Political Currency
Persephonica
Ed Balls and George Osborne take us behind closed doors into the rooms where decisions are made. Having battled it out across the despatch box, the former Chancellor and shadow chancellor now meet in the studio to discuss the decisions that affect the nation’s pockets. Our frenemies have the knowledge and experience to explain how good politics follows the economics - and expose how the powerful become powerless when faced with market forces and political currents they can’t control. Join us every Thursday.Send your messages or voice notes to questions@politicalcurrency.co.ukFind us on social media @polcurrencyPolitical Currency is a Persephonica production. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Oct 30, 2025 • 1h 7min
Can Starmer hold on as PM?
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.
7 snips
Oct 27, 2025 • 33min
EMQs: Is the political centre dead?
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!
14 snips
Oct 23, 2025 • 1h 2min
Why blaming Brexit won’t save Rachel Reeves
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.
8 snips
Oct 20, 2025 • 54min
EMQs: Would you serve in your political rival’s cabinet?
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.
12 snips
Oct 16, 2025 • 1h 9min
Inside the China spy crisis shaking Starmer’s government
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.
28 snips
Oct 13, 2025 • 35min
EMQs: Could George Osborne still be a Tory MP?
The podcast dives into whether George Osborne still has a place in today's Conservative Party. A lively debate explores the significance of Kemi Badenoch's leadership. Ed Balls also sets the record straight on New Labour's pivotal move to make the Bank of England independent. Listeners are treated to discussions about breaking unwritten rules during party conference season and the politics surrounding attendance at the Women's Rugby World Cup final. The complex issue of reforming the ECHR in light of Brexit is also analyzed.
20 snips
Oct 9, 2025 • 1h 1min
Has Kemi Badenoch saved herself?
Empty chairs and typos marked a chaotic Conservative conference, but Kemi Badenoch's surprisingly strong speech stood out. The discussion delved into her pledge to leave the ECHR, raising questions about Brexit-like implications and Keir Starmer's potential role in reforming human rights law. Tensions brew within the party over alliances with Reform, while a collapsing China spy case ignites a blame game among top officials. Conspiracy theories swirl, suggesting distractions from political controversies. Tune in for the latest political rollercoaster!
17 snips
Oct 6, 2025 • 44min
EMQs: The return of the TBGBs?
New Labour is trending on TikTok, and the hosts dive into why Gen Z is obsessed with 90s politics. They analyze how recent political dynamics might signal a TBGB comeback, particularly looking at key figures like Bridget Philipson. Discussion shifts to Scottish Labour's strategy for upcoming elections and how fiscal policies could play a crucial role. The duo warns against alienating voters with careless language while brainstorming how the Conservatives can rebuild their credibility in opposition. Expect humor and sharp insights throughout!
19 snips
Oct 2, 2025 • 1h 2min
Will Starmer's attack on Farage pay off?
In a gripping discussion, political experts dissect Keir Starmer's bold move of targeting Nigel Farage, weighing its risks and potential to unify the Labour Party. They also delve into Donald Trump's controversial Gaza peace plan, exploring its implications for the Middle East. The hosts ponder the return of Tony Blair and his role in this evolving narrative. Another hot topic includes Rachel Reeves' proposal to alter the UK's economic forecasting, a shift that could reshape fiscal policy and transparency.
30 snips
Sep 29, 2025 • 37min
What REALLY goes on at party conference?
Join Sir Oliver Letwin, a former Conservative MP and Cabinet minister, as he shares a gripping first-hand account of the 1984 Brighton bombing. The conversation delves into the chaotic world of party conferences, from managing applause for political leaders to the intense security measures in place. Letwin reflects on the lasting impact of political violence on conference life, while discussing the fine line between messaging and reality. Discover how small incidents can create significant headlines in this insightful exploration of political dynamics.
