Best of the Spectator

In this engaging discussion, Bill Hayton shares insights on the complex nature of Chinese identity shaped by history and culture. Noah Barkin addresses the intricate ties between Europe and China, while Bill Bishop dives into Xi Jinping's consolidation of power. Elizabeth Ingleson critiques the role of American interests in China's economic rise. Lastly, Charles Parton underscores Taiwan's strategic importance and its implications for global trade amidst rising tensions. Together, these experts unravel the multifaceted narrative of modern China.

Luke Coppen, a journalist at The Pillar known for his insights on the Catholic Church, joins host Damian Thompson to delve into the upcoming papal conclave that will decide Pope Francis’s successor. They discuss the intense rivalry among cardinals and the critical implications for the Church’s future. Luke highlights potential candidates like Parolin and Pizzaballa while examining the divisions on issues such as same-sex blessings and traditional practices. The conversation captures the exciting yet pivotal moment in Church history.

The word ‘unprecedented’ is often overused in politics, but these local elections have proved to be just that. The headline is: sweeping success for Reform. Nigel Farage's 'teal tsunami' comes at the expense of the main parties – turning the two-party consensus on its head. The recriminations for Labour and the Tories have already begun. On the left, a number of MPs have broken cover and urged the government to shift its position on high-salience issues such as winter fuel. On the right, Kemi Badenoch’s leadership is looking increasingly shaky, with Tory MPs and staff warning that a step change is needed. Where do the main parties go from here? And can anyone stop Nigel?James Heale speaks to Isabel Hardman and The Spectator’s incoming political editor, Tim Shipman.This episode was recorded as part of The Spectator’s local elections live broadcast. You can watch the full coverage here.

On this week’s Spectator Out Loud: Ian Williams looks at Chinese influence in the UK (1:39); Philip Patrick interviews Japan’s last ninja (9:35); Guy Stagg reviews Damian Le Bas and explores the myths behind the city of Atlantis (18:23); Ysenda Maxtone Graham reviews an exhibition on school dinners at the Food Museum in Stowmarket (23:38); Mark Mason provides his notes on quizzes, ahead of the Spectator’s garden quiz (28:00); and, swapping Provence to visit family in America, Catriona Olding takes us on a trip up the east coast (31:27). Produced and presented by Patrick Gibbons.

Victor Davis Hanson, a classicist and social commentator, dives into the implications of Donald Trump's second term, framing it as a counter-revolution against decades of cultural drift. He discusses Trump's bold agenda, from immigration reforms to challenging DEI initiatives, portraying it as a response to elite institutions. Hanson highlights the widening gap between coastal elites and the working class, critiques the coarseness of political discourse, and draws parallels between contemporary America and ancient Rome's societal divides.

Michael Gove, The Spectator's editor and former Justice Secretary, dives into the radical influence of Garden Court Chambers on British law. Writer Louise Perry discusses the allure of Dubai for British youth, touching on its cultural export that may shift London's character. Royal commentator Angela Levin and writer Philip Hensher explore society's lasting obsession with Princess Diana, reflecting on her impact and legacy nearly three decades on, raising questions about public mourning and the monarchy's evolving relationship with its people.

My guest on this week’s podcast is the historian Anne Sebba. In her new book The Women’s Orchestra of Auschwitz: A Story of Survival, Anne tells the story of how a ragtag group of women musicians formed in the shadow of Auschwitz’s crematoria. She tells me about the moral trade-offs, the friendships and enmities that formed, and what it meant to try to create music in a situation of unrelenting horror.

James Heale, Deputy Political Editor at The Spectator, discusses Mark Carney's remarkable victory in the Canadian elections. He highlights how Carney turned a struggling Liberal Party around in just six weeks, leveraging Trump's contentious rhetoric to strengthen Canadian pride. The conversation critiques Pierre Poilievre's political missteps and examines the branding dynamics in Canadian politics. Heale also explores what UK political parties can learn from Canada's shifting landscape, particularly regarding youth voter engagement and strategy.

In this engaging conversation, Kirsty Wark, a renowned Scottish journalist and former BBC Newsnight presenter, shares her journey through nearly five decades in broadcasting. She reflects on her father's D-Day experiences and the challenges women faced in the media during the 70s. Wark discusses BBC impartiality, her memorable interviews—including Margaret Thatcher’s—and the evolving perceptions of British and Scottish identities. She also shares insights on her personal writing journey, touching on themes of matriarchy and secrecy in her historical novel.

Earlier this year Dr Kurt Martens, Professor of Canon Law at the Catholic University of America, joined Damian Thompson on Holy Smoke to unpack what happens during a papal conclave. There was heightened interest in the process due to the film Conclave, which swept the awards season, but also because Pope Francis was hospitalised at the time. Despite showing some signs of recovery – including being able to meet world leaders such as King Charles III and J.D. Vance – Pope Francis died on Easter Monday.Here we reissue the episode with Dr Martens, looking at what happens when a pope dies, with a new introduction from Damian. Writing the cover article for the Spectator this week, Damian writes: ‘the next Vicar of Christ will face challenges that dwarf those that confronted any incoming pope in living memory. The Church is mired in doctrinal confusion; its structures of government are fragmented; sexual scandals have been hushed up at the highest level; and it is staring into a financial abyss’. What can we expect from the upcoming conclave? Produced by Patrick Gibbons.