Novara Live

Aditya Chakrabortty, Senior economics commentator at The Guardian, discusses the limitations of a modest wealth tax and argues for more ambitious economic reforms. He emphasizes the need for comprehensive policies addressing asset ownership and everyday costs. Palestine campaigner Aisha Behit shares her harrowing experience of being arrested and the fallout from her conviction being overturned, highlighting activism and policing challenges in Cardiff. Together, they explore pressing political and economic issues affecting leftist strategy and activism today.

Murtaza Hussain, an investigative journalist known for his work on Jeffrey Epstein, dives deep into Epstein's ties to Israeli figures and the implications of hacked emails on his influence. Laurie Laybourn-Langton, a climate policy expert, discusses the alarming admission of missing the 1.5°C target and the necessity of reframing climate narratives toward resilience and navigation. The duo explores the political ramifications of these pivotal issues, from Labour's leadership crisis to the intricacies of U.S. foreign policy.

Freddie Feltham, former Labour staffer and host of 'What the F is Left,' dissects the backlash against Shabana Mahmood's asylum overhaul. Beth Gardner-Smith offers insights on how family ties, not policy, actually shape asylum decisions. Tom Darling discusses the forthcoming Renters' Rights Act, emphasizing protections like the end of Section 21 evictions. Meanwhile, Sami Hamdi shares his harrowing detention by ICE, highlighting the injustices faced by detainees and the importance of free speech advocacy.

Helena, a political commentator known for her leftist views, and Michelle Pace, a Danish immigration policy expert, delve into the UK’s proposed asylum reforms. They discuss Shabana Mahmood's controversial plans inspired by Denmark, including issues like temporary refugee status and the notorious jewellery seizure law. Helena questions the moral implications of these reforms, suggesting they may be driven by misinformation. Meanwhile, Pace contrasts Danish practices with Spain's more integration-friendly approach, providing insights into international asylum politics.

Steve Keen, a heterodox economist known for his critiques of mainstream economics and his foresight about the 2008 crisis, dives deep into the flaws of conventional economic models. He passionately explains how banks create money through loans rather than savings and links rising mortgage credit to soaring house prices. Keen asserts that historical spikes in private debt precede financial crises, and he discusses the impact of deregulation on speculative lending. He proposes innovative solutions, including a modern debt jubilee, to address soaring private debt and affordable housing issues.

Sean “Shibby” Middlebrough, a featured defendant from Palestine Action, shares his perspective as a political prisoner after absconding from bail. He discusses the influence of the Israeli embassy on UK policing and the troubling remand conditions faced by the Filton 24. Shibby highlights the need for judicial reviews to restore rights and outlines his plans to raise awareness for his co-defendants. He also critiques media narratives around his case while voicing his determination to resist an unjust legal system.

Joseph Sikulu, a Pacific Movement lead at the Sunrise Project, brings a unique perspective on the climate crisis and Indigenous issues. He discusses massive protests at COP30 in Brazil, emphasizing the urgent demands of Indigenous communities against deforestation. Joseph highlights the significance of 1.5°C for Pacific islands and the adaptation strategies they need. The conversation also dives into Sudan’s civil conflicts, revealing the UAE's role in supporting the RSF, and wraps up with revelations regarding Trump's ties to Epstein, suggesting potential political repercussions.

Keir Starmer makes bold claims about rising racism in UK politics, targeting Reform UK. An ITV documentary reveals alarming testimonies from IDF soldiers, highlighting issues of accountability and human rights abuses. The discussion shifts to the BBC's ongoing bias controversy and its impact on public trust. Meanwhile, the growing influence of the Greens raises questions about split votes on the left and potential shifts in Labour's policies. Topics collide as Starmer navigates this charged political landscape.

Ash Sarkar, a sharp political commentator known for her insights on media bias and UK politics, discusses the recent resignations at the BBC following allegations of bias in a Trump speech edit. She critiques how the BBC’s claim of impartiality is manipulated in media politics. Meanwhile, Simon Lewis, a professor at University College London, speaks from COP30 in Brazil, sharing a somber outlook on climate negotiations and the challenges of meeting global emissions targets, emphasizing the urgent need for systemic change.

Aaron Bastani, a sharp journalist and commentator, joins Simon Childs, an on-the-ground reporter, and Francesca Nadin, a spokesperson for Prisoners for Palestine. They dive into the charged atmosphere surrounding the Aston Villa versus Maccabi Tel Aviv match, including police intervention and protest dynamics. Francesca highlights the dire conditions faced by Palestine Action prisoners on hunger strike. The discussion also touches on the blurred lines between anti-Zionism and anti-Semitism, and the impact of media narratives on public perception.