The News Agents
Global
Emily Maitlis, Jon Sopel and Lewis Goodall – three of the UK’s top journalists – host an award-winning daily news podcast: The News Agents.
They’re not just here to tell you what's happening, but why. Expect astute analysis and explanation of the day's news – and a healthy dose of scepticism and the ability to laugh at it all when needed.
Episodes are available every weekday afternoon. You can listen to The News Agents on Alexa, just say "Alexa ask Global Player to play The News Agents"
The News Agents is a Global Player Original podcast.
For advertising opportunities on this podcast email: dax@global.com
You can visit our website here https://www.thenewsagents.co.uk/
They’re not just here to tell you what's happening, but why. Expect astute analysis and explanation of the day's news – and a healthy dose of scepticism and the ability to laugh at it all when needed.
Episodes are available every weekday afternoon. You can listen to The News Agents on Alexa, just say "Alexa ask Global Player to play The News Agents"
The News Agents is a Global Player Original podcast.
For advertising opportunities on this podcast email: dax@global.com
You can visit our website here https://www.thenewsagents.co.uk/
Episodes
Mentioned books
75 snips
Dec 1, 2025 • 32min
What was The Chancellor's biggest budget crime?
A political storm brews as Rachel Reeves faces accusations of misleading the public regarding the budget, with calls for her resignation amid a chaotic rollout. The OBR’s early leak is dubbed a monumental fail, raising questions about trust and transparency. Meanwhile, Trump's alarming rhetoric about Venezuela hints at deeper motives, intertwining regime change and oil interests. The hosts dissect these controversies while poking at the implications of misinformation in the media. It's a rollercoaster of politics, controversy, and unexpected ties!
57 snips
Nov 28, 2025 • 34min
Salman Rushdie on political violence, free speech and BBC "cowardice"
Salman Rushdie, the acclaimed novelist behind Midnight's Children and The Satanic Verses, shares insights from his new book The Eleventh Hour. He reflects on mortality following his life-altering attack in 2022 and how it reshaped his outlook. Rushdie critiques rising political violence, the BBC's censorship, and the state of free speech in America. He discusses societal fractures, Brexit's impact, and the troubling rise of authoritarianism. Despite challenges, he emphasizes the enduring power of literature and confirms his commitment to continue writing fiction.
Nov 28, 2025 • 16min
Q&A: Rules football should steal from other sports? - The Sports Agents
Explore how football could borrow exciting ideas from other sports! The hosts discuss VAR time limits and sticking with on-field decisions. They debate tactical goalkeeper substitutions and the potential for challenge systems like in tennis. Learn about limiting conversations with referees and introducing sin bins for misconduct. The conversation also touches on reducing substitutions to level the playing field. Plus, catch insights from a major interview with McLaren's CEO and reflections on grief in football.
59 snips
Nov 27, 2025 • 44min
Does Labour need to own its move to the Left?
Lucy Powell, Deputy Leader of the Labour Party, dives into the recent Budget's implications for the party and the nation. She defends the Budget's goals, emphasizing investments to reduce child poverty and enhance the NHS, while addressing the tension between manifesto pledges and tax increases. Powell argues the measures align with Labour's values, advocating for a fairer tax system, including changes like a mansion tax. She also contemplates the pressures of party unity and the path forward in a shifting political landscape.
75 snips
Nov 26, 2025 • 40min
Budget 2025: Has Reeves saved her job?
Torsten Bell, a Treasury minister and fiscal strategist, joins the discussion on the recent Budget, dissecting its implications. He defends Labour's controversial tax increases and the decision to lift the two-child benefit cap. The conversation touches on the chaotic lead-up to the budget, with significant leaks causing political turmoil. Bell explains the concept of fiscal drag and its impact on taxpayers while addressing concerns over the rising welfare state. The hosts also explore the broader effects of these fiscal decisions on future growth and public perception.
76 snips
Nov 25, 2025 • 37min
Are Trump's lawyers now controlling the BBC?
Tensions rise as the BBC faces backlash over cutting Rutger Bergman's claim about Trump being the most corrupt president. What's the real reason behind this edit, a chilling effect from Trump's legal threats? The discussion digs into the implications for BBC's editorial choices and the ongoing debate about impartiality versus fearless journalism. Meanwhile, Nigel Farage's responses to accusations of past racist remarks are scrutinized, revealing his strengths and weaknesses as a political figure. The podcast is a captivating mix of media analysis and political drama.
75 snips
Nov 24, 2025 • 36min
Was Trump's latest 'peace plan' written by the Kremlin?
A leaked 28-point peace plan raises eyebrows with its pro-Russian terms, potentially forcing Ukraine to concede territory and limiting its military capacity. The hosts dive into the implications for Ukraine's future, questioning the motives behind U.S. urgency for negotiations and whether Russia is calling the shots. They explore Trump's surprising connections with political figures and the evolving dynamics within the GOP. With discussions about Europe's role and the future of Ukraine, the episode highlights a precarious balancing act in global politics.
74 snips
Nov 21, 2025 • 50min
Ken Clarke on the Budget from hell
Ken Clarke, a veteran British politician and former Chancellor of the Exchequer, shares insights from his 55-year career in politics. He discusses the existential challenges facing the current government and critiques Labour's early performance. Clarke emphasizes the need for fiscal discipline amidst rising debt and reflects on the dangers of polarized politics. He also highlights the impact of Brexit on the UK and offers a thoughtful view on potential future party dynamics. His perspective blends personal reflections with sharp political analysis.
Nov 21, 2025 • 17min
Did Sky Sports axe 'Halo' TikTok too fast? - The Sports Agents
Chris Paouros, Vice-Chair of the Football Supporters' Association, critiques Sky’s rapid cancellation of their TikTok channel aimed at female sports fans, arguing it blurred lines and lacked authenticity. Ceylon Andi Hickman from Football Beyond Borders emphasizes the need for genuine youth engagement, suggesting that connecting women’s football with music and culture could be key. They propose creating social spaces around matches instead of separate channels, aiming to foster a more inclusive and engaging environment for young female audiences.
84 snips
Nov 20, 2025 • 38min
Was Nigel Farage a racist schoolboy?
Michael Crick, a seasoned broadcaster and biographer of Nigel Farage, dives into the controversial allegations surrounding Farage's school days. He reveals the impactful testimonies of former classmates and teachers about Farage's alleged anti-Semitic behavior. Crick draws a stark comparison between Farage's past and present denials, questioning whether political ambitions shape his views today. The conversation challenges the notion of 'schoolboy banter' and considers the long-lasting impact of childhood actions on adult responsibilities.
