

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

Jan 17, 2025 • 34min
Ed Davey: No More Mr Nice Guy?
Lib Dem leader Ed Davey has positioned himself as pro-Europe and anti-Trump. Can he appeal to the urban voters that Labour may lose as they pick their fight with the Tories and Reform? Ed Vaizey unpacks the politics of the day with Robin Brant and Alys Denby. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 16, 2025 • 33min
Trump Takes The Credit
Matthew Syed, a Sunday Times columnist known for his sharp political insights, and historian Zoe Strimpel delve into the complexities of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire. They discuss Donald Trump's impact on Middle Eastern diplomacy and how his administration's pro-Israel stance reshaped international relations. The conversation also examines the interplay between tech billionaires and American politics, raising alarm about their influence on democracy. They reflect on America's historical legacy amidst current criticisms, ultimately addressing how cultural narratives have shifted over time.

Jan 15, 2025 • 42min
PMQs: Economic Vandals and Fantasists
Kemi Badenoch questions Keir Starmer about the state of the economy and his support for Chancellor Rachel Reeves.Hugo Rifkind unpacks the action from the Commons chamber with the help of Patrick Maguire, Lara Spirit and comedian Geoff Norcott. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 14, 2025 • 32min
Is Rachel Reeves Really In Trouble?
The chancellor shrugs off calls to resign after Keir Starmer is pressed about her future. Is there really any chance of her losing her job, and should the prime minister do a better job of defending her?Hugo Rifkind unpacks the politics of the day with James Marriott and Libby Purves. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 13, 2025 • 35min
Can Labour Be 'Ruthless' Over Spending?
Rachel Reeves is looking for ways to grow the economy in the long-term, but may still have to cut spending - how will the party react?Hugo Rifkind unpacks the politics of the day with Janice Turner and Patrick Maguire. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 10, 2025 • 29min
The Chancellor Goes To China
Rachel Reeves is in China for trade talks, despite the UK's economic woes. When should politicians give in to pressure and cancel a foreign trip?Ed Vaizey unpacks the politics of the day with Seb Payne and Miranda Green. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 9, 2025 • 33min
Has Reeves Done A Truss?
The pound is falling in value and government borrowing costs are rising - are the economic walls closing in on Rachel Reeves?Hugo Rifkind unpacks the politics of the day with Manveen Rana and Michael Binyon. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 8, 2025 • 45min
PMQs: A Leader Not A Lawyer
PMQs Unpacked is back for the new year and today Keir Starmer and Kemi Badenoch clash over whether there should be a national inquiry into child sexual abuse by grooming gangs. Hugo Rifkind unpacks the exchanges from the Commons with the help of Sunday Times chief political commentator Tim Shipman and comedian Alistair Barrie. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 7, 2025 • 35min
Should Starmer Investigate Grooming Gangs?
Calls for a national inquiry into the grooming gangs scandal are being led by the Conservatives, Reform UK and Elon Musk, but would it delay the action needed to protect children from abuse?Hugo Rifkind unpacks the politics of the day with James Marriott and Libby Purves Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 6, 2025 • 30min
Starmer Hits Back At Musk
Without naming him directly, Keir Starmer has denounced Elon Musk for spreading falsehoods about the child sex abuse scandal. Has the PM changed his strategy for dealing with the billionaire?Hugo Rifkind unpacks the politics of the day with Hadley Freeman and Lara Spirit. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


