Bloomberg UK Politics

The Chancellor launched an ambitious plan to revive Britain's economy, highlighting a proposed third runway at Heathrow. The discussion dives into the balance between economic benefits and environmental concerns. Infrastructure initiatives like improved rail links and housing developments aim to foster growth. Potential welfare reforms and global trade strategies are also examined. Analysts express cautious optimism about boosting productivity in the UK, yet acknowledge the challenges ahead in achieving long-term economic success.

The Prime Minister presents his vision for economic growth to business leaders in London, highlighting the importance of collaboration and innovation. Industry insights reveal concerns over national insurance hikes and rising borrowing costs. Cathy Wood discusses the UK tech landscape's investment potential and regulatory advantages. Challenges in translating policies into results are examined, alongside the impact of economic conditions like low consumer confidence. A crucial Chancellor's speech approaches, aimed at steering the UK towards a prosperous future.

Marco Forgione, Director General of the Chartered Institute of Export & International Trade, provides insight into the evolving UK-US trade landscape. The discussion delves into Keir Starmer’s delicate balance between strengthening ties with the US and maintaining solid relations with the EU. Forgione highlights the potential challenges posed by Trump's aggressive trade policies and their implications for the UK economy. Additionally, they explore the post-Brexit trade dynamics and the pressing need for strategies to optimize UK trade relations amid global tensions.

The Trump administration is reversing much of America's green policies, accelerating moves already underway in the financial sector. Bloomberg's green finance & ESG investing reporter Alastair Marsh tells how financial firms on both sides of the Atlantic are shifting their approach to sustainable investing, and how that could affect the UK government's drive to grow the economy. Hosted by Tiwa Adebayo and Stephen Carroll.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, we're bringing you a special conversation with Chancellor Rachel Reeves and Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds. They spoke to Bloomberg's Editor-in-Chief John Micklethwait at Bloomberg House in Davos about the government's fiscal challenges, and how they plan to convince business leaders of their strategy to grow the economy. Hosted by Yuan Potts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The UK will start a public inquiry into how the state failed to prevent the murders of three young girls last year. The probe will look into what Keir Starmer has called the 'new threat' of changing terrorism. But can yet another public assessment lead to lasting change? We discuss with Bloomberg's politics and economics reporter Lucy White. Hosted by Caroline Hepker and James Woolcock.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nigel Farage is a guest of Donald Trump as he's sworn in as US President for the second time today. Does it matter that the Prime Minister, like most other European leaders, wasn't invited? Other right-wing British political figures have also travelled to Washington for the event. Is the guest list an indicator of what's to come in UK-US relations? We discuss with Bloomberg's UK political editor Alex Wickham. Hosted by Stephen Carroll and Caroline Hepker.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nigel Farage, the leader of the Reform UK party and a key architect of Brexit, joins hosts Caroline Hepker and Will Shaw. He discusses his recent political achievements and what they mean for the party's future. The conversation dives into the impacts of his close ties with Donald Trump, trade negotiations post-Brexit, and the influence of billionaires like Elon Musk on democracy. Farage also critiques current immigration policies and emphasizes the need for coherent economic strategies to address public discontent.

The Prime Minister's inaugural visit to Ukraine has sparked discussions about the UK's cautious support amid changing geopolitical tides. Concerns around the UK’s military aid and strategic partnerships are front and center, especially with rising tensions involving China. The potential shifts in foreign policy alignments raise questions about future UK contributions in global conflicts. Additionally, there's a pressing need for the UK to modernize its military and assess defense spending to meet NATO obligations effectively.

Peter Kyle, the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, dives into the UK government's AI Opportunities Action Plan aimed at spurring economic growth. He discusses the critical need for infrastructure, talent, and innovation amidst economic challenges like inflation. Kyle highlights the surge in private investments for AI development and the collaboration necessary for success. He also addresses political dynamics affecting growth strategies and emphasizes the transformative potential of AI in education and healthcare for future generations.