In this engaging discussion, political journalist Tim Shipman offers a sharp analysis of PMQs, while comedian Gráinne Maguire injects humor into the proceedings. Labour leader Keir Starmer finds himself on the defensive against Kemi Badenoch's probing questions about immigration law. The conversation dives deep into the complexities of recent court rulings on refugee policies and the urgent need for legislative reforms, all within a backdrop of escalating political tensions and debates about human rights. Expect insights paired with witty commentary!

Donald Trump's tariffs will have a big impact the UK steel industry, but unlike EU leaders, Starmer isn't going to retaliate - does he have a plan?Hugo Rifkind unpacks the politics of the day with Libby Purves and James Marriott. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After Keir Starmer tells his cabinet they need to be the "disrupters if you don't want to be disrupted", can they live up to the billing - and is this just a reaction to the rise of Reform UK? Hugo Rifkind unpacks the politics of the day with Emma Duncan and Patrick Maguire.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With growth forecast to be less than a measly one percent this year, can Keir Starmer build his way out of the bad news?Ed Vaizey unpacks the politics of the day with Robin Brant and Zoe Strimpel. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As Kemi Badenoch sets out a new migration policy and Labour attacks Nigel Farage over his views on the NHS, are the Tories and Labour panicking about Reform's rise in the polls?Hugo Rifkind unpacks the politics of the day with Matthew Parris and Manveen Rana. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tim Shipman, a seasoned political journalist, joins comedian Marcus Brigstocke for a unique take on recent political events. They dissect Kemi Badenoch's chaotic questioning of Keir Starmer, hopping between topics like the Chagos Islands and oil drilling. The discussion humorously critiques the absurdity of politics today, touching on voice coaching's influence on public perception and the theatrical nature of parliamentary exchanges. With wit and insight, they navigate the absurdities of current legislation while highlighting key energy policy debates.

Donald Trump has suspended the hefty tariffs on Mexico and Canada that he threatened after last-minute negotiations with the two US neighbours...is this the president showing the world just how favorable complying with his terms can be? Hugo Rifkind unpacks the politics of the day with Libby Purves and James Marriott.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A new book reveals that Keir Starmer closest advisers have doubted his ability to lead. Does it matter if he acts more like an HR manager than a politician?Hugo Rifkind unpacks the politics of the day with the book's author Patrick Maguire, and Lara Spirit  Pre-order a copy of 'Get In: The Inside Story of Labour Under Starmer' at timesbookshop.co.uk. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's the fifth anniversary of Brexit - is Ed a remoaner, what's gone wrong for the centrists, and is it time for boomers to open their pockets?Ed Vaizey unpacks the politics of the day with Zoe Strimpel and Robin Brant. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the first Times Radio focus group of 2025, we find out whether voters who backed Labour at the general election are suffering from buyer's remorse.Hugo Rifkind is joined by pollster James Johnson, of JL Partners.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.