Bloomberg UK Politics

Day 3 at the Labour party conference in Liverpool as Keir Starmer becomes the first Prime Minister to address the event in 15 years. Trade unions and business lobbies alike are optimistic about his plans, but can the government deliver for both groups? Bloomberg's political editor Alex Wickham joins us with his take on matters. Hosted by Lizzy Burden and James Woolcock. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has promised “real ambition” in the budget next month as well as a timetable for a new industrial strategy for Britain and a "proudly pro-business and pro-worker" government at the Labour party conference in Liverpool. Bloomberg's UK correspondent Lizzy Burden and reporter James Woolcock discuss the speech, delivered by the first female Chancellor in Britain for 800 years. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this engaging discussion, Matthew Lesh, a policy fellow at the Institute of Economic Affairs and a country manager at Freshwater Strategy, tackles the provocative topic of political salaries. He argues that competitive pay is essential for attracting talented individuals to politics, especially as figures like Keir Starmer's chief of staff earn more than the Prime Minister. Lesh also highlights the potential impact of salaries on diversity and representation in politics, questioning whether current compensation structures dissuade capable candidates from poorer backgrounds.

Waheed Alli, a once-relatively unknown Labour peer, has become a focal point in discussions about political influence and financial dealings within the Labour Party. Ailbhe Rea, an associate editor at Bloomberg, joins to unpack the complexities of his influence, including the ethical challenges related to his donations and roles in party dynamics. They delve into Alli's rise from the Tony Blair era to his current significance, spotlighting the tension between political ethics and the influence of money, raising critical questions about transparency in governance.

Wes Streeting, the Health Secretary, recently raised junior doctors' pay by 22% and is now focused on NHS reform. Joining him is Chris Thomas, who leads a commission aimed at enhancing public health in Britain. They discuss the pressing need for systemic changes in the NHS, especially following the pandemic, advocating for a shift toward community care and chronic illness management. The duo also explores innovative collaborations across sectors to bridge gaps in public support and actual reforms, ultimately aiming for a healthier nation.

Sue Gray, chief of staff embroiled in party donation controversies, joins UK Political Editor Alex Wickham to dissect the turmoil surrounding the Labour Party. They assess the implications of in-fighting in Number 10, scrutinizing how past scandals haunt the new government. Discussions reveal a struggle for public integrity as internal conflicts challenge leadership and financial decisions. With the Labour conference looming, they emphasize the critical need for transparency and significant accomplishments under Keir Starmer's direction to regain public trust.

Vince Cable, a former leader of the Liberal Democrats, shares his insights on the UK's economic challenges and lessons from past austerity measures. He discusses the importance of thoughtful dialogue on taxation and public services in light of looming national debt. Cable also emphasizes the Liberal Democrats’ electoral strategy to consolidate support and refine their regional representation. Additionally, he explores Britain's future relationships with the EU and the US post-Brexit, underscoring the need for adaptation in a shifting political landscape.

 Andy Burnham, Labour's prominent Mayor of Greater Manchester, discusses how the relationship with Westminster has shifted since his party took power. But he tells us he wants changes to the winter fuel allowance, after the move to means-test the payment passed through Parliament, and he makes his pitch for Manchester to get greater control of its budget. Hosted by Stephen Carroll and Caroline Hepker. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The government has been under fire for cutting pensioners' winter fuel payments. We ask former pensions minister Steve Webb, now at consultancy Lane Clark & Peacock, if the move has wasted too much political capital and what the government should do to make pensions work better. Hosted by Yuan Potts and Stephen Carroll.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Covid inquiry starts its latest phase today, a reminder of the mark the pandemic has left on the UK and on politics. Transparency International UK say Covid procurement contracts worth more than £15 billion raise three or more 'corruption red flags'. CEO Daniel Bruce tells us what went wrong during the crisis, how other countries did it better and what we can learn for the future. Hosted by Lizzy Burden and Yuan Potts. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.