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
Jan 17, 2026 • 36min
Is London a crime-ridden cesspit?
This week, the conversation dives into London's crime narrative, questioning whether the city truly is a chaotic mess. They dissect Labour's political U-turns, particularly on the controversial digital ID policy. A critique of Kemi Badenoch's misleading crime heatmap sparks debate on public perception of safety. They explore the psychological impact of petty crimes and the alarming spending on government consultancies. Adding humor, they tackle cultural critiques, screen time's impact on kids, and the absurdity of sensational headlines.
Jan 16, 2026 • 28min
Should breaking manifesto pledges be illegal?
A listener voices frustration over broken Labour promises and asks if manifesto pledges should be legally binding. The hosts delve into the implications of enforcing such laws. They also discuss the rising issue of council tax, highlighting funding cuts and the need for reform. Additionally, they ponder how a semicircular House of Commons might change political dynamics. Each question sparks lively debate and insightful commentary on the mechanics of UK politics.
Jan 15, 2026 • 30min
Jenrick defects to Reform
The podcast dives into Robert Jenrick's shocking defection to Reform after being sacked by Kemi Badenoch. The hosts explore whether this move was opportunistic or driven by genuine conviction. They also discuss Reform's strategies for recruiting disgruntled Tories and the potential fallout for the Conservative Party. Insights into Jenrick's political journey, key policy pitches, and media strategies for Reform spice up the conversation, while speculation about future defections keeps the stakes high.
Jan 14, 2026 • 29min
Why Keir Starmer U-turned on digital ID
Joining the discussion is Alva Ray, the Political Editor known for her insightful analysis of Westminster politics. She delves into Keir Starmer's recent U-turn on mandatory digital IDs, exploring factors like public backlash and internal Labour frustration. Alva highlights the communication blunders and the party's struggle with perception, noting how conspiracy fears have hurt policy reception. The team also tackles the risk of Starmer's frequent reversals before the May elections, questioning whether they indicate flexibility or a lack of coherent strategy.
Jan 13, 2026 • 34min
Keir Starmer: Grok imagery “disgraceful”
Keir Starmer takes a stand against Elon Musk's platform, challenging the circulation of AI-generated intimate images. The UK government is stepping in to legislate against non-consensual imagery, raising questions about free speech and tech power. The panel discusses Musk's influence in geopolitics and how Big Tech has become akin to nation-states. They also examine the tensions between protecting users and the government's potential intervention, alongside the public's outrage that is pushing for swift action.
Jan 12, 2026 • 15min
Nadhim Zahawi defects from the Tories to Reform
Nadhim Zahawi has made headlines by defecting from the Tories to join Reform, sparking a heated discussion about his potential impact on the party's appeal. The hosts debate whether his background could detoxify Reform's image and attract disaffected Tories. They also explore Zahawi's controversial record, including his role in the vaccine rollout and tax scandals. As the conversation turns to future defections, they ponder whether Reform should lean towards seasoned politicians or grassroots newcomers. Zahawi's immigrant success story adds another layer to the intrigue.
Jan 10, 2026 • 31min
An interview with Salman Rushdie
Salman Rushdie, the acclaimed novelist known for his thought-provoking works on migration and identity, shares compelling insights on his life and recent experiences. He reflects on how migration shaped his storytelling and the haunting legacy of The Satanic Verses. Rushdie discusses his new book, The Eleventh Hour, examining themes of mortality following his 2022 attack. He also touches on his relationship with Britain and the political landscape, showcasing his journey from a conservative upbringing to embracing leftist ideals.
8 snips
Jan 9, 2026 • 32min
Blue Labour is splitting the party
Ethan Croft, a political journalist focused on Labour dynamics, and Megan Kenyon, a contributor to the New Statesman, dive into the rifts emerging within the Labour Party. They discuss Preet Kaur Gill's declaration of being "Blue Labour," highlighting her unique position as the first woman to embrace this faction. The duo explores ideological divides on key issues like trans rights and immigration, while mapping out the party's factions, including Blue Labour, old right, and Blairites. With upcoming local elections, the worries of unifying the party intensify.
10 snips
Jan 8, 2026 • 32min
Are we ready for a “Brexit reset”?
In this engaging discussion, Rachel Cunliffe, Associate Political Editor at the New Statesman, dives into the intricacies of Brexit and its impact on the UK. She highlights Keir Starmer’s plans for a closer relationship with the EU and the implications for trade. Rachel explains the complexities of the single market, the significance of free movement, and the contrast between public opinion and political ambitions. The conversation also touches on economic forecasts, the potential for reduced prices, and the strategies employed by Labour and the Lib Dems in navigating these changes.
Jan 7, 2026 • 21min
It's official: Labour are in third place
Ben Walker, a senior data journalist, discusses recent unsettling polling trends, revealing Labour's drop to third place behind the Tories and Reform UK. He breaks down how this shift could complicate local campaigns and hint at Labour's vulnerability in upcoming elections. The conversation also touches on the challenges of tactical voting, the emergence of a multi-party system, and shifting voter priorities. Walker argues that for Labour to regain its footing, a leadership change may be necessary to shake off its 'toxic' image.
