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
31 snips
Jun 11, 2025 • 33min
Are tax rises inevitable?
Darren Jones, Chief Secretary to the Treasury, discusses the government's recent spending review, addressing the promise of increased funding for departments like the NHS. He explores the tensions between long-term fiscal responsibilities and immediate public service demands, raising the question of inevitable tax increases. The conversation also touches on the challenges of balancing ambitious political initiatives with community needs in a constrained economic landscape. Jones emphasizes the importance of public trust in navigating these complex fiscal dynamics.
62 snips
Jun 10, 2025 • 42min
Are pensioners now untouchable in British politics?
Stephen Flynn, Leader of the Scottish National Party (SNP) in Westminster, discusses pressing political issues facing the UK. He debates the fairness of the winter fuel payment policy that benefits wealthy pensioners while young families struggle, highlighting generational inequality. Flynn also addresses the SNP's performance and Scottish politics' evolving landscape, while touching on the party's stance on recent UK sanctions related to Gaza. The conversation emphasizes the urgent need for political reforms and genuine engagement with public concerns.
92 snips
Jun 9, 2025 • 42min
"They spit, we hit" - Trump sends the troops into L.A.
Tensions rise as Trump dispatches the National Guard to L.A. amid chaotic protests against his immigration policies, raising questions about federal versus state authority. A heated debate unfolds regarding whether this move is a power play against Governor Newsom or a test of emergency powers. The conversation intertwines with a light-hearted chat featuring comedian Tim Key, who discusses his film 'The Ballad of Wallis Island' and reflects on the creativity behind filmmaking after years of challenges and personal anecdotes.
108 snips
Jun 6, 2025 • 36min
Elon Musk suggests Donald Trump is a paedophile
Elon Musk and Donald Trump's fallout takes center stage as Musk levels shocking accusations against the former president. The tension reveals the fragility of their once-strong alliance, with social media igniting the war of words. Meanwhile, the resignation of Zia Yusuf raises questions about Nigel Farage's political aspirations. The discussion even veers into the potential implications of a burqa ban in Europe, showing how intertwined politics and identity can be. A touch of humor emerges with Musk’s return to California finding unexpected political resonance.
Jun 6, 2025 • 24min
Weekend Edition - The Sports Agents
This week brings a lively discussion on Michael Jordan's return and the NBA's struggle to gain traction in the UK. Comedian Lee Mack shares hilarious stories from playing with football legends ahead of Soccer Aid. Meanwhile, John Obi Mikel discusses the upcoming Club World Cup and the concept of players truly being on 'holiday.' The financial crisis in Ligue 1 raises questions about PSG's Champions League success, as insights from sports correspondent Tariq Panja unveil the league's hidden troubles.
66 snips
Jun 5, 2025 • 40min
Has the Conservative Party had enough of Liz Truss?
Jeremy Hunt, a British politician and former Chancellor of the Exchequer, discusses the aftermath of Liz Truss's controversial leadership and its fallout on the Conservative Party. He highlights the urgent need for the Tory leadership to reestablish economic credibility after Truss's misguided policies. The conversation also touches on the party's challenges in creating a unified narrative against Labour, the complexities of global migration, and the necessity for welfare reform, all while remaining relevant on the international stage amid changing alliances.
37 snips
Jun 4, 2025 • 36min
Gaza aid crisis: ‘If this isn’t a moment for moral clarity, what is?’
Tess Ingram, a UNICEF representative based in Amman with extensive experience in Gaza, provides vital insights into the escalating humanitarian crisis. She discusses the severe challenges facing aid delivery amid violent blockades and the urgent need for a reevaluation of distribution strategies. Ingram addresses alarming claims about aid diversion to Hamas and the desperate situation for families in Gaza. The conversation emphasizes the necessity for moral clarity and international intervention to alleviate suffering in the region.
84 snips
Jun 3, 2025 • 33min
Will Labour hike taxes to placate Trump?
George Robertson, former Secretary-General of NATO and UK Defence Secretary, brings his extensive expertise to the discussion. He sheds light on the UK's defense spending pressures, with NATO urging a rise to 3.5% of GDP amidst geopolitical tensions with Russia. The conversation tackles the impact this shift may have on domestic priorities, including education funding, as the Labour government faces tough decisions. Ultimately, Robertson explores the delicate balance between public sentiment, tax implications, and the imperative to maintain national security.
84 snips
Jun 2, 2025 • 46min
Is Keir Starmer prioritising warfare over welfare?
Eddie Marsan, an acclaimed actor known for his roles in films like Vera Drake, joins the discussion on pressing societal issues. He reflects on growing up in East London amidst the National Front's influence and touches upon the importance of community. The conversation dives into the balancing act of increased defense spending against welfare needs, especially in light of global tensions. Marsan also addresses the allure of extremist views and the need for open dialogue in navigating complex identities today.
84 snips
May 30, 2025 • 43min
The inside story of the Salisbury poisonings
In this engaging discussion, journalist Mark Urban, known for his expertise in Russia and defense, and Amber Rudd, the former UK Home Secretary who managed the crisis, delve into the shocking Salisbury poisonings. They share firsthand accounts of the immediate response to the attack on Sergei Skripal and the political chaos that ensued. Hear about the tragic death of Dawn Sturgess, the diplomatic fallout with Russia, and how this incident shaped subsequent intelligence strategies and international relations amidst growing geopolitical tensions.
