

Newscast
BBC News
The BBC's daily news podcast, Newscast dives into the day's big stories so you're never out of your depth.Newscast picks the brains of BBC News experts so you're ready if someone picks yours, covering the latest developments in politics in Westminster and beyond.Newscast is hosted by trusted journalists including Adam Fleming, BBC Political Editor Chris Mason, Laura Kuenssberg and Paddy O'Connell. You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers.Catch Newscast seven-days a week and watch on BBC One at 23:40 on Thursday night or later on BBC iPlayer. GET IN TOUCH:
You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscord
Send us a message or voicenote via WhatsApp to 03301239480
Email Newscast@bbc.co.uk
Or use the hashtag #BBCNewscastNewscast is part of the BBC News Podcasts family of podcasts. The team that makes Newscast also makes lots of other podcasts, including The Global Story, The Today Podcast, and of course Americast and Ukrainecast. If you enjoy Newscast (and if you're reading this then you hopefully do), then we think that you will enjoy some of our other pods too. See links below.Americast: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/p07h19zz
Ukrainecast: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/p0bqztzm
Radical: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/p0gg4k6r
You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscord
Send us a message or voicenote via WhatsApp to 03301239480
Email Newscast@bbc.co.uk
Or use the hashtag #BBCNewscastNewscast is part of the BBC News Podcasts family of podcasts. The team that makes Newscast also makes lots of other podcasts, including The Global Story, The Today Podcast, and of course Americast and Ukrainecast. If you enjoy Newscast (and if you're reading this then you hopefully do), then we think that you will enjoy some of our other pods too. See links below.Americast: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/p07h19zz
Ukrainecast: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/p0bqztzm
Radical: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/p0gg4k6r
Episodes
Mentioned books

63 snips
Jun 14, 2025 • 26min
Israel-Iran: The World Reacts
Shashank Joshi, Defence editor at The Economist and expert on international conflicts, joins the discussion to unravel the escalating tensions between Israel and Iran. The conversation dives into Iran's retaliatory threats against Western nations and the impact on regional stability. Joshi explores the potential economic fallout from rising oil prices and how this may reshape UK-Israel relations. The interplay between geopolitical maneuvers and military strategies highlights the urgent need for global awareness amid these crises.

12 snips
Jun 13, 2025 • 21min
Israel-Iran: Israel Strikes Iran In Major Escalation
In this episode, Shashank Joshi, Defence editor of The Economist, provides keen insights into Israel's recent airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites. He discusses the strategic motives and the ramifications for U.S.-Iran relations. The conversation also touches on Iran's escalating drone assaults on Israel and the intricate dance of military and psychological warfare in the digital age. Joshi elaborates on the implications of Iran’s nuclear ambitions, including uranium enrichment, and the broader effects on global security.

Jun 12, 2025 • 32min
What We Know About The Air India Plane Crash, So Far
Ben Katz, an Aviation Reporter for The Wall Street Journal, provides insights into the investigation of the tragic Air India plane crash, revealing the critical role of black box recovery. He discusses the implications for the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner. Joining him is Sara Girvin, Ireland Correspondent, who reports on the violent unrest in Ballymena, Northern Ireland, illuminating the community tensions tied to migrant housing. Together, they explore critical aviation safety issues and the urgent need for dialogue in a tumultuous political landscape.

12 snips
Jun 11, 2025 • 40min
Everything You Need To Know About The Spending Review
Chancellor Rachel Reeves outlines a spending plan that promises a 3% annual increase for the NHS and £39bn for social housing. The controversial end of costly asylum hotels by 2029 stirs debate. Transportation priorities reveal tensions between local and central governments. The uneven distribution of funds raises concerns for departments outside London. Meanwhile, political rhetoric sets the stage for upcoming elections, emphasizing critical fiscal choices. Humor lightens the serious talk about economic implications and audience engagement.

32 snips
Jun 10, 2025 • 39min
Trump v Newsom On The LA Riots
Sumi Somaskanda, BBC News chief anchor, shares insights on the escalating clash between Governor Newsom and President Trump amid LA riots. Gabriel Gatehouse dives into how both leaders are using the crisis for political gain, revealing a culture war in American politics. Adam Bell discusses the £14.2 billion investment in the Sizewell C nuclear power plant, emphasizing its role in job creation and energy security. The dynamic between Trump and Musk is also explored, highlighting tensions within the MAGA movement amid these unfolding events.

7 snips
Jun 9, 2025 • 38min
Winter Fuel's Back, Back Again (For Most)
Jeremy Bowen, BBC's International Editor, shares his insights on global affairs, particularly the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. He discusses the recent interception of a yacht with pro-Palestinian activists, including Greta Thunberg, attempting to deliver aid. The conversation also highlights the controversial aid system in Gaza and the desperate conditions faced by its residents. Meanwhile, changes in the UK’s winter fuel payments for pensioners reflect shifting government policies and public accountability, stirring political debates.

14 snips
Jun 8, 2025 • 33min
Spending Review: Tussles In The Treasury
Simon Jack, the BBC's Business editor, teams up with Paul Johnson, the Director of the Institute for Fiscal Studies, to dissect the tensions within the Treasury as the government approaches its Spending Review. They delve into how budget constraints are impacting economic growth and public services, and the urgent need for transparency in government spending. The pair also reflects on the slow recovery from the 2010s recession and its political implications, showcasing the intricate dance between fiscal policy and governance.

14 snips
Jun 7, 2025 • 43min
The Trans Ex Judge Challenging The Supreme Court Gender Ruling
Victoria McCloud, the UK’s only transgender judge, discusses her brave challenge against a Supreme Court ruling defining a woman solely by biological sex. She shares her motivations for pursuing this legal battle and the ruling's broader implications on transgender rights. The conversation highlights the complexities of gender identity, the emotional toll of current laws, and the urgent need for genuine dialogue. McCloud emphasizes the importance of inclusivity and advocates for fair legal representation for the trans community.

30 snips
Jun 6, 2025 • 30min
Americast: Trump vs Elon Musk
Tensions escalate as Donald Trump and Elon Musk clash publicly, lobbing insults and threats on social media. The fallout could influence the 2026 midterms, given their significant political and financial power. Their rivalry is examined, revealing how personal spats affect public perceptions and political alliances. The podcast delves into the impact of their disinhibited online behaviors and the broader implications for the MAGA movement. With potential diplomatic efforts on the table, audiences are left pondering the future of this powerful duo.

Jun 6, 2025 • 30min
The Week: Defence, Spending Review and What Next For Reform UK?
The podcast kicks off with a humorous tale of a train adventure from a Prime Minister's defense announcement, complete with delays and scenic distractions. The discussion shifts to the looming Spending Review, where hard choices on defense spending are on the table amid global uncertainties. The hosts dive into the new zero-based budgeting approach, aiming to optimize financial management. They also reflect on the internal strife within Reform UK following Zia Youssef's resignation and explore the broader political impacts on the Conservative party’s future.