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
Dec 12, 2024 • 17min
Will Starmer engage with HTS?
The conversation delves into the implications of Bashar al-Assad's downfall and the rise of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, raising questions for the UK Labour government. The complexities surrounding Syrian asylum claims amidst ongoing human rights abuses highlight broader security concerns. The discussion critically examines the precarious state of UK-EU relations and the skepticism surrounding diplomatic efforts. Additionally, the impact of political instability in Europe adds another layer of complexity to British politics.
9 snips
Dec 11, 2024 • 32min
What happens when a tyrant flees
Rajan Menon, a senior research scholar with expertise in Middle Eastern politics, Marcel Dirsus, author of 'How Tyrants Fall,' and John Jenkins, a former British ambassador to the region, dive into the dramatic fall of Bashar al-Assad. They discuss the immediate chaos and celebrations following his departure, the rise of new power figures, and the complexities of governance in a post-Assad Syria. The guests also analyze the geopolitical shifts in the region and the implications for international diplomacy amid the changing dynamics.
Dec 9, 2024 • 35min
The politics of faith: Britain's changing relationship with Christianity
Pippa Bailey, editor and writer at The New Statesman, David Sexton, the publication's film critic, and Madeleine Davies, senior writer at The Church Times, explore Britain's evolving relationship with Christianity. They discuss the Church's existential crisis, the implications of recent scandals, and the groundbreaking possibility of a female archbishop. The conversation dives into cultural Christianity's rise, the decline in traditional church attendance, and how films like 'Conclave' reflect these shifting dynamics in faith and power.
Dec 6, 2024 • 30min
Hunter Biden and South Korea: What's going on in the world?
Will Dunn, the Business editor for the New Statesman, and Katie Stallard, the International editor, dive deep into urgent global issues. They analyze President Biden's unexpected pardon of his son Hunter, dissecting its political and familial implications. The discussion takes a dramatic turn as they unpack the declaration of martial law in South Korea, exploring the government's motivations and citizen reactions. Their insights shed light on the intersection of economics and international affairs, making for a riveting conversation.
Dec 5, 2024 • 30min
Labour’s swamp: Keir Starmer resets
Peter Hyman, a former Labour strategist and advisor to Keir Starmer, joins Rachel Cunliffe, Associate Political Editor for the New Statesman. They dive into the challenges facing Labour as Starmer unveils his ambitious 'plan for change.' Hyman critiques Whitehall's resistance to innovation, emphasizing a culture of risk aversion among civil servants. The duo discusses the balancing act between NHS targets and broader healthcare needs, while highlighting the importance of accountability amid rising populism. It's a candid look at Labour's path forward.
Dec 4, 2024 • 27min
Is more devolution really a good thing?
Matthew Engel, a veteran journalist turned Herefordshire councillor, shares his insights on the challenges of local governance. Jack Shaw, a policy fellow and Labour councillor, provides a critical look at Labour’s upcoming devolution plans. Megan Kenyon, a policy correspondent, analyzes the potential impacts of these plans, questioning if they truly empower local communities or distance them further. The discussion delves into the complexities of council reorganization, funding issues, and the real-world implications for citizens and democracy.
Dec 3, 2024 • 1h 16min
Is the UK ready for AI innovation? | Sponsored
Join Will Dunn, Business Editor at The New Statesman, Hannah Russell, CEO of the British Science Association, and Paul Cardno, Global Digital Innovation Leader at 3M, as they dive into the UK’s approach to AI innovation. They explore the balance of progress and regulation needed to harness AI's potential responsibly. Topics include the transformative impact of AI on various sectors, the challenges of workplace integration, and the necessity for public engagement and regulatory frameworks to navigate this technological revolution.
Dec 2, 2024 • 31min
Inside the UK's most influential record store
John Tolley, the innovative owner of Banquet Records in Kingston, reveals how his store has become a kingmaker for UK album charts. He discusses the unique blend of live performances and album sales that propels artists to success. The conversation also dives into the revival of vinyl and the cultural significance of Christmas classics, including memorable charity singles. Tolley shares nostalgic insights on iconic tracks by Slade and Wham!, while reflecting on the evolution of music's role in charity and representation.
9 snips
Nov 30, 2024 • 17min
Wes Streeting: pouring in money won't change the NHS | Sponsored
Wes Streeting, UK's Health Secretary and a dynamic reform advocate, shares his vision for the NHS. He highlights recent labor disputes and the rejection of a government pay offer by nurses, urging for a stronger relationship with healthcare workers. Streeting addresses the NHS's £22 billion deficit, linking finances to patient care and advocating for workforce reforms. He calls for long-term budgeting strategies and emphasizes the need for modernization in healthcare governance, promoting a mission-led approach to improve collaboration and achieve health goals.
Nov 29, 2024 • 20min
Dazed and confused: how are new MPs adjusting to parliament?
New MPs are facing a challenging transition to parliament, much like starting university but with national stakes. They share their fears of party whips and balancing local duties amidst the daunting atmosphere of Westminster. The podcast dives into the contrasting experiences of Conservative and Labour representatives, touching on significant issues like net migration and assisted dying. Listeners also get insights into the future of Labour and the revolutionary impact of drone technology in both politics and emergency services.
