Politics Weekly UK

As Israel and Iran trade escalating blows, and the horrific situation in Gaza continues, Trump has suggested the US could get directly involved. So how is Keir Starmer going to handle all this? And what could it mean for millions of Iranians? John Harris speaks to the Guardian’s diplomatic editor, Patrick Wintour, and an Iranian woman who now lives in the UK. Plus, it’s a rare week in British politics, with the House of Commons voting on two big social issues: abortion and assisted dying. Deputy political editor Jessica Elgot joins John to discuss. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod

The podcast delves into the UK's shifting stance on the Israel-Iran conflict, examining potential military responses and economic implications. It also discusses the unexpected decision to launch a national inquiry into grooming gangs, questioning the timing and potential political consequences. Additionally, there’s an exploration of the sensitivities surrounding race and crime in this context. Lastly, tensions within the Labour Party over a controversial welfare reform bill reveal deeper divisions and the pressures faced by political leadership.

A major funding announcement sparks debate about the government's strategy, prompting questions on whether timely action could have mitigated Reform's rise. The Labour party's bold housing policy is under the spotlight, showcasing significant investments in social and affordable housing. Discussions also tackle the complexities of local funding and rising council taxes amid economic pressures. Lastly, the challenges of maintaining voter support for incumbents, alongside witty interactions, keep the conversation lively and engaging.

Pippa Crerar and Kiran Stacey discuss Rachel Reeves’s U-turn on winter fuel payments: will it be enough to undo the damage done by the policy? Plus, they look ahead to this week’s spending review as negotiations with ministers go down to the wire. And after its chair dramatically quit the party only to return 48 hours later, what’s going on with Reform UK?. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod

Three years ago, British journalist Dom Phillips and Brazilian indigenous defender Bruno Pereira vanished while on a reporting trip near Brazil’s remote Javari valley. The Guardian’s Latin America correspondent, Tom Phillips, investigates what happened in the first episode of a new six-part investigative podcast series. Find episode 2 – and all future episodes – by searching for ‘Missing in the Amazon’. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod

Kiran Stacey, a political correspondent for The Guardian, and Jessica Murray, a social affairs correspondent for The Guardian, dive into the pressing housing crisis in the UK. They discuss Labour's ambitious pledge to build 1.5 million homes and the risks threatening this promise. The duo analyzes the growing internal struggles within Labour amid looming spending cuts and critiques the disparity between luxury developments and actual housing needs. They also reflect on the government's disarray and the potential lessons Labour could learn from political messaging strategies.

Keir Starmer's push to make Britain ‘battle-ready’ raises questions about defense spending and national readiness amidst geopolitical threats. The strategic defense review sparks discussions on how to fund military advancements while balancing critical public services. The implications of upcoming budget cuts on defense and welfare are explored, revealing the tough choices ahead. Plus, insights on the shifting political landscape with the Hamilton by-election, highlighting the rise of alternative parties in traditionally strongholds.

Stella Creasy, Labour MP for Walthamstow and advocate for scrapping the two-child limit, joins Guardian columnist Polly Toynbee to tackle pressing political issues. They delve into Nigel Farage's challenges to Labour, especially regarding the two-child benefit cap and its link to rising child poverty. The discussion highlights the disconnect between policymakers and everyday family struggles. They explore Labour's struggles to counter Farage's populism and the need for reform to uplift communities while handling financial pressures on public services.

Melanie Ward, Labour MP and former Chief Executive of Medical Aid for Palestinians, dives into the UK's delayed response to the Gaza crisis. She emphasizes the humanitarian issues, particularly the threats to children. Rafael Behr, a Guardian columnist, discusses the shifting public sentiment around Brexit amidst the ongoing crisis, while Sophie Stowers, Research Manager at More In Common, highlights the evolving landscape of political rhetoric and public trust. The conversation calls for immediate action and international support in Gaza, urging a humanitarian focus.

UK and EU negotiations are heating up with a new deal aiming to reset post-Brexit relations. Fishing rights remain a thorny issue, showcasing the complexities of cooperation. A unique perspective on personal diplomacy reveals its vital role in international relations, highlighted by military travels. The podcast also examines the UK’s bid for access to a major EU defense fund and the shifting political landscape around winter fuel allowance policies, all while mixing in some light-hearted moments from personal anecdotes.