Coffee House Shots

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.

Tim Shipman, a seasoned political journalist and author, joins James Heale, a political commentator from The Spectator, to dissect the chaos of Rachel Reeves' budget. They explore the shocking leak by the OBR, which unveiled tax hikes and economic strains before the Chancellor's speech. The duo questions whether the blunder offers Reeves political cover and discusses the budget's impact on Labour MPs. From fiscal credibility to alarming defense funding concerns, they analyze the potential public fallout and speculate on Reeves' survival as Chancellor.

James Nation, former Treasury official and current managing director at Forefront Advisers, teams up with economics editor Michael Simmons to dissect the UK Budget. They explore the chaotic budgeting process, debating whether it's symptomatic of a 'broken Britain.' James explains the intricate final preparations behind the scenes, while Michael discusses leaked measures, terming them a 'smorgasbord.' The duo also hashes out Rachel Reeves's evolving political stance and the delicate balance between growth reforms and voter promises.

Tim Shipman, political editor at The Spectator, joins Claire Coutinho, Shadow Secretary of State for Energy, to dissect Britain's energy crisis. They discuss the financial implications of the UK's high energy costs and the need for reliable electricity. Claire emphasizes the balancing act between achieving net zero and protecting living standards, arguing that the current goal may seem 'perverse.' The duo also explores public sentiment towards energy transitions and speculate on how energy policy will influence Labour's upcoming budget.

Isabel Hardman dives into pressing political issues, starting with Labour's upcoming budget and the potential removal of the two-child benefit cap. The alarm over Trump's Ukraine peace plan raises questions about territorial deals. Discussions also focus on rail fare freezes and their implications for transport. Additionally, Hardman explores the accountability surrounding Boris Johnson and the Covid inquiry, alongside concerns about the Reform party's ties to a Russian bribery scandal.

Chris Curtis, MP for Milton Keynes North and co-chair of the Labour Growth Group, teams up with Maxwell Marlowe, policy fellow at the YIMBY Initiative. They tackle the urgent need for housing reform in Britain, advocating the 'Build Baby Build' movement. Curtis highlights the devastating impact of housing shortages on younger generations, while Marlowe critiques bureaucratic hurdles in the building sector. Together, they discuss innovative policy solutions and the importance of cross-party support to transform Britain's housing landscape.

Isabel Hardman, a journalist and author focusing on government inquiries, teams up with Michael Simmons, an economics editor critical of the Covid Inquiry’s methodologies. They dive into the inquiry's findings on chaotic decision-making in No. 10, claiming 23,000 preventable deaths. Simmons calls the report a disgrace, arguing it misuses modelling and overlooks broader societal harms. Hardman warns that the focus on personalities may sideline necessary systemic reforms. The conversation explores the political implications and the need for a more balanced approach to future policies.

Join journalist Isabel Hardman and trade unionist Paul Embery as they dive into Labour's latest migration policies. Hardman discusses Shabana Mahmood's controversial plan that could push the wait for settled status to 20 years, raising eyebrows about the party's direction. Embery lauds Mahmood's bold moves in light of community pressures, while warning about the challenges of implementation. Together, they explore the concept of Blue Labour, its impact on Labour's strategy, and the party's evolving relationship with working-class voters.

Isabel Hardman, a political journalist known for her insights on UK politics and defence, joins James Heale, who specializes in parliamentary analysis. They delve into the messy performances at PMQs by Kemi Badenoch and Keir Starmer. The duo critiques Labour's so-called 'dog whistle politics' highlighted during an exchange with Lee Anderson. Additionally, they discuss allegations against Nigel Farage from his school days and their potential impact on his political future. Defence concerns also surface, with discussions on UK preparedness amidst recent threats.

Michael Simmons, Economics editor at The Spectator, and Danny Shaw, former adviser to Yvette Cooper, delve into the government’s asylum reform plans. They discuss Shabana Mahmood's controversial approach, which has received mixed reactions from conservatives and progressives alike. The duo explores the implications of revised migration statistics and their potential impact on the budget. Additionally, they examine the feasibility of Mahmood's ambitious measures, the internal dynamics within Labour, and the interplay between immigration policy and economic priorities.