Political Thinking with Nick Robinson

The National Education Union's general secretary on banning social media, strikes and raceDaniel Kebede says he is "completely aligned" with Kemi Badenoch on social media policy but warns that the Labour government is on a "collision course" with teachers over pay and conditions. Why does a former minister describe him as "disarming" while the press brand him as "militant" and a "hardened protester"?Nick also presses Kebede on the blocking of a Jewish Bristol MP from visiting a school, past comments about Israel, and whether taxpayers can afford further pay rises for teachers.Producers: Daniel Kraemer and Flora Murray Sound: Stephen Pontin Sound mixing: Robin Schroder Editor: Giles Edwards

What is the Scottish First Minister's secret for getting Donald Trump's attention?Nick is in Edinburgh to sit down with John Swinney, at the start of a year of big elections across the UK, including for the Scottish Parliament.He has been at the top of SNP-led government's for almost all of the last 19 years. He is now asking for another five years, with the hope of securing a new independence referendum.In this conversation, Swinney talks about how he charmed Donald Trump, reflects on a dangerous world, and opens up about the pressures on his family life.Producer: Daniel Kraemer Research: Flora Murray Sound: Fiona Fairmaner Editor: Giles Edwards

Jordan Bardella, the 30-year-old leader of France's National Rally party and a potential presidential candidate, discusses his rise in politics and the transformation of his party. He addresses immigration and its cultural impact, emphasizing stricter controls while rejecting accusations of racism. Bardella connects with Donald Trump's patriotic movement and critiques European leaders. He reveals his personal journey shaped by immigrant roots and advocates for prioritizing French nationals in social policies. Bardella also discusses collaborations with Nigel Farage and positions on Russia and Ukraine.

Why did the leader of the opposition call the chancellor 'spineless' and 'shameless'?Kemi Badenoch joins Nick in the Political Thinking studio to reflect on what lay behind the personal and political debates around Budget Day.How can she emulate Margaret Thatcher's regeneration of the Conservative Party?How did anger help drive her into politics? And why do her kids wish she still worked at McDonald's?Producer: Daniel Kraemer Research: Chloe Desave Editor: Jonathan Brunert Sound: Ged Sudlow and Andrew Mills

Why is the Home Secretary warning against leaving space for "darker forces"?Shabana Mahmood sits down with Nick off the back of announcing sweeping changes to the asylum system in the UK.Why did she decide to quote explicit racial abuse in the House of Commons? And how does she intend to avoid "ceding the territory of asylum to the far right"?The Home Secretary reflects on how her Muslim faith plays a part in her job and sense of public service. And she reflects on the "humiliation" of the Downing Street briefing chaos.Producer: Daniel Kraemer Research: Chloe Desave Sound: Ged Sudlow and Hal Haines Editor: Jonathan Brunert

Rhun ap Iorwerth, Leader of Plaid Cymru and Member of the Senedd for Ynys Môn, dives into the intricacies of Welsh identity and the political landscape in Wales. He shares how his upbringing shaped his civic nationalism and discusses Plaid Cymru’s ambitions to challenge Labour's dominance. Rhun also touches on the importance of the Welsh language, the complexities of devolution, and his vision for an independent Wales. With a nod to his musical past, he humorously reflects on his anti-monarchy teenage band, adding a personal touch to his political narrative.

Ed Davey, Leader of the Liberal Democrats, shares insights on political strategy and public policy. He argues that liberal values remain vital and discusses the risks of electoral reform, cautioning against giving Reform UK too much power. Davey talks about his personal journey balancing family challenges, including caring for his disabled son, with his political ambitions. He passionately defends climate initiatives and outlines plans for processing migration while aiming to reclaim patriotism in leadership. Humorously, he embraces the underestimation of him in politics.

Zarah Sultana, an independent MP and former Labour member, shares her journey into politics shaped by a life-changing trip to the West Bank. She discusses her new left-wing party with Jeremy Corbyn, emphasizing its need to address austerity and working-class anger. Sultana critiques NATO, advocates for a single democratic state in Palestine, and warns against the rise of figures like Nigel Farage. Balancing ambition with humility, she likens her party's goals to iconic bands, revealing her passion for politics while enjoying football and pop music in her downtime.

In this conversation, Tom Fletcher, the United Nations humanitarian chief, shares gripping insights into the devastation in Gaza, likening it to the ruins of Hiroshima. He reflects on the emotional toll of humanitarian work and the importance of seeing aid trucks reach families in need. Fletcher discusses his experiences advising UK prime ministers and emphasizes the hands-on nature of diplomacy. He addresses challenges in reforming the UN and managing complex international relations while maintaining a commitment to the urgent humanitarian response.

The Shadow Energy Minister has transformed her party's approach to climate policy.In this extended conversation, Claire Coutinho sets out what changed her mind on net zero, a shift that has brought her into fierce debates with her opposite number, Ed Miliband. She also shares her feelings about what she calls a rising "ethno-nationalism" on the right of British politics, as well as her reaction to her colleague Robert Jenrick's comments about Birmingham. Nick asks how she ended up being sacked by Nigella Lawson, and sets up a future dinner party with Miliband. Producer: Daniel Kraemer Research: Chloe Desave Sound: Jed Sudlow and Andy Mills Editor: Jonathan Brunert