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
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.
Jul 2, 2024 • 39min
Can Starmer work with Trump and Le Pen?
As polls near, the podcast discusses the unpredictability of elections, drawing parallels to football. They analyze Labour's campaign dynamics, alliances in the political landscape, and challenges facing a new government in the UK. The episode explores constructing more prison spaces, cabinet challenges, and potential transitions. Additionally, it touches on benefits of subscribing, Sunglass Hut, and Acast advertising.
Jun 30, 2024 • 30min
EMQs: Is Rishi California Dreamin’?
Chancellor's potential move to California post-election, impact of polling on campaigns, deep dive into cost of living crisis, analysis of Labour's campaign lead, Ed Miliband's absence, behind-the-scenes of overnight TV programs and ITV election night coverage
Jun 27, 2024 • 1h 1min
Is Labour's honeymoon already over?
Former Labour politician Ed Balls discusses Keir Starmer's debate performance, financial challenges, and internal party tensions. Also, insights on Labour's unity vs Conservative disunity, impact of a Labour supermajority on markets, and Starmer's political journey.
Jun 25, 2024 • 40min
ELECTION EXTRA: Farage’s Russian gambit
Nigel Farage faces backlash for stating West provoked Russia, while Conservative Party struggles. George Osborne reflects on Northern Powerhouse. Podcast discusses supermajorities in elections, political fallout, and criticism towards Farage's NATO comments.
