The New Statesman | UK politics and culture

In this engaging discussion, Phil Tinline, a writer and author of Ghosts of Iron Mountain, delves into the 1967 Iron Mountain hoax and its far-reaching impact on American perceptions of truth. He explores how a satirical report criticizing government war strategies was misinterpreted as fact, highlighting the dangerous intersection of satire and authority. Tinline draws connections to modern conspiracy theories like QAnon, examining how hoaxes have evolved with the internet and social media, and the ongoing struggle between objective facts and emotional narratives.

Nick Dearden, author of PharmaNomics, and Phil Whitaker, a seasoned NHS GP, dive into the murky waters of Big Pharma's influence on healthcare. They discuss how pharmaceutical companies have historically manipulated doctors and the regulatory environment to prioritize profits. The dark legacy of OxyContin marketing reveals the dangerous consequences of profit-driven strategies. Dearden and Whitaker also advocate for rethinking pharmaceutical regulations, emphasizing the need for public interest over corporate profit, inspired by innovative models from countries like South Africa.

Holly Ellis, AWS Director of Technology for the UK Public Sector, and Alexander Losad, Director of Government Innovation Policy at the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change, discuss the UK’s AI Opportunities Action Plan. They explore how the initiative aims to drive economic growth and reshape public services through innovative practices. Challenges in implementation are highlighted, including the need for role clarity and quick wins. The conversation also emphasizes the UK's potential as a global AI innovation leader, supported by strong educational foundations.

Ben Walker, a senior data journalist, shares insights on the crucial local elections set for May 1st. He examines the shifting electoral landscape in Britain, emphasizing the rise of the Reform Party and changing voter behavior. The conversation dives into the Runcorn by-election, highlighting candidates’ focus on national issues over local concerns. Walker discusses the implications of voter apathy and the dynamics between Labour and Reform, and considers potential strategies for alliances against Conservative influence. A must-listen for anyone interested in UK's political shifts!

In this engaging discussion, Will Dunn, the Business editor at The New Statesman, and Freddie Hayward, the US correspondent, dive into the chaos caused by recent tariffs from the Trump administration. They analyze the significant downturn in global stock markets and forecast the potential for a recession. The duo also unpacks the complexities of US-China trade relations and the impact of tariffs on international trade dynamics, revealing crucial insights into political maneuvering and economic strategies that could reshape future trade deals.

Basilio Sepe is a freelance photojournalist from Manila, documenting the devastating impact of Rodrigo Duterte's war on drugs. Kelebogile Zvobgo, a political scientist specializing in international law, shares insights on the evolving legal landscape. They discuss Duterte's impending accountability at The Hague and its ramifications for other leaders like Vladimir Putin. The conversation delves into the emotional weight of documenting violence and the slow, often challenging journey towards justice in international law.

In this engaging conversation, Sue Roe, author of *Hidden Portraits*, explores the lives of six remarkable women who were crucial to Picasso's artistry. She reveals how muses like Fernand Olivier and Olga Koklova influenced his transition from the Blue to the Rose periods and the dawn of cubism. Roe discusses the complexities of Picasso's relationships, including his manipulative behavior and the powerful impact these women had on his work. The discussion challenges listeners to appreciate art while acknowledging the artist's personal flaws.

Oliver Moody, Berlin Bureau Chief for The Times and author of "Baltic: The Future of Europe," shares his insights on the precarious geopolitical landscape of the Baltic states. He emphasizes the region as a litmus test for Western resolve against Russia. The discussion covers the historical context of Britain's support for Baltic independence, Germany's military rearmament following recent tensions, and the complex realities of Russia's military strategies. Moody paints a vivid picture of how Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania face unique challenges and resilience in today's uncertain climate.

Joining the discussion is Duncan Weldon, an economist and journalist known for his insights into global trade dynamics. He breaks down Trump’s recently announced tariffs and their ripple effects on the UK and global economy. Weldon highlights the challenges faced by American beef and poultry exports, examines the potential fallout for luxury goods and pharmaceuticals, and addresses fears over retaliatory actions by other nations. He also contemplates how these tariff changes could reshape market confidence and the future of the US dollar.

Markus Valentin, a local journalist from KNR, shares firsthand insights on the US delegation's controversial interest in Greenland, a land long coveted for its strategic location. Romain Chuffart from the Arctic Institute offers expert analysis on the historical and geopolitical implications of these aspirations. The discussion dives into the resistance from Greenlanders against annexation, the complexities of national identity, and the resource wealth that shapes both independence desires and geopolitical tensions with superpowers.