Keir Starmer's recent pledge shake-up is under scrutiny as he navigates a tumultuous start for Labour after years in opposition. The podcast discusses the disconnect between ambitious political targets and public expectations, especially in housing and labor policy. There’s optimism surrounding improvements in UK education, while the challenges of political turbulence and Brexit loom large. Experts analyze the balancing act of governance amidst pressure, highlighting the need for strategic planning to restore trust with the public and investors.

In this discussion, Laura Hughes, the FT’s public policy correspondent specializing in assisted dying legislation, shares insights as MPs prepare for a pivotal vote on the issue. The conversation delves into the ethical implications and potential impacts on the NHS, highlighting concerns over legal oversight and the vulnerability of certain populations. Additionally, the panel reflects on Labour’s challenges with migration policies and the government's struggle to regain public trust amid decreasing approval ratings.

Jim Pickard, a regular contributor on political affairs, Anna Gross, a political correspondent for the Financial Times, and Alec Russell, the FT's foreign editor, dive into Labour's tumultuous relationship with rural voters after proposed changes to inheritance tax. The discussion highlights the farmers' protests and their challenges, while also scrutinizing Rachel Reeves' controversial CV edits. The trio shifts gears to analyze the implications of Ukraine's recent missile strikes on Russia, revealing the complex dynamics of international support and military strategy.

As Britain navigates its post-Brexit reality, the panel examines the UK's tricky balance between aligning with the US under Trump or rekindling ties with the EU. They discuss the potential of Peter Mandelson as the new UK ambassador to the US and explore controversial Trump appointments impacting international relations. The conversation also touches on Labour’s proposed pension reforms, their relationship with British businesses, and the complexities of UK-China ties, highlighting challenges in trade and economic strategies.

Jim Pickard, a keen observer of British politics, joins Ed Luce and Lauren Fedor from the Financial Times, alongside Katy Balls, to dissect the fallout of Donald Trump's election victory. They delve into the implications for transatlantic relations, especially with a Labour government led by Keir Starmer, who surprisingly praises Trump. The conversation also covers the rapid rise of Tory leader Kemi Badenoch and her early initiatives, amidst shifting dynamics in U.S.-UK political landscapes and challenges around trade and defense.

Join George Parker, UK political editor for the Financial Times; Sam Fleming, Economics editor; and Soumaya Keynes, Financial Times columnist, as they dissect the UK’s recent budget strategies. They discuss the implications of a £40bn tax increase and £100bn in capital spending to revitalize a struggling economy. Explore how public investments may affect private sector growth and the contrasting reactions from political parties. Delve into the potential impacts of upcoming US elections and the challenges of maintaining economic transparency.

Joining the conversation are Anna Gross, a political correspondent for the Financial Times, and Lauren Fedor, deputy Washington bureau chief. They delve into Rachel Reeves' ambitious fiscal rule changes aimed at boosting UK infrastructure spending as market reactions loom large. The discussion shifts to Sir Keir Starmer's precarious position amid reparations debates in Samoa and Donald Trump’s election interference allegations against Labour. Expect insightful commentary on the intersections of UK policy and US politics in a rapidly changing landscape.

Henry Mance, Chief features writer for the Financial Times, brings insight into England's beleaguered justice system, discussing alarming court backlogs that threaten timely justice for nearly 70,000 cases. The conversation reveals the challenges and potential reforms needed amidst calls for public spending scrutiny. Mance also touches on innovative funding ideas like taxing the civil legal sector to alleviate budget strains. Meanwhile, the panel debates Labour's investment summit outcomes and the shifting dynamics within the Conservative Party leadership.

Martin Wolf, Chief Economics Commentator at the Financial Times, shares his insights on the UK economy and the challenges facing the new Labour government. He discusses the implications of Brexit and COVID-19 on investor confidence and the complexities of raising taxes to stimulate growth. Wolf emphasizes the importance of public-private partnerships and the need for improved savings rates. He balances optimism about advancements in AI and life sciences with concerns about the impact on less skilled workers, while critiquing the effectiveness of the UK's green investment strategy.

In this discussion, guests Robert Shrimsley, a keen commentator on British politics, Miranda Green, who critiques Labour's performance, and Jim Pickard, a Financial Times journalist, assess Labour's first 100 days in government under Sir Keir Starmer. They dive into Labour's successes and stumbling blocks, particularly its recent workers' rights legislation. Additionally, they analyze the evolving Conservative leadership race, focusing on the surprising exit of James Cleverly and the competition between right-wing contenders Kemi Badenoch and Robert Jenrick.