Best of the Spectator

Dr. Moira Gilchrist, the Chief Communications Officer at Philip Morris International, and Charlie Weimers, a Member of the European Parliament from Sweden, dive into the debate on nicotine pouches. They discuss PMI's ambitious goal to shift to smoke-free products by 2030 and weigh in on Sweden's success with snus in reducing smoking rates. The conversation highlights the nuances of youth usage concerns, the impact of regulatory measures, and the science behind nicotine alternatives. What does this mean for the future of tobacco control in Europe?

Fr. Benedict Keeley, a priest and founder of Nazarene.org, offers firsthand insight into the escalating persecution of Christians in Nigeria, noting a shocking number of abductions and killings. Freddy Gray, Deputy Editor at The Spectator, discusses why President Trump has suddenly prioritized this issue, shedding light on media reluctance to cover it. The pair also critique the Vatican’s tepid response and suggest bold policy measures, urging immediate action in the face of ongoing violence against Christians.

James Heale, Deputy Political Editor at The Spectator and a history aficionado, joins to explore the unique intersection of British politics and drinking habits. They delve into the beverage preferences of Chancellors, discussing everything from Disraeli's brandy during his marathon speeches to Gladstone's sherry and beaten egg concoction. The chat covers whimsical anecdotes like Dalton's infamous rum-and-milk leak and the end of the drinking tradition under Ken Clarke. Heale provides intriguing insights into the historical context of each budget, making for a delightful blend of history and humor.

Madeline Grant, Assistant Editor at The Spectator, passionately defends marriage as a crucial social institution threatened by modern culture. Political editor Tim Shipman and former Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng join her in questioning the impact of political leak strategies on public perception and budgeting. They explore the reluctance of politicians to embrace pro-family policies and analyze the implications of Britain's Industrial Revolution on contemporary societal issues. The trio also discusses the recent OBR Budget leak's potential motivations and its consequences.

Leon Craig, a debut novelist, dives into her provocative book The Decadence, a haunted-house tale exploring millennial excess. She reveals how the pandemic influenced her themes of betrayal and power, weaving in literary nods to Boccaccio and Shirley Jackson. Craig reflects on character dynamics, the complexity of her protagonist Jan, and the resurgence of horror in today's uncertain climate. With a blend of gothic inspiration and contemporary dread, she discusses how the house itself symbolizes exclusion and reflects societal issues.

This week, discussions dive into the chaos surrounding Labour's biological sex stance due to leaked EHRC guidance. Tensions rise as Bridget Phillipson seems hesitant to clarify the law, while Wes Streeting's shift from a once strong gender-critical viewpoint raises eyebrows. There's a deep examination of the ethics surrounding puberty blockers for minors, highlighting risks and lack of evidence. Finally, Michael and Maddie critique the impact on women's rights and the LGB community amidst political maneuvering and a chaotic holiday shopping season.

William Atkinson, a journalist, shares hilarious insights from his internship on a documentary about masculinity, including challenges in recruiting participants for a rather unique project. Philip Womack delves into the hyphen's intriguing history and its cultural relevance, connecting it to modern naming conventions. Mary Wakefield discusses the ethics and unsettling nature of AI-generated avatars of deceased loved ones, while Muriel Zagha captures the magic of Powell & Pressburger’s film, celebrating its rich mix of romance and mysticism.

Is the Treasury fit for purpose or overwhelmed by 'Treasury brain'? Michael and Maddie explore the entrenched culture of the Treasury and the challenges posed by the lack of visionary leadership. They dive into the controversial idea of Piers Morgan leading the BBC, emphasizing the need for disruptive leadership. The duo also unpacks the phenomenon of 'Mar-a-Lago face' in U.S. politics and its lack of a British counterpart, while noting the distinct aesthetics shaping the appearances of politicians in Westminster.

In this insightful discussion, Andrew Graystone, a theologian and Anglican commentator, explores the turmoil within the Anglican Communion. He delves into GAFCON's emergence as a challenge to the Archbishop of Canterbury and their stance on same-sex blessings. With the Church of England's recent controversies, Andrew raises questions about the viability of a united communion and the implications for dissenting parishes. The conversation provokes thought on the complex dynamics of faith, politics, and the future of Anglicanism amidst significant change.

Chris Curtis, MP for Milton Keynes North and co-chair of the Labour Growth Group, teams up with Maxwell Marlowe, Director of Policy at the YIMBY Initiative. They dive into Britain’s housing crisis, advocating for the 'Build Baby Build' movement. Curtis emphasizes the generational impact of housing shortages, while Marlowe critiques the building safety regulator's processes. Both agree on the necessity of planning reforms and budget measures to enhance building efforts, showcasing a rare cross-party consensus on the urgent need for more homes.