The New Statesman: politics and culture
The New Statesman
Helping you make sense of politics, culture and world affairs – every weekday.Anoosh Chakelian, Andrew Marr 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 the podcast, 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.But the story doesn’t stop at Westminster. Each week we take you around the globe, covering world news and international current affairs — from the war in Ukraine and the leadership of Volodymyr Zelensky, to Russia under Vladimir Putin, to the conflict in Israel and Gaza, and the impact of Donald Trump on American and international politics. Our interviews bring leading thinkers and cultural figures into the conversation, while our Saturday episodes explore books, literature, film and wider culture.Whether you want to stay on top of UK news, understand the shifts in global politics, or dive into the ideas that drive our culture, the New Statesman podcast is your essential daily listen.--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:⭐️ Get full access to all our reporting and analysis - and get our magazine delivered to your door every week - with a print + digital subscription--Host:Anoosh ChakelianRegular 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 MareExecutive producer: Chris Stone Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Feb 12, 2025 • 22min
Who should decide how our children are taught?
Katharine Birbalsingh, known as the headteacher behind Michaela Community School's strict discipline and traditional teachings, passionately critiques Labour's education policies, labeling them cultural Marxism. In contrast, Leora Cruddas, chief executive of the Confederation of Schools Trusts, offers a more optimistic view of the proposed Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill. They debate the necessary balance between central authority and educational autonomy, exploring how these reforms could impact the freedoms of academies and ultimately, the quality of education for disadvantaged students.
Feb 10, 2025 • 29min
Trump's Florida Project: how the Sunshine State became the centre of power
Gary Mormino, a historian and author, along with New Statesman contributor Lily Lynch, explore Florida's dramatic political rise. They discuss how the state evolved from a realm of stereotypes to a political powerhouse. The influence of Trump is highlighted, illustrating his impact on Florida's culture and political landscape. They delve into the transformation of Mar-a-Lago from a luxury estate to a political hub and assess the implications of Florida's shift towards conservatism, setting the stage for future elections.
Feb 7, 2025 • 30min
How America runs Britain
Angus Hanton, author of "Vassal State: How America Runs Britain", sheds light on the UK's economic subservience to the US. He discusses the pervasive American influence on British industry, questioning whether UK politicians are inadvertently undermining national interests. Hanton delves into Trump’s tariffs, analyzing their ripple effects on British trade. The conversation also touches on the challenges facing the UK as it navigates its post-Brexit relationship with the EU and attempts to balance competing political interests.
Feb 6, 2025 • 28min
Does Morgan McSweeney really run Labour?
Gabriel Pogrund, Whitehall editor for The Sunday Times, and Patrick Maguire, political correspondent for The Times, delve into the inner workings of Labour under Keir Starmer. They explore the behind-the-scenes power dynamics, particularly the role of Morgan McSweeney in shaping strategy. The pair discuss Starmer's leadership style, communication struggles, and the challenges of upgrading political identity. They also address the implications of recent appointments and internal conflicts ahead of the next general election.
8 snips
Feb 5, 2025 • 29min
"It's guided by six rats": The battle for a life-changing drug
Hannah Barnes, Associate Editor at the New Statesman, and Dr. Dominic Heaney, a neurologist consultant at UCL, tackle the critical issues surrounding valproate, a medication vital for epilepsy treatment. They explore the devastating consequences of valproate on unborn children, discussing rising congenital disorders and the implications of outdated prescribing guidelines. Dr. Heaney raises alarm over the current medical regulations affecting male patients, emphasizing the need for better communication and updated practices to ensure patient safety.
Feb 3, 2025 • 28min
How do you solve a problem like Margaret Thatcher?
Rachel Cooke, the New Statesman's sharp TV critic, and Rob Burley, an accomplished TV producer and author, dive into the tumultuous 1989 interview with Margaret Thatcher that led to her political decline. They discuss the portrayal of Thatcher on screen, especially Harriet Walter's compelling performance in 'Brian and Maggie.' The conversation explores the evolution and decline of political interviews, contrasting past depth and current superficiality, while also examining the gender dynamics and complexities that shadow Thatcher's legacy in British politics.
Jan 31, 2025 • 19min
Returning to Labour is John McDonnell's "greatest wish"
John McDonnell, the former Labour MP for Hayes and Harlington and Shadow Chancellor under Jeremy Corbyn, shares his insights on recent Labour dynamics. He discusses the consequences faced by MPs opposing party policies and the delicate balance of leadership and dissent. McDonnell critiques current economic policies affecting impoverished communities and highlights the importance of transparent communication during turbulent times. He passionately expresses his desire for a return to Labour, emphasizing a need for unity amid diverse viewpoints.
Jan 30, 2025 • 25min
Are Labour "clutching at straws" on growth?
George Eaton, Senior Editor at the New Statesman, and Rachel Cunliffe, Associate Political Editor, dive into the dynamics of Labour's recent growth speech. They discuss whether the party's efforts are genuine or merely a change in rhetoric. The duo also tackles the charisma gap surrounding leaders Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves, revealing how this impacts voter connection. Additionally, they explore the media’s treatment of the Liberal Democrats, highlighting the challenges of gaining coverage in a tense political atmosphere.
Jan 28, 2025 • 35min
Beg, borrow or steel
Sam Alvis, Associate Director for Energy Security and Environment at IPPR, and Megan Kenyon, New Statesman's policy correspondent, dive into the plight of Scunthorpe's steelworks, the last primary steelmaking facility in the UK. They discuss the looming threat of job losses as key furnaces face closure. Alvis emphasizes the need for visionary leadership and sustainable practices while Kenyon unpacks the emotional and political stakes for the local community, revealing how national issues like Brexit impact Scunthorpe's future.
Jan 27, 2025 • 31min
The Times They Have a-Changed: Where is the protest song now?
In this engaging discussion, Kate Mossman, a senior writer at the New Statesman, and Dorian Lynskey, author of "33 Revolutions Per Minute," delve into the evolution of protest music. They explore Bob Dylan’s controversial shift from folk to rock and its impact on cultural movements. The conversation highlights the emotional depth of protest songs, tracing the roots from Woody Guthrie to contemporary artists like Kendrick Lamar and Beyoncé. It raises provocative questions about the future of protest music in today's political landscape.
