Quite right!
The Spectator
Welcome to Quite right!, the new podcast from The Spectator that searches for sanity and common sense in a world which increasingly seems devoid of both. Each week from September, join Michael Gove, editor of The Spectator, and Madeline Grant, assistant editor of The Spectator, for a mixture of politics, culture and mischief as they unpack the stories that most piqued their interest, amusement or exasperation.For more podcasts from The Spectator: spectator.co.uk/podcastsSubscribe to The Spectator: spectator.co.uk/subscribe
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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
10 snips
Nov 26, 2025 • 48min
The 'wickedness' of Labour's gender war
This week, hosts dive into the fallout from leaked EHRC guidance on Labour's stance on biological sex. They discuss the implications of puberty blocker trials and question Labour's clarity on essential reforms. Shabana Mahmood's ambitious asylum proposals spark debate, especially amid pushback from the party's left wing. The conversation turns festive as they critique the early start to Christmas and the chaotic rise of Black Friday madness, advocating for a return to a more balanced seasonal rhythm.
Nov 21, 2025 • 36min
Q&A: Is it time to abolish the Treasury?
The hosts delve into the relevance of the Treasury, critiquing its culture and the phenomenon of 'Treasury brain'. They discuss the insular nature of the 'Treasury boys' and debate the need for stronger personalities to reform it. A bold suggestion arises: could Piers Morgan invigorate the BBC? The conversation takes a twist as they analyze the rise of 'Mar-a-Lago face' in US politics and reveal Britain's own fashionable quirks, from Ozempic-thinned MPs to the Labour 'power bob'. It's a lively exploration of politics and its evolving aesthetics!
8 snips
Nov 19, 2025 • 48min
Is Net Zero ‘mania’ over? And Labour’s migration crackdown
Shabana Mahmood's confident debut on asylum reform sparks debate about her plans' viability. As the UK looks to Denmark-inspired policies, questions arise about practicality and political constraints. Meanwhile, at COP30, dwindling enthusiasm for Net Zero challenges its previously unassailable status. The hosts explore how climate policy now resembles ideology more than science and consider the balance between climate action and biodiversity. Finally, a thought-provoking discussion examines whether genetic factors can explain the actions of historical figures like Hitler.
10 snips
Nov 14, 2025 • 32min
Q&A: Who could replace Keir Starmer?
Could Britain face a snap election before 2029? The hosts explore the constitutional paths to an early vote, hinting it’s unlikely despite current chaos. Keir Starmer faces mounting internal pressure, particularly after Angela Rayner's dismissal, which raises questions about potential successors. They also dive into Labour's controversial fiscal moves, debating the wisdom of tax rises. In a lighter segment, they hilariously consider which Labour MP they'd choose for a holiday, adding some fun to the political discourse.
11 snips
Nov 12, 2025 • 48min
BBC bias & Bridget ‘Philistine’s’ war on education
A crisis brews at the BBC following high-profile resignations, prompting discussions about bias and the need for editorial standards. The new educational reforms face scrutiny as Ofsted shifts to report cards, raising concerns about dumbing down education. Meanwhile, actress Sydney Sweeney sparks debate for her refusal to apologize for controversial comments, challenging the current political narratives around celebrity activism. The hosts explore the implications of lower expectations in schools and the fatigue surrounding political statements from public figures.
9 snips
Nov 7, 2025 • 36min
Q&A: Boris, Cameron or May? Plus, our most left-wing beliefs revealed
Michael and Maddie dive into their most left-wing beliefs, tackling topics like the return of the Elgin Marbles and prison reform. They debate whether the British Museum should return the marbles or keep them for context. The duo also plays a fun game deciding who they'd trust for desert island rescues among Boris, Theresa, and David. In a literary turn, they share poignant poems, with Madeline reciting John Donne and Michael reflecting on Thomas Hardy's themes of melancholy and hope. They advocate for learning poetry by heart for lasting impact.
Nov 5, 2025 • 47min
Rachel Reeves’s Budget ‘bollocks’ & Britain’s everyday crime crisis
This week, Rachel Reeves takes center stage with intriguing insights ahead of the upcoming Budget. Discussions turn to the concerning rise of nihilistic crime in Britain, with chilling examples like the Huntingdon train stabbing. Are we becoming desensitized to such violence? The hosts also debate whether Bonfire Night should take precedence over Halloween, challenging the latter’s cultural impact. With eclectic topics, the conversation deftly blends politics, crime, and tradition, leaving listeners with much to ponder.
10 snips
Oct 29, 2025 • 56min
‘I was reported for bullying!’: inside the Home Office dysfunction & collapsed grooming gangs inquiry
Delve into the chaos within the Home Office as recent scandals raise questions about its functionality. Explore a gripping discussion around the collapsed grooming gangs inquiry and the political pressures involved. Maddie shares a harrowing personal story of her mother's nightmare tenant ordeal, revealing systemic failures in housing support. The episode also touches on celebrity antics, featuring the odd pairing of Justin Trudeau and Katy Perry, and critiques the sartorial choices of politicians that reflect broader societal issues.
11 snips
Oct 21, 2025 • 46min
Should Prince Andrew be exiled? And how multiculturalism failed in Birmingham
The discussion kicks off with the scandal surrounding Prince Andrew, fueled by Virginia Giuffre's new book. Can the monarchy handle its most controversial member, or is exile the answer? The dialogue shifts to Birmingham, where failed multiculturalism is scrutinized amidst sectarian politics and football controversies. Finally, the British Museum's attempt to host a glamorous gala draws laughs, with critiques on fashion and a call for a uniquely British alternative. The hosts explore whether a radical shift in governance is needed at the museum.
9 snips
Oct 14, 2025 • 48min
Lab leaks & spy scandals: was Cameron wrong about China?
This discussion dives into Westminster's alarming espionage scandal and questions the government's handling of allegations against suspected spies for China. Tensions rise as they explore the influence of figures like Jonathan Powell and the shadow of New Labour's ethical dilemmas. The conversation shifts to Donald Trump's unexpected Gaza peace deal, which challenges traditional diplomacy. Finally, they reflect on the dark allure of the TV show 'The Traitors,' revealing insights into human nature and the traits of potential political contestants.
