Politics Unpacked

Former MP Mhairi Black and comedian Steve Richards discuss the impact of Keir Starmer on comedy at the Edinburgh Fringe. They explore the cult of Trump, university statements, Pret subscriptions, and the coolest new MP. Plus, insights on personal statements and the shift in recruitment practices, along with humorous anecdotes and political satire.

Keir Starmer, Angela Rayner, Rachel Reeves, and Pat McFadden's strategies for unity and productivity are analyzed. Discussion on Liz Truss's reaction to a negative reference and the impact on future legacies. Insights on the influence of the Quad in Labour Party decision-making processes.

Actor Kieran Hodgson voices George VI as we explore parallels between 1945 and today, including housing challenges and changing voting patterns. Discussing ceremonial aspects of the King's Speech, identity politics, and the impact of post-war reforms like the NHS. Delving into Labour's priorities and planning reforms in the current political climate.

Guests Matt Stoller, Claire Ainsley, and Sir Michael Barber discuss 'deliverism' in politics, Tory leadership uncertainty, Labour's growth agenda, the importance of narrative, populism, policy impact, and delivering results in governance. They also analyze the significance of addressing root causes and taking bold actions in policymaking.

As Joe Biden gaffes his way through his latest press conference, columnists James Marriott and India Knight ask if he should stand down. They also discuss whether PM Keir Starmer should smile more, the luxury of not having a smartphone, and the collective joy of watching sport..Plus: From interviewing prime ministers and presidents, to being unwitting target of a surface-to-air missile over Africa, The Sun's Trevor Kavanagh has seen - and done - it all. He tells Matt about his career, spanning nearly 50 years, and his biggest scoops.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After Keir Starmer told us his children are campaigning to get a German Shepherd, we find out whether there's room for one in the flat above Downing Street. Matt is joined by 'The Dogfather' Graeme Hall, and he speaks to the new Lib Dem MP Steve Darling about his guide dog Jenny.And with big dog John Prescott retiring from the House of Lords, we look back at some of his best bits with columnists Matthew Parris and Manveen Rana.Columnists (04:05)Political pets (23:30) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Keir Starmer is in America for his first Nato summit as prime minister, but what kind of leader will he be on the world stage? Matt is joined by correspondents around the world to analyse the foreign policy challenges the Labour government will face in the coming years.Plus: Robert Crampton and Alice Thomson discuss whether a younger parliament is good news for Gen Z, why we shouldn't be surprised the French election was crazy, and whether MPs should be forced to wear ties in Parliament.  Columnists (03:45)Starmer Goes Global (26:23) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As the Commons meets to elect the Speaker, who has made a success of the job - and who hasn't? Matt speaks to two former deputy speakers to find out how the job works, and asks why they'd like to ban mobile phones in the chamber.Plus: After Joe Biden's press secretary bats away questions about the US president's health, we compare the way journalists cover the White House and 10 Downing Street. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Now, as a record number of new faces arrive in Westminster, Matt pulls together a helpful guide on how to survive life as an MP - from asking for directions to taking control of your own diary and staying off social media after a drink.Plus: Columnists Rachel Sylvester and Patrick Maguire on Rachel Reeves' first speech as Chancellor, why the Tory leadership candidates are shy about announcing they're running, and the role Reform UK and the Greens will play in the next parliament.Columnists (03:08)The Exit Interviews (25:07) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Matt Chorley guides you through an extraordinary moment in British politics, as Rishi Sunak leaves Downing Street for the last time and Keir Starmer becomes the UK's first Labour prime minister in 14 years.He's joined by guests including pollster John Curtice, Times Radio Political Editor Kate McCann, and Sunday Times Whitehall Editor Gabriel Pogrund. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.