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
11 snips
Sep 8, 2025 • 32min
Reform conference: "Farage has accepted the inevitability of being PM"
Will Lloyd, Deputy Editor at the New Statesman, and journalist Nicholas Harris dive into the currents of UK politics. They explore the dynamic shifts brought about by the reform movement and the theatrical atmosphere of Nigel Farage's resurgence post-Angela Rayner's resignation. The role of GB News in shaping political discourse is examined, alongside the evolving voter sentiments toward the Reform Party, particularly among women and working-class individuals. The challenge for traditional parties in this changing landscape is clear, as the political scene grows more unpredictable.
Sep 6, 2025 • 29min
What will Zack Polanski do first with the Green Party? | Listener questions
The new leader of the Green Party, Zack Polanski, is set to make waves in UK politics. Listeners are curious about his vision and the party's dynamics in a competitive landscape. Discussions also highlight the potential collaboration among the left, including Jeremy Corbyn's stance on trans rights. The podcast examines the challenging relationship between migration and workers' rights, calling for a unified left response. Finally, there's a critique of the Liberal Democrats, questioning the seriousness of their policies and electoral strategies.
Sep 6, 2025 • 1h 24min
The long and winding road to Brexit | Tom McTague interview
Tom McTague, editor of the New Statesman and author of 'Between the Waves', delves into Britain’s complex historical relationship with Europe. He discusses the rise of optimism during the early 2000s under Tony Blair, contrasted by the skepticism post-2008 financial crash. McTague highlights key political figures and decisions that shaped the discourse around Brexit, exploring the evolution of Euroscepticism and its ties to British identity. The podcast also examines the emotional landscapes surrounding the Brexit debate and its implications for national identity.
Sep 5, 2025 • 39min
Rayner out, Labour moves right | Politics with Rachel Cunliffe
Angela Rayner's unexpected resignation shakes the Labour Party, igniting a debate on political accountability and integrity. As Keir Starmer navigates a cabinet reshuffle, concerns arise about the future direction and unity of the party. Discussions dive into the implications of internal divisions, highlighting the struggle to align various ideological perspectives. The reshuffle's potential effects on policy, particularly regarding migration and human rights, further underline the urgency of uniting the party amid rising tensions.
Sep 4, 2025 • 39min
Should Angela Rayner resign? | Politics with Tom McTague
Andrew Marr, a seasoned political editor, and Rachel Cunliffe, associate political editor, delve into the turbulent political landscape surrounding Angela Rayner's potential resignation amid scandal. They analyze the Conservative Party's tactics as Rayner faces scrutiny for underpaying stamp duty. The conversation also critiques the hypocrisy in immigration rhetoric, emphasizing the need for proactive policies. Finally, they tackle the delicate balance of free speech in light of recent controversies, exploring how societal norms are reshaping discourse around sensitive topics.
Sep 3, 2025 • 47min
The age of deportation | Cover story with Tanjil Rashid
Tanjil Rashid, the Culture Editor at the New Statesman, dives deep into the current immigration landscape in Britain. He discusses the alarming rise in deportation rhetoric and its impact on national identity. Rashid emphasizes the dehumanization of asylum seekers amidst disturbing political narratives. He connects today’s immigration policies to historical ideologies, pointing out the lasting effects of past speeches on modern nationalism. The conversation sheds light on Britain's evolving humanitarian obligations and the complexities of belonging in a multicultural society.
Sep 2, 2025 • 29min
Britain’s booming export: stolen goods | Tom Sasse interview
In this intriguing discussion, Tom Sasse, Public Policy Editor at The Economist, unpacks Britain's alarming rise as a major exporter of stolen goods, like iPhones and luxury cars. He highlights the complex supply chain connecting street thefts in London to global organized crime networks. Sasse reveals how police are overwhelmed by these crimes and the economic impact on ordinary citizens, insurance costs, and businesses. The conversation delves into the serious lack of oversight in UK exports and the interplay between theft and cybercrime, calling for urgent reforms.
Sep 1, 2025 • 18min
Keir Starmer's reshuffle reveals his priorities | Politics
Join Rachel Cunliffe, Associate Political Editor at the New Statesman, and Megan Kenyon, its new politics correspondent, as they dissect Keir Starmer's recent government reshuffle. They explore how new appointments reflect a decisive shift towards economic priorities ahead of the upcoming budget. Dive into discussions about key figures involved, the implications for messaging, and the turbulent journey of crafting a compelling narrative as the Labour Party aims to address living standards and household bills amidst changing dynamics.
Aug 30, 2025 • 38min
Author Nicola Barker: "we are all weirdos" | Culture with Tanjil Rashid
Nicola Barker, an experimental novelist renowned for her unique narratives, joins Tanjil Rashid. They explore the challenges of being a literary misfit and the quest for authenticity in storytelling. Barker reflects on her own identity shaped by societal expectations and the vibrancy of lesser-known British locales. The conversation also touches on her recent work, 'Tony Interrupter,' which navigates art, chaos, and unexpected events. With humor and depth, they discuss how embracing eccentricity can enrich both life and literature.
Aug 29, 2025 • 16min
Has the English flag been co-opted by the far-right? | Politics with Anoosh Chakelian
Anoosh Chakelian speaks with Harry Clarke-Ezzidio, who covered the Raise the Colours initiative, and George Eaton, senior politics editor. They dive into the English flag's appropriation by far-right groups and the absence of a unifying English government narrative. Discussions explore the complex symbolism of the St George's Cross in current political contexts, from asylum protests to cultural identity. They also tackle the influence of populism on immigration policies and the implications for Scotland and England's political relationship.
