Not Another One

A festive live review dives into the vulnerabilities of Sir Keir Starmer and the shifting landscape of UK politics. Hosts debate whether Reform or the Tories could challenge Labour, and explore the implications of a potential economic recovery on Labour's fortunes. The discussion touches on leadership instability since 2016 and the generational gap in political capability. With lively audience questions and a focus on political fragmentation, the conversation highlights the challenges ahead in navigating British politics.

With news of Reform UK's record £9m donation, our weekend episode finds the team reunited to explore whether money from individuals or organisations implies something in return. Should Britain opt for state funding of political parties? Or is going back to mass membership a better approach and a predictor of success? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The panel dives deep into the aftermath of the Budget, questioning whether Rachel Reeves misled on key issues. They explore the chaotic interactions between the Treasury and the OBR, debating if accusations of deceit overshadow genuine governance concerns. The discussion widens to judicial reforms, with David Lammy's proposal stirring debate on efficiency versus rights in the courtroom. Plus, insights into the new 'Your Party' emerge, revealing tensions and opportunities reminiscent of past political landscapes.

The discussion kicks off with reactions to the latest Budget and how the UK's growth issues shape political sentiments. The team debates whether the Budget ensures short-term survival for the government, despite risks to long-term growth. Topics like lifting the two-child benefit cap spark conversations on welfare reform and party unity. The panel explores potential growth sectors like life sciences and tech, while also tackling the tension between public spending and tax cuts. They wrap up by examining voter frustration and the implications for upcoming elections.

As Rachel Reeves faces a critical budget, insights from past chancellors come to light. The discussion dives into the impact of media strategies and public image on political messaging. From Norman Lamont’s reserved approach to Denis Healey’s popularity, the importance of visibility is emphasized. The hosts explore potential components of Reeves's budget, debating child benefits and tax strategies. They also address the constraints imposed by fiscal rules and the global economic landscape, highlighting the tension between growth and spending.

Via a brief pre-Budget detour, the team debates the Home Secretary's major new policy. Will it work? Is it hardline for one set of critics and not tough enough for the rest? Stop the boats was a slogan that sunk the previous government. Will the substance or the positioning be more dangerous to this one? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

High drama has dominated as the Chancellor signals a huge u-turn on Budget tax plans, while briefings designed to shore up Keir Starmer backfired on Number 10 in spectacular fashion. In this weekend's episode the team focus on dysfunction, paranoia and rivalry at the very top. How much trouble is the government in? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With the Director General and BBC head of news fired in the wake of a scandal over President Trump and bias, our team ask whether the Beeb is doomed. Or is this yet another confected media row? And how is journalism changing? Plus - what is the latest on Starmer and the looming Budget? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An early morning speech from the chancellor to pledge fiscal stability and flag tax rises, while the main challenger for Downing Street overturns his party's fiscal platform. The team discuss the fix Rachel Reeves is in and whether Nigel Farage is now choosing to play by the rules of mainstream politics. Plus: Dick Cheney's role as Veep. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In such different ways, the story of Andrew Windsor's downfall and the chancellor's local rental embarrassment reveal how we regard and treat crimes and misdemeanours by the British establishment. In this weekend episode, the team find they have a clash of interpretations on both stories - and on the role of the media. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.