Politics Unpacked

Daisy McAndrew, a seasoned broadcast journalist, and Matthew Parris, former politician and columnist, delve into the evolving landscape of political honesty. They discuss Nigel Farage and Rachel Reeves' recent candidness about economic challenges, pondering whether this marks a genuine change or mere political strategy. The duo also examines the chaos within the prison system, critiques political performances, and reflects on the balance between victims' rights and justice in inquiries. Plus, they share thoughts on whether nostalgia skews our memories of past eras.

David Lammy, the Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Secretary, makes his debut leading PMQs, navigating a barrage of persistent questioning from Conservative MP James Cartlidge about mistakenly released foreign prisoners. As Cartlidge presses him multiple times, Lammy deftly defends against accusations, pointing fingers at previous administrations. The discussion highlights the political tactics at play and the potential impacts on public perception, as the hosts analyze Lammy's performance and the broader implications for Labour.

Libby Purves, a Times columnist known for her cultural insights, and James Marriott, a commentator on populism and society, delve into the implications of Rachel Reeves' pre-budget speech. They debate its clarity and the potential for tax increases, with James discussing how growth expectations influence democratic promises. The pair also tackle the effectiveness of blaming past governments and the appeal of populism through quick judgments. Additionally, they explore education access and the impact of curriculum changes on language studies.

Reform has set out its plan for the British economy, but will the sums add up? And why has Farage recycled a Nick Clegg slogan from 2011? Hugo Rifkind unpacks the politics of today with Seb Payne and Charlotte Ivers Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andrew has been stripped of his prince title and ordered by the King to leave the Royal Lodge - but will he continue to cast a shadow over the Royals?Harry Wallop unpacks the news of the day with Alys Denby and Patrick Kidd. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this discussion, journalist Matthew Syed and broadcaster Manveen Rana dive into Chancellor Rachel Reeves' rental rules breach, examining the complexities of housing regulations. They explore how regulatory bloat can hinder productivity and lead to corruption, raising questions about political consistency in enforcement. The duo also tackles the impact of broken manifesto promises on public trust and investment. With a dash of humor, they reflect on charisma and authenticity in politics, dissecting how these traits influence leadership success.

Sir Keir Starmer refused to rule out a U-turn on his manifesto tax pledges in the budget, while blaming the Tories for the country’s economic woes. Kemi Badenoch accused him of playing the blame game.Calum Macdonald unpacks the action with Josh Glancy and Jon Harvey. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The UK government will begin housing small boat migrants in military barracks from next month, part of a plan to move asylum seekers out of hotels and cut costs. But why is Labour now supporting policies it once condemned? Calum McDonald unpacks the politics of the day with Libby Purves and James Marriott. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Home Office is squandering billions of pounds on asylum hotels in another damaging story for the government. Can Labour still call themselves the "grown ups in the room"? Calum Macdonald unpacks the politics of the day with Seb Payne and Charlotte Ivers Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Plaid Cymru have swept to victory in Caerphilly, taking a Senedd seat that has been held by Labour for a century - will it convince Keir Starmer to change course?Alexis Conran unpacks the politics of the day with Daisy McAndrew and Michael Binyon. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.