Politics Weekly UK

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.

England's social care system is on the brink, burdened by an ageing population and severe funding cuts. Care workers in Greater Manchester confront daunting daily challenges, often overlooked despite their pivotal role. The emotional toll of caregiving is highlighted, revealing resilience and humor amid crises. Staffing shortages threaten service quality, calling for urgent government intervention. The podcast sheds light on the urgent need for reform and support to sustain this critical sector.

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

Pippa Crerar and Kiran Stacey are joined by Ed Miliband, the energy security and net zero secretary, to discuss Labour’s plans to tackle the climate crisis, the third runway at Heathrow and how secure the path to a greener future looks in the age of Trump. Plus, are cuts to welfare and foreign aid the best way to balance the budget?. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod

In a compelling discussion, Patrick Wintour, The Guardian's diplomatic editor, and Taahra Ghazi, CEO of ActionAid, dissect the shifting dynamics of US-UK relations post-Trump. They delve into the ramifications of the US suspending military aid to Ukraine, prompting uncertainty about the alliance's future. Ghazi highlights the dire effects of the UK’s foreign aid cuts on humanitarian efforts, particularly for women and girls in crisis zones. The conversation underscores the urgent need for sustainable aid to navigate an increasingly complex global landscape.