Quite right!

Submit your urgent questions to Michael and Maddie at spectator.co.uk/quiteright.This week on Quite right! Q&A: is demography destiny? With Britain’s birth rate falling, Michael Maddie Grant discuss whether the country is quietly drifting towards decline – and whether immigration, pro-natal policy or something more radical is the answer. Is importing labour a short-term fix that stores up long-term problems? And can advanced economies really persuade families to have more children?Then: adoption, identity and love. Michael reflects candidly on being adopted, how it shaped his sense of responsibility and gratitude, and why he believes the system too often lets the perfect become the enemy of the good.And finally, a festive question: favourite Christmas carols and songs. From ‘O Come All Ye Faithful’ to Wham!, via Bowie, Lennon and some truly unforgivable seasonal dirges, Michael and Maddie reveal their tastes – and their intolerance for musical heresy.Produced by Oscar Edmondson.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.For more Spectator podcasts, go to spectator.co.uk/podcasts. Contact us: podcast@spectator.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Michael Gove and Madeline Grant delve into the tragedy of the Bondi Beach massacre, exploring the unsettling normalization of anti-Semitic violence. They dissect the roots of Islamist ideology and critique the left's moral relativism in the Israel debate. The discussion also highlights modern adaptations of Jane Austen's works, questioning their fidelity to her original themes. Finally, they explore the elements that make a compelling whodunit, from fair clues to unforgettable detective characters, showcasing the enduring appeal of mysteries.

The hosts delve into whether Ukraine should be invited to join the Commonwealth, debating its relevance in today's geopolitical landscape. They explore the implications of a Jeremy Corbyn victory in 2019, envisioning a chaotic lockdown and a drastically different Brexit. The conversation shifts to art, with one championing a modern choral piece while the other defends 'The Lord of the Rings' as a masterpiece. They also share personal musical tastes and insights into contemporary literature, highlighting Michel Houellebecq's work.

The hosts dive into whether Reform UK's momentum is faltering, exploring allegations from Nigel Farage's past and their impact on his support. They discuss the failures of women's healthcare, highlighting serious criticisms of maternity services and a significant tribunal ruling. The conversation takes a turn to the festive season, with a critique of Meghan Markle's holiday show and an analysis of Liz Truss's new politics program, showcasing how both women are reshaping their public personas in unexpected ways.

This conversation delves into the controversial decisions of the Covid lockdown, questioning its necessity and exploring the rise of snitch culture. They compare the UK's strict policies to Sweden's more lenient approach. The hosts also examine conservatism's identity crisis, discussing how past leaders have influenced the party's direction. Additionally, they critique modern political interviews, advocating for more substantive questioning over emotional manipulation. Finally, they touch on the role of satire in politics and its impact on public perception.

This week, the political landscape heats up as Rachel Reeves faces fallout from Labour's Budget missteps. The resignation of the OBR chair raises questions about her credibility. Amidst the chaos, the inaugural conference of Your Party provides comic clashes between factions. Jeremy Corbyn’s evolving role sparks debates about the future of the British left. Plus, the hosts share their witty rules for thoughtful Christmas gift-giving and recommend engaging reads for the festive season.

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.

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!

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.

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.