Matt Chorley's Urgent Questions

BBC Radio 5 Live
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Jan 12, 2026 • 28min

Are ex-Tory MPs a help or a hindrance for Farage?

Michael Crick, an investigative journalist known for his incisive political analysis, and Carolyn Quinn, an esteemed BBC political correspondent, delve into the intriguing world of reform politics. They discuss the implications of ex-Tory MPs joining Nigel Farage's Reform UK, weighing the experience they bring against the risk of alienating core supporters. The conversation also touches on Nadhim Zahawi's controversial defection and the uneasy dynamics within the party, before playfully transitioning to debates about the perfect pie.
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Jan 9, 2026 • 29min

What's going on in Greenland right now?

What's going on in Greenland right now? What does Geoff Norcott think about being labelled the "right wing" comedian? Did David Cameron ever hug a hoodie? Who will be the MMP for North Down?Matt Chorley brings you the who, what, where, why and when of British politics. If you've got urgent questions... then email Chorley@bbc.co.uk
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8 snips
Jan 8, 2026 • 31min

Has Wes Streeting got rid of NHS Fax Machines yet?

Wes Streeting, UK Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, updates on the NHS's move away from fax machines, revealing that only a few trusts are still clinging to them for operational reasons. Katie Perrier, a former political spin practitioner, shares the intricacies of briefing for unpredictable calls with figures like Trump, while Luke Sullivan dives into the effectiveness of political buzzwords. The panel explores the balance between catchy slogans and meaningful policies, emphasizing the importance of message consistency.
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11 snips
Jan 7, 2026 • 57min

What was Matt Forde’s impression of PMQs?

In this lively discussion, comedian and impressionist Matt Forde shares his impressions of PMQs and his experience with political satire from shows like Spitting Image. Scarlett McGuire breaks down Keir Starmer's troubling -13 approval rating among Labour members. Patrick English reveals crucial polling figures, including 42% support for pro-independence parties in Wales. They dive into hypothetical PMQs scenarios and explore the potential shifts in party dynamics ahead of upcoming elections.
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17 snips
Jan 6, 2026 • 45min

Who is the world's strongest man?

Cindy Yu, an economist and former podcast host, joins Mike Shear, a political journalist, Sam Green, a Russian politics expert, and Jim Murphy, a former Labour minister. They dive into the dynamics of strongman politics, analyzing Trump, Putin, and Xi. The panel evaluates military capabilities and willpower, ranking leaders on their resolve. Jim shares insider insights from Cabinet meetings, while the group also tackles listeners' petty grievances, making for a lively discussion on politics and everyday annoyances.
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Jan 5, 2026 • 34min

Is Venezuela all about oil?

Is Venezuela all about oil? Will Greenland be next? Who should we be keeping an eye on in British politics?Who will be the MMP for Dunstable and Leighton Buzzard? Matt Chorley brings you the who, what, where, why and when of British politics. If you've got urgent questions... then email Chorley@bbc.co.uk
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Jan 1, 2026 • 29min

Political Time Capsule (Part 2)

Richard Bacon joins Matt to work out what should go into a (virtual) time capsule to best represent the politics of today, twenty years from now.
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Dec 31, 2025 • 29min

Political Time Capsule (Part 1)

Matt celebrates 20 years in Westminster by looking back to 2005.
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Dec 30, 2025 • 32min

Margaret Thatcher remembered

Matt brings you some of his favourite moments from his programme in 2025, including an interview with some of those who knew former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher best. Plus… the politics of the ‘upper class’.
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Dec 29, 2025 • 30min

Winston Churchill remembered

Matt brings you some of his favourite moments from his programme in 2025, including an exploration of Winston Churchill’s life and legacy, with his grandson Lord Soames. Plus… the politics of cricket.

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