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
128 snips
Jul 3, 2025 • 35min
Is Rachel Reeves now unsackable?
Wes Streeting, the Health Secretary, shares insights on Rachel Reeves' controversial position within the government. He discusses the implications of fiscal discipline for Labour and whether Reeves has become 'unsackable' after a tumultuous week. The conversation also dives into the ambitious 10-year plan for the NHS, emphasizing the need for investment and reform in healthcare. Streeting's candid thoughts on welfare reform and access to weight loss medications add a personal touch, reflecting on the challenges and resilience within leadership.
125 snips
Jul 2, 2025 • 35min
Why was Rachel Reeves crying at PMQs?
Sam White, former Chief of Staff to Keir Starmer, delves into the emotional turmoil surrounding Labour MP Rachel Reeves during a heated session in Parliament. He discusses her visible distress and its possible implications for her position and the Chancellor's stability. The conversation highlights internal party dynamics and the mounting pressure on leaders in the face of economic challenges. Sam further explores how these emotional moments reflect broader governmental crises and the critical need for decisive leadership within the Labour Party.
113 snips
Jul 1, 2025 • 39min
Donald Trump threatens to deport Elon Musk
Chris Curtis, Labour MP for Milton Keynes and former YouGov pollster, dives into the escalating feud between Donald Trump and Elon Musk over contentious economic policies. They discuss the implications of Trump's threats against Musk and whether Musk might venture into politics himself. Curtis also examines the dire situation in Britain, critiquing the sense of decline and the generational unfairness. The conversation touches on the urgent need for reforms and integration strategies in light of rising tensions, all while navigating the complex political landscape.
61 snips
Jun 30, 2025 • 46min
Does anyone know what the Starmer plan is?
Tom Baldwin, a journalist and close associate of Keir Starmer, dives into the contentious landscape of Labour's welfare reform and the growing disconnect between Starmer and his MPs. Baldwin sheds light on the challenges of political communication and the need for clear leadership amidst dissent. The conversation also touches on the controversial performances at Glastonbury that stirred political outrage, alongside reflections on the implications of technology replacing jobs in sports, showcasing the intersection of culture and politics.
71 snips
Jun 27, 2025 • 43min
How to catch a terrorist
Neil Basu, former head of Counter Terrorism Policing, and Andy Hughes, an investigative journalist with two decades of crime reporting, delve into the challenges of catching terrorists post-2017 attacks in the UK. They discuss the psychological toll on law enforcement and the need for agency collaboration. The conversation also touches on how technological advancements pose new threats, including drones and cyber capabilities. Laughs are shared as they explore the public's fascination with crime and the complexities of modern terrorism.
8 snips
Jun 27, 2025 • 24min
Weekend Edition: Euros exclusive, Wimbledon's 66,000 tennis balls & is 5-day cricket too long? - The Sports Agents
Get ready for an exciting dive into sports! Exclusive insights from England's champions highlight their preparations for the Euros. Meanwhile, a behind-the-scenes tour of Wimbledon reveals the emotional rollercoaster of Grand Slam victories. The discussion heats up as cricket legends debate whether five-day matches are outdated, focusing on the evolution of strategies and match lengths. Tune in for anecdotes, team dynamics, and the intriguing tug-of-war between tradition and modernization in cricket!
90 snips
Jun 26, 2025 • 31min
Is Keir Starmer losing control of his party?
Douglas Alexander, a senior minister responsible for trade, dives deep into the tumultuous waters of Labour's welfare reform debates. He reveals how 120 Labour MPs have sparked a potential policy shift, questioning if Starmer is losing grip on his party. The conversation highlights the delicate balance between fiscal responsibility and welfare commitments, and the emergence of trade negotiations, especially with Trump. Alexander also underscores the significance of diplomacy and strategic relationships in navigating Britain's trade challenges.
92 snips
Jun 25, 2025 • 35min
Why is NATO’s Secretary-General calling Trump “DADDY"?
Political leaders' flattering behavior towards Trump at the NATO summit raises eyebrows. Discussions center on the U.S. commitment to defense spending and the reluctance to address Russian aggression. An Estonian defense official shares insights on Europe’s security concerns. The impact of Trump's complex diplomatic style is explored, revealing how language dynamics shape political power. The implications for NATO's future and collective security resonate throughout these intriguing conversations.
150 snips
Jun 24, 2025 • 37min
Trump: Israel and Iran "don't know what the f*** they're doing"
In this discussion, Benedict Frank, Vice Chairman of the Munich Security Conference, dives into the chaos at the NATO summit in The Hague, where Europe grapples with Trump's explosive comments on Israel and Iran. He analyzes how Trump's erratic behavior influences foreign policy, especially amid ongoing tensions and a contentious ceasefire attempt. The conversation unpacks the geopolitical complexities and questions the effectiveness of American leadership, shedding light on the unpredictable nature of diplomacy in a volatile era.
202 snips
Jun 23, 2025 • 44min
Does Trump want to topple Iran’s government?
Zahar Zand, an Iranian broadcaster and TV journalist, shares her unique perspective on the shifting U.S. stance toward Iran, particularly regarding regime change. She discusses the complexity of Iranian emotions as they grapple with foreign attacks and their own oppressive government. Zand highlights the delicate balance between patriotism and fear among Iranians. The conversation also touches on legal challenges faced by British leaders and the implications of Trump's military decisions, revealing the intricate dynamics of power in the region.
