

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.
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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books

May 25, 2024 • 11min
What‘s behind the Tory exodus?
Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls discuss Rishi Sunak's absence in the election campaign and Michael Gove's unexpected exit. They analyze campaign strategies, MP reactions, and the implications of Gove's departure on the Conservative Party. The podcast also covers the importance of focusing on campaign issues and the impact of poll results on Sunak's strategy.

May 24, 2024 • 13min
Is the Labour lead as big as it seems?
Focaldata analyst James Kanagasooriam joins Cindy Yu and Katy Balls to discuss the accuracy of Labour's lead in the upcoming election. They analyze the campaigning tactics of major party leaders in Scotland, polling data, and strategic moves of different parties like the Reform party and the impact of Umbrella Gate.

May 23, 2024 • 15min
Why has the election been called now?
Isabel Hardman and John McTernan discuss Labour's response to the surprise election announcement and the party's campaign strategies. They delve into the preparations of Labour and the Tories, debate campaign strategies within Labour, and explore Keir Starmer's proposed policies.

May 22, 2024 • 12min
Sunak's biggest gamble yet: a July election
Rishi Sunak's surprise election announcement for July sparks speculation on the wisdom of a summer election. Analysis dives into contrasting political figures, unity messages, election strategies, and unexpected political moves with potential ramifications for all parties

May 22, 2024 • 11min
Is an election about to be called?
Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson discuss rumors of an upcoming election in the UK, analyzing motivations for an early election, potential November announcements, and party reactions. Exploring economic indicators, public sentiment, and historical parallels.

May 21, 2024 • 11min
Is there finally good news for the government?
Kate Andrews and James Heale discuss the UK's improved economic forecast, potential government policies, speeches on tax and anti-Semitism, and the return of 'the hot lectern guy'. They explore the impact on interest rates, inflation, tax cuts, and housing plans, and analyze the government's liberal trend and focus on unity.

May 20, 2024 • 17min
Infected blood scandal was ‘no accident’, says report
Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman discuss the Infected Blood Scandal report findings, highlighting preventable deaths and NHS negligence. They address the need for NHS reform and compensation for victims, shedding light on the emotional impact and institutional challenges. The inquiry's victim-centric approach is praised, emphasizing the importance of post-inquiry implementation and government accountability.

May 19, 2024 • 17min
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 19/05/2024
Grant Shapps discusses defence spending and the infected blood scandal, Wes Streeting talks about Starmer's new pledges, and Piers Morgan denies knowing anything about phone hacking in an entertaining political podcast.

May 18, 2024 • 18min
The whips' office and their woes
Former MP and broadcaster Gyles Brandreth discusses the dynamics of defections in the whips' office, hinting at potential future switches. The podcast explores the challenges and complexities of MPs changing parties, revealing the intricacies of managing loyalty and discontent within political circles.

May 17, 2024 • 11min
Can Hunt answer the Reagan question?
Fraser Nelson and James Heale join Katy Balls to discuss the upcoming election, comparing tax policies between Tories and Labour. They analyze Jeremy Hunt's speech on taxes, job creation, and welfare, questioning voter trust. The debate heats up over potential tax increases and the Tories' messaging strategy for the election.