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
Jul 2, 2025 • 34min
JUST RAISE TAX
Tom McTague and Will Dunn, both colleagues at the New Statesman, dive into the UK's strained welfare system following recent reform bills. They discuss the paradox of cost-cutting measures potentially leading to greater expenditures, and the growing disconnect between government actions and public sentiment. The conversation critiques the government's approach to welfare, emphasizing the need for compassionate policies, while also exploring the perplexities of the UK tax system and its impact on citizens amid rising economic challenges.
Jul 1, 2025 • 34min
Glastonbury's political hangover rages on
Finn McRedmond, a journalist and commentator known for her insights on culture and politics, is joined by writer Will Lloyd, who contributes to various political discussions. They delve into the political aftermath of Glastonbury, discussing calls for BBC's Director-General's resignation and police investigations. The duo also critiques the changing landscape of festival culture, pointing out the clash between music and political expression. Additionally, Will expresses strong opinions on Sarah Vine's memoir, offering a lively take on political wifehood.
Jun 30, 2025 • 34min
Welfare warfare just the start of Starmer's problems
Tom McTague, Editor-in-Chief at the New Statesman, and Will Dunn, Business Editor at the New Statesman, dive into the political turmoil surrounding the welfare bill. They discuss the implications of parliamentary rebellions on government authority and Keir Starmer's waning position amidst Labour's inner conflicts. The duo highlights the fiscal challenges facing the UK, particularly the pressure from bond markets and its impact on policy-making. They also explore the historical context of government borrowing and the urgent need for strategic fiscal management.
Jun 29, 2025 • 33min
Iain Dale on debunking the myths around Margaret Thatcher
Iain Dale, a broadcaster and author known for his insights on British politics, dives deep into the life and legacy of Margaret Thatcher. He aims to debunk myths surrounding the Iron Lady, revealing both her successes and failures in leading the UK. The conversation touches on her controversial policies, the enduring influence on the Conservative Party, and her engagement with significant global issues. Dale also challenges prevailing perceptions of Thatcher, offering a fresh perspective on her historical significance and impact on modern politics.
Jun 28, 2025 • 24min
Addressing the dementia diagnosis waiting game | Sponsored
Samantha Benham-Hermetz, Executive Director at Alzheimer’s Research UK, and Vanessa Raymont, Consultant Psychiatrist at the University of Oxford, tackle the pressing issue of dementia diagnosis delays in the UK. They reveal the distress caused by long wait times and advocate for early diagnosis as a crucial factor for better health outcomes. The duo also discusses innovative solutions, such as blood tests and digital technology, aimed at transforming the diagnosis process. They highlight the urgent need for reforms in memory services and government investment in dementia care.
Jun 27, 2025 • 26min
"Why won't Keir Starmer stand up to Israel?" - Listener questions episode
Listeners dive into pressing questions about the UK government's support for Israel and the implications of its actions in Gaza. There's a critical look at Keir Starmer's hesitance to address foreign policy and the dissatisfaction among Labour voters. The podcast also explores why council tax reform remains a perennial issue in UK politics, reflecting on the challenges of tax structures and the potential for a 'red Tory' faction within the Conservative Party. Engaging conversations unfold around the evolving political landscape and the complexities of modern ideologies.
Jun 26, 2025 • 17min
“Sack Rachel Reeves” demand Labour MPs over welfare reforms
Tensions are rising within the Labour Party as over 120 MPs rebel against welfare reforms affecting disability benefits and universal credit. The emotional fallout in communities reveals deep concerns and reputational risks for the party. Discussions also touch on emerging left-wing factions that could threaten Labour's electoral prospects, highlighting dissatisfaction among voters. As leadership challenges loom, the podcast dives into the future direction of the party amidst this political turmoil.
Jun 25, 2025 • 32min
Welcome to the new nuclear age
Ankit Panda, a Stanton Senior Fellow in the Nuclear Policy Program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, delves into the complexities of nuclear proliferation. He discusses Iran's ambitions in nuclear development and the skepticism surrounding nuclear diplomacy stemming from historical events. Panda also examines how the resurgent focus on nuclear arms by various nations, including South Korea, shapes international relations and security. The conversation highlights the urgent need for effective non-proliferation efforts in an increasingly unstable world.
Jun 24, 2025 • 20min
Trump's Ceasefire: From bunker bombs to F bombs
Freddie Hayward, a US correspondent for the New Statesman, joins the discussion on the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Iran, set up by Donald Trump. They analyze the tensions that threaten the agreement and delve into Trump’s unfiltered diplomatic style. The conversation shifts to the evolving dynamics of U.S.-Israeli relations and the implications of Trump's foreign policies on hardliners in the region. They also touch on NATO's upcoming summit and the urgent need for diplomatic measures regarding Iran's advancing nuclear program.
8 snips
Jun 23, 2025 • 33min
Iran War: "Our economy will be smashed"
Freddie Hayward, US correspondent for the New Statesman, joins Tom McTague, editor at the same publication, and Will Dunn, business editor. They delve into the fallout of Donald Trump's actions in Iran, discussing how diplomacy has been sidelined. The potential blockage of the Strait of Hormuz could cripple global oil supplies. The conversation also covers the legality of US military actions and their implications for UK politics, alongside the looming economic consequences for trade routes and the UK's energy security.
