

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

10 snips
Jan 7, 2025 • 33min
Do Facts Meta on Facebook?
Vivian Schiller, a former head of news at Twitter, joins Alison Holt, the BBC’s social affairs editor, and Tom Symonds, a BBC political correspondent, to discuss Meta's controversial decision to end independent fact-checking on its platforms. They debate the implications of replacing fact-checkers with community notes and the challenge of balancing free speech with misinformation. The conversation also delves into lessons learned from past inquiries into child sexual abuse, emphasizing the importance of urgent action and awareness to protect vulnerable individuals.

Jan 6, 2025 • 38min
Starmer Hits Back at Musk
Joining the discussion is Stephen Kinnock, the Care Minister, who outlines the government's strategic plan to tackle NHS backlogs. He highlights ambitious goals for reducing patient wait times and improving healthcare access. The conversation also touches on the political backlash Keir Starmer is facing from Elon Musk, focusing on accountability in child protection. Kinnock emphasizes the need for realistic timelines and cross-party efforts to achieve meaningful healthcare reforms amid the ongoing social care challenges.

Jan 5, 2025 • 30min
Is Elon a Musk-Have for Nigel Farage?
Gawain Towler, former director of communications for Reform UK, sheds light on Nigel Farage’s intriguing connection with Elon Musk. They dissect Musk's controversial comments about UK politics, particularly his provocative statements on grooming gangs and the government's response, exploring the thin line between free speech and responsible discourse. The discussion also navigates the potential impact of this relationship on US-UK dynamics and the pressing need for social care reform, emphasizing the importance of political alliances in addressing societal issues.

15 snips
Jan 4, 2025 • 24min
Elon Musk vs Labour
Elon Musk's controversial critiques of UK's political landscape take center stage, raising eyebrows with his support for a jailed figure. Tensions simmer over sensitive topics like immigration and racial dynamics within British politics. The Reform UK party finds itself navigating internal discord as voter disillusionment grows. The hosts lighten the mood with playful banter, teasing upcoming interviews with political heavyweights. Finally, they hint at an intriguing new series exploring the controversial secrets of the wellness industry.

Jan 3, 2025 • 26min
A(nother) Government Plan for Social Care
Vicki Young, BBC’s deputy political editor, brings her keen insights on political developments, while Mike Padgham, Chair of the Independent Care Group, champions care providers in North Yorkshire. They dive into the government's ambitious yet delayed plans for a new independent commission on social care, emphasizing the frustration over timelines and proposed reforms. The conversation touches on the critical need for a unified National Care Service, addressing immediate concerns like staff pay, and the ongoing struggle against unfulfilled promises in care provision.

Jan 2, 2025 • 29min
The New Orleans Attack
In this intriguing discussion, Marianna Spring, the BBC’s social media investigations correspondent, and Justin Webb, host of Americast, unpack the tragic New Orleans attack, probing the dual identity of 42-year-old Shamsu-Din Jabbar as both army veteran and alleged extremist. They highlight the powerful role of social media in shaping public narratives around violent acts. Additionally, Alex Forsyth sheds light on the resignation of 20 Labour councillors in Broxtow, revealing deep discontent within the party that could reshape local politics.

Dec 31, 2024 • 39min
Is the World Ready for Donald Trump 2.0?
Gary O'Donoghue, BBC's Senior North America Correspondent, and Lyse Doucet, BBC's Chief International Correspondent, dive deep into the potential ramifications of Donald Trump's anticipated return to the White House. They discuss how U.S.-U.K. relations might shift and the looming policy challenges like trade and climate change. Doucet offers insights from the Middle East, addressing the geopolitical dynamics involving Turkey and Iran. They also analyze Trump's influence on global conflicts and the unforeseen appeal he holds within the Latino community.

Dec 30, 2024 • 39min
Electioncast USA: Revisited
Sumi Somiscanda, BBC's North America correspondent, and Katrina Perry, a prominent BBC News anchor, join Justin Webb from AmeriCast to dissect the chaotic US presidential election campaign. They reflect on Joe Biden's withdrawal and the media intricacies of Trump's candidacy. The trio explores the Democratic Party's challenges, including the pivotal role of reproductive rights and the emotional atmosphere surrounding the debates. Insightful predictions for 2025 and the evolving political landscape offer keen observations on the dynamics shaping America's future.

Dec 27, 2024 • 45min
Electioncast: Revisited
The hosts dive into pivotal moments from the 2024 general election campaign. They reminisce about Rishi Sunak's unexpected July election, the challenges of rainy Downing Street events, and the art of political improvisation. The discussion reveals behind-the-scenes drama, including Labour's internal issues with Diane Abbott and the surprising dynamics on election day. Listeners can feel the excitement and tension of key moments, showcasing how humor and quick thinking played crucial roles in political narratives.

9 snips
Dec 24, 2024 • 35min
Newscast Answers Your Christmas Questions!
The hosts celebrate the festive season while humorously tackling listener questions about Christmas quirks. They debate whether Die Hard qualifies as a Christmas film and share their personal holiday traditions. Nostalgic drinking stories and amusing anecdotes about Christmas chaos fill the air. The discussion also reflects on the year's events and hints at a new series on wellness industry concerns, blending the joy of the season with deeper societal topics.