Coffee House Shots

Former SNP advisers Lucy Dunn and Fergus Mutch discuss John Swinney's first week as First Minister and his potential to rejuvenate the party. Topics include the cabinet reshuffle, policy changes focusing on economic growth, challenges in balancing independence goals with everyday issues, and the future prospects of the SNP under Swinney's leadership.

Natalie Elphicke, unveiled by Keir Starmer, discusses UK's exit from recession and economic growth. Keir Starmer's speech on Labour's plans to stop the boats and the comparison between Labour and Tory migration policies are debated. The podcast explores UK economic performance, potential election, and Labour's stance on asylum system reform.

David Lammy and Charles Grant discuss David Cameron's stance on defense spending, foreign policy decisions, and communication skills. They also highlight Lammy's efforts to engage with Washington figures and the Labour Party's approach towards China. The podcast delves into recent defections to the Labour Party and their consequences.

Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman discuss Tory MP Natalie Elphicke's surprise move to Labour, questioning its impact on both parties. They analyze party coherence, vetting processes, and policy alignments. The episode also delves into Conservative MPs defecting, Home Office restructuring, and immigration policy challenges.

Chris Hopkins, Political Research Director at Savanta, joins the discussion on the possibility of a hung parliament after the local elections. The podcast delves into the implications of national vote share, challenges for Labour, strategic messaging on hung parliament risks, and the Conservative Party's electoral challenges.

Political analyst Megan McElroy discusses Andy Street's defeat in the West Midlands local elections and its implications for Rishi Sunak. They analyze the overall results of the elections, the impact on the Tory party, and the challenges faced by the government moving forward.

Ben Houchen, 'patron saint of the red wall', wins Tees Valley mayor for a third term. Tories face losses but Houchen secures victory. Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson discuss outcomes and implications of local elections. Rishi Sunak's position and potential threats to the Conservatives analyzed.

The podcast discusses the recent local elections where Labour made substantial gains while the Tories suffered heavy losses. Highlighted topics include Labour's victory in Blackpool, the Reform Party's impact, and internal party dynamics. Analysis of mayoral results and Tory struggles in West Midlands and implications for future elections

Tees Valley Mayor, Ben Houchen, and political analyst James Heale discuss the impact of local elections on Rishi Sunak's prospects. Insights on key battlegrounds and rumors of Labour's employment policy changes. Analysis of Labour's workers' rights package and consultation challenges.

Isabel Hardman and Luke Tryl discuss the potential repercussions of the Tories' mental health focus amid rising out-of-work benefits claims. They also delve into the upcoming mayoral elections and the evolving attitudes towards mental health support and welfare policies post-COVID.