Politically

Explore the seismic shift in British politics with the landmark 1945 election, where the public decisively rejected Churchill's leadership. Discover how wartime experiences shaped opinions and led to a demand for radical reforms, including the establishment of the National Health Service. Delve into the rise of the Commonwealth Party, reflecting the electorate's discontent with traditional parties, and uncover the growing desire for political change and representation in post-war Britain. A fascinating look at how public sentiment transformed the nation.

Dive into the transformative 1945 British election, which shocked the nation by rejecting Winston Churchill in favor of Clement Attlee's Labour government. Discover how the Beveridge Report laid the groundwork for the welfare state, tackling the 'Five Evil Giants' of society. Explore the evolving public perception of social security and the pivotal role of women in the postwar workforce. Uncover the contentious political shifts that shaped Britain’s path toward a new era of hope and radical reform.

Historian John Bew, a professor at King's College London and author of 'Citizen Clem,' sheds light on the seismic shift in British politics during the 1945 election. He discusses the unlikely alliance and later rivalry between Winston Churchill and Clement Attlee, emphasizing their contrasting leadership styles. The conversation highlights the impact of wartime experiences on the electorate's desire for change. Bew also explores how Attlee's pragmatic vision responded to the public's call for a welfare state, ushering in a new era marked by radical reforms and the creation of the National Health Service.

The podcast delves into the shocking 1945 election that saw Winston Churchill, a wartime hero, unexpectedly ousted. It explores the dramatic shift in public sentiment and the desire for transformative social reforms like the National Health Service. Listeners will learn about the complexities of post-war British society and how experiences during wartime influenced the electorate's demand for change. Through personal accounts, it captures the hope and exhaustion that defined this pivotal moment in history.

David Runciman tells the story of one of the biggest shocks in British parliamentary history: the 1945 election and the dawn of a new age. Listen on BBC Sounds from Monday 9 Jun 2025

Michael talks to Humza Yousaf about working out who you can trust and managing allies.19 years as a member of parliament, 6 cabinet positions, 5 general elections and serving under 4 prime ministers. During his political career, Michael Gove pretty much saw and did it all. As he says himself, no-one in politics is a conscript. He and others are volunteers who willingly choose their fate. But office can and does take its toll and in this five part series, Michael talks candidly with politicians from different parties about the strengths and skills needed to survive when things get tough.Producer: Ben Carter Editor: Clare Fordham Sound recordists: Jack Graysmark and Hannah Montgomery Mixed by James Beard Production co-ordinators: Janet Staples, Maria Ogundele and Sabine Schereck

Michael Gove talks to Arlene Foster about the challenge of managing schisms in her party.19 years as a member of parliament, 6 cabinet positions, 5 general elections and serving under 4 prime ministers. During his political career, Michael Gove pretty much saw and did it all. As he says himself, no-one in politics is a conscript. He and others are volunteers who willingly choose their fate. But office can and does take its toll and in this five part series, Michael talks candidly with politicians from different parties about the strengths and skills needed to survive when things get tough.Producer: Ben Carter Editor: Clare Fordham Sound recordists: Jack Graysmark and Hannah Montgomery Mixed by James Beard Production co-ordinators: Janet Staples, Maria Ogundele and Sabine Schereck

Michael Gove talks to Amber Rudd about how and why she chose to take stands of principle.19 years as a member of parliament, 6 cabinet positions, 5 general elections and serving under 4 prime ministers. During his political career, Michael Gove pretty much saw and did it all. As he says himself, no-one in politics is a conscript. He and others are volunteers who willingly choose their fate. But office can and does take its toll and in this five part series, Michael talks candidly with politicians from different parties about the strengths and skills needed to survive when things get tough.Producer: Ben Carter Editor: Clare Fordham Sound recordists: Jack Graysmark and Hannah Montgomery Mixed by James Beard Production co-ordinators: Janet Staples, Maria Ogundele and Sabine Schereck

Michael Gove talks to Peter Mandelson about the challenge of managing unpopularity.19 years as a member of parliament, 6 cabinet positions, 5 general elections and serving under 4 prime ministers. During his political career, Michael Gove pretty much saw and did it all. As he says himself, no-one in politics is a conscript. He and others are volunteers who willingly choose their fate. But office can and does take its toll and in this five part series, Michael talks candidly with politicians from different parties about the strengths and skills needed to survive when things get tough.Producer: Ben Carter Editor: Clare Fordham Sound recordists: Jack Graysmark and Hannah Montgomery Mixed by James Beard Production co-ordinators: Janet Staples, Maria Ogundele and Sabine Schereck

Michael Gove talks to Margaret Hodge about the importance of working with other parties.19 years as a member of parliament, 6 cabinet positions, 5 general elections and serving under 4 prime ministers. During his political career, Michael Gove pretty much saw and did it all. As he says himself, no-one in politics is a conscript. He and others are volunteers who willingly choose their fate. But office can and does take its toll and in this five part series, Michael talks candidly with politicians from different parties about the strengths and skills needed to survive when things get tough.Producer: Ben Carter Editor: Clare Fordham Sound recordists: Jack Graysmark and Hannah Montgomery Mixed by James Beard Production co-ordinators: Janet Staples, Maria Ogundele and Sabine Schereck