Best of the Spectator

Katie Lam, the newly elected Conservative MP for Weald of Kent and a former special advisor, shares her journey from music to politics. She reflects on the cutthroat nature of investment banking compared to political life. Katie opens up about her family history, including her great-great grandfather's escape from persecution, which shaped her values. She discusses the intense moments during Brexit negotiations and the challenges of the pandemic, along with a humorous encounter involving Dilyn the dog. Her perspective offers a candid look at political ambitions and personal insights.

Gavin Mortimer dives into the shifting landscape of France's political right and impassioned debates around Marine Le Pen's future. Lawrence Osborne shares a gripping diary account of his earthquake experience in Bangkok, capturing the chaos and fear of that day. Meanwhile, Lionel Shriver passionately defends traditional, monogamous marriage, challenging modern dating norms. Together, these thought-provoking discussions offer a blend of political analysis, personal reflection, and insights into societal values.

Anne-Elisabeth Moutet, a French journalist and writer, shares her insights on the recent legal troubles of Marine Le Pen, who faces a five-year ban from elections after being found guilty of embezzling EU funds. The discussion dives into the implications of her case on French democracy and the notion of 'lawfare' in politics. They also explore perceptions of bias within the judicial system and how public sentiment towards Le Pen’s party could shift amidst these controversies. This complex legal landscape reflects broader challenges in political financing in France.

Freddy Gray interviews William Clouston, Leader of the British Social Democratic Party, who champions tariff protection and industrial policy. They dive into Donald Trump's controversial new tariffs affecting UK exports, particularly in the automotive and whisky sectors. The conversation highlights the potential economic fallout and the need to reevaluate free trade principles post-Brexit. Clouston critiques both the challenges posed by Trump's strategies and the broader implications of protectionism, urging for a revitalization of Britain's economy amidst rising energy costs.

Michael Gove, author and political critic, discusses the moral vacuum in Starmerism, warning that a Labour government needs a clear mission to avoid a fate akin to John Major’s era. John McTernan adds insights into this ideological struggle. Revd Dr Jamie Franklin addresses the Church of England's misuse of sacred spaces for modern events, while Quentin Letts shares his manifesto for the next Archbishop. Finally, Dr Anya Lucas and Gillian Darley debate the controversial restoration of Clandon Park, weighing historical preservation against modern techniques.

Freddy welcomes James Fishback, CEO of Azoria, a savvy investment firm leader. They dive into the implications of Trump's tariffs, debating whether they signal the end of neoliberalism or are merely a bold negotiating tactic. Insights into how tariffs could reshape U.S. manufacturing and job creation take center stage, along with discussions on the interplay between trade policies and global relations. The conversation also touches on the transformative effects of AI on labor markets, highlighting the ongoing evolution of work in America.

In this engaging conversation, poet and novelist Joe Dunthorne discusses his new book, *Children of Radium: A Buried Inheritance*. He explores the troubled legacy of his great-grandfather, a Jewish scientist linked to Nazi chemical weapons. Joe dives into themes of historical guilt and family secrets, revealing the psychological conflicts surrounding ethics and denial. He also shares how humor can coexist with trauma, illustrating his quixotic journey through the remnants of a radioactive past, filled with both poignant narratives and absurd anecdotes.

Fergus Butler-Gallie, Vicar of Charlbury and editor-at-large of The Fence magazine, dives into the recent fallout surrounding former Archbishop Justin Welby. They discuss the Church of England's failures to act on abuse allegations, particularly regarding John Smyth, and the implications of Welby's controversial forgiveness remarks. The conversation contrasts accountability in the Anglican Church with that of Pope Francis and calls for urgent reforms to restore trust. Butler-Gallie emphasizes the need for genuine engagement with victims and reverence for their experiences.

Douglas Murray, a Spectator columnist and keen observer of cultural and political dynamics, dives into the enduring intrigue surrounding JFK conspiracies. He explores how government secrecy fuels distrust, transforming information into distorted narratives. The discussion also touches on the allure of moon landing hoaxes, delving into psychological factors behind these beliefs. Murray critiques the rise of American self-hatred and the role of media manipulation in shaping public sentiment in our post-truth society.

Kim Leadbeater, MP for Batley and Spen, shares her inspiring journey from tragedy to political advocacy. She discusses her campaign for assisted dying, calling it a crucial social reform and reflecting on the emotional weight it carries. Kim emphasizes the importance of finding bipartisan common ground with fellow Yorkshire MPs and expresses concern over political disillusionment, highlighting the need for reconnection with constituents. With a focus on community values and personal choices, she remains hopeful about advancing the legislation within a few years.