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
8 snips
Mar 28, 2025 • 32min
The Week: Tariffs, Welfare Reform and Sue Gray speaks…
Exploring a recent 25% tariff on car imports, the hosts dissect its impact on economics and trade relations. The conversation shifts to welfare reforms, debating whether they're merely budget-balancing acts. Baroness Sue Gray's speech warns about the language affecting civil service cuts, while the discussion reveals tensions surrounding potential job losses and the changing nature of government roles, influenced by AI. Lively language puzzles add a humorous touch to political analysis, keeping the dialogue engaging.
10 snips
Mar 27, 2025 • 43min
Shadow Chancellor Mel Unshelled on the Spring Statement
Jeremy Bowen, BBC International Editor based in Paris, provides insightful analysis on the ongoing Ukraine conflict and European support efforts. Mel Stride, Shadow Chancellor, shares his take on the recent Spring Statement, dissecting fiscal strategies and challenges posed by historical debt and the pandemic. The conversation takes a lighter turn with a humorous quiz that uses ice hockey metaphors to explore political language. Together, they navigate the complexities of diplomacy, economic forecasting, and the need for thoughtful reforms in disability benefits.
10 snips
Mar 26, 2025 • 42min
Everything You Need To Know About The Spring Statement
Faisal Islam, the BBC's economics editor, shares his expert insights on the Chancellor's recent Spring Statement. The discussion dives into the implications of cuts to welfare spending and the Office for Budget Responsibility’s economic forecasts. They unravel the complex relationship between interest costs and growth projections. The impact of political dynamics, particularly low growth and rising borrowing costs, is also explored, shedding light on the challenges facing the UK economy amidst international uncertainties.
23 snips
Mar 25, 2025 • 37min
A Journalist Has Entered The Top Secret Military Chat
Caitríona Perry, BBC chief presenter in Washington, and Celeste Wallander, a former Pentagon official, delve into a surprising incident where a journalist stumbled into a top-secret military chat. They explore the implications of using secure platforms like Signal for sensitive discussions, contrasting it with traditional protocols. The conversation touches on U.S. foreign policy and ongoing conflicts affecting shipping routes, while humorously addressing communication styles, including the role of emojis in conveying messages during high-stakes scenarios.
8 snips
Mar 24, 2025 • 38min
Talking About Talking About Peace Talks
James Landale, BBC diplomatic correspondent, shares his insights on the intricate Ukraine conflict negotiations, spotlighting the complexities involved. Sarah Smith, BBC North America editor, discusses U.S. perspectives on the ongoing talks and the strategic significance of Greenland. Veteran broadcaster David Dimbleby unveils his new series on free market economics, revealing historical shifts and their impact on society. Together, they explore the delicate balance of diplomacy, strategy, and economic principles shaping current global events.
14 snips
Mar 23, 2025 • 29min
The Rachel Reeves Weekender: Civil Service Cuts Confirmed
The discussion dives into proposed civil service and welfare cuts in the UK, spotlighting Rachel Reeves' recent interview. The speakers analyze public reactions and the implications for vulnerable groups like pensioners. Foreign policy challenges and party dynamics add to the tension of governance. Amidst serious topics, they share playful stories about political cardboard cutouts, showcasing a fun angle on politics. Additionally, they touch on leadership changes in major institutions and encourage listener engagement.
8 snips
Mar 22, 2025 • 25min
The BIG Rachel Reeves Weekender
Laura and Paddy discuss the implications of Rachel Reeves' Spring Statement, emphasizing her decision to avoid tax hikes and increased spending. They explore the unique challenges faced by a female Chancellor and how her leadership is perceived within the Labour Party. The conversation highlights the evolution of economic strategies, particularly 'securonomics', and examines the scrutiny surrounding her policies in a male-dominated landscape. With a dash of humor, the hosts engage listeners about upcoming topics while reflecting on the delicate balance of political decision-making.
8 snips
Mar 21, 2025 • 30min
The Week: Defence Spending, Benefit Cuts and The Spring Statement
Lucy Fisher, Whitehall editor at the Financial Times, and Stephanie Flanders, head of economics and politics at Bloomberg, dive into pressing issues. They explore the UK's defense spending strategy and the tricky balance of convincing the public of its necessity. They also discuss the government's controversial benefit cuts and their impact on vulnerable populations. The duo reflects on the implications for the Labour Party and offers insights into the upcoming spring statement amidst rising public debt and economic challenges.
8 snips
Mar 20, 2025 • 25min
Why has Netanyahu Resumed the War?
Jeremy Bowen, the BBC's International Editor, explores the renewed intensity of Israel's military actions against Hamas, emphasizing the role of domestic politics in Prime Minister Netanyahu's decisions. Katya Adler, BBC Europe Editor, discusses NATO's efforts and responses amid the ongoing crisis in Ukraine, shedding light on the complexities of regional security and defense spending. The conversation also touches on the challenging dynamics of reporting in conflict zones and provides a lighthearted glimpse into the quirks of flying in NATO aircraft.
Mar 19, 2025 • 32min
Are Young Men in Crisis?
Ed Davies, Policy Director at the Centre for Social Justice, and Ceylon Andi Hickman, Director at Football Beyond Borders, dive into the pressing challenges facing young men today. They discuss the influence of technology and societal pressures that contribute to feelings of isolation. The conversation highlights the urgent need for mentorship and positive role models. They also explore the detrimental effects of social media and the importance of fostering real-life connections and community support to help young men navigate their identity and challenges.
