

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

22 snips
Dec 23, 2024 • 36min
The Big Political Review of 2024
The discussion dives into the chaotic Tory leadership contest, shedding light on party disillusionment. Key changes in UK political leadership are addressed, with new first ministers making waves across the nations. Labour's early struggles and internal disputes add another layer of complexity to the political landscape. Plus, there's a peek into the dark side of the wellness industry, revealing unsettling truths. As the year wraps up, the hosts emphasize engaging listeners in shaping future political conversations.

Dec 20, 2024 • 33min
Newbie MPs First Christmas
Join newly-elected MPs Rosie Wrighting, a former retail worker, Ben Obese-Jecty, a military veteran and financial expert, and Pippa Heylings, a climate advocate and mediator. They share quirky insights about Kettering's pronunciation and Huntingdon's history. The discussion touches on navigating parliamentary dynamics, the challenges for women MPs in the digital age, and the balance between political duties and holiday cheer. With humorous anecdotes about Christmas cards, these fresh voices bring a lighthearted take on serious political journeys.

Dec 19, 2024 • 25min
Gisèle Pelicot's Day of Justice
Victoria Derbyshire, a BBC Newsnight presenter known for her incisive reporting, teams up with Andrew Harding, the BBC Paris correspondent, to discuss the harrowing Gisèle Pelicot trial. They unpack the shocking details of Pelicot's ordeal, where 51 men—including her ex-husband—were found guilty of abuse. The conversation dives into the emotional atmosphere in court and the complexities of consent highlighted by the case. Lastly, they explore Pelicot's emergence as a symbol of hope for women's justice globally, emphasizing the ongoing fight for systemic change.

9 snips
Dec 18, 2024 • 42min
Could Reform Get Millions From Musk?
Ben Ansell, a Professor of Comparative Democratic Institutions at the University of Oxford, dives into the fascinating interplay of wealth and politics, spotlighting Elon Musk's connection to Nigel Farage and the implications for political donations in the UK. He also discusses pressing issues like the ongoing campaign for pension equality led by WASPI women and reflects on the state of democracy in the face of electoral predictions, media bias, and the rise of opposition forces across Europe. A compelling exploration of current political landscapes awaits!

18 snips
Dec 17, 2024 • 40min
Ukraine Scooter Bomb Kills Russian General
James Waterhouse, BBC Ukraine correspondent, offers firsthand insight into the assassination of Russian General Igor Kirillov and its implications for the Ukraine-Russia conflict. Chris Steele, former MI6 Russia Desk head, discusses the strategic significance of targeted killings and the ethical dilemmas posed by chemical warfare allegations. Dame Rachel de Souza emphasizes the urgent need for better child welfare oversight, advocating for new legislation to protect at-risk children. The conversation blends military strategy with pressing social issues.

Dec 16, 2024 • 34min
The Chinese "Spy" is Named
Dominic Casciani, BBC Home and Legal Affairs correspondent, discusses the legal intricacies surrounding the allegations against Chinese businessman Yang Tengbo, linked to Prince Andrew. Charles Parton, former UK diplomat, provides insight into China's geopolitical maneuvers and their impact on UK politics. Joe Pike delves into Angela Rayner’s ambitious plans for local governance reforms, advocating for more mayors and the abolition of district councils. Together, they unravel the complex web of espionage, national security, and political strategies.

7 snips
Dec 15, 2024 • 32min
Migration, Migration, Migration
The podcast dives into the complexities of UK immigration, tackling rising illegal arrivals and public sentiment. Experts discuss the impact of Brexit on political dynamics and the economy, revealing shifts in international relations. Insights from a former immigration minister shed light on the challenges of policy-making amid competition. There's also a festive reflection on the year’s political moments, mixed with light-hearted talk about delicious treats. Personal stories remind us of the human experience behind migration.

5 snips
Dec 14, 2024 • 25min
Prince Andrew and the Suspected Spy
Dive into royal intrigue as the discussion unveils Prince Andrew's connections to a suspected Chinese spy, raising questions about national security. Migration challenges take center stage with insights from the UK Home Secretary on tackling criminal networks and the need for international cooperation. Meanwhile, the hosts share hilarious travel tales and the quirks of in-flight dining, blending light-hearted anecdotes with serious political discourse. Don't miss their exploration of dark secrets in the wellness industry.

Dec 13, 2024 • 30min
The Week: Sandwiches, Planning and the EU
In a lighthearted debate, political figures' lunch preferences, especially sandwiches, spark a quirky conversation about food and identity. The implications of Brexit on UK-EU relations are examined, highlighting trade dynamics and contrasting views. The podcast also tackles housing development challenges, focusing on planning reforms and community impact amid growing housing demands. A nostalgic reflection on holidays wraps up the discussion, encouraging audience interaction and hinting at exciting returns in the future.

16 snips
Dec 12, 2024 • 35min
Is The NHS Facing a ‘Quad-Demic’?
Hugh Pym, the BBC health editor, provides expert insights into the NHS's mounting pressures while Nick Hulme, CEO of East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust, discusses hospital challenges amid a 'quad-demic'. They explore the rising cases of flu, COVID-19, RSV, and norovirus, emphasizing urgent healthcare needs. Additionally, Alex Versaith sheds light on government reforms in housing, tackling the intricate planning challenges and the push for more homes amidst local politics. Together, they navigate the complexities of healthcare and housing in the UK.