Coffee House Shots

In this discussion, Tom Baldwin, journalist and biographer of Keir Starmer, and Tim Shipman, political editor at The Spectator, dive into the complexities of Labour's current strategy. They explore whether Starmer should shift left to reclaim voters from the Greens and Lib Dems. Baldwin critiques the influence of 'super-advisers,’ arguing they distract from the government's message. Shipman highlights the struggle Starmer faces in communicating his values and recommends tapping into personal stories to resonate better with voters.

Join political writer James Heale and European policy expert Charles Grant as they delve into revived discussions about UK-EU relations, sparked by recent state visits and political maneuvers. Heale sheds light on Labour's potential customs union re-entry, while Grant critiques the limited economic benefits of a reset. They also assess the influence of Brexit's narrative on Reform and how Farage's clout might sway EU negotiations. Plus, don't miss the buzz around Liz Truss launching her new show—will she offer fresh insights?

James Heale, a political commentator and writer for The Spectator, joins the discussion on the staggering £9 million donation from Christopher Harborne to Reform. The conversation delves into how this financial boost could alter electoral dynamics and the potential influence of donors on party strategies. They explore the implications of postponed local elections and where Reform might target their resources. Additionally, Heale highlights the intersection of political funding, crypto interests, and the shifting landscape of donor influence in British politics.

Tim Shipman, a prominent political journalist known for his insightful analysis, and Isabel Hardman, a savvy commentator on parliamentary politics, delve into the unfolding drama at PMQs. Kemi Badenoch shines by skillfully challenging Starmer amidst budget chaos and rumors of a Tory/Reform pact spark interest. They dissect the shifting dynamics within Labour, tensions in the cabinet, and ideological divides over economic strategies. With whispers of a potential political alliance, the conversation teases what’s ahead for these parties.

Today we’re going to be talking about David Lammy, and his brand new plans to drastically reduce the number of jury trials in the UK in an attempt to address the backlog. With the backlog of cases due to be heard in courts already at 78,000, and heading for 100,000, the Justice Secretary believes that only radical solutions can tackle the ‘courts emergency’. But is he being too radical? This comes on the same day that Lammy announced that 12 prisoners have been accidentally released in the last three weeks.But first, the Budget fallout continues and there has been a resignation but – crucially – it’s not the Chancellor. After the OBR leaked the Budget early, its chairman Richard Hughes has taken the fall and resigned last night. Does this ease or increase the pressure on Rachel Reeves?Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Isabel Hardman.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.

Lots has happened over the weekend – Your Party (as they are now actually called) have proven to be the gift that keeps on giving, there been another defection to Reform and Rachel Reeves stands accused of lying about the extent of the fiscal blackhole in her pre-Budget briefings.Some within Labour see it as a victory of sorts for Rachel Reeves that, so far, the post-Budget debate has focused mostly on the run-up to her statement rather than the measures it contained. However Keir Starmer has been mobilised this morning to give an 'everything is fine' speech in support of the Chancellor, with whom his fate is intertwined. Could she be forced to go? How serious is this? Lucy Dunn speaks to James Heale and Tim Shipman. 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.

Rachel Reeves, Labour Party politician and Chancellor of the Exchequer, dives into the recent budget controversies, defending her fiscal decisions amid scrutiny. She insists she’s trustworthy, even as questions arise over potential miscommunication about the public surplus. Priorities like the NHS and cost of living are highlighted, as Reeves emphasizes building fiscal resilience. The podcast also features sharp critiques from Kemi Badenoch, pressing for accountability and transparency in government budgeting.

James Heale, Deputy Political Editor at The Spectator and a history buff, explores the unique drinking traditions of British Chancellors, from Disraeli's brandy to Reeves' modernity. He recounts tales of historical figures like Gladstone, Goschen, and Churchill, discussing their favorite tipples and significant budget moments. The conversation highlights the pressures facing today's chancellors, comparing Rachel Reeves' circumstances to those of her predecessors. They even speculate on what drink would suit Reeves, blending history with a humorous take on politics.

Tim Shipman, a seasoned political journalist known for his keen insights on UK politics, joins the discussion. He delves into the surprising shift in Labour's budget strategy, revealing how political motives shaped the decision-making process. The conversation also explores the OBR timeline that debunks the 'productivity black hole' myth, and why the Treasury signaled tax increases despite a better-than-expected fiscal picture. Additionally, Shipman raises concerns about the brain drain of young talent leaving the UK for tax havens, highlighting long-term risks for the economy.

Tim Shipman talks with David Miles, a Professor of Economics at Imperial College London and OBR committee member. They dive into the recent Budget leak and what it means for the UK's growth and productivity forecasts, revealing why conditions appear bleaker than expected. David clarifies the implications of delayed tax rises and explores why the UK struggles to adopt its own innovations. They also discuss the political motivations behind fiscal choices and the OBR’s approach to scoring proposed reforms amidst uncertainty.