Bloomberg UK Politics

There are almost 3,500 children's homes in England, and it's overwhelmingly the private sector providing services to the most vulnerable. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has called out private providers for making "excessive profits". How do promises of a crackdown sit with Labour's pledge to attract more private investment to the UK? Our UK business reporter Sabah Meddings joins us with details of her investigation. Hosted by Stephen Carroll and Yuan Potts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mark Leonard, co-founder and director of the European Council on Foreign Relations, discusses shifting UK attitudes towards the EU. He reveals how growing global uncertainties are fostering a pragmatic approach, with most voters supporting compromises on free movement for trade benefits. The conversation explores a renewed desire for closer UK-EU ties, particularly in defense and economic matters, highlighting the public's inclination toward aligning with Europe rather than the US.

The podcast dives into the rising potential of Reform UK as it capitalizes on Labour's dwindling popularity. It discusses the high-profile shift of Conservatives, including Nick Candy, to this upstart party led by Nigel Farage. The evolution towards professionalism and branding is examined, alongside the necessary financial backing for transformation. Comparisons are made to other nationalist populist movements, highlighting common strategies and public sentiments. Overall, it unpacks the challenges and ambitions of Reform UK in disrupting the political landscape.

Women have more wealth, sit on more corporate boards, and invest more than ever before. Britain's first female chancellor Rachel Reeves is just one of the signs of power becoming more equal. So we went to Bloomberg's inaugural Women, Money, & Power summit to ask the influential women there what they make of the UK and its new government. Hosted by Caroline Hepker and Lizzy Burden.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Keir Starmer is in the Middle East on a trip planned to discuss trade ties, but conversations will now be dominated by the weekend's events in Syria, which saw the regime of Bashar al-Assad toppled. Over a decade after MPs voted against intervening in Syria, we discuss what the latest shift means for the region and the UK with Paul Wallace, who leads Bloomberg's team covering economics and government in the Middle East. Hosted by Stephen Carroll and Lizzy Burden.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today Keir Starmer has set out new targets for fighting crime in Britain, in a major speech aimed at resetting his premiership after a faltering start. The government will aim to add 13,000 to the police force and ensure every neighborhood in England and Wales has a named officer in charge of local crime problems. But are his plans enough to reverse years of cuts? We ask Festus Akinbusoye who was the Conservative Police and Crime Commissioner for Bedfordshire until earlier this year. Hosted by Yuan Potts and Lizzy Burden.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tom Rees, Bloomberg's UK economics reporter, shares insights on the major issues plaguing the Office for National Statistics. The labor force survey's problems may not be resolved until 2027, with deep-rooted cultural issues causing junior staff to hesitate in raising concerns. Rees discusses waning survey response rates and the impact of financial constraints on data accuracy. The discussion highlights how these challenges hinder critical economic decision-making for the Bank of England, raising alarms about future forecasting and labor market tracking.

Ireland's recent election results are set to sustain a coalition government, affecting UK-Irish relations. The conversation dives into the rivalry between Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael amid Sinn Féin's rise. Key themes include housing, cost of living, and the implications for diplomatic ties post-Brexit. The significance of Queen Elizabeth's visit and the evolving political landscape demonstrate the complexities of cooperation. Lastly, the role of U.S. multinationals highlights the economic challenges shaping Ireland's future.

The discussion kicks off with the urgent need for increased defense spending amidst escalating global threats. Key focus shifts to a new strategy aiming to boost UK defense firms while balancing economic growth. The challenges of military preparedness are explored, especially concerning tensions with Russia. Delays in defense announcements and critiques of procurement processes raise concerns. Finally, the conversation highlights the importance of a clear vision from the government to enhance services and support economic stability.

Kit Malthouse, a Conservative MP and co-sponsor of the assisted dying bill, delves into the pressing issue of end-of-life choices. He discusses the upcoming Parliamentary debate, the divide in opinions, and the powerful arguments surrounding personal autonomy and alleviating suffering. The conversation touches on the evolving perspectives within conservative politics and the need for thoughtful legislation, respecting both individual beliefs and public sentiment, while navigating the complex implications for the NHS.