Coffee House Shots

It has been a gaffe-filled week for Rishi Sunak. At PMQs today the prime minister was chastised by his opposite number for an ill-judged comment about transgender people with the mother of murdered teenager Brianna Ghey in parliament. This comes after being pictured embracing Sinn Fein leader Michelle O'Neill and then making a wager with Piers Morgan over his pledge to stop the boats. Is this a prime minister ready to fight a general election? James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Stephen Bush, associate editor of the Financial Times. Produced by Natasha Feroze and 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.

Katy Balls, a journalist discussing right-wing political thought in the UK, discusses Liz Truss's 'Popular Conservatism' conference. They explore its implications, the absence of key allies, Truss's transatlantic aspirations, and the reception of her appearance within the Conservative party.

Rishi Sunak is in Belfast to mark the return of Stormont after a two-year deadlock. With Sinn Fein now the leading party, can the government pitch this as a win? Also on the podcast, the Prime Minister admitted he's failed to meet the NHS waitlist targets from his five pledges last year. James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.  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.

Isabel Hardman presents highlights from Sunday morning's political shows. Michelle O'Neill becomes the first nationalist first minister of Northern Ireland. Education Secretary Gillian Keegan is questioned over her childcare pledges and the government's record on protecting children from online harms. Chris Bryant defends Labour against more accusations of changing their minds. And when does UK military action end if the Houthis remain undeterred?Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.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.

Former DUP First Minister Baroness Arlene Foster discusses the challenges posed by the protocol and the importance of addressing key issues in Northern Ireland. She emphasizes the need to prioritize healthcare, education reform, and the concerns of the people. The chapter also explores the upcoming general election and speculation on the next DUP First Minister.

Discussion on the issue of ex-MPs working for foreign governments, highlighting examples like George Osborne and David Cameron. Exploring the influence of think tanks in Westminster and the lack of training in politics, emphasizing the need for regulations and expressing concerns about the protection of public debate.

Labour party's stance on business and corporation tax, Rachel Reeves' pitch to business at Labour Business Conference, criticism over opposition to lifting cap on bankers' bonuses, recent developments in Northern Ireland negotiations.

Nicola Sturgeon's emotional evidence at the Covid inquiry is analyzed, including focus on deleted WhatsApp messages. Discussion on the Scottish government's culture of secrecy and potential political consequences. Ongoing inquiry challenges Sturgeon and the Scottish government, exploring criticisms and potential criminal issues.

Political commentator Katy Balls and TalkTV staff member Peter Cardwell discuss the recent developments in Northern Ireland's power-sharing plan, including concerns over the Irish border after Brexit. They explore the challenges faced by the Unionist party, the potential of a Sinn Féin first minister, and the impact of the return of Stormont on the UK government. They also highlight the importance of power sharing and the need for a functioning government in Northern Ireland.

Rishi Sunak plans to ban disposable vapes, aiming to reduce appeal to children. Concerns over black market, accessibility to minors, and Tory party divisions. Potential repercussions and fear of government overreach. Broader discussion of government interventions, including the Rwanda bill.