
Political Currency
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.
Latest episodes

Aug 1, 2024 • 57min
Rachel Reeves: The next austerity chancellor?
Rachel Reeves, the new Chancellor and a key figure in economic policy, discusses her fiscal strategies and their potential austerity implications. Former Chancellor George Osborne admires her approach but questions if she's simply mirroring his past policies. Ed Balls chimes in on the complexities of hosting the Olympics, arguing the economics rarely justify the costs. The trio also delves into how politicians should effectively communicate during crises, especially in the age of social media, and the need for stronger leadership amidst rising tensions.

Jul 29, 2024 • 32min
EMQs: Celebs go politicking
Ed Balls, a former politician turned media star, and George Osborne, a former Chancellor of the Exchequer, dive into the intriguing potential of celebrities entering politics. They discuss memorable instances of celebs making political moves and the challenges faced. The duo also reflects on their Olympic experiences, sharing insights from London 2012 as excitement builds for Paris 2024. They evaluate the impact of inflation on UK politics and explore how lessons from international systems can enhance governance.

Jul 24, 2024 • 58min
Starmer, Strictly and Summer of Brat
The podcast discusses Kamala Harris stepping in for Joe Biden, Labour MPs losing the whip, and advice for Rachel Reeves. They also talk about the Tories needing to define conservatism, Ed Balls sharing his Strictly experience, and the humor in holiday plans.

Jul 22, 2024 • 37min
EMQs: Are you ready for ID cards?
The podcast discusses the importance of having a leader who 'turns you on', debates on the necessity of ID cards in the digital age, and explores the art of public speaking with insights from Ed Balls and George Osborne. It also delves into topics like mandatory voting laws, charisma in politics, and the significance of confidence in speech delivery.

6 snips
Jul 18, 2024 • 54min
Meet JD Vance, Trump’s VP and George Osborne’s friend
JD Vance, Trump's potential VP, a friend of George Osborne, and critical views on Trump. Analyses on Biden's health, Labour's foreign policy, and extreme political statements. Discussion on VP impact on elections and global relations. Reflections on missed opportunities in government decision-making and insights on European negotiations.

Jul 15, 2024 • 30min
EMQs: Political Football
On the podcast, they question if politicians truly love football or just use it for political gain. They explore the roles and importance of political advisors, discussing differences in advisor types. The discussion extends to the authenticity of politicians' sports interests, contrasting real fans with those faking it. Also, they shed light on the roles of Downing Street custodians and the challenges MPs face in rural constituencies.

Jul 11, 2024 • 1h 2min
Inside the race to lead the Tory party
Exploring the race to lead the Tory party, the podcast discusses potential candidates like Kemi, Suella, and Priti. The importance of being a healer, not a warrior, is emphasized. Concerns are raised about Labour moving towards technocracy. Stories of ministerial call-ups and Tony Blair's approach are shared.

Jul 8, 2024 • 44min
Will Starmer’s 'GOAT' cabinet succeed?
Exploring Keir Starmer's cabinet choices and potential regrets, impact of foreign policy on government, shock result in France, and approach to Gaza conflict. Reflecting on the aftermath of elections and experiences of new MPs, challenges and reforms in NHS and prisons, Tony Blair's advice on tech policy, and analyzing French election outcomes and foreign policy implications for UK.

Jul 5, 2024 • 45min
Inside Starmer’s No. 10
Discussions on cabinet appointments and dynamics in No. 10 Downing Street. Analysis of the impact of Keir Starmer's landslide victory and the downfall of Tory and SNP. Insights on the challenges and future prospects for the major parties post-election.

Jul 3, 2024 • 50min
What REALLY happens on polling day?
Mel Stride from the Conservative party concedes early before polling day, raising questions on voter impact. Ed Balls and George Osborne discuss potential Tory voter turnout. Insight into candidates' activities 48 hours before election night. Conversations on election dynamics, seat details, early results, and polling data analysis. Behind-the-scenes of party leaders and campaigners preparing for the big day. Emotions and logistics of polling day for politicians, focusing on Labour leaders Reeves and Starmer. Transition from opposition leader to Prime Minister discussed. Subscriber special upcoming for post-election coverage and speculations on outcomes.