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
14 snips
Jul 20, 2025 • 29min
The End Of Year Political Report Card
The hosts humorously contrast MPs' holiday plans with their work duties while grading political performances like school report cards. They critically analyze Labour's first year, addressing pollution issues and internal conflicts. The challenges of integrating public support for climate action into party politics are explored, particularly concerning the Green Party. The Liberal Democrats aim to rejoin the EU Customs Union for economic gains. Lastly, the Conservatives face accountability, highlighting the need for improvement in a turbulent political landscape.
27 snips
Jul 19, 2025 • 29min
Who Is Actually In Charge Of The Country?
Laura and Paddy dig into the complexities of who really holds power in the UK government. They discuss Labour's internal struggles, including the surprising expulsion of MPs. The conversation also highlights the intriguing link between politics and financial markets, showcasing how market dynamics can sway governmental decisions. Anticipation brews over Trump's upcoming meeting with the Prime Minister in Scotland, featuring humorous takes on their contrasting interests. The hosts also explore leadership perceptions, whimsically comparing them to golf buggies.
4 snips
Jul 18, 2025 • 32min
More River Pollution, More Anger
Esme Stallard, a BBC science correspondent, shares alarming insights on the 60% spike in pollution incidents by water companies, stressing the urgent need for regulatory reform. Investigative journalist Joe Crowley highlights systemic failures in the water industry, questioning the effectiveness of privatization. James Gallagher discusses groundbreaking fertility advances with three-parent babies, revealing how this innovative technique is helping prevent hereditary diseases. Together, they tackle critical environmental and health issues shaping our future.
12 snips
Jul 17, 2025 • 34min
Votes for 16 Year Olds & Abbott Suspended
Join Professor Jane Green, Director of the Nuffield Politics Research Centre, as she dives into the historic move to lower the voting age to 16 in the UK. Discover how this shift could empower young voices and reshape political engagement. The conversation also touches on the suspension of MP Diane Abbott, exploring the implications for the Labour Party and the ongoing discourse around racism and identity. With her expert insights, Green sheds light on the complexities of these pressing political issues.
Jul 16, 2025 • 36min
What Do We Know About The Afghan Data Breach?
Larisa Brown, Defence Editor at The Times, discusses her groundbreaking reporting on the recent Afghan data breach that jeopardized the safety of thousands seeking refuge in the UK. She breaks down the implications of a media super injunction and the chaos surrounding the Kabul evacuation. Caitriona Perry, BBC News Chief Reporter, analyzes the backlash against Donald Trump from his supporters regarding his failure to release Epstein-related records, highlighting the shifting dynamics in his political base and his changing rhetoric.
11 snips
Jul 15, 2025 • 31min
Trump Calls The BBC
In a revealing conversation, Gary O’Donoghue, the BBC's chief North America correspondent, shares insights from his unexpected call with Trump. They discuss Trump's views on Putin, the nuances of international diplomacy, and the implications of Brexit. Trump reflects on the anniversary of an assassination attempt and contrasts his informal interview style with that of past presidents like Obama. This candid exchange offers a unique glimpse into the complexities of political relationships and the lighter moments of interviewing the controversial former president.
12 snips
Jul 14, 2025 • 40min
What Went Wrong With The BBC Gaza Documentary?
Katie Razzall, BBC News Culture and Media editor, and Noor Nanji, Culture reporter, dissect a BBC documentary that faced backlash for its narrator's ties to Hamas, revealing failures in editorial oversight. They discuss the BBC's accountability and proposed changes to enhance transparency. Caitriona Perry, Chief Presenter for BBC News, sheds light on President Trump's warning of tariffs on Russia related to the Ukraine conflict. The conversation underscores the challenges of responsible journalism amid political tensions and public scrutiny.
21 snips
Jul 13, 2025 • 28min
Will The Plan To Keep Kids Safe Online Work?
Dame Melanie Henrietta Dawes discusses the UK's Online Safety Act, detailing how it aims to protect children from harmful content online. The implementation of age verification and regulatory changes for tech companies is explored, against a backdrop of ongoing debates about 'legal but harmful' material. Meanwhile, tensions in the healthcare system escalate as strikes loom for NHS doctors, highlighting the political intricacies entwined with union negotiations. The cultural shift in Silicon Valley regarding accountability also sparks intriguing conversations.
Jul 12, 2025 • 28min
Labour v The Unions
George Eaton, Senior Editor of the New Statesman, dives into the escalating tension between Labour and unions, sparked by recent suspensions within the party. He discusses the implications of Unite potentially cutting ties with Labour, highlighting concerns over loyalty during ongoing strikes. The conversation also touches on the economic challenges facing Europe, particularly for Labour under Keir Starmer, and the tragic Air India crash, emphasizing the importance of thorough investigation. It's a revealing look at the intersection of politics, unions, and economic realities.
20 snips
Jul 11, 2025 • 32min
Why Is It So Hot?
In this engaging conversation, Shashank Joshi, Defense Editor at The Economist, and Sarah Keith-Lucas, Lead Weather Presenter at the BBC, tackle the pressing issue of the recent heatwave gripping the UK. They explore the link between rising temperatures and climate change, questioning our preparedness for such extremes. The duo discusses the evolving nature of weather reporting, innovative cooling strategies, and even touches on how these heat events impact travel and architecture. Their insights shed light on a changing climate and its implications for daily life.
