Daily Politics from the New Statesman
The New Statesman
Helping you make sense of politics – every weekday.Anoosh Chakelian, Oli Dugmore and the New Statesman team bring you sharp reporting, clear analysis and thoughtful conversations to help you understand what’s really going on in Westminster and beyond.The New Statesman is Britain’s leading source of news and commentary on politics and culture with a progressive perspective. On Daily Politics, our journalists and expert guests cut through the noise of the headlines to explain the forces shaping our world. From the battles inside the Labour Party to the future of the Conservatives, from the rise of Reform UK to the debates that dominate Parliament, we provide the clarity you need to follow UK politics.--START HERE:▶︎ Kemi Badenoch isn't working | Cover Story with Tom McTague▶︎ Do billionaires really benefit the UK?▶︎ One year of Labour rule: can things still only get better?--LISTEN AD-FREE:📱Download and subscribe in the New Statesman app to enjoy all our episodes without the ads.--MORE FROM THE NEW STATESMAN:❓ Ask a question - we answer them on the podcast every Friday⏰ Get our daily politics newsletter in your inbox every morning✍️ Enjoy the best of our writing via email every Saturday--JOIN US:⭐️ Treat yourself or someone special to big ideas, bold politics and proper journalism from just £2 this Christmas when you subscribe to the New Statesman. Subscribe today at newstatesman.com/xmaspod25--Hosts:Anoosh ChakelianOli DugmoreRegular contributors and co-hosts:Tom McTague, Editor-in-chiefWill Lloyd, Deputy editorAndrew Marr, Political editorGeorge Eaton, Senior editor, politicsHannah Barnes, Associate editorRachel Cunliffe, Associate political editorWill Dunn, Business editorMegan Gibson, Foreign editorKatie Stallard, Global affairs editorTanjil Rashid, Culture editorKate Mossman, Senior writerProduction team:Senior podcast producer: Catharine HughesVideo producer: Rob Le MareAssistant producer: Biba KangExecutive producer: Chris Stone Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Dec 28, 2025 • 1h 3min
The biggest stories of 2025
As 2025 concludes, the panel dives into Labour's struggles and the potential impact of leadership changes, particularly under Starmer. They explore the rise of the Reform party and its implications for traditional politics, alongside the hard-right movements' influence. The ongoing Prince Andrew scandal reignites debates on the monarchy's future. Internationally, Trump's tariffs create global trade ripples, while Gaza remains a contentious issue affecting UK politics. The emergence of an American pope adds a new dimension to global Catholicism.
Dec 25, 2025 • 39min
Merry Quizmas!
Join a festive quiz filled with intriguing political trivia! Discover how Trump's tariffs impacted the mysterious price of Labubus. Relive quirky moments like Volodymyr Zelensky's voice role as a bear and Katy Perry's unforgettable lyrics about California girls. The team debates Chicago's favorite sandwich and the fascinating inspiration behind Tesla's Cybertruck. From luxury goods jokes to a Louvre password heist, this lighthearted quiz delivers laughs and unexpected political insights!
Dec 22, 2025 • 30min
The greatest aviation disaster that didn't happen
Kate Mossman, a journalist and author for the New Statesman, shares gripping details about the near-catastrophe of British Airways Flight 2069. Months before 9/11, a passenger seized control, leading to a dramatic nosedive, yet everyone survived. The conversation touches on cockpit security norms of the time, including notable passengers aboard, like Brian Ferry. Mossman reflects on her reporting, the pilots' contrasting memories, and the survivors' psychological aftermath, revealing how fear and trauma have shaped their lives since.
Dec 19, 2025 • 40min
Predictions for the year ahead
The hosts discuss Wes Streeting's controversial approach to the NHS and its impact on Labour's image. They debate the Lib Dems' seriousness as a political force and their local campaigning strategies. Predictions for 2026 include potential Labour leadership contests and escalating civil unrest. One host foresees the Greens gaining traction over Labour, while internal tensions within Reform could lead to unpredictable outcomes. The team commits to revisiting these intriguing forecasts amid a rapidly changing political landscape.
Dec 18, 2025 • 23min
Misogyny is a "national emergency"
Rachel Cunliffe, a journalist and New Statesman writer on politics and culture, joins to discuss the government's delayed strategy to halve violence against women and girls. They explore the urgent need for action, highlighting alarming statistics that frame this as a national emergency. Rachel critiques the adequacy of proposed education and policing measures, debates cultural implications of online misogyny, and advocates for teaching children about healthy relationships. The timing of the strategy's rollout raises questions about political motivations and effectiveness.
Dec 17, 2025 • 27min
Jimmy Lai’s Hong Kong show trial
Katie Stallard, a senior editor specializing in China and global affairs, discusses the critical trial of Jimmy Lai, a pro-democracy media tycoon facing life in prison. They dive into how Lai's case reflects Hong Kong's fraught political landscape and Beijing's tactics to suppress dissent. Stallard highlights Lai's solitary confinement and the weak evidence against him. The conversation also explores the erosion of freedoms in Hong Kong, the symbolic significance of Lai's struggle, and the nuanced response from Western leaders regarding his conviction.
Dec 16, 2025 • 20min
Can Andy Burnham be the next Prime Minister?
George Eaton, a Labour politics commentator, and Ethan Croft, a political correspondent, delve into the intriguing potential of Andy Burnham as a leadership contender. They explore Burnham's strong public appeal and complex standing within the Labour Party. Key topics include his progressive policy vision, the hurdles he faces in re-entering Parliament, and the challenges posed by party rules that could block his candidacy. They also speculate on the implications of gender-balance regulations and the likelihood of an independent run.
Dec 15, 2025 • 32min
Are Jews safe?
Joining the discussion are Rachel Cunliffe, a journalist with personal ties to recent antisemitic events, and Hannah Barnes, an associate editor who analyzes current trends. They reflect on the shocking Bondi Beach attack, discussing how such events target Jewish festivals to instill fear. The rise in antisemitism, especially since the conflict escalation on October 7th, is explored alongside the idea that casual rhetoric on the left normalizes these sentiments. The conversation also touches on the psychological cost of heightened security and the significance of Hanukkah's themes of resilience.
Dec 13, 2025 • 58min
Is Britain complicit in genocide?
Peter Oborne, a seasoned journalist and author known for his insights on the Middle East and British politics, delves into the UK's complex role regarding Gaza. He critiques both major political parties for their inadequate responses to crises, linking historical decisions to modern implications. Oborne argues that evidence points towards genocide in Gaza, while questioning the UK's media bias. He also highlights the potential for change amid public discontent, stressing the need for a reevaluation of British values and foreign policy.
Dec 12, 2025 • 19min
You asked, we listened ... to Liz Truss' podcast
This discussion dives into the media's fascination with Zack Polanski, exploring his eco-populist pitch and how it contrasts with typical Green Party approaches. They dissect personal attacks on him and the varying tones of coverage surrounding his image. The hosts then tackle a listener’s challenge to review Liz Truss's new podcast, highlighting its dark, conspiratorial style and Trump-esque rhetoric. The framing of immigration and the emotionally charged atmosphere draws concern, showcasing the podcast's alignment with toxic online discourse.
