
Politics Unpacked
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.
Latest episodes

May 14, 2025 • 45min
PMQs: Dead Party Walking
Tim Shipman, political editor of The Sunday Times, offers sharp analysis of current political dynamics, while Ria Lina, a comedian and commentator, infuses humor into serious discussions. They dissect Kemi Badenoch's dismissal of Keir Starmer's trade deal and Starmer's bold claim that the Tories are a 'dead party walking.' The duo navigates topics like immigration, care worker conditions, and the challenges of political leadership, blending insightful commentary with witty exchanges, making complex issues more accessible and entertaining.

May 13, 2025 • 31min
Did Starmer Echo Enoch Powell?
Sir Keir Starmer is under fire for saying the UK could become an "island of strangers" unless new curbs on migration bring the numbers down - but are comparisons with Enoch Powell and 'Rivers of Blood' misplaced?Hugo Rifkind unpacks the politics of the day with Libby Purves and James Marriott. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 12, 2025 • 28min
Starmer's Stark Language On Immigration
Keir Starmer's bold claims about immigration raise eyebrows as he warns of the risks of an 'island of strangers'. Can he actually deliver on reducing numbers? The discussion also tackles Rachel Reeves' stance on welfare cuts and the potential return of Boris Johnson. Insights flow on the impact of new immigration proposals on the care sector and labor market. Language education for immigrants becomes a critical topic, revealing its link to job opportunities and societal integration amidst current political tensions.

May 9, 2025 • 29min
The Deification Of Trump
Join Times columnist Matthew Syed and Financial Times deputy opinion editor Miranda Green as they delve into the ramifications of idolizing political figures like Donald Trump. They analyze the recent UK-US trade agreement, highlighting its political implications and the issues it raises. Syed critiques the disconnect between moral universalism and societal trust, while Green discusses the challenges facing Biden's presidency. Together, they reflect on the future of culture and sport, balancing humor with serious political discourse.

May 8, 2025 • 32min
A 'Very Big And Exciting' Trade Deal
Fraser Nelson, Editor of The Spectator, and journalist Manveen Rana join the discussion on the UK-US trade deal. They dissect the skepticism regarding its economic impact, highlighting concerns about minimal benefits and protectionist policies. The duo also navigates the political landscape's complexities, addressing challenges faced by the Conservative leadership, and public dissatisfaction in Scotland and Wales. Their insights lead to a thought-provoking analysis of the future of trade negotiations and their broader implications on the economy.

May 7, 2025 • 41min
PMQs Unpacked: What Trade Deal?
Keir Starmer wants to be celebrating its trade deal with India, worth 5 billion pounds to the British economy...but Kemi Badenoch instead presses him over cuts to the winter fuel allowance and energy bills.Hugo Rifkind unpacks the exchanges from the House of Commons with Tim Shipman and comedian Ahir Shah. Plus, we wave Lara Spirit off to Washington. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 6, 2025 • 31min
The Winter Fuel Cut Backlash
With the cuts to the winter fuel allowance being blamed for Labour's problems at the ballot box, is there any chance of Number 10 changing course?Hugo Rifkind unpacks the politics of the day with James Marriott and Libby Purves. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 5, 2025 • 31min
The EU Plays Hardball On Migration
Keir Starmer's hopes of a reset with the EU have taken a blow, after the bloc refused Britain access to critical crime and illegal migration databases. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 2, 2025 • 34min
Local Elections: Reform On The March
With Nigel Farage's Reform UK the clear winner from the English local elections and Runcorn by-election, have they broken the two-party system for good? Ed Vaizey unpacks the politics of the day with John McTernan, Salma Shah and Sir John Curtice. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 1, 2025 • 33min
Golf Diplomacy
Is Britain considering swapping a golf tournament for a trade deal? Hugo Rifkind unpacks the news of the day with Manveen Rana and Matthew Parris. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.