

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.Follow the new Labour government led by Sir Keir Starmer. How will Kemi Badenoch do as leader of the Conservative party? Newscast will give you all the best insights from BBC News so you're across all the day's top stories. 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://tinyurl.com/newscastcommunityhere
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.The Global Story: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/w13xtvsd
The Today Podcast: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/p0gg4k6r
Americast: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/p07h19zz
Ukrainecast: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/p0bqztzm
You can join our Newscast online community here: https://tinyurl.com/newscastcommunityhere
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.The Global Story: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/w13xtvsd
The Today Podcast: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/p0gg4k6r
Americast: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/p07h19zz
Ukrainecast: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/p0bqztzm
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 31, 2025 • 29min
The Week: Mandelson Backtracks, Badenoch v Patel and Heathrow Expansion
Explore the tricky political dance around Lord Mandelson's potential ambassadorship to the US and the growing rift in the shadow cabinet. Dive into the implications of proposed infrastructure projects, like Heathrow's expansion, and their impact on local communities. The hosts also celebrate five years of engaging political commentary, while uncovering dark truths about the wellness industry, revealing shocking stories of exploitation and manipulation. A lively discussion highlights the intersection of politics and popular culture, making for an entertaining listen.

14 snips
Jan 30, 2025 • 35min
Will Labour's Plan To Stop Small Boat Crossings Work?
In this insightful discussion, Dominic Casciani, BBC Home and Legal Correspondent, analyzes the UK's new plans to combat small boat crossings, framing them as urgent counterterrorism measures. He highlights the complexities of enforcing these regulations and the challenges of international cooperation in tackling human trafficking. Meanwhile, Marianna Spring, BBC Social Media Investigations Correspondent, delves into the controversial confirmation hearings of RFK Jr., scrutinizing his vaccine stance amidst intense political scrutiny.

Jan 29, 2025 • 40min
The Rachel Reeves Runway for Growth
Dharshini David, Chief Economics Correspondent at BBC News, shares her insights on Rachel Reeves’ advocacy for a third runway at Heathrow, emphasizing its potential to create 100,000 jobs. The conversation dives into the challenges of balancing economic growth with climate concerns. Meanwhile, Diederik Santar, Executive Producer of EastEnders, reflects on Boris Johnson's cheeky cameo on the show, blending real politics with entertainment and exploring the ethical dilemmas of featuring political figures in scripted narratives.

17 snips
Jan 28, 2025 • 41min
Fergal Keane Travels Inside Gaza
Fergal Keane, a BBC special correspondent, shares his harrowing experience as the first international journalist to fly a Jordanian helicopter into Gaza. He discusses the complexities of delivering humanitarian aid amid conflict. Stephanie Hegarty and Professor Sarah Harper dive into UK population projections, highlighting challenges of aging demographics and migration trends. They explore how countries are grappling with low birth rates and the impact of evolving family planning dynamics, making this episode both enlightening and timely.

Jan 27, 2025 • 38min
Can Trump and Starmer Have a Special Relationship?
Chris Mason, the BBC political editor, teams up with Sarah Smith, the North America editor, to analyze the newly cordial relationship between Donald Trump and Keir Starmer following their first conversation. Meanwhile, Faisal Islam and Marc Cieslak dive into the competitive tension between US and Chinese AI developments, questioning the impact of China's rising tech firm on global markets and the implications for major US tech companies. They discuss underlying economic shifts and the evolving landscape of AI, comparing it to a new space race.

10 snips
Jan 26, 2025 • 32min
Is This a Rachel Reeves Reset?
Nick Watt, BBC Newsnight’s political editor, dives into Rachel Reeves’ ambitious growth strategies, including easing restrictions for wealthy non-doms and the controversial Heathrow runway expansion. He also sheds light on the political aftermath of the Southport killer’s sentencing, prompting reflections on social integration challenges. The conversation touches on the need for accountability in governmental strategies and the intricate dynamics within the Conservative Party, providing a comprehensive analysis of the current political landscape.

7 snips
Jan 25, 2025 • 33min
Israeli Hostages and Palestinian Prisoners Released
In this insightful discussion, Lyse Doucet, BBC's Chief International Correspondent, sheds light on the recent developments in the Israel-Hamas ceasefire. She analyzes the emotional impact of releasing four Israeli soldiers in exchange for 200 Palestinian prisoners, spotlighting the tense dynamics surrounding the hostage Arbel Yehud. Doucet also addresses the upcoming changes in copyright law concerning AI, emphasizing the need to protect artists' rights in the digital age. Her expertise adds depth to the complex narratives shaping this ongoing conflict.

Jan 24, 2025 • 30min
The Week: Trump Returns, the EU and No to NIMBYs?
James Landale, the BBC's Diplomatic Correspondent, shares insights on Trump's impactful return to the White House, reflecting on the challenges of his unique diplomatic style. He delves into the intricacies of the post-Brexit trade relationship between the UK and the EU, discussing restrictions and potential trade wars. The conversation also addresses the pressing need for increased European defense spending in light of external threats. Humorously, Landale recounts his chaotic experiences while covering the Heathrow expansion debate, showcasing the unexpected moments in journalism.

9 snips
Jan 23, 2025 • 38min
Southport Killer Sentenced
Judith Moritz, a special correspondent for BBC News, and Daniel Sandford, UK correspondent reporting from Liverpool, dive deep into the harrowing case of Axel Rudakubana, sentenced to 52 years for the murder of three girls. They discuss the emotional court hearing and the chilling details surrounding the violence. Meanwhile, Faisal Islam shares insights from the World Economic Forum, touching on how global trade policies and economics intertwine with such tragedies. A somber yet revealing conversation about justice and global dynamics.

Jan 22, 2025 • 40min
Prince Harry’s Day Out Of Court
Katie Razzall, BBC Media Editor, discusses Prince Harry's dramatic settlement with News Group Newspapers over privacy intrusions. Dominic Casciani, a legal expert, analyzes the broader implications for media accountability and the changing dynamics of press ethics. Additionally, James Landale, BBC Diplomatic correspondent, focuses on escalating Russian maritime activity near British waters, addressing concerns about undersea infrastructure and the UK's defense strategies amidst growing geopolitical tensions.