Best of the Spectator

Roger Pizey is a baker, chef and one of the most influential pâtissiers in the UK. He started his culinary journey as an apprentice at La Gavroche under Albert Roux before taking on the role of head of pastry at Marco Pierre White’s Harveys, during the time it achieved three Michelin stars. He has since worked at a number of London institutions and now serves as the head of pastry at Fortnum and Mason. On the podcast he tells Liv and Lara about childhood memories of Manchester tart, what he learnt from Albert Roux and Marco Pierre White, and why Fortnum’s rose éclair is the perfect dessert. Photo credit: Michael Barrow

Deborah Mattinson, a Labour peer and seasoned political strategist, shares her fascinating journey from a Labour-supporting childhood to her pivotal role advising Tony Blair and Keir Starmer. She discusses the vibrant culture of 1980s advertising and reveals insights into focus groups that decode voter sentiments. They dive into the concept of 'hero voters' who can help Labour reconnect with disillusioned constituents and strategize against modern threats like the Reform Party. The conversation highlights her dedication to small businesses and women’s issues in the House of Lords.

Father Alexander Lucie-Smith, a Catholic priest and moral theologian, joins Damian Thompson to discuss the transformative legacy of Pope Francis following his death. They delve into Francis's complex embrace of social issues that polarized both liberals and conservatives. The conversation highlights how his Argentinian roots and connections to Peronism influenced his papacy. Lucie-Smith also reflects on the historical shift in the Church's governance and the challenges faced in precisely defining Francis’s legacy amidst his controversial decisions.

Calum Miller, the Liberal Democrats’ foreign affairs spokesperson and newly elected MP for Bicester and Woodstock, shares insights into the party's recent surge as the largest third party in a century. He discusses the impact of Brexit on his political ambitions and the serious intent behind party leader Ed Davey’s playful strategies. Miller also highlights opportunities for the Liberal Democrats to challenge Conservative dominance, the shift in voter allegiance, and the importance of collaboration and local focus as they gear up for upcoming elections.

Nigel Biggar, a moral theology professor at Oxford and Conservative peer, teams up with Mary Wakefield, Spectator columnist, to discuss the concept of 'faithful dissent' in Christianity. They celebrate historical figures like Thomas More, who stood against injustice, and ponder how contemporary Christians can challenge conformist leaders. Wakefield critiques modern Church bureaucratic language while finding common ground with former Archbishop Rowan Williams. Together, they explore faith's role in advocating justice, navigating complex moral issues, and the enduring power of unity.

Katy Balls joins Coffee House Shots for the last time as the Spectator’s political editor. Having joined the magazine ten years ago – or six prime ministers in Downing St years – what are her reflections on British politics? Katy’s lobby lunch partner from the Financial Times Stephen Bush joins Katy and Patrick Gibbons to try and make sense of a turbulent political decade, work out where the greatest risk is to the current Labour government, and attempt to make some predictions for the next ten years.  Produced by Patrick Gibbons. 

Join Paul Wood, a writer for The Spectator, as he provocatively asks if Trump might really use bombs in Iran. Katy Balls, the political editor, interviews Health Secretary Wes Streeting about NHS reforms and touches on the intersection of politics and pop culture. Aidan Hartley takes listeners on a whimsical anthropomorphic journey through Africa's wildlife. Renowned explorer Benedict Allen reviews gripping books on extreme exploration in the polar regions, pondering the thin line between adventure and peril.

Dan Hitchens, a writer for The Spectator, is joined by Reverend Fergus Butler-Gallie to discuss the contentious Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill. They explore the ethical dilemmas surrounding assisted dying and its potential effects on vulnerable groups. The conversation shifts to a concerning rabbit pandemic, Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease, impacting wildlife and ecology. Lastly, they engage in a light-hearted debate over Cadbury Crème Eggs, discussing how personal preferences and nostalgia shape our taste for these iconic treats.

Philippe Sands, a renowned lawyer and writer, dives deep into his book 38 Londres Street, revealing the high-stakes legal battle over General Pinochet's extradition. He uncovers new evidence suggesting collusion between the UK and Chilean governments that led to Pinochet's controversial release. Sands discusses the ethical challenges of international law and the emotional toll on families affected by enforced disappearances. His insights reveal the lasting implications of this pivotal case in the fight for justice and accountability.

Freddy Gray speaks to Peter Wood who is the President of the National Association of Scholars about Trump's decision to block Harvard funding after the university denied the President's DEI demands.