

Politics Unpacked
Times Radio
Hugo Rifkind unpacks the the politics of the day - and the stuff that's even more important - with the brightest brains from the Times and Sunday Times.You can listen to Hugo on DAB, smart speaker or app 10am-1pm Monday to Friday. If you like what you hear, then read more at http://www.thetimes.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Apr 25, 2025 • 31min
Washington, War and WhatsApp Etiquette
Rachel Reeves is in Washington attempting to get a US trade deal over the line, while Donald Trump’s special envoy has arrived in Moscow to hold peace talks with Putin. And why was half of Westminster added to a WhatsApp chat? Ed Vaizey unpacks the politics of the day with Michael Binyon and Sarah Vine. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 24, 2025 • 32min
Trump 'In Cahoots' With Putin?
After Donald Trump criticises Volodymyr Zelensky's approach to peace talks, does a deal look further away than ever? Plus, why does former defence secretary Grant Shapps say Trump is "in cahoots" with Vladimir Putin?Hugo Rifkind unpacks the politics of the day with Fraser Nelson and Manveen Rana. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 23, 2025 • 41min
PMQs: He Doesn't Have The Balls
MPs are back from recess which means the return of PMQs Unpacked. Kemi Badenoch asks Keir Starmer whether he’s changed his mind on how to define a woman.Hugo Rifkind unpacks the action from the Commons chamber with the help of Lara Spirit, Theo Usherwood and comedian Jon Harvey. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 22, 2025 • 35min
Starmer Breaks Silence On Trans Ruling
Politics is back after recess, and Keir Starmer has finally responded to the Supreme Court ruling over the definition of a woman. Has it helped politicians answer some difficult questions? And could former Cameron adviser Steve Hilton be the next Governor of California?Hugo Rifkind unpacks the politics of the day with Libby Purves and James Marriott. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 21, 2025 • 27min
A Modernising Pope
Following the death of Pope Francis, our columnists discuss the relationship between faith and politics, and the role of modern religious leaders.Plus, should MPs and peers allow Donald Trump to address Parliament?Hugo Rifkind unpacks the politics of the day with Zoe Strimpel and David Runciman. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 18, 2025 • 33min
Farage, Oak Trees, And The Problem With LinkedIn
Join former correspondent Robin Brant and property editor Carol Lewis as they tackle a whirlwind of topics! They discuss the uproar over a historic oak tree's removal in North London, sparking debates about community values and environmental responsibility. The conversation shifts to Nigel Farage's influence on UK energy policies and the complexities of tree management regulations. They also dive into the evolving landscape of LinkedIn, critiquing its transformation from a job board to a professional social hub, highlighting issues of authenticity and productivity.

Apr 17, 2025 • 32min
Starmer Risks Trade Stand-Off With Trump
The government insists it won't have to choose between trade with Donald Trump's America and the European Union, but can the prime minister continue the tricky balancing act? Hugo Rifkind unpacks the politics of the day with Manveen Rana and Matthew Parris. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 16, 2025 • 35min
Defining A Woman
Robert Crampton, a columnist for The Times known for his insights on social issues, and Alice Thomson, an interviewer and commentator focusing on current affairs, dive into the recent Supreme Court ruling defining a woman. They discuss the potential political fallout for Labour over gender-critical stances. The duo explores the generational divide in feminism regarding transgender rights and emphasizes the emotional dimensions for younger trans individuals, along with overarching themes of inclusivity and societal expectations.

Apr 15, 2025 • 28min
Too Cosy With China?
The Government's move to seize control of British Steel has highlighted the extent of Chinese involvement in the UK's critical infrastructure - is the UK too cosy with China? Plus, our columnists reveal their favourite hymns. Hugo Rifkind unpacks the politics of the day with Libby Purves and Patrick Kidd. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 14, 2025 • 33min
Save British Steel
The future of British Steel hangs in the balance, after Parliament was dramatically recalled over the weekend to pass emergency legislation to keep the UK's last blast furnaces open - but was it neglect or sabotage?Hugo Rifkind unpacks the politics of the day with Patrick Maguire and Emma Duncan. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


