Politics Unpacked

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.

Kemi Badenoch goes on the offensive over the government's plans for growth, but Keir Starmer thinks she's going to be 'the next lettuce'.Hugo Rifkind unpacks the action from the Commons chamber with the help of Tim Shipman and comedian Lucy Porter.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The government has rejected advice to widen the definition of extremism, but how can it stop attacks from angry "loners" like in Southport?Plus, why is Ed Miliband hiring a vanity photographer?Hugo Rifkind unpacks the politics of the day with Libby Purves and James Marriott Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this engaging discussion, Patrick Maguire, a Times columnist and senior political correspondent, teams up with Jane Mulkerrins, another insightful Times voice. They delve into the implications of Donald Trump's warm call with Keir Starmer, pondering if aligning with the US President is wise for the PM. The conversation spans the Labour Party's struggles, the evolving outlook of Generation Z on authority, and the humorous intersection of dating preferences with political personas. They balance serious analyses with light-hearted anecdotes, making for a captivating listen.