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
Feb 20, 2025 • 37min
Russia has been brought in from the cold
Lawrence Freedman, Emeritus Professor of War Studies, and David Gauke, former Justice Secretary, delve into pressing global and domestic issues. Freedman discusses the fracturing Western alliance and the geopolitical tensions surrounding Ukraine and Russia, emphasizing Europe's defense challenges. Gauke contrasts this with the UK prison system's pressing need for reform, advocating for smarter crime reduction and rehabilitation over incarceration. Together, they explore how political dynamics shape national security and justice.
Feb 19, 2025 • 26min
Did JD Vance boost Germany's far right?
This discussion features Hans Kudnani, a fellow at the Open Society Foundation and author focused on German politics, and Annette Dittert, a senior correspondent at ARD with expertise in German political dynamics. They delve into the growing influence of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), examining its radical shift and electoral success. The conversation scrutinizes the traditional firewall against far-right collaboration and the implications of recent comments by J.D. Vance, exploring the future of German politics and transatlantic relations.
22 snips
Feb 17, 2025 • 46min
Why fiction matters - Deborah Levy
In this insightful discussion, author Deborah Levy, known for her works Swimming Home and The Man Who Saw Everything, argues that novels are living entities that foster introspection. She elaborates on the transformative power of fiction, emphasizing its role in navigating the human condition and societal complexities. Levy also critiques the oversimplification of narratives and examines the evolving landscape of the publishing industry, highlighting new literary platforms and the emotional ties authors have with their stories.
9 snips
Feb 14, 2025 • 28min
The rise of the "super-council" - plus, assisted dying interview with Kim Leadbeater
Rachel Cunliffe, Associate Political Editor for the New Statesman, and Megan Kenyon, a Policy Correspondent known for her insightful reporting, join to discuss significant local council changes in the UK. They delve into claims that the merging of councils, dubbed 'super-councils,' could undermine democracy and voters’ rights. Additionally, Megan interviews Kim Leadbeater about the pressing topic of assisted dying legislation, addressing safeguards and the balance between choice and coercion in this sensitive debate.
Feb 13, 2025 • 30min
A Labour crash is coming
David Smith, Labour MP for Northumberland and member of the Blue Labour group, discusses the shifting political landscape within Labour. He shares insights on Keir Starmer's strategic shift to embrace Blue Labour ideals and the party's attempts to reconnect with white working-class voters. The conversation delves into the ideological tussle between progressive policies and a more conservative, grassroots approach. Smith also highlights the growing influence of Blue Labour and its rising membership, suggesting a transformative moment for the party's future.
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.
