Political Currency

Prime Minister's Questions is dissected as a form of political theatre, revealing misunderstandings about its purpose. Ed Balls highlights the significance of the Speaker's procedural powers while discussing David Lammy’s recent performance. The hosts explore the complexities of cross-party support—when it can be beneficial and when it may trap the opposition. They critically analyze the UK's decision to withhold funding at the COP summit and debate the chances of rejoining the EU under similar terms, including challenges like the euro and free movement.

A political storm brews in Westminster as Wes Streeting faces allegations of a coup against Keir Starmer, leading to a fierce analysis of Downing Street's chaotic briefings. The BBC is reeling from high-profile resignations tied to the Trump Panorama controversy, while discussions spark about potential governance crises. Meanwhile, Trump's controversial G20 snub and its ramifications on global diplomacy raise eyebrows. The hosts delve into the identity politics shaping the MAGA movement and its potential influence crossing the pond to the UK.

What political rival would be tolerable on a long flight? Ed and George weigh in with surprising choices. They delve into how a leader's unpopularity can sabotage a favorable policy and dissect the murky waters of 'fairness' in politics. The conversation also touches on lifelong learning and why adult skills development often falls short. Finally, they navigate the complexities of rights, responsibilities, and wealth distribution, making for a lively discussion on political philosophy.

Rachel Reeves has set the stage for a dramatic Budget, seemingly signaling a "massive political gamble" by preparing to raise taxes on working people. Ed Balls and George Osborne analyse her pitch-rolling: has she boxed herself in, becoming the market's "guarantor" against her own party? And can she possibly sell this to an already-squeezed public?Meanwhile, Kemi Badenoch marks one year as Conservative leader - but, despite her sharp "waffle bomb" attack on the Chancellor, her poll ratings remain dire. Ed and George assess her performance: has she successfully stabilised the party's finances, or did she waste a year on identity politics instead of the economy? Plus, the pair explore why even Nigel Farage is suddenly pivoting away from tax cuts.And, what can a "Democratic Socialist" mayor in New York teach UK politics? Ed and George debate the real lessons from Zoran Mandani's shock victory - is it about left-wing policy, or a masterclass in new communication and building the broad coalitions that Starmer, Badenoch, and Farage all need?Thanks for listening. To get episodes early and ad-free join Political Currency Gold. If you want even more perks including our exclusive newsletter, join our Kitchen Cabinet today:👉 patreon.com/politicalcurrency👉 Apple PodcastsPlease note: Kitchen Cabinet is only available via Patreon.Credits:Assistant Producer: Caillin McDaidSenior Producer: Silvia MarescaVideo Editor: Maha AlbadrawiExecutive Producer: Ellie CliffordPolitical Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The dialogue dives into why Labour isn't leveraging rejoining the EU as a weapon against Farage. Ed highlights the challenges of EU negotiations while George predicts a gradual return to the Single Market. A significant discussion about the 40% cut to foreign aid emerges, with George urging the aid community to advocate louder. They also humorously ponder their potential hosting roles on Strictly Come Dancing, and delve into TikTok, with George praising a restaurant reviewer while Ed reflects on his social media fame.

Keir Starmer faces a turbulent week with a Caerphilly by-election collapse and internal party strife. As leadership speculation mounts, the hosts discuss the implications for Labour's future. They analyze the pivotal upcoming budget and Rachel Reeves' commitment to a tax lock amid fiscal challenges. Shifting gears, they dive into Trump's Asia tour and his trade strategies, questioning whether his approach is chaotic or effective. They even touch on the global reactions to his tariffs and the potential legal battles in the US.

Is the political centre of British politics on its last legs? A teen listener provokes a lively debate about the rise of populism and whether the centre can recover. The hosts grapple with amusing and bizarre stories of species protection disrupting planning, featuring bat tunnels and nesting birds. Plus, learn the fascinating historical reasons behind Parliament's subsidised bars and hear George's firsthand account of his time as First Secretary of State. It's a mix of politics, peculiarities, and rich history!

The hosts tackle the rising trend of blaming Brexit for economic woes, questioning if it's a savvy political move or merely a convenient scapegoat. They delve into the chaos in Keir Starmer's administration, marked by outrageous briefings against the Cabinet Secretary. The discussion shifts to the royal drama surrounding Prince Andrew and the government's potential interventions. With George's insights from San Francisco, they ponder whether the booming AI sector is a bubble about to burst and discuss the implications of skyrocketing valuations in the tech industry.

This discussion dives into whether Ed Balls could ever join the Tories and if George Osborne would consider Labour. The hosts reflect on a recent reunion with Nick Clegg and debate the merits of a multi-party political landscape in the UK. They tackle provocative questions about switching party loyalty and explore the impact of stamp duty cuts on the housing crisis. Plus, a challenge from the National Farmers' Union brings attention to the controversial 'family farm tax' and the perceived disconnect in the Treasury.

The collapse of a major China spy trial is raising questions about the Prime Minister's future. With shifting blame and a call for clearer crisis communication, political chaos looms. Meanwhile, Donald Trump's potential Nobel Peace Prize candidacy is debated, hinging on a fragile Gaza ceasefire. In Welsh politics, looming elections could spark significant change, highlighting the region's often-overlooked role in national narratives. The discussion reveals how Wales could disrupt the UK political landscape, creating ripples beyond its borders.