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
11 snips
Jun 2, 2025 • 41min
The Plan To Get Britain Ready For War
Fiona Hill, a former White House advisor and foreign policy expert, explores Britain's strategic defense review, emphasizing its significance in preparing for modern warfare. James Waterhouse, the BBC's Ukraine correspondent, shares insights into a recent large-scale drone attack on Russian air bases and its implications. They discuss the need for a unified approach to national security amidst rising tensions, the evolving role of technology in warfare, and the balance between defense spending and job creation.
11 snips
Jun 1, 2025 • 28min
The UK’s 'Message To Moscow’
The UK is boosting its defense budget with a bold message to Moscow, sparking debates about affordability and NATO responses. The discussion dives into job creation linked to military spending and the political tensions within the Labour Party. They also analyze the decline in policing and prison resources under Conservative governance. Amidst these serious topics, there's playful banter about board games and fashion flops, bringing humor to the conversation. It's a lively mix of politics, defense, and light-hearted fun!
May 31, 2025 • 32min
Ex MI6 Chief On The Future of UK Defence
Alex Younger, former head of MI6, dives into the future of UK defense, sharing critical insights into evolving threats from Russia and China. He discusses the importance of innovation and readiness in military strategy, emphasizing a holistic approach to national security. Younger also highlights the need for diversifying the UK's nuclear capabilities and reassessing its reliance on US support. With defense spending expected to rise, he advocates for a forward-thinking stance to address emerging global challenges and technological advancements.
6 snips
May 30, 2025 • 29min
The Week: Starmer v Farage, Trump Tariffs and Political Stunts
The hosts dive into Keir Starmer's bold claim that Nigel Farage could 'crash the economy.' They share a laugh while recalling political stunts, including a cringe-worthy confrontation on the London Underground. The discussion then shifts to the chaotic implications of Trump's tariffs on the UK-US trade relationship. They also explore recent shifts in European rhetoric regarding Gaza and the potential for political action, alongside lighthearted banter about quirky political gifts that reveal a more personal side to politicians.
May 29, 2025 • 33min
Liverpool Parade Crash Charge + Trump Tariff Chaos
Joining the discussion are Justin Webb, host of Americast, sharing his expertise on American politics, and Caitríona Perry, a US Chief presenter, offering crucial updates on political events. They delve into the chaotic legal battle over Trump’s tariffs and its implications for the economy and his political standing. Danny Savage reports on a serious incident at a Liverpool celebration, detailing the legal ramifications for the charged driver. This whirlwind of topics reveals not only the intricacies of American politics but also the human side of current events.
10 snips
May 28, 2025 • 34min
Are (Even More Of) Israel’s Allies Turning Against Them?
In this discussion, Lyse Doucet, BBC's chief international correspondent, sheds light on the chaotic scenes at Gaza's aid distribution centers and critiques surrounding the new aid model. Alex Forsyth, BBC political correspondent, joins the conversation to analyze the growing criticism from European leaders, including Kaja Kallas, towards Israeli military actions. They also dive into the complexities of humanitarian aid amidst violence and legal concerns, emphasizing the international outcry over the ongoing conflict and its implications for global politics.
8 snips
May 27, 2025 • 24min
Everything We Know About The Liverpool Crash, So Far
Sally Nugent, a BBC Breakfast presenter who reported on the Liverpool incident, joins BBC News correspondent Tom Symonds to discuss a shocking car crash that injured numerous fans during a title celebration. They delve into the details of the police investigation and the arrest of a suspect linked to attempted murder. The conversation also highlights community reactions, the proactive police communication strategy, and the emotional aftermath as Liverpool comes together to support those affected.
May 26, 2025 • 55min
The Newscast Summer Tour
In this lively discussion at the Hay Festival, David Spiegelhalter, a renowned statistician, joins Anne Applebaum, a distinguished journalist and historian, and comedian Marcus Brigstocke. They dive into the murky waters of political rhetoric surrounding Putin and the unsettling influence of misinformation. The trio humorously examines the complexities of labor statistics and government policies, while Spiegelhalter shares insights on combating false claims through 'pre-bunking'. Bridging humor and serious analysis, they tackle the challenges of modern governance and public perception.
8 snips
May 25, 2025 • 28min
Will Starmer Scrap the Two-Child Benefit Cap?
The discussion kicks off with a humorous look at rail services and a leaked memo stirring tensions in the Labour Party. Internal conflicts between Angela Rayner and Keir Starmer emerge as critical issues amid budget shortfalls. A hot topic surfaces: the two-child benefit cap, igniting debates over child poverty and welfare policies. The conversation also predicts potential shifts in leadership and examines the political climate in the UK, revealing a landscape marked by internal party divisions and evolving strategies.
22 snips
May 24, 2025 • 24min
Could More Government U-Turns Be On The Way?
The podcast dives into a recent government U-turn on winter fuel payments and what it means for future spending cuts. It examines public sentiment toward local MP Keir Starmer while highlighting views from young listeners about the UK/EU relationship. The discussion tackles the complexities of managing disability welfare spending and engages with regional politicians on the importance of youth involvement in politics. Additionally, it touches on the nationalization of railways, blending political intrigue with humor.
