

Coffee House Shots
The Spectator
Daily political analysis from The Spectator's top team of writers, including Michael Gove, Tim Shipman, Isabel Hardman, James Heale, Lucy Dunn and many others.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jun 19, 2024 • 13min
Have the Tories given up on the Red Wall?
Political commentator Katy Balls and conservative commentator Paul Goodman discuss the challenges facing the Conservative party in closing the poll gap, including the roles of the Liberal Democrats and Reform. They analyze the party's strategies, concerns about blue wall seats, and the distribution of votes. The discussion also explores the potential changes in support and challenges faced by the Conservatives amidst a changing political landscape.

Jun 18, 2024 • 12min
Is Boris back to save the day?
Isabel Hardman and Fraser Nelson discuss Boris Johnson's possible return to the election campaign to save the Tories from Farage. They delve into Keir Starmer's challenging interview, Brexit repercussions on VAT reform, and the conservative party's election strategy.

Jun 17, 2024 • 10min
Does Nigel Farage have the cure for Britain?
Nigel Farage unveils Reform UK's 'contract with Britain,' proposing a freeze on non-essential immigration, patriotic curriculum, leaving European Court on Human Rights, and £88 billion tax cut. Discussion on the impact of Farage's actions on Conservatives. Katy Balls talks with Fraser Nelson and James Heale.

Jun 16, 2024 • 15min
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 16/06/24
Political commentator and journalist, Isabel Hardman, discusses key topics such as branding strategies of Conservative candidates, focus on adult social care in the Liberal Democrats' manifesto, social care funding decisions, potential Welsh independence, Labour's social care reform plans, and public anger towards the Conservative Party for leadership changes.

Jun 15, 2024 • 19min
What could Starmer's first year in power look like?
Fraser Nelson and John McTernan discuss Starmer's potential first year in power, analyzing manifesto launches, leadership challenges, economic growth strategies, and budget decisions. They predict a Labour victory and speculate on the impact on government policies.

Jun 14, 2024 • 14min
Who is the real opposition to Labour?
Isabel Hardman and Chris Hopkins discuss the rise of the Reform Party in a recent poll, posing a threat to Keir Starmer and the Tories. They delve into the challenges faced by the Conservative Party in winning back voters, analyzing poll results and electoral dynamics. Strategies for Conservative candidates and tactics to win back Labour voters are also explored.

Jun 13, 2024 • 12min
What wasn't included in Labour's manifesto
Kate Andrews and Tom Baldwin discuss Labour's vague manifesto details, emphasizing the need for economic growth and tax strategies. Tom also shares a humorous story about Angela Rayner's election bus and a lettuce with googly eyes.

Jun 12, 2024 • 14min
Sunak vs Starmer – who came out on top?
Katy Balls and Kate Andrews discuss the recent leadership interviews, highlighting audience frustration with Sunak and Starmer's responses on policy, taxes, and leadership potential. They also analyze public perception of the Partygate scandal handling and the challenges facing Rishi Sunak amidst current world events.

Jun 12, 2024 • 11min
Why are Tories talking about a Labour Super Majority?
Political commentator Megan McElroy joins to discuss Tories' fears of a Labour super majority. They explore Shapps' warnings, Sunak's controversial interview, and Tory strategies to prevent Labour dominance. The discussion also touches on the challenges of politicians relating to ordinary people in politics.

Jun 11, 2024 • 13min
Is Sunak's cautious manifesto a mistake?
Political commentator Katy Balls discusses the lackluster Tory manifesto with little surprises or tax cuts, contrary to Sunak's pledge. Analysis includes rising tax burdens, social care cost cap, and critiques from Labour and Conservative groups. Evaluation of Rishi Sunak's strategic decisions and implications for the government.