Politics Unpacked

With the SNP gathering in Edinburgh, party conference season is well and truly upon us. Ed Vaizey is joined by a panel of political advisers to discuss what to expect this autumn, as well as looking back at some of the best (and worst) moments from conferences past.Plus: Columnists James Marriott and India Knight discuss the four-day work week, whether you should let your dog lick your face, Keir Starmer moving Margaret Thatcher's portrait, and why AI may not be as revolutionary as originally promised. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kevin Hollinrake, the shadow business secretary, and Matt Wrack, a representative from the Fire Brigades Union, dive into the complicated dynamics between the Labour Party and trade unions. They discuss how Keir Starmer's decisions may clash with union expectations regarding public sector pay. The conversation also touches on the historical roots of the Labour Party in the trade union movement and current public sentiment surrounding workers' rights. Can the party balance these interests amidst rising inflation?

Christina Lamb, chief foreign correspondent for the Sunday Times, joins Alice Thomson and Robert Crampton to discuss the aftermath of the Taliban's takeover of Kabul. They delve into the dire situation for Afghan women facing severe restrictions and the ongoing humanitarian crisis exacerbated by the withdrawal of foreign aid. The conversation also touches on the rising shoplifting epidemic in the UK and California, examining its societal implications. Lastly, they explore the political challenges faced by Steve Hilton as he eyes a potential gubernatorial run in California.

Jack Straw, a seasoned former cabinet minister, and Theo Usherwood, a sharp political journalist from Times Radio, dive into Keir Starmer's stark warning about the UK's upcoming fiscal turbulence. They analyze Starmer's vision for reform in public services and the looming 'painful budget.' The conversation touches on lessons from past Conservative leaders and the need for the Tories to engage younger voters while navigating current challenges. With cultural optimism as a focus, they discuss how leaders can inspire hope amid political gloom.

Michael Cockerell, a seasoned political filmmaker known for interviewing UK prime ministers, joins Ed Vaizey to explore the craft behind political documentaries. They dissect the impact of Keir Starmer's call for national renewal and its reception. Libby Purves and Robin Brant weigh in on leadership changes within Labour and reflect on Liz Truss's tumultuous time in office. The conversation also reveals the intricacies of portraying political figures authentically on screen and the challenges faced by filmmakers in this revealing genre.

Ed Vaizey is a savvy commentator on sports and politics, while James Marriott and India Knight are insightful columnists dissecting current issues. The discussion kicks off with the tangled relationship between sports and politics, from political gestures like taking the knee to the implications of sponsorships linked to gambling. They also delve into the transformative role of AI in sports and how e-sports are shaping the future of athletics. The trio rounds off with a light-hearted take on why group holidays can be a recipe for disaster.

David Edgar, a celebrated playwright with 50 years of experience, dives into the ever-pertinent dance between politics and theatre. Alongside columnists Manveen Rana and Matthew Bell, they tackle pressing issues like public sector pay disputes and the cultural divides spurred by urban speed limit debates. The trio explores how political narratives still pulse through modern performances, with Edgar reflecting on impactful works that resonate today. Their lively discussions reveal both the challenges and triumphs in keeping political themes alive on stage.

Columnists Robert Crampton and Jane Mulkerrins delve into the art of political speechmaking through a lens on Barack Obama's recent address at the Democratic Convention. They highlight the rarity of exceptional orators and debate the emotional resonance of Obama's rhetoric compared to Biden's. The duo also analyzes the often undervalued yet significant role of political spouses, particularly Michelle Obama. Plus, they touch on contemporary topics like weight loss trends among Tories and explore the evolving landscape of the UK film and television industry.

Al Mackenzie, co-founder of the band D:Ream, alongside columnists Miranda Green and Henry Hill, dives into the powerful relationship between music and politics. They discuss how iconic anthems like 'Things Can Only Get Better' influenced voter sentiments, and explore the complexities of American and British political discourse. The guests also share insights on the challenges politicians face when taking breaks, reflecting on how personal well-being impacts governance. Tune in for a lively discussion on how songs shape cultural and political landscapes!

Ed Vaizey, a former tech minister, brings his expertise to the table as he discusses the future of internet regulation in the UK. He explores the challenges of balancing effective regulations with freedom of speech, emphasizing the complexities of moderating harmful content. The conversation also touches on how technology is reshaping work-life balance and the implications of leadership changes within the Conservative Party. Additionally, they delve into the evolution of theatre intervals and the impact of streaming services on live performances.