Best of the Spectator

Ben Domenech, Editor-at-large of Spectator World and a keen observer of American politics, joins to dissect a jaw-dropping national security blunder. They delve into the accidental inclusion of a journalist in a top-secret Signal group with key officials discussing military actions, showcasing the absurdity of such serious matters being communicated with emojis. The conversation also reveals stark divisions within the Republican party regarding foreign policy and highlights ongoing security lapses. It’s a wild ride through the quirky side of high-stakes politics!

Loyd Grossman, a well-known host of MasterChef and author, shares his captivating journey in this conversation with Lara. He reminisces about his childhood memories of sipping Shirley Temples and his disdain for school meals. Loyd reveals the secret behind his popular pasta sauces and discusses how culinary experiences shaped his transition from critic to culinary icon. He also explores his passion for art and heritage, illustrating how his culinary interests span from Italian to Middle Eastern cuisines.

Bob Davis, a former senior editor at the Wall Street Journal with extensive insights into U.S.-China relations, dives deep into the shifting dynamics between these global powers. He discusses how America's early support for China turned to skepticism, tracing pivotal moments like the COVID-19 pandemic and shifts in leadership. The challenges of a 'reverse Kissinger' strategy, Taiwan's role in semiconductor production, and the complexities of human rights influence are all explored, shedding light on America's evolving foreign policy challenges.

Caroline Lucas, the first Green Party MP in the UK and author of "Another England," joins Katy Balls for an insightful discussion. She shares her unconventional political upbringing and her unwavering stance on nuclear disarmament. Lucas reflects on her time in the European Parliament alongside figures like Nigel Farage and discusses England's identity in light of her latest book. She emphasizes the urgency for the left to reclaim patriotism and analyzes the Green Party's growth within the UK political landscape.

In this engaging discourse, Henry Jeffreys discusses how Trump's tariffs could change the wine game for British drinkers. Marcus Walker reflects on the lessons modern Britain can glean from Charles I as we commemorate his 400th accession anniversary. Nicolas Farrell shares a compelling story about refusing a prestigious literary award, revealing deep insights about identity and self-worth. Additionally, Rory Sutherland proposes a creative tax system that connects VAT to happiness, advocating for reduced rates on pubs and comfort foods.

Michael Gove, former cabinet minister and current editor of The Spectator, joins Toby Young, a vocal lockdown critic, to discuss the UK's COVID-19 lockdown measures. They debate whether the lockdown was justifiable or a breach of civil liberties, exploring the ethical dilemmas involved. The conversation also dives into Sweden's no-lockdown approach and its outcomes. With humor, they touch on the quirky debate about Scotch eggs as substantial meals, highlighting the absurdities of pandemic regulations.

In this engaging discussion, Jacob Heilbrunn, Editor of the National Interest, delves into whether Vladimir Putin has successfully manipulated Donald Trump. They analyze the shifting dynamics of Trump's second potential presidency and his relationship with authoritarian regimes. The conversation also covers NATO's effectiveness against Russian aggression and the implications for European defense strategies. Heilbrunn underscores the importance of Ukraine's sovereignty and explores the geopolitical ramifications of the ongoing conflict.

This week: why is economic growth eluding Labour?‘Growing pains’ declares The Spectator’s cover image this week, as our political editor Katy Balls, our new economics editor Michael Simmons, and George Osborne’s former chief of staff Rupert Harrison analyse the fiscal problems facing the Chancellor.‘Dominic Cummings may have left Whitehall,’ write Katy and Michael, ‘but his spirit lives on.’ ‘We are all Dom now,’ according to one government figure. Keir Starmer’s chief aide Morgan McSweeney has never met Cummings, but the pair share a diagnosis of Britain’s failing economy. Identifying a problem is not, however, the same as solving it. As Rachel Reeves prepares her Spring Statement, ministers are bracing themselves for cuts in day-to-day spending as the public finances deteriorate.Is austerity back? Michael and Rupert joined the podcast to discuss further. (1:02)Next: survival of the fittest vs seduction by the hottestBiologist and Conservative peer Matt Ridley writes about the concept of sexual selection in the magazine this week, explaining that evolution might not just be driven by survival of the fittest but also by section by the hottest. This, he says, would explain some of nature’s most colourful oddities, particularly within birds, as outlined in his new book Birds, Sex and Beauty. Charles Darwin proposed this as a later part of his evolutionary theory, but it caused a rift amongst his contemporaries – why is it a controversial concept? And could it be true for other species such as humans?Matt joined the podcast alongside David Puts, Professor of Anthropology and Psychology at Penn State University. (19:13)And finally: what makes historic murders so fascinating?Historian and author Hallie Rubenhold’s new book, Story of a Murder: The Wives, the Mistress and Dr Crippen, retells the famous murder case from the perspective of the women involved. Lisa Hilton declares it an ‘intellectual adventure’ in the lead book review in the magazine this week. But why do these cases continue to capture our imaginations, decades and even centuries later? And, whether as victims or as accomplices, what makes women such compelling subjects in historic cases like these?Hallie joined the podcast alongside the historian and broadcaster Alice Loxton, author of Eighteen: A History of Britain in 18 Young Lives. (30:40)Presented by William Moore and Lara Prendergast.Produced by Patrick Gibbons.

In this engaging conversation, John Lanchester, a novelist and journalist, sheds light on the often-underappreciated role of government. He discusses the complexities of the Consumer Price Index and why a deeper understanding of economic indicators matters. Lanchester challenges the narrative surrounding bureaucracy and highlights real stories of public servants making a difference. He also critiques Elon Musk’s views on government, arguing for a more nuanced appreciation of public service amidst widespread skepticism.

Miatta Fahnbulleh was elected as the Labour MP for Peckham at the 2024 general election. Born in Liberia, her family fled west Africa as the region descended into civil war, eventually settling in north London when she was just 7 years old. Trained as an economist, having studied at Oxford and the LSE, she went on to work in the civil service and at various think-tanks. After serving as the CEO for the New Economics Foundation, she became a senior economic adviser for Labour working with Ed Miliband during his time as leader of the Labour Party. Ed is now her boss again – at the department for energy. On the podcast, Miatta talks to Katy Balls about how the value of public service was instilled early in her life, how politics weighs heavier in west Africa than in the UK, and what it’s like to be considered a rising star in British politics. She also talks about the tough decisions this Labour government has had to make, from international aid to energy. She says that while the politics around energy are tough, the topic is intrinsically linked to Labour’s success – bills must come down before the next general election. Produced by Patrick Gibbons.