxieties about inflation. Additionally, it addresses domestic migration challenges through a key summit, and delves into the intricacies of international relations, particularly between the U.S. and Russia amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Wes Streeting, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, discusses the pressing challenges facing the NHS and the government’s ambitious plans for reform. He dives into the contentious issues of assisted dying and transgender rights, emphasizing the importance of compassionate dialogue. The conversation touches on NHS mental health services, the need for funding reforms, and the complexities of navigating legislative delays. Streeting also reflects on the urgency of cross-party collaboration to improve healthcare in England.

In this discussion, Pippa Crerar, political editor for The Guardian, and Kieran Stacey, political correspondent, dive into the Labour government’s controversial welfare cuts amid a challenging economic climate. They unpack the internal party conflicts and the potential fallout for vulnerable communities. The duo examines the striking disconnect between government forecasts and the harsh realities faced by families. With insights on budget allocations and public health challenges, they highlight the delicate political balance that Labour must navigate.

Pippa Crerar and Kiran Stacey delve into the challenges facing the government as it prepares for a crucial spring statement. With downgraded growth forecasts and rising borrowing costs, they discuss potential economic boosts and the impact of spending cuts on public services. The aftermath of recent tax increases and welfare cuts raises political tensions, especially within the Labour Party. The conversation also touches on strategies for military support in Ukraine amidst a backdrop of domestic financial struggles.

An ageing population, a funding squeeze and a recruitment crisis have taken England’s adult social care system to breaking point. This week, John Harris is in Greater Manchester to find out what a day in the life of a care worker looks like, and whether it is too late to save this vital service. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod

Pippa Crerar and Kiran Stacey discuss whether the backlash to the government’s planned benefit cuts will result in a U-turn. And which other departments could face eye-watering cuts?. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod

After months of speculation, the government will soon lay out plans to change the benefits system. Keir Starmer argues that the current system is ‘the worst of all worlds’. But with deep cuts to disability payments on the table, could the changes come at the expense of the most vulnerable? And will Labour MPs really be able to support this? John Harris hears from the head of social policy at the New Economics Foundation, Tom Pollard, and the Guardian columnist Gaby Hinsliff. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod