The New Statesman Podcast

It's a defection listener questions special.We’ve had lots of questions come in this week about defection, prompted by the surprise and somewhat contentious defection of the once Conservative MP for Dover and Deal, Natalie Elphicke, to Labour last week.To help guide us through Hannah Barnes, associate editor, is joined in the studio by Rachel Cunliffe,[...]

This morning Keir Starmer has laid out six key pledges for a Labour government, should they win power this election year.So what is the Labour leader promising, and will those promises be kept?Hannah Barnes, associate editor, is joined on the New Statesman podcast by Freddie Hayward, political correspondent, and George Eaton, senior editor. Hosted on[...]

Just over a month ago Dr Hilary Cass published her landmark review of gender identity services for children and young people.In her last UK media interview before her team wrap up, she spoke to the New Statesman about the four years it took to compile and complete the review, as well as the reflections she’s[...]

Are any Tories desperate enough to take over as Prime Minister?In our listener questions episode, You Ask Us, Rachel Cunliffe, George Eaton and Freddie Hayward answer your questions on whether any Conservative MPs would really want to take over as PM before the next election, and how on earth they will explain Britain's failing economy[...]

The longer the Conservatives hang on, the worse it gets. Last week Rishi Sunak lost 474 councillors, the constituency of Blackpool south, and Andy Street’s West Midlands mayoral. And yesterday things went from bad to worse for Sunak with a surprise defection to Labour from Natalie Elphicke MP for Dover and Deal.The Conservatives can’t seem[...]

The UK is on course for a huge rise in preventable illness. The Health Foundation charity predicts that by 2040, one in five adults will be living with a serious condition, such as cancer, dementia or heart disease. Meanwhile, economic activity is stagnating, with roughly 2.8 million people currently out of work due to ill[...]

Keir Starmer is the man poised to be the next leader of the UK. But he is also a man of whom many - including those in his own party - have asked: what does he stand for? Four years after Starmer became leader of the Labour party we know a little more about him. We’ve[...]

It has been a terrible night for the Conservatives who have lost councillors, constituencies, and new Mayoral positions to Labour. Keir Starmer has called this result a sign to move on and for Rishi Sunak to call a general election.So far the Tories have held onto the Tees Valley mayoral position but Labour have won[...]

One week ago, Humza Yousaf, first minister of Scotland and leader of the Scottish National Party, terminated the power-sharing deal with the Scottish Greens. There had been mounting pressure on both Yousaf’s leadership and ending the coalition, but the eventual timing of the termination caused the now former leader to appear panicked and triggered a[...]

In 2022, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees announced that for the first time since records had begun, 100 million people were displaced by war, violence, persecution and human rights abuses.No one wants to leave their home, but for many, the threat of death, danger and destruction leaves them with very little choice. But[...]

A listener writes in to ask, "Is there any risk of a Conservative - Reform coalition?""Why do journalists not ask “how are you going to pay for it” when it comes to defence spending? Why is Keir Starmer's defence spending target covered so differently to planned green spending?" - another listener asks.Hannah Barnes, associate editor,[...]

Train travel in the UK has become an increasingly painful experience in the past few years. Prices continue to rise at an astonishing rate, meanwhile delays, cancellations and strikes have become the norm. Many have simply given up on this mode of transport.Last night, Labour announced their plan to get Britain’s railways back on track.[...]

MPs have voted to back Rishi Sunak's progressive smoking ban. Can it work?The Tobacco & Vapes Bill includes new legislation to increase the smoking age by one year, every year, banning the sale of cigarettes to anyone born after 1st January 2009. MPs have voted the bill through its second reading and it is now[...]

In March, Charles Spencer, the 9th Earl Spencer, published his memoir - A Very Private School. This recounted, in devastating detail, the abuse, both mental and physical, that he had been subjected to at his elite prep boarding school. The brutality is laid bare. For centuries in the UK, a private education has been the[...]

This episode was recorded on the 18th of April, prior to Israel's missile strikes on Iran.Tensions in the Middle East have heightened further after Iran launched a missile attack on Israel last week. This was in response to Israel’s strike on the Iranian embassy in Damascus, Syria - which killed 16 people. Western leaders came[...]

This week Liz Truss has embarked on the press tour of a lifetime with her new book, Ten Years to Save the West: Lessons from the only conservative in the room. She's been casting blame from the UN to the Bank of England for the failure of her time in office, but does she really[...]

People up and down the country have been struggling to get NHS dental appointments for the past few years, forcing some to pay inflated prices for private treatment, or ignore their oral health until it’s reached an unbearable point. This crisis is also greatly impacting children across the nation, and today the number one reason[...]

Angela Rayner, the Labour deputy leader, is being accused of being a ‘tax avoider’. While these attacks are coming predominantly from the right, they’ve been mounting in recent weeks and now Labour is having to confront the allegations.So what could this mean for the deputy leader? Is Labour in trouble? Or is this a Tory[...]

We’ve been digging around in our virtual mailbag and have brought a couple of your questions  to discuss. One listener asks: What are the political implications of the Cass report and will it affect how British politicians approach the transgender conversation?And another listener writes in to ask: Could a Starmer win in the UK and a[...]

The British royal family was in crisis even before Queen Elizabeth II died, and the new King and princess of wales both became ill with cancer.In this modern age where access increasingly equates to relevance, and truth and conspiracy so often intertwine, how is Britain’s relationship with monarchy changing? Chris Stone is joined on the[...]

It's listener questions time! Anoosh Chakelian and Rachel Cunliffe answer a listener who asks why senior politicians flock to address culture wars issues "which are frankly below their station", and another who wants to know if MPs who are also landlords should recuse themselves from voting on laws affecting renters.Submit a question for us to[...]

England’s waterways are overflowing with sewage. In a recent report it has been found that a record amount of sewage is being discharged into rivers and seas around England. Data revealed that last year raw sewage was discharged, by private water companies, for more than 3.6 million hours, a 105% increase on the previous 12[...]

Flexible work has existed for decades. Think about local hairdressers, personal trainers, or tutors working for themselves – or even the jazz musicians in the early 1900s who coined the term ‘gig economy’. But the past ten years of technology have made it more accessible – and visible – to both the people who use[...]

Today on the podcast we're bringing you a conversation from the New Statesman's Path to Power conference which looked inside the Labour Party machine as it gears up for the next election.In this session Rachel Cunliffe, associate political editor at the New Statesman, was joined by Alison McGovern, MP for Wirral South and Shadow Minister[...]

This is an episode we like to call “You Ask Us”. Our first question from James who says: "How would the results of a general election change if all British residents were allowed to vote, not just British Citizens? In other words what happens if we let immigrants without British passports vote?" Ryan also writes in to say: "Will Labour[...]

Earlier this week the UK government accused China of stealing 40 million UK registered voters’ names and addresses. The breach occurred in 2021 and 2022, in which time GCHQ has ascertained that China state-affiliated actors also targeted several parliamentarians’ emails - including former Conservative leader Iain Duncan Smith. So what could the Chinese government do with[...]

Each one of us in the UK is likely to be or become a carer at some point in our lives. Women have a 50:50 chance of caring by the time they are 46 and men by the time they reach the age of 57.But the UK’s social care system is failing all of us.[...]

This is an episode we like to call “You Ask Us”.Our first question from Adam in Cardiff who says: "Does it matter who was elected in the Welsh Labour leadership election? It seems that both candidates had a very similar platform. Does the selection of Vaughan Gething have political implications in Westminster?"Rory also writes in to say: "With[...]

Stability, investment, and reform - these are the three pillars for growth set out by Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves in her Mais Lecture to business and finance leaders earlier this week.“In a changing world, Britain has been behind the curve,” she said, but a Labour government, she stated, would seek to bring a “new chapter[...]

Why are women still taken less seriously than men? Alona Ferber, senior editor at the New Statesman, is joined by Mary Ann Seighart, journalist, former assistant editor of The Times, visiting professor at Kings College London and author of The Authority Gap: Why women are still taken less seriously than men, and what we can[...]

Ben Walker shares exclusive analysis on the impact of a dying electorate.In our weekly listener questions episode, Rachel Cunliffe is joined by Freddie Hayward and Ben Walker to answer two questions from New Statesman listeners:Nick asks: "what is the whip system and how (the hell) can it be democratic?" Freddie explains how it works, and[...]

The Tory racism row exposed the Prime Minister's weakness.It's been another "torrid" week for the Conservatives, with a row over alleged racist comments made by their largest donor overshadowing the announcement of new extremism rules.Rachel Cunliffe is joined by George Eaton and Freddie Hayward to discuss how Rishi Sunak's response to Frank Hester's alleged comments[...]

At the beginning of February Anoosh Chakelian, Britain editor at the New Statesman, travelled to Liverpool to interview two regional mayors: Andy Burnham the Mayor of Greater Manchester and Steve Rotheram, Metro Mayor of the Liverpool City Region.Their new co-authored book, Head North: A Rallying Cry for a More Equal Britain, chronicles their intersecting journeys[...]

It's listener question time!Neil from Cambridge asks: "Rishi Sunak and other Conservatives keep telling us that Labour will take us 'back to square one' either through their policies or lack of a plan. What point in time does he want us to think of as being 'square one'? And why does he think that voters would[...]

Yesterday, Jeremy Hunt delivered the spring statement, the last before the next general election and his fourth budget since becoming Chancellor in October 2022, after replacing Kwasi Kwarteng.Non-doms have been abolished, national insurance has been cut by 2p, a vaping tax has been introduced, and the NHS has been promised 3.4 billion towards a digital[...]

Over 5 million people in the UK live in a leasehold; a property ownership agreement which entitles people to the space inside the property but not necessarily the building it’s in nor the land it is built on. England and Wales are the last countries in the world where leaseholds are still widely used. So[...]

After a dramatic and chaotic campaigning period for the Rochdale by-election, the controversial politician George Galloway will be returning to Westminster - yet again. He currently represents the Workers Party of Britain, but this is the fourth city he’s been elected to represent and the third party in four decades.Rachel Cunliffe, associate political editor, is[...]

From Lee Anderson’s rant against Sadiq Khan on GB News, to Liz Truss’s appearance with Steve Bannon, this week has been nothing short of a conspiratorial catastrophe for the Conservative Party.Anoosh Chakelian is joined by Andrew Marr and Rachel Cunliffe to discuss why Rishi Sunak and senior Conservatives are “too scared” to call out islamophobia[...]

The world is currently facing multiple crises, from geopolitical conflicts to pandemics and climate change. But amidst this turbulence, international aid budgets are being stretched as domestic issues take precedence. The UK has cut its overseas aid budget significantly, from 0.7 to 0.5 per cent of gross national income. Meanwhile, low-income countries need more support[...]

From opaque contract awards, to cosy relationships between politicians and business elites, the idea of a ‘chumocracy’ has long been making headlines and raising eyebrows. But just how endemic is the issue? And how does it affect the functioning of the state?Harry Clarke-Ezzidio, policy correspondent at the New Statesman, is joined by business editor, Will Dunn,[...]

"I've heard speculation that the Tories' election strategy is not really about "culture war and wedge issues" or evoking fear of Labour spending plans. It's about showing Starmer as indecisive and untrustworthy, and the Labour Party as divided." - one listener writes in to ask if the Conservatives election tactics have changed in recent months.Another[...]

Almost five months on from the beginning of the conflict, Labour appears to have shifted its position - calling for an “immediate humanitarian ceasefire” in Gaza. This culminated in a chaotic debate in parliament last night with SNP and Tory MPs walking out and this morning Lindsay Hoyle, speaker of the house, is facing calls[...]

The UK is one of the biggest plastic polluters in the world. According to Greenpeace we produce more plastic waste per person than almost any other country, with our supermarkets creating roughly 800,000 tonnes every year.We need to find ways to minimise waste through keeping products and packaging in circulation for as long as possible.[...]

More councils have gone bust in 2023 than in the 30 years before 2018, with eight effectively declaring bankruptcy since that year: Northamptonshire, Croydon, Slough, Northumberland, Thurrock, Woking, Birmingham and Nottingham. But why are councils going bust? Anoosh Chakelian, Britain editor, is joined by policy correspondent Megan Kenyon and Jonny Ball, associate editor of the New[...]

The results of yesterday’s by-elections are in, Kingswood and Wellingborough - both previously Conservative seats - have turned red in a historic loss for the Tories.Anoosh Chakelian, Britain editor, is joined by the New Statesman's associate political editor Rachel Cunliffe, and senior data journalist Ben Walker to discuss what these results mean for Labour, the[...]

This week Labour has suspended not one, but two parliamentary candidates for reported comments made over Israel. The party has been on a mission to purge anti-semitism from its ranks over the past few years, so just how catastrophic has this week been for them?Anoosh Chakelian, Britain editor, is joined in the studio by the[...]

How did one detective take on an international network of romance fraudsters? This episode was written Stuart McGurk and read by Will Dunn. The commissioning editor was Melissa Denes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our polling expert answers listener questions.Many of you have written in with questions for Ben Walker, the New Statesman's polling data analyst. In this episode Anoosh asks Ben your questions:What impact will tactical voting have on the next election?How will constituency boundary changes impact the main parties?Why are voters less "brand loyal" than in the[...]

Will Liz Truss’s “PopCon” undermine Rishi Sunak?On Tuesday Tory right-wingers gathered in Westminster for the launch of “Popular Conservatism”, a new political group spearheaded by Liz Truss, who was joined by the likes of Jacob Rees-Mogg, Lee Anderson and Mark Littlewood, formerly of the IEA.Rachel Cunliffe and Freddie Hayward attended the launch and join Anoosh[...]

The 2010s were a decade that many hoped would usher in a new era of leftist revolutions. Yet, as we look back, the question looms large: What went wrong?In this episode of the podcast Alona Ferber, senior editor, is joined by William Davies, writer and Professor in Political Economy at Goldsmiths, University of London, to[...]

This week's disposable vape ban follows a generational ban on smoking and an XL Bully ban. Is this Rishi Sunak's legacy? The Conservatives are typically against a "nanny state" but low-cost, high-impact interferences into personal choice seem to be Rishi Sunak's bread and butter. Anoosh Chakelian, Freddie Hayward and Rachel Cunliffe discuss the decision-making behind the bans[...]

As the UK government and the DUP appear likely to break their Brexit impasse with a new deal, a listener asks what Labour would do differently in Northern Ireland.For two years, the DUP has been boycotting power sharing in Stormont in opposition to post-Brexit trade rules. Now the UK government has published a deal which[...]

New technology means cancer diagnosis is better than ever.Advances in genomic testing and other new technologies mean we are spotting cancer earlier, and getting better at identifying the best treatment for patients.But a greater understanding of the disease – or group of diseases – means a requirement for more tailored treatment plans to improve patient[...]

We’ve seen the fastest turnover of prime ministers in our history, and more MPs have been suspended from the house or stood down from their seats than ever before in recent years. Politicians breaking the rules and expecting to get away with it is one of the biggest issues in our parliament today - which[...]

Earlier this week former minister Simon Clarke wrote in the Telegraph, the Conservative party faces an electoral "massacre" under Rishi Sunak's leadership and warned “extinction is a very real possibility for our party”. “He does not get what Britain needs. And he is not listening to what the British people want.” and “Instead of conviction, we[...]

Anoosh reports on the Port Talbot steelworkers job losses, and how they will impact Labour's green agenda.2,800 industrial jobs will be lost in Port Talbot steelworks if planned "green" updates go ahead. Anoosh Chakelian visited the Tata Steel plant to meet the workers who will lose their jobs, and joins Freddie Hayward to report what[...]

The ongoing war between Israel and Hamas has now passed the 100 day mark. On the 14 January Alona Ferber attended the Jewish Labour Movement conference, which happened to take place on the 100th day of the war. In this podcast she speaks with Susan Neiman, the American moral philosopher, about the splits this war[...]

"How powerful are select committees in holding government and other bodies to account? Highly important topic at the moment, given Lord Cameron cannot be held to account in the House of Commons?" a listener writes in. But while the foreign secretary wouldn't usually be seen in the House of Commons, he may be forced to[...]

We’re discussing the Rwanda bill, yet again. On Tuesday there was a rebellion from the right of the Conservative party who attempted to put down amendments on the bill to try and ensure neither UK nor international law can be used to stop a person being deported to Rwanda, and to make it more difficult for[...]

The UK is one of the world’s most nature-depleted countries. According to a recent study, the annual State of Nature report, nearly one in six of more than ten thousand species assessed – that's 16 per cent – could be lost. Many key habitats for our nature are at risk, and this is a problem both for biodiversity but[...]

The Labour Party has a talent for losing elections. Over the last century, it has held office for just 33 years and has produced just six prime ministers. The Conservatives, by comparison, have held office for 67 years and produced 14 prime ministers. It is the burden of history that explains Labour’s caution at the outset of[...]

"I felt sure that millennials would never forgive the Lib Dems, but it seems like young people who are leaving London are voting Lib Dem in Tory strongholds. So have millennials forgiven the Lib Dems?" one listener asks.The team discusses how voter priorities change with age, and how this might be advantageous for the Lib[...]

Between 2009 and 2015 more than 700 people who ran Post Offices, also known as sub-postmasters, were wrongly accused of embezzling money and subsequently prosecuted. The fault was actually that of a dodgy computer accounting system.In addition to having to pay back the money from their own pockets, the strain, stress and stigma of this[...]

In 2024 countries with more than 4 billion people will be sending their citizens to the polls. The US, Russia, and India to name a few; this is set to be the biggest election year in history. In this episode of the podcast Anoosh Chakelian is joined by the New Stateman's foreign correspondent Bruno Maçães[...]

"How likely would it be for parliament to introduce a Proportional Representation system similar to the rest of Europe? Would this even be feasible given both main parties benefit from a First Past The Post system?", one listener asks. And after the team tackles the questions of constitutional reform they answer listener Paul's question about[...]

Anoosh Chakelian is joined by Dr Emma Runswick, junior doctor in the North West and the current Deputy Chair of the BMA Council. They discuss what's driven junior doctors to the current 6 day walk out, on top of an accrued 28 days of stoppages over the past year. Will the BMA settle for anything[...]

2024 is set to be the biggest election year in history and countries with more than 4 billion people will be sending their citizens to the polls. And whether or not the UK government decides to hold a general election before January 2025, it will still be an incredibly decisive electoral year for the country.Anoosh[...]

In this conversation our political editor Andrew Marr sits down with Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, to discuss why 2024 could be a bigger moment for Labour than 1997. This recording is from from our Path to Power conference which delved inside the Labour Party machine as it gears up for an election in[...]

In a special festive episode of the podcast, Anoosh Chakelian is joined by Andrew Marr and Freddie Hayward to revisit some of the best, the worst, and weirdest moments from UK politics in 2023.You can watch the video from this episode on our YouTube channel.Download the app:iOS: https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/new-statesman-magazine/id610498525Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.progressivemediagroup.newstatesman&hl=en_GB&gl=USSubscribe to the New Statesman WhatsApp channel:https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va9latS0wajogms2z02c[...]

This is a live recording from the New Statesman Media Group's Path to Power conference which delved inside the Labour Party machine as it gears up for an election in 2024. In this session, hosted by Sarah Dawood - senior associate editor at the New Statesman, we look at Labour's mission for the UK to become[...]

Armando and Anoosh delve into the inner workings of British political reporting, exploring the complex world of the Lobby, the blurred relationships that many political journalists and politicians balance - trading access and trust, - and how this landscape has been evolving over the past few years with the rise of digital and alternative media. To[...]

Earlier this month we published a magazine with the cover ‘Being Jewish Now’. At this time of crisis in the Middle East, with divisions over the Gaza war and rising anti-Semitism, we asked a group of writers, thinkers, and activists to reflect on the question of what it means to be Jewish and on the[...]

A listener writes in to ask what the real threat is from the right of the Tory party, and our associate political editor, Rachel Cunliffe, breaks this down - starting with identifying who the different factions of the Tory right are, and what they want.Download the app:iOS: https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/new-statesman-magazine/id610498525Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.progressivemediagroup.newstatesman&hl=en_GB&gl=USSubscribe to the New Statesman WhatsApp channel:https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va9latS0wajogms2z02c[...]

Yesterday Wales’s first minister Mark Drakeford announced his resignation, after exactly five years in office. He drew tributes for his tenure at PMQs from both leaders, with Keir Starmer describing him as “a true titan of Welsh politics”. Who will be the next Welsh leader? How will this affect Labour's general election campaign in Wales?[...]

Thurrock is suffering major cuts to all its council services since it went effectively bankrupt last December, after hundreds of millions of pounds were put into risky investments that didn’t pay off. One of the services to be gravely affected by the cuts is a place called “Thameside”, an arts complex, described locally as a[...]

This discussion was recorded at the Cambridge Literary Festival in November 2023. Anoosh Chakelian was joined by Isabel Hardman, assistant editor at the Spectator and author of Fighting for Life, and Phil Whitaker, GP and medical editor at the New Statesman. They came together to ask, can we fix the NHS?Watch and listen more from[...]

This week it seems that the government have been doing anything and everything to tackle the high migration numbers, that means cracking down on both illegal and legal routes to entering the UK. First new visa requirements were announced, stating that applicants would need to earn £38,700 to be eligible (higher than the average UK[...]

Boris Johnson appeared "diminished" at the Covid inquiry - and still couldn't quite apologise properly.Rachel Cunliffe, associate political editor for the New Statesman, was in the room as the former prime minister gave evidence. She joins Anoosh Chakelian and Freddie Hayward to analyse two "blockbuster" days, figure out if we've learned anything new, and look[...]

Is democracy slipping away from us? How protected are we by our constitution? And do governments have the power to swiftly change this? In June, in front of a live audience, Armando and Anoosh were joined by Simon Woolley, founder and director of Operation Black Vote and Principal of Homerton College, Cambridge, and Graham Smith,[...]

Housing in the UK has become increasingly unaffordable during the last two decades, buying a home is an unattainable prospect for many in the country, and the challenges facing renters are now reaching a tipping point. And the rentier economy is not only freezing out housing tenants. Small, and sometimes large, businesses are also being[...]

Andrew Marr joins the team in the studio this week to answer listener questions. John writes in to ask which often used misleading expressions in political journalism might warrant the use of a 'broadcaster swear jar'. Meanwhile, Xia asks the podcast team which policies they're most optimistic about that might be put in place by[...]

Andrew Marr, political editor at the New Statesman, speaks to Freddie Hayward, political correspondent, about why the newly published figures on net migration for 2022 have sent shockwaves through the Conservative party. The focus, he says, has shifted from illegal migration - 'stop the boats' - to legal migration, because of these figures.Last week the[...]

 Since the start of the pandemic in 2020, nearly a million people aged 50-64 have left the workforce. Other major economies have seen their employment rates bounce back after the pandemic, and the Financial Times have reported that the UK is the only developed economywhere inactivity kept rising after the initial pandemic shock.   In this episode, sponsored[...]

The writer, satirist and broadcaster Armando Iannucci returns to the New Statesman Podcast to co-host our fourth series of Westminster Reimagined.In this episode, which was recorded in the summer of 2023, Armando and Anoosh visit a group of sixth form students who will be voting for the first time in the upcoming general election. They want to know what[...]

How did the Great Depression’s spectres of fascism, bombing and mass unemployment force politicians to think the unthinkable, and pave the way to post-war Britain? How was Thatcher’s road to victory made possible by a decade of nightmares: of hyperinflation, military coups and communist dictatorship? And why, since the Crash in 2008, have new political[...]

"The economy will play a central part of next year's election. Do you know if people are better off than in 2010?" - one listener writes in to ask. The podcast team discuss how this can be measured, and how parties might frame this in the run up to the election.Another listener writes in to[...]

Jeremy Hunt would like this Autumn Statement to be seen as what the government is branding “the biggest tax cut in British history”, but what are the actual costs and implications of the yesterday's budget?Anoosh Chakelian is joined in the studio by Rachel Cunliffe, associate political editor, and Freddie Hayward, political correspondent.Download the app:iOS: https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/new-statesman-magazine/id610498525Android:[...]

The writer, satirist and broadcaster Armando Iannucci returns to the New Statesman Podcast to co-host our fourth series of Westminster Reimagined. Across this season he is joined by co-host Anoosh Chakelian, Britain editor at the New Statesman, to explores parts of British public life he believes to be broken, and is joined by guests from inside and outside Westminster to work[...]

Iran, Hamas and Hezbollah – all of whom operate out of Beirut’s southern suburbs – have coordinated their positions in various ways for years in pursuit of what they see as the greater good. John Jenkins, former British ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Libya, Iraq, Syria and Burma, speaks to senior editor Katie Stallard about Iran's[...]

"At the Home Office you have immigration figures, as health secretary there are NHS waiting lists. Is David Cameron likely to improve his reputation because it’s harder to fail as foreign secretary?" - one listener asks.Anoosh Chakelian is joined in the studio by associate political editor Rachel Cunliffe and political correspondent Freddie Hayward to answer[...]

The government's Rwanda plan has been put on hold, yet again, after being ruled illegal earlier this week by the Supreme Court. And someone who would have a lot to say about this is the former Home Secretary Suella Braverman who was fired on Monday. Braverman has since published a blistering letter to the Prime[...]

Suella Braverman is out of government... and a shock appointment rocks Westminster.Anoosh Chakelian and Freddie Hayward record an emergency episode of the New Statesman podcast to discuss the breaking news of Rishi Sunak's dramatic reshuffle following a weekend of protests which the now former Home Secretary had previously branded "hate marches". This episode was recorded[...]

They no longer have a stranglehold on Oxbridge and would lose tax breaks under Labour. So what is elite education really selling?At the Labour Party conference in Liverpool in October, the Independent Schools Council hosted a forlorn drinks reception: not one of the more than 40 MPs showed up. ‘We are not the enemy,’ one[...]

In the week the Tory peer Michelle Mone has finally admitted involvement in a PPE firm awarded £200m in "VIP" Covid contracts, we discuss the numerous allegations against politicians and ask why Parliament is beset with bad behaviour - and how it's affecting the Tories' reputation.And then we let you in behind the scenes of[...]

Amid much pomp and circumstance, this week King Charles III delivered the first King's Speech in over 70 years. In this episode of the podcast Anoosh Chakelian is joined by deputy political editor Rachel Wearmouth, and political correspondent Freddie Hayward, to discuss what Charles announced in his speech, and perhaps more notably - what went[...]

On 2 November 2023, Rishi Sunak closed his global AI Safety Summit at Bletchley Park by interviewing the richest man on Earth, Elon Musk. The mood was deferential (the PM towards the tech billionaire). Was Sunak eyeing up a post-politics job in San Francisco, some wondered, or calculating that Musk’s Twitter might be an effective campaigning[...]

"Looking at the polling for a ceasefire in Gaza, it seems like foreign policy is the area where Westminster is most out of touch with public opinion. Why is this?" - one listener asks. Anoosh Chakelian is joined by business editor Will Dunn and politics correspondant Freddie Hayward to discuss the government's position on a[...]

Module two of the Covid inquiry - decision-making and political governance - was set to be the most controversial section, looking into the workings of central government. And from the use of the term “f***pigs” to Boris Johnson’s query about blowing a hair dryer up his nose, this has rung true.On this episode of the[...]

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide – but it doesn't affect everyone equally.  Data shows wide regional variation of lung cancer diagnoses, as well as huge differentials linked to socio-economic factors and class. In this episode Becky Slack is joined by a panel including a leading clinical expert, Professor David Baldwin, Lorraine Dallas[...]

We’re bringing you something new on the podcast today – a pilot of a new show we’re working on from our political editor, Andrew Marr. Before we make this a regular feature on the New Statesman podcast, we’d really value some feedback from you, our listeners.If you enjoy this episode or have any thoughts you’d[...]

What might be the long term impact of the Israel-Hamas war on global alliances? In this week’s audio long read, the New Statesman’s contributing writer John Gray reflects on three weeks of bloodshed, beginning with the massacres of 7 October, and their wider consequences. An escalating conflict will empower Iran and Russia, he writes, as well as strengthen swing states[...]

This Wednesday marked one year of Rishi Sunak as Prime Minister. Following Liz Truss's short, yet chaotic, premiership - has Rishi Sunak managed to stabilise the economy and the Conservative Party? Where does he stand on his 5 pledges? And is he still being haunted by 'Tory sleaze'?Joining Anoosh Chakelian to analyse the first year[...]

Nine days after saying on LBC that “Israel has that right” to cut of water and power off to Gaza, Keir Starmer explained that this wasn't what he meant. This has caused quite a lot of damage, with 23 Labour councillors resigning and over 150 Muslim Labour Councillors now petitioning Labour’s leadership to support an immediate[...]

"We're in a very dangerous and unstable situation"Bruce Hoffman has been observing and studying global terrorism for over 50 years. In this episode he speaks to the New Statesman's Katie Stallard about how the war between Israel and Hamas places the world in danger. They discuss the threat from Hezbollah in Lebanon and the risk[...]

Earlier today, Labour won by-elections in Mid-Bedfordshire and Tamworth - two seats which were previously safe Tory heartlands. Labour leader Keir Starmer has described this result as a "game changer".So how did this pan out, and what does it mean looking ahead to the general election? Are Conservative voters turning to Labour, or are they[...]

Chris Deerin reports from the SNP conference, where even "statesmanlike" Humza Yousaf couldn't outshine a guest appearance from his predecessor Nicola Sturgeon.Chris joins Anoosh Chakelian and Rachel Wearmouth to discuss the mood of the conference, which was heavy on expectation management.Read Chris Deerin's interview with Humza Yousaf:https://www.newstatesman.com/politics/politics-interview/2023/10/humza-yousaf-last-snp-leader-interviewDownload the app:iOS: https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/new-statesman-magazine/id610498525Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.progressivemediagroup.newstatesman&hl=en_GB&gl=USSubscribe to the New Statesman[...]

Cyber-crime is predicted to cost the global economy $8tn this year, in part due to increased remote working - borne out by a spike in malware attacks at the start of the pandemic.But should responsibility for security lie solely with individual employees?“We really think it should be the responsibility of the browser vendor, the web[...]

As Israel prepares a ground attack on Gaza, Katie Stallard is joined by Alona Ferber and Professor Lina Khatib to explore the wider geo-political situation in the Middle East - including mounting violence on Israel's west bank and the looming shadow of Hezbollah in Iran.Follow the New Statesman's reporting and analysis of the crisis in[...]

In May this year, an American woman sought the help of a chatbot on an eating disorders website. The bot, named Tessa and running on an evolving, generative AI, advised her to start counting calories. Perhaps she should get some calipers, it suggested, to measure her body fat. When it emerged that Tessa had given[...]

On this week's You Ask Us we're getting to the heart of British politics and asking, is Paddington a centrist? But before we get there the team answers a listener's question on Rishi Sunak's ambitions for the UK and AI.The host of this podcast is Britain editor Anoosh Chakelian, and joining her is policy and[...]

20 million people in the UK lack the basic digital skills required to download apps, apply for jobs online, or use the internet with confidence. This results in a £5.5bn loss of earnings to UK employees, and is a serious problem for UK productivity and individual quality of life. In this special episode, Jon Bernstein from[...]

Arriving on stage to an attack of glitter from a protester, Labour leader Keir Starmer quickly recovered to deliver his speech. Amongst many mentions of fighting, he promised that as Prime Minister, he will fight "for you".Anoosh Chakelian is joined by deputy political editor Rachel Wearmouth and political correspondent Freddie Hayward to discuss Starmer's vision[...]

Darren Jones, Shadow Chief Secretary to the Treasury, joins the podcast to take us behind the scenes of the Shadow Cabinet's announcements at this year's Labour Party conference, including Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves ' speech which received 7 standing ovations and an endorsement from Mark Carney - the former Bank of England Governor.Joining our host[...]

What are the roots of today’s maternity crisis? Recent research by the Care Quality Commission has found a “concerning decline” in England, with over half of maternity wards rated substandard. Donna Ockenden’s review of Shrewsbury and Telford maternity trust found that, between 2001 and 2019, 201 babies and nine mothers had died avoidable deaths. In this[...]

In what has been described by Keir Starmer as a 'seismic result', Labour has taken the Rutherglen and Hamilton West seat with more than twice the votes received by the SNP candidate. Anoosh Chakelian is joined by Ben Walker, the New Statesman's senior data journalist, and Chris Deerin, Scotland editor, to discuss what this result[...]

Rishi Sunak wrapped up this year's Conservative Party conference with an hour long speech in which he finally announced the long-rumoured cancellation of HS2 Manchester. He also proposed a life-ban on smoking and a replacement for A-levels, as well as waging into the culture wars asserting that 'a man is a man and a woman[...]

Economic growth in the UK is stagnating. Can a radical reshaping of private and public sector roles in core cities help unlock productivity and prosperity in Britain?  The latest in our Spotlight on Policy series welcomes the Mayor of Bristol, Marvin Rees, the CEO of Leeds City Council, Tom Riordan, and PwC’s Public Sector expert Katie[...]

We're bringing you this episode from Manchester where this year's Conservative Party conference is taking place. Rachel Cunliffe, associate political editor, is joined by political correspondent Freddie Hayward, and deputy political editor Rachel Wearmouth to discuss the speculation around the scrapping of HS2 Manchester, as well as Liz Truss's popularity at the conference a year[...]

For today’s Audio Long Read we’re bringing you one from our archives, which is suddenly extremely prescient. This week GB News is in the spotlight once again, this time for broadcasting misogynist comments made by Laurence Fox about a female journalist, Ava Evans. The channel has suspended Fox, along with host Dan Wootton, and has apologised for broadcasting the[...]

The Home Secretary made a speech this week in Washington to a right-wing US think tank called the American Enterprise Institute. She made a number eye-catching statements, including “a misguided dogma of multiculturalism” has proven “toxic” for Europe, and the pace of migrant arrivals posed an “existential threat” to the West.Anoosh Chakelian, Britain editor and[...]

The Conservatives have been in power for more than 13 years under five different prime ministers. We have experienced Cameroon austerity, Mayite statism, Johnsonite populism, and Trussite libertarianism. But who now wields the greatest influence among the Tories and on the British right?George Eaton, senior editor, joins the podcast to discuss the publication of the[...]

Where does the concept of IQ fetishism originate? And why has it resurfaced in contemporary discussions, particularly within the tech-right movement? Join historian Quinn Slobodian as he discusses how IQ-based hierarchies have influenced societal perceptions and policies and the potential societal consequences and divisions resulting from the prevalence of such thinking.The host for this episode[...]

At the time of writing, the crypto billionaire Sam Bankman-Fried is due to stand trial on 3 October 2023. He stands accused of fraud and money-laundering on an epic scale through his currency exchange FTX. Did he gamble with other people’s money in a bid to do the maximum good? In this week’s long read, the New[...]

With both the UK and US elections coming into view, the team consider what's happening with Labour's foreign policy agenda and how the relationship between a Labour government and a Trump government could play out. And another question from a listener casts a look back to the appointment of Jeremy Hunt as Chancellor. Had Sunak[...]

This Wednesday Rishi Sunak gave a speech rolling back on the government’s Net Zero pledges, pushing back the ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars from 2030 to 2035, scrapping plans to force landlords to upgrade the energy efficiency of their homes, watering down the gas boiler phaseout (aiming for 80% rather[...]

Liz Truss thought she had two years to save the economy, but her mini-budget caused it all to blow up in less than two months. We're now a year on from her chaotic 49 day premiership, but there are groups of economists and politicians who think her free-market growth strategy was right and it's only[...]

Fifty years after Salvador Allende was ousted, might his greatest legacy be his battle with the emerging tech giants?On 1 August 1973, a seemingly mundane diplomatic summit took place in Lima, Peru. But there was nothing mundane about its revolutionary agenda. The attendees – diplomats from Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru – aspired to create[...]

Since being recently surpassed by India, Britain has the world's sixth largest economy. But, one listener asks, how do we square this position with the reality of our crumbling services? And on the subject of government funding, another listener asks: will Birmingham City Council's financial crisis will make Labour more weary of devolving power to[...]

The deputy labour leader and “trade union favourite” delivered a speech full of promises at the TUC. Now she has to deliver.Reaffirming Labour’s commitment to the New Deal for Working people, Rayner shored up support among the unions as Labour approaches the next election. But, as Rachel Wearmouth tells Anoosh Chakelian and Freddie Hayward, Rayner’s “one[...]

The UK is one of the largest producers of household electronic waste in the world. In 2022 we threw away nearly 24 kilos of things like plugs, mobile phones and computer hardware per person.   The volume of e-waste produced world-wide is predicted to increase from more than 61 million metric tons this year to nearly 75 million[...]

Rishi Sunak earned almost £5m in the past three years, yet this was only taxed at a rate of 22%. Britain's tax system is broken, focusing on income rather than wealth, and it seems like no one plans on doing anything about this. Shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves has explicitly stated that should Labour come into[...]

After the extreme heat of summer 2024, which saw children stretchered out of their exams, Britain’s prime minister calls a press conference in Westminster Hall. He has one eye on life after office (skiing in Aspen, a big gig in Silicon Valley), but before he leaves, he wants to unveil something truly ground-breaking: a large[...]

We inhabit an economy too small to deliver the social goods British people expect, and now Britain is cracking. From the concrete crises affecting schools across the country, to crumbling policies and leadership on both the right and left, Andrew Marr reflects on the state of the nation and its place in the world.Andrew Marr,[...]

Angela Rayner up, Lisa Nandy down - what’s motivated the moves in Keir Starmer’s shadow cabinet reshuffle this week and what does this tell us about the direction of the Labour party if they get into power?Freddie Hayward, Zoë Grünewald, and Rachel Cunliffe, answer listener questions.Submit a question for You Ask Us: https://www.newstatesman.com/YouAskUsDownload the app:iOS:[...]

Can liberalism survive the horrors of our modern world?Will Lloyd is joined by John Gray political philosopher and author of The New Leviathans: Thoughts After Liberalism. They discuss how Thomas Hobbes seminal work Leviathan can be reinterpreted in the 21st century, particularly in the contexts of Russia, China, and the liberal West.Read more of John[...]

In the summer of 1924, a highly regarded painter falls – or is he pushed? – into the canal while celebrating his exhibition at the Venice Biennale. Two young women are heard running away into the night.In this dazzling new coming-of-age story first published in the New Statesman’s summer issue, the award-winning novelist Jonathan Coe explores the[...]

Rory Stewart, Tony Blair, Alastair Campbell: a listener writes in to ask why centrist politicians align themselves with one party over another?But before the team dissects the evolution of centrist politicians, they turn an imminent matter. Has the recent turmoil and churn, with multiple prime ministers in quick succession, given the UK an appetite for[...]

“History will not remember you kindly” Nadine Dorries’ wrote this weekend in her resignation letter to Rishi Sunak. But this is not the only departure which has been looming over the Conservatives for the past few weeks. This morning former defence secretary Ben Wallace handed in his resignation and was swiftly replaced by Grant Shapps,[...]

For those who leave the ultra-conservative Christian sect, separation comes at great personal cost. The New Statesman’s assistant editor Pippa Bailey had always been curious about the Plymouth Brethren, ever since discovering that her maternal grandparents had left the group in the 1960s. What might her life have been like if they stayed? Who were the[...]

The Conservatives seem intent on fighting the next election on "culture wars" issues. A listener asks, would a Labour government put an end to all that?Also, how does the government control its media messaging? Is there a shadowy office pulling the strings and controlling what journalists report? We look at the concept of "the grid".Anoosh[...]

GCSE and A Level results are out, and the proportion of top grades have dipped since the pandemic years. It's an opportunity for the government and the opposition to talk about their ambitions for education. Are they both failing to do so?Anoosh Chakelian, Rachel Cunliffe and Freddie Hayward discuss the Tory education record, from Michael[...]

After spending several days reporting in Pokrovsk, a small city in eastern Ukraine and the recent target of two missile strikes, Katie Stallard describes the devastating impact of Vladimir Putin’s war on Ukraine’s civilians.“The first strike hit just as people were making dinner, coming home from a long day at work. The first strike hit[...]

What if the rush to war in 1914 had been averted? What if the Berlin Crisis of 1961 had led to nuclear war? What if the liberal revolution of 1848 had been successful? A new exhibition in Berlin considers a series of momentous what-ifs, an intriguing addition to the canon of counterfactual history. In this[...]

Various MPs, including Nadine Dorries, have been accused of not doing their jobs. Should there be a standard of work all MPs must meet? Anoosh and Freddie tackle a listener’s question.Also – much has been said about the similarities and differences between Tony Blair and Keir Starmer, but what about John Major and Rishi Sunak?Submit[...]

Would Labour be radical in office?Freddie Hayward spoke to party insiders to find out – he joins Anoosh Chakelian to talk about how Labour can make meaningful policy changes in an age of cynicism and poor public finances.Read the full article here: https://www.newstatesman.com/politics/uk-politics/2023/08/labours-caution-could-turn-to-radicalism-in-officeSubmit a question for You Ask Us: https://www.newstatesman.com/YouAskUsDownload the app:iOS: https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/new-statesman-magazine/id610498525Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.progressivemediagroup.newstatesman&hl=en_GB&gl=USSubscribe to[...]

Two visions for how Britain can increase productivity and boost growth.Freddie Hayward interviews shadow education secretary Bridget Phillipson and Conservative MP Bim Afolami on how Labour and the Conservatives propose to boost growth and prepare Britain for the future.This conversation was recorded live at the New Statesman’s Politics Live conference on June 27 2023. Book[...]

The novelist Ali Smith first came across the work of Simone de Beauvoir in an Inverness bookshop, aged 18 or 19, and was instantly compelled by her “tough, troubling” prose. In this week’s long read, Smith reflects on De Beauvoir’s 1964 memoir A Very Easy Death, a slight, visceral book about her estranged mother’s death.[...]

Labour’s dominance in the polls draws obvious comparisons with 1997-era New Labour. But is it fair to compare Keir Starmer with Tony Blair – and what should the current Labour leader learn from his predecessor? Anoosh and Freddie tackle a listener’s question.Also – how do we incentivise voter turn out? One listener has a novel[...]

The first residents have boarded the Bibby Stockholm barge moored off the coast of Dorset. Anoosh Chakelian visited Portland to meet locals and asylum seekers, and joins Freddie Hayward in the studio to reveal what she discovered.They also discuss why leaving the European Court of Human Rights is no deterrent for people seeking asylum in[...]

An internet hoax conceived on a fringe message board grew into an online conspiracy theory so far-reaching that it sparked the January 6 attack on the US capitol. Now Qanon has gone global, what are the consequences for politics and society?Rachel Cunliffe is joined by James Ball, journalist and author of The Other Pandemic: How[...]

There is one question the environmental journalist and author George Monbiot is asked more than any other: how do you cope? When your job is to report on the climate crisis, where do you find hope? Monbiot’s answer is a very personal one: he goes sea kayaking – alone, often far off the coast, with[...]

Anoosh Chakelian, Freddie Hayward and Ben Walker answer listener questions.There have been multiple attempts to launch credible new political parties in recent years, but very few have taken hold. Why? A listener, quite possibly the youngest fan of the New Statesman Podcast, asks what it would take for a new party to gain ground in[...]

Yet another by-election could provide a key opportunity for Anas Sarwar’s Scottish Labour to regain lost seats in Scotland.The former SNP MP Margaret Ferrier has been recalled by her Rutherglen and Hamilton West constituents, triggering a by-election. Ben Walker and Freddie Hayward join Anoosh Chakelian on the New Statesman podcast to discuss what the latest[...]

When Labour won Westminster Council from the Conservatives in 2022, they made history.Now in power for the first time ever, the Labour council leadership is faced with the challenge and opportunity of running one of the UK’s richest councils – inheriting what council leader Adam Hug calls “mediocre” and “wasteful” Conservative policies.In this revealing interview,[...]

The Conservative Private Members Committee, informally known as the 1922 Committee (or the ’22), is the Tory confessional, its trade union and backbenchers’ common room. If that makes it sound chaotic (and it sometimes is) it is also the assassination bureau that felled Margaret Thatcher, and, more recently, three prime ministers in four years: Theresa May,[...]

Anoosh Chakelian and Freddie Hayward answer your questions. After a routing in 2015, the Liberal Democrats have languished as a minor player in the Commons while the SNP have enjoyed the advantages of being the third largest party in parliament. Their positions could reverse at the next election. Our listener asks how politics would change if[...]

Keir Starmer has faced criticism for appearing to water down some key environmental policies, particularly in light of Labour's narrow defeat in the Uxbridge and South Ruislip by-election. But is that criticism fair?Anoosh Chakelian and Freddie Hayward discuss how perceived opposition to the Net Zero agenda and schemes like London's Ulez have impacted the green[...]

Shadowy forces, deep state actors in the pay of nefarious oligarchs... or an important part of the political ecosystem?Rachel Cunliffe meets senior figures from three think tanks from across the political spectrum to find out how think tanks work, how they are funded, and the role they play in creating public policy.Guests:Robert Colvile, director of[...]

When Saudi cinemas reopened in 2018, for the first time in 35 years, they screened the Marvel movie Black Panther. Many saw parallels between the kingdom and the fictional world of Wakanda, as crown prince Mohammed bin Salman unveiled ambitious plans for modernisation and an economy that would diversify away from oil, investing in futuristic[...]

In a terrible night of results for Rishi Sunak in rural England, Labour faltered in outer London.Rachel Cunliffe, Anoosh Chakelian, Rachel Wearmouth and Ben Walker analyse the results of the by-elections in Somerton and Frome, Selby and Ainsty, and Boris Johnson’s old seat of Uxbridge and South Ruislip.Submit a question: https://www.newstatesman.com/YouAskUsDownload the app:iOS: https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/new-statesman-magazine/id610498525Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.progressivemediagroup.newstatesman&hl=en_GB&gl=USSubscribe[...]

Keir Starmer says he’ll keep the two-child cap on benefits. Is this a knee-jerk reaction to public opinion, or an attempt at “fiscal discipline”? The New Statesman Podcast team answer your questions. The Labour leader has risked the anger of his own MPs by apparently reneging on a previous commitment to reverse limits on child benefit[...]

Stephen Flynn, Westminster leader of the SNP, speaks to Zoë Grünewald at the New Statesman's Politics Live conference.They discuss the SNP’s ambitions for Scottish independence in the light of Nicola Sturgeon’s resignation, arrest and subsequent release, and how a Labour government under Keir Starmer might relate to the SNP over issues including Brexit in remain-voting[...]

Since 2018, prime minister Pedro Sánchez has led a surprisingly durable and impactful Spanish government, implementing progressive policies such as improved rights for abortion, transgender people and migrants. His coalition government has repositioned Spain as a European “pivot” state, a bridge between north and south, east and west. Its economy is predicted to grow faster[...]

The Conservatives are on track to lose the next election. Who would lead them in opposition?Anoosh Chakelian, Rachel Wearmouth and Zoë Grünewald answer a listener question on the senior Conservatives who currently look most likely to replace Rishi Sunak as Tory leader.They also address whether Keir Starmer will survive as leader of the Labour party[...]

Keir Starmer has finished announcing Labour’s five missions. Are they enough to get Labour into government? Vocational education, social mobility, and breaking the “class ceiling” – Labour’s final "mission" was designed to represent the party’s core values. Keir Starmer's mission-based approach is supposed to give us an insight into how a Labour government might lead the[...]

In this wide-ranging interview with Rachel Wearmouth, Keir Starmer discusses the “really damaged economy” Labour will inherit if they win the next election – and attacks Rishi Sunak for being “out of touch” with ordinary people.Speaking in front of a live audience at the New Statesman politics live conference on 27 June 2023, Starmer said[...]

Anoosh, Freddie and Zoë answer your questions in You Ask Us.Keir Starmer has said that voter reform is not a priority for the Labour party. But in the event of a hung parliament at the next election, he may look to the Liberal Democrats – who have long campaigned for proportional representation – for support.[...]

The UK is experiencing higher inflation than any other G7 country. Ed Conway, Economics editor for Sky News, joins Anoosh, Freddie and Zoë on the New Statesman podcast to explain why Britain appears caught in a "contagious" cycle of economic pain - and why Rishi Sunak and the Bank of England appear unable to break[...]

Following Yevgeny Prigozhin's short-lived mutiny in Russia, the New Statesman's China and Global Affairs Editor Katie Stallard speaks to the historian Vladislav Zubok about what the failed rebellion means for the future of Vladimir Putin's regime. Zubok is professor of international history at the London School of Economics and the author of multiple books including Collapse: The Fall of[...]

In this bonus episode of the New Statesman Podcast, Wes Streeting, the shadow health secretary, meets Phil Whitaker, the New Statesman’s medical editor and a working GP, at his surgery in Somerset, to have a conversation chaired by Anoosh Chakelian.They clash over Streeting’s plans for GPs and how best to take pressure off hospitals, and discuss what the[...]

In this week’s You Ask Us, our polling expert Ben Walker joins the podcast to answer some of your queries. With so many senior MPs standing down at the next election, might there still be a “Portillo moment” when a high-profile Conservative loses their seat, and who will it be? The team also answer consider which party is better[...]

Following Nicola Sturgeon’s evidence session at the Covid inquiry in London, the New Statesman’s Scotland editor, Chris Deerin, joins Anoosh Chakelian and Rachel Wearmouth to discuss what she had to say.They chat about how much the prospect of a no-deal Brexit affected pandemic planning in Scotland, what the relationship between Holyrood and Westminster was like at[...]

Have the newspapers decided who they are going to back at the next general election and if they have will it actually have any impact? The New Statesman’s media correspondent, Will Turvill, joins Rachel Cunliffe to discuss his research into the main papers’ editorials to understand what they might say at the next election and why it still matters.They[...]

In today’s special You Ask Us episode of the New Statesman Podcast, Anoosh Chakelian is joined by Rachel Wearmouth and Freddie Hayward to answer listeners’ questions:They discuss what role Angela Rayner might have in a Starmer government and whether she’s being sidelined. Then they tackle a question on whether Boris Johnson could return to politics through[...]

As the Bank of England raises interest rates again after worse than expected inflation figures, Anoosh Chakelian is joined by Andrew Marr, Rachel Wearmouth and Freddie Hayward to discuss what it all means for voters, the government and the opposition.They discuss why the Conservatives seem unable to come up with a plan to deal with[...]

In this special podcast from the Spotlight team in partnership with Smart Energy GB we're looking at how smart meters can help bring down energy bills.From July ofgem, the regulator, will be reducing the price cap on energy. But household bills in Britain are expected to stay high. The government has an aim for all[...]

As Labour starts to set out its policy agenda for the next election, Anoosh Chakelian speaks to one of the people who helped shape it.Claire Ainsley worked in Starmer’s policy team from 2020 to 2022 – before that she was at the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, and is now a director at the Progressive Policy Institute.[...]

In our weekly You Ask Us episode, Anoosh Chakelian, Rachel Wearmouth and Freddie Hayward answer your questions. This week, they tackle whether Labour’s comparison of the UK economy with Poland and Romania can be considered xenophobic and if London is as Labour as Sadiq Khan thinks. If you have a question for You Ask Us go[...]

As a long-awaited investigation finds Boris Johnson knowingly misled parliament – and disrespected its processes – Anoosh Chakelian, Rachel Wearmouth and Freddie Hayward discuss what the report means for Johnson and his party.They go through what the report found, how Boris Johnson reacted and whether this is ultimately good or bad politically for Rishi Sunak.Our[...]

A bonus podcast from our Spotlight team:Placemaking – the process of creating quality places that people want to live, work, play and learn in – can contribute significantly to the UK’s productivity. It revitalises public spaces, and can lead to a range of societal and economic benefits, including increased levels of employment, better health and[...]

After Nicola Sturgeon's arrest and Boris Johnson flounced out of the Commons over his honours list and the Privileges Committee investigation into whether he misled parliament, the New Statesman Podcast team discuss what all the drama means for the UK. Anoosh Chakelian, Rachel Wearmouth and Ben Walker consider the difficulties Scottish First Minister Humza Yousaf and the SNP[...]

In this week’s You Ask Us, Anoosh Chakelian, Freddie Hayward and Rachel Wearmouth answer listeners’ questions on Caroline Lucas, the Green MP, standing down and why Jamie Driscoll, mayor of the North of Tyne, was blocked from running for the newly created North East mayoralty.If you have a question for You Ask Us you can[...]

As Rachel Reeves returns from her visit to the US – where she was accompanied in Washington DC and New York by the NS editor-in-chief, Jason Cowley – we ask what a Labour government will mean for the economy, and what drives the shadow chancellor both personally and politically.Jason joins Anoosh Chakelian, Rachel Wearmouth and Freddie Hayward[...]

As more allegations of misconduct within the Metropolitan Police reach the courts, Anoosh Chakelian speaks to a former officer about what’s going wrong with British police.Matt Lloyd-Rose speaks to about his new book, an account of his time as a volunteer police officer with the Met. They discuss misogyny and racism, how police officers’ focus[...]

Our business editor Will Dunn joins Anoosh Chakelian and Freddie Hayward to discuss his New Statesman cover feature on the age of greedflation. Some companies have been accused of taking advantage of rising food prices to increase their profit margins. The panel talk about why they have been able to get away with not reducing mark-ups, and[...]

With the Conservative Party showing open divisions, its right emboldened to hold separate conferences, and many Tory MPs already announcing their plans to stand down at the next election, Zoë Grünewald takes a look at what’s happening to moderates in the party. She’s joined by the writer and commentator Benedict Spence, and Ryan Shorthouse, the chief executive[...]

After the local elections in Northern Ireland, Rachel Wearmouth and Freddie Hayward are joined by the Belfast Telegraph reporter Sam McBride to discuss how the different parties did, and what it might mean for the future of power-sharing and the Union as a whole.Then they look at another difficult week for Rishi Sunak, and why Labour feels[...]

Harry Lambert, New Statesman contributing writer, joins Anoosh Chakelian to discuss what could work better in political journalism, the way Westminster and Whitehall are structured, and local government – inspired by two new books, Ian Dunt’s How Westminster Works...and Why It Doesn’t and Paul Johnson’s Follow the Money, on the subject. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As the New Statesman publishes the Left Power List – the 50 most powerful people on the British left – George Eaton, senior editor, joins Anoosh Chakelian, Rachel Wearmouth and Freddie Hayward to discuss who’s on the list and why. They talk about how power has changed on the left, what the reaction has been.Then in You[...]

With rising energy prices, Small businesses are keen to take more control over their bills. Smart meters can help companies understand in detail how they are using energy, which can help find ways to make things more efficient. In this special episode of Spotlight, in partnership with Smart Energy GB we speak to Josh Kay,[...]

In a bonus episode of the New Statesman Podcast, we bring you a discussion between Andrew Marr and David Gauke after the local elections earlier this month, in which the Tories did poorly. They talk about the rise of the “Not the Conservatives” party, the chances of Labour winning the next election, and whether voters are concerned about[...]

 Why is this lying bastard lying to me? That’s the question Jeremy Paxman famously asked when trying to pin down slippery politicians, and it’s the title of Rob Burley’s new book, published on 11 May. With 25 years of experience working with the great political interviewers of our age – from Andrew Neil to Emily Maitlis, and[...]

Now all the local ballots have been counted, Anoosh is joined by Freddie Hayward, Rachel Wearmouth and Ben Walker to work out who did well, who did badly, and what the results might tell us about the next election.They look at what’s behind Labour wins in places like Medway and Thanet, whether Keir Starmer should[...]

In this special edition of the New Statesman Podcast we bring you the New Statesman debate, recorded live at the Cambridge Literary Festival, on the motion: “This house believes it is time for Britain to abolish its monarchy.”  The death of the Queen, followed by Harry and Meghan’s revelations, marked a turning point for the royal family. On the eve[...]

As the first results from the English local elections come in, Rachel Wearmouth, Freddie Hayward and Ben Walker look at what they mean for the main parties. They talk about where the Conservatives are losing, and where Labour, the Lib Dems and the Greens are succeeding.Subscribe to Morning Call Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for[...]

What’s it like to be a child today? Anoosh Chakelian, Rachel Cunliffe and Zoë Grünewald discuss the New Statesman's recent interview with Rachel de Souza, the children’s commissioner for England – who is tasked with protecting and promoting the rights of children – and how government and tech companies are failing young people. We hear about what it’s like to grow up online[...]

Diane Abbott, the former shadow home secretary and ally of Jeremy Corbyn, has been suspended as a Labour MP after she claimed Jewish people cannot be victims of racism, in a letter to the Observerresponding to a column by Tomiwa Owolade, a New Statesman contributing writer. He joins Anoosh Chakelian and Freddie Hayward to talk about her suspension,[...]

In a special episode of the New Statesman Podcast recorded live at the Cambridge Literary Festival, Anoosh Chakelian, Freddie Hayward and Ben Walker discuss Dominic Raab’s resignation and what it means for Rishi Sunak's position. They also examine the Prime Minister's improving poll numbers and ask whether the recovery is real – and what Labour under Keir Starmer is[...]

The local elections in England are on 4 May, with more than 8,000 council seats across the country up for grabs. It is the first major electoral test for Rishi Sunak since becoming Prime Minister and a sign of how things could go in the general election next year. What should we watch out for?  Anoosh[...]

With the public's view of government and parliament at new lows after the pandemic, what can be done to increase belief in politics? Dr Hannah White, director of the Institute for Government, speaks to Zoë Grünewald about her new book Held in Contempt, What’s Wrong with the House of Commons. They discuss how trust was damaged so severely[...]

The US president, Joe Biden, arrived in Belfast on a week-long visit to the island of Ireland marking the 25th anniversary Good Friday Agreement. Northern Ireland has been in a year of political limbo since it’s devolved government collapsed as a result of divisions over the post-Brexit trade regime.Anoosh Chakelian and Rachel Wearmouth are joined by the New[...]

The energy market is complicated. Consumers are understandably confused by the range of tariffs and suppliers – and even by where energy comes from. In 2021, 40 percent of our electricity was generated using gas, around half of which was imported by pipeline from Norway or by ship from places such as Qatar, the United[...]

In this special podcast, nine political editors and writers come together to discuss working at the New Statesman, covering everything from the rise and fall of Thatcher and New Labour through to the coalition government and the recent period of Conservative hegemony. We hear from Patrick Wintour, Sarah Baxter, Steve Richards, Jackie Ashley, Rafael Behr, Mehdi Hasan,[...]

It’s a quarter of a century since a peace deal introduced cross-community power-sharing to Northern Ireland. One of the architects of the deal was Tony Blair’s chief of staff Jonathan Powell. He speaks to the New Statesman's deputy political editor Rachel Wearmouth about how the deal came together, how it has fared since 1998, and the likelihood[...]

The Easter exodus from the UK has begun but holidaymakers hoping for a quick getaway were stranded by lengthy delays at the Port of Dover. Suella Braverman, the Home Secretary, has denied that this was related to Brexit, instead blaming the weather.Anoosh Chakelian, Zoë Grünewald and Ben Walker discuss what’s causing the snarl-up, why evasiveness around[...]

As the Tories increasingly use social issues and culture wars to appeal to voters, we talk about the key MPs behind this trend, analyse how socially conservative the country really is, and debate what this means for the future of the Conservative Party and the UK more broadly. Anoosh Chakelian is joined by Rachel Wearmouth, Rachel[...]

Petty crime is emerging as a central battleground of the next election. The Prime Minister has announced headline-grabbing plans to ban laughing gas (nitrous oxide), which the Levelling Up Secretary, Michael Gove, has described as an “increasing scourge”. This swiftly followed a big speech on law and order from the Labour leader, Keir Starmer, which unveiled ambitions[...]

Has winning the Brexit vote made the Conservative Party ungovernable? That’s the question political scientist Tim Bale is tackling in his new book The Conservative Party After Brexit. He speaks to Anoosh Chakelian about how the party has changed, why its coalition of right-wing populism and free-market fundamentalism is inherently unstable and why the damage could continue[...]

Humza Yousaf is the new leader of the SNP after beating his closest rival, Kate Forbes, by 52 per cent to 48 per cent in the final round of the party’s leadership election.He’s the continuity candidate, but is continuity enough to keep the SNP in power in Holyrood and dominant in Scottish Westminster seats as[...]

During a grumpy four-hour hearing with the Commons Privileges Committee, Boris Johnson appeared to lack the deft political touches that got him into No 10. The team discuss how his performance didn’t help him, why he was unable to lead a dramatic revolt against Rishi Sunak’s Brexit deal, and if this is good or bad[...]

After Jeremy Hunt announced an extension of free childcare provision to children older than nine months in the Budget this week, some parents groups are celebrating – but is this really a victory?Rachel Cunliffe is joined by Zoë Grünewald and Alona Ferber to discuss what was announced, whether it leaves Labour in a difficult position,[...]

Jeremy Hunt presented his first Budget on Wednesday (15 March) as forecasts said that Britain faces a record fall in living standards over the next two years.Anoosh Chakelian is joined by the New Statesman’s political editor, Andrew Marr, and business editor, Will Dunn, to take us through the key measures. They discuss the huge stealth[...]

The local elections in May will be the first time that voters in England must show a form of photo ID to cast their vote. The government has said we need these tough restrictions to combat election fraud but pilots suggest one million voters could be put off voting, with police told to prepare for[...]

Women have turned away from the Conservative Party over the past few decades, who since 2010 have been more likely to vote for Labour. The Conservatives’ failure to support women – who are bearing the brunt of the cost-of-living crisis – has not helped things.Anoosh Chakelian, Zoë Grünewald and Rachel Wearmouth discuss why the Tories have failed[...]

Childcare in the UK is among the most expensive among the countries of the OECD. The lack of affordable and accessible childcare is costing the nation £27bn a year – equivalent to 1 per cent of GDP – according to report by Centre for Progressive Policy. In this bonus episode of the New Statesman podcast, brought to you by[...]

A new report from economics think tank the Centre for Progressive Policy (CPP) reveals the UK is losing 1 per cent of GDP through a lack of suitable childcare. Rachel Cunliffe, Alona Ferber and Zoë Grünewald discuss the cost of Britain’s broken childcare system as the pressure increases for action. We hear from Labour MP Stella Creasy,[...]

Rishi Sunak has agreed a deal with the EU on the Northern Ireland protocol. He has hailed this as a “new chapter” in relations, but will he reap the rewards? Anoosh Chakelian, Freddie Hayward and Rachel Wearmouth discuss the “Windsor framework”, as the deal is known, and what the DUP and hardline Tory Brexiteers will do now. They[...]

Anoosh Chakelian and Zoë Grünewald are joined by two parliamentary researchers to delve into the working conditions, power imbalances and abuses that take place within Westminster. Jenny Symmons and Holly Brazier Tope are senior researchers for Labour MPs and representatives of parliamentary staff for the GMB union. They open up about the problems at their workplace, ranging from[...]

For a hot moment Kate Forbes was favourite to replace Nicola Sturgeon as SNP leader and Scotland’s first minister. But revealing her socially conservative views in a series of interviews, including being against equal marriage, gender self-identification and sex outside of marriage, has dismayed her supporters and jeopardised her campaign. Anoosh Chakelian and Ben Walker discuss[...]

Widespread use of autonomous cars is on the horizon. Self-driving vehicles are already out on our roads. And autonomy will change our relationship with our vehicles. But what will the new immersive world inside a vehicle be like? In the third episode of a three-part special series partnered with Wejo, the smart mobility tech company, a[...]

With the criminal justice system under immense strain, from huge case backlogs to crumbling court buildings and staff shortages, Labour has seized the opportunity to attack the Tories’ record on crime. In a speech on Thursday 16 February the shadow home secretary, Yvette Cooper, declared that “only Labour is the party of law and order”. Rachel[...]

 After surprising the country by announcing her resignation as First Minister and SNP leader, Nicola Sturgeon leaves a vacuum in UK politics. The New Statesman’s Scotland editor, Chris Deerin, joins the podcast to discuss what's behind her decision and what it means for the Union, independence and the prospects of Scottish opposition parties. Then in You Ask[...]

Ahead of the publication of his new book, Life in the Balance: A Doctor’s Stories of Intensive Care, Dr Jim Down speaks to Anoosh Chakelian about the struggles the NHS is facing, why privitisation isn’t the answer, and the toll the job is taking on the mental health of many doctors.Jim’s book is published on 23[...]

Rishi Sunak is struggling to restore order over a divided and unruly Conservative party. His latest attempt, this week, takes the form of a cabinet reshuffle and a restructuring of Whitehall that created four new government departments. Anoosh Chakelian, Rachel Wearmouth and Freddie Hayward break down the main changes and talk about what this disruptive and[...]

Last week the government faced multiple defeats in the House of Lords on its wide-ranging Public Order Bill, which have peers warned would have a chilling effect on the right to protest.As the government continues to try to push its legislation through, Jodie Beck, head of policy and campaigns at the human rights organisation Liberty,[...]

Rishi Sunak is marking 100 days in office just after Britain was hit by the biggest day of industrial action in a decade and the IMF predicted that the UK will be the only major economy to shrink in 2023. With the Tory party engulfed in sleaze and sackings, Sunak is feeling the pressure. Andrew Marr[...]

After a series of by-election victories, could the Lib Dem election machine be powering the party back to its late 90s levels of popularity? Anoosh Chakelian, Freddie Hayward and Ben Walker look at the party’s recent performance, how it is preparing to fight an upcoming election and why Brexit has changed the kinds of seats[...]

Rishi Sunak promised to draw a line under the scandalous Boris Johnson era when he became Prime Minister, but Tory sleaze seems here to stay. He is facing serious questions over the integrity of his party after a succession of allegations against senior figures. Anoosh Chakelian, Freddie Hayward and Will Dunn, the New Statesman’s business editor,[...]

With the crisis in the health service growing, the New Statesman’s medical editor Phil Whitaker speaks to Rachel Cunliffe about his prescription for fixing it. They discuss how the system is currently broken, why the Health Secretary Steve Barclay and the shadow health secretary Wes Streeting could benefit from spending time on the front line with GPs,[...]

A special podcast from Spotlight, the New Statesman’s policy supplement - The New Statesman podcast will return tomorrow.  In 2020, the UK announced the end of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030. At the time, Boris Johnson’s government pledged £1.8bn to support greater uptake of zero emission vehicles, including £1.3bn to rollout more chargepoints[...]

Rishi Sunak’s government has decided to block legislation to simplify gender recognition passed by the Scottish Parliament using a mechanism that’s being described as the “nuclear option”. The decision has precipitated a constitutional crisis, with Nicola Sturgeon calling the decision a “full-frontal attack” on devolution.Anoosh Chakelian, Freddie Hayward and Rachel Wearmouth discuss how a debate[...]

Will Dunn, the New Statesman’s business editor, is joined by the journalist and former political adviser Duncan Weldon to discuss how Britain is facing a decline like never before. They talk about the country’s long history of economic woe and what we can learn from it, why we are feeling the current crisis more acutely than our[...]

After the Prime Minister and the leader of the opposition met across the despatch box for the first time in 2023, Anoosh Chakelian is joined by the New Statesman's Political Editor Andrew Marr and Freddie Hayward to analyse whether Rishi Sunak can start turning his polling figures around.They discuss Sunak’s answers about his use of private[...]

In a devolution special for the New Statesman Podcast, we take a look at how the NHS crisis - and other political problems - are playing out in Scotland and Wales. Our Scotland editor, Chris Deerin, returns to the podcast to speak to Anoosh Chakelian about his own experience in a Scottish hospital, and how[...]

Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer welcomed in 2023 with speeches setting out their priorities for the year and beyond. Anoosh Chakelian, Freddie Hayward and Rachel Cunliffe discuss Sunak’s five pledges and why he appears more Blue Peter presenter than prime minister. They also analyse Starmer’s embrace of a Brexit slogan with his promise to help voters[...]

Half of Britain (51 per cent) wants the voting system to change, according to the British Social Attitudes survey, while only 44 per cent want to retain the current system. Most Labour supporters are in favour and this year the Labour Party conference voted for a manifesto commitment to proportional representation for general elections. Anoosh Chakelian[...]

 In a special episode of the New Statesman Podcast, Harry Lambert joins Anoosh Chakelian to look back at the year in politics.They cast their minds back to the three prime ministers, two monarchs, one controversial beer and korma, and the collapse of more “walls” than you can shake a comedy Lib Dem prop at.You can submit[...]

In the very near future, your car will use data from your mobile device to help you navigate and stay safe. But vehicles already generate useful data. In the first episode of a three-part special partnered series with Wejo, the smart mobility tech company, a panel of expert guests discuss how connected vehicle data is[...]

A special Boxing Day episode hosted by Rachel Cunliffe, looking back at the best (and worst) of the year in culture. She is joined by Tom Gatti, the New Statesman’s executive editor for culture, Kate Mossman, senior writer, and Rachel Cooke, our regular TV critic, to talk about their picks across TV, music, books, and film. In music, they discuss the[...]

It’s been an unprecedented week of strike action involving both nurses and ambulance workers – and the government still refuses to negotiate with NHS unions over pay. Anoosh Chakelian and Zoë Grünewald, the New Statesman’s political reporter, are joined by Dr Emma Runswick, a mental health doctor and deputy chair of council for the British Medical[...]

In a special festive edition of the New Statesman Podcast, NS columnist Jonn Elledge speaks to Rachel Cunliffe about the highs and lows of the year, how Love Actually messed up our politicians, and why residents of a town in Sweden spend every Christmas trying to burn a wooden goat. If you have a question for You Ask Us, go to newstatesman.com/youaskus You can[...]

Nurses in England, Wales and Northern Ireland went on strike today for the first time in their history. With the UK facing “winter lockdown” following the latest wave of strikes and with inflation still high, Rishi Sunak’s government is under pressure. Labour leader Keir Starmer has described the nurses' strike as a “badge of shame for this government”,[...]

After figures showed record net migration to the UK in 2022, is immigration still a toxic political issue? Freddie Hayward talks to Sunder Katwala, director of the think tank British Future, about how public attitudes to immigration have changed, the impact of Brexit, and why the Conservatives may not get much electoral benefit from discussing[...]

The writer, satirist and broadcaster Armando Iannucci returns to the New Statesman Podcast to co-host our third series of Westminster Reimagined. In six special episodes Iannucci explores parts of British public life he believes to be broken, and is joined by guests from inside and outside Westminster to work out how to fix them. In this final episode of the season Iannucci[...]

Keir Starmer dubbed Rishi Sunak the “blancmange prime minister” – comparing him to a particularly weak and wobbly dessert – after he U-turned on new onshore wind farms and mandatory housing targets this week under pressure from Tory MPs. Rachel Wearmouth and Freddie Hayward are joined by Andrew Marr, the New Statesman’s political editor, to discuss Sunak’s struggle to control a[...]

Keir Starmer has used Winchester, the elite independent school Rishi Sunak attended, to attack the Tory party over tax benefits for private schools, saying it amounted to “trickle-down education”. Meanwhile, the Prime Minister defended private schools as a personal choice, accusing Starmer of “attacking the hard-working aspirations of millions of people in this country”. Rachel Cunliffe[...]

The writer, satirist and broadcaster Armando Iannucci returns to the New Statesman Podcast to co-host our third series of Westminster Reimagined. In six special episodes, Iannucci explores the parts of British public life he believes are broken and works out how to fix them with guests from inside and outside Westminster.  In this episode, Iannucci and Anoosh Chakelian, the New[...]

For the first time since 2010, constituency boundaries are set to be redrawn. The Boundary Commission for England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland has published its final proposals, to be followed by final recommendations in 2023 that are likely to be adopted in time for the next election.Anoosh Chakelian and Rachel Wearmouth are joined by[...]

As the Conservative Party deadline approaches for MPs to say whether they want to run in the next election, many young Tory MPs have already announced that they’ve had enough, including the Bishop Auckland MP Dehanna Davison. Charlotte Ivers, the Times Radio presenter and columnist for the New Statesman and Sunday Times, joins Rachel Cunliffe to talk about[...]

The writer, satirist and broadcaster Armando Iannucci returns to the New Statesman Podcast to co-host our third series of Westminster Reimagined. In six special episodes Iannucci explores parts of British public life he believes to be broken, and is joined by guests from inside and outside Westminster to work out how to fix things.In this episode, Iannucci and[...]

Rishi Sunak has denied reports that the government is preparing to seek a “Swiss-style” deal with the EU over the next decade to rebuild economic ties with the trading bloc.Rachel Cunliffe, Rachel Wearmouth and Freddie Hayward discuss why the Prime Minister is incurring the wrath of hardline Tory Brexiteers, the signs of rising public discontent[...]

In 2014, the then prime minister David Cameron commissioned a review into a worrying global phenomenon: an increase in drug-resistant infections. “If we fail to act,” he warned, “we are looking at an almost unthinkable scenario where antibiotics no longer work and we are cast back into the dark ages of medicine.”  The economist Jim O’Neill, who chaired[...]

In a special episode of the New Statesman podcast, recorded live at the Cambridge Literary Festival, Rachel Wearmouth, Freddie Hayward and Ben Walker look back at the last few weeks in politics, including the fall out from the Autumn Statement, how Rishi Sunak is going down with voters and whether Labour is finding its voice.Then they take[...]

The writer, satirist and broadcaster Armando Iannucci returns to the New Statesman Podcast to co-host our third series of Westminster Reimagined. In six special episodes Iannucci explores parts of British public life he believes to be broken, and is joined by guests from inside and outside Westminster to work out how to fix things.  In this episode, Iannucci and[...]

Rachel Cunliffe, Freddie Hayward and Rachel Wearmouth dissect the Autumn Statement, which will leave Britain with highest tax burden since the Second World War. They discuss what to make of the Office for Budget Responsibility’s bleak forecast that living standards are set to collapse by the largest amount on record, and recap how we got[...]

As Rishi Sunak and Jeremy Hunt prepare for a Budget that will likely mean years of austerity, Rachel Cunliffe talks to the Conservative commentator John Oxley about the mess the party finds itself in. They discuss whether the damage done by Liz Truss and Kwasi Kwarteng is reversible, or if the party was in terminal[...]

The legendary writer, satirist and broadcaster Armando Iannucci returns to the New Statesman Podcast to co-host our third series of Westminster Reimagined. Across six special episodes, Iannucci explores parts of British public life he believes to be broken, and is joined by guests from both inside and outside the Westminster world to work out how to fix things.  In this episode, the[...]

Gavin Williamson has resigned from the cabinet as minister without portfolio after a string of bullying allegations, including expletive-laden texts to a female colleague. It’s not the first time he has lost a government job: he was sacked twice before, under Theresa May and Boris Johnson.Anoosh Chakelian, Rachel Wearmouth, Freddie Hayward and Emma Haslett discuss the scandal[...]

As Cop27, the UN climate conference, starts in Egypt, Anoosh Chakelian is joined by India Bourke, our environment correspondent, to discuss why Rishi Sunak U-turned and is now attending, what might be announced and why it’s disappointing that the leaders of so many other countries are not going.Read more:Carbon emissions tracker 2022: How do countries compare? Greta[...]

The writer, satirist and broadcaster Armando Iannucci, returns to the New Statesman Podcast to co-host our third series of Westminster Reimagined. In six special episodes Iannucci explores parts of British public life he believes to be broken, and is joined by guests from inside and outside Westminster to work out how to fix things.   In this episode, Iannucci and[...]

Anoosh Chakelian, the New Statesman’s Britain editor, is joined by Andrew Marr, political editor, and Rachel Wearmouth, deputy political editor, to assess Rishi Sunak’s first ten days in Downing Street, from the damaging re-appointment of Suella Braverman as Home Secretary to mixed messages on his government’s commitment to the climate.They discuss his tricky mandate, the[...]

With the Conservatives on to their fifth prime minister in just six years, we talk to the political scientist and author Brian Klaas about the leadership problem in politics: why the top jobs attract the worst people; why it was a good thing that Truss was able to fail so quickly; and what we need[...]

Rishi Sunak attended his first PMQs on Wednesday 26 October, and seemed to buoy up his divided party with Johnsonite attack lines on Labour – but can he hold on to unity and win back the country’s trust? Anoosh Chakelian is joined by Rachel Cunliffe, Rachel Wearmouth and our business editor, Will Dunn, to discuss Sunak’s[...]

The UK is to have a new prime minister whose policies are unknown and no one but Tory MPs voted for. Public appetite for a general election is high. What will Rishi Sunak, the former chancellor, do when he officially enters No 10, and why did Boris Johnson drop out of the Conservative leadership race[...]

In this bonus episode of the New Statesman Podcast, Rachel Cunliffe interviews the Daily Star deputy editor-in-chief Jon Livesey about how a lettuce livestream helped chronicle the downfall of Liz Truss’s calamitous time in office. They talk about why it cut through to the public, what’s happening to the lettuce now, and which vegetable will come next. Hosted on[...]

Liz Truss has announced she will stand down as prime minister after her government was plunged into chaos yesterday. The Home Secretary was forced to resign, the chief whip attempted to resign, and Tory MPs were allegedly manhandled and reduced to tears over a fracking vote which was (maybe?) a vote of confidence. Rachel Cunliffe, Ben Walker[...]

In a desperate attempt to stabilise the financial markets Jeremy Hunt, the newly appointed Chancellor, has reversed “almost all” of the tax cuts announced in the government’s mini-Budget just three weeks ago.Anoosh Chakelian and Harry Lambert discuss the measures announced in Hunt’s emergency statement this morning, reports that he is now acting effectively as a[...]

Emma Haslett, The New Statesman’s associate business editor, speaks to Gary Stevenson, an economist and former trader for Citibank, a job he initially won in a card game. In 2011 he became the bank’s most profitable trader globally by correctly predicting the economy would not recover from the 2008 financial crash. In 2014 Stevenson quit his job, and he now campaigns[...]

What was left of Liz Truss’s authority visibly dissipated in Prime Minister’s Questions this week. As Freddie Hayward reports, the atmosphere was “funereal”, with the Prime Minister repeating “I’m genuinely unclear” and refusing to talk about market turmoil or tax cuts, only the government’s energy package.Anoosh Chakelian, Rachel Cunliffe, Rachel Wearmouth and Freddie Hayward discuss[...]

Anoosh Chakelian is joined by Dale Vince, a green energy industrialist and founder of Ecotricity, a renewable energy company. Vince’s book Manifesto: How a Maverick Entrepreneur Took On British Energy and Won was published in 2020, charting his journey from leaving school aged 15, to becoming a New Age traveller, and finally into the weird world that[...]

As conference season ends, our Political Editor, Andrew Marr, discusses the Conservative and Labour conferences with Freddie Hayward and Anoosh Chakelian. They reflect on the mood at the Conservative Party conference, whether Liz Truss will get any policy through parliament and if Labour really is more confident that it could return to government. Then in You Ask[...]

Anoosh Chakelian is joined by Freddie Hayward, Rachel Wearmouth and Harry Lambert, who are reporting from the Conservative Party conference in Birmingham.They describe a sense of discord and dissent, with Liz Truss’s U-turn on abolishing the top rate of income tax damaging her credibility and emboldening Tory rebels. The team discuss the open speculation by[...]

This is a special episode recorded live at the New Statesman’s fringe event at this year’s Labour Party conference in Liverpool. Anoosh Chakelian sits down with Andy Burnham and Sadiq Khan to discuss what levelling up should look like under Labour, where they stand on electoral reform and why they have very different political styles.Podcast listeners can subscribe to[...]

With the cost of debt rising and the pound still falling, just how much damage has the Conservatives’ mini-Budget done to the economy?To unpick what’s going on, Anoosh Chakelian is joined by David Gauke, who was work and pensions secretary and chief secretary to the Treasury under Theresa May, and by the economist and author[...]

Anoosh Chakelian and Freddie Hayward are joined by Ed Miliband, the shadow climate change and net zero secretary and former Labour leader, to discuss Keir Starmer’s speech from the Labour Party conference in Liverpool.They discuss the pledge to create a publicly owned “Great British energy” company to cut bills and the conference slogan “A fairer,[...]

Anoosh Chakelian, Freddie Hayward and Rachel Wearmouth report from the Labour Party conference in Liverpool.They discuss the remarkably upbeat mood among the party faithful, the headline policy announcements so far, and the alternative vision for the economy set out by the shadow chancellor, Rachel Reeves, as the pound continues to plummet after Liz Truss’s tax-cutting[...]

Kwasi Kwarteng, the Chancellor, presented a mini-Budget today (23 September) whose centrepiece was the biggest tax cuts in decades in an attempt to stimulate the economy. Anoosh Chakelian, Rachel Wearmouth, Rachel Cunliffe and Emma Haslett take us through the announcements that shocked the House of Commons. They discuss how these ideological policies will disproportionately benefit the[...]

The UK has a housing crisis: in the past decade, decent and stable living arrangements have become an impossible dream for many.The New Statesman’s senior associate editor Rachel Cunliffe speaks to Hashi Mohamed, author of A Home of One’s Own, which draws on his own history of housing insecurity and his professional career as a planning barrister,[...]

The newly appointed Chancellor of the Exchequer, Kwasi Kwarteng, is facing criticism after he sacked Tom Scholar, permanent secretary at the Treasury since 2016, and following reports that he plans to scrap caps on banker bonuses.  Anoosh Chakelian is joined by Harry Lambert, Freddie Hayward and Rachel Wearmouth to discuss what’s really behind the sacking of the[...]

The ceremonies following the death of the Queen continue this week. Freddie Hayward speaks to Anoosh Chakelian about what the mood has been like at the public events, and whether some of the policing has been heavy handed.Then in You Ask Us they answer a listener’s question about whether the events have affected parliament’s ability[...]

A special podcast from the New Statesman to reflect on the death of Elizabeth II and the accession of Charles III. Andrew Marr, political editor, Megan Gibson, international editor, and Rachel Cunliffe, senior associate editor, join Anoosh Chakelian, Britain editor, to discuss the impact that the Queen had on the country, the reaction to her death[...]

The Prime Minister, Liz Truss, has announced her plans to help with the energy crisis. Anoosh Chakelian is joined by the New Statesman’s political editor, Andrew Marr, and deputy political editor, Rachel Wearmouth, to discuss Truss’s first few days in office and how her energy price cap is likely to go down with the public.Then, in[...]

As predicted, Liz Truss has beaten Rishi Sunak in the race to become the next prime minister of the UK. She won the Tory leadership contest by a comfortable majority, securing 81,326 votes (57 per cent) to Sunak’s 60,399 (43 per cent). Anoosh Chakelian, Rachel Wearmouth, Freddie Hayward and Ben Walker discuss her promises to “deliver”[...]

With just days until we find out who Britain’s next prime minister will be, we take a look back at the outgoing Conservative leader: what shaped Boris Johnson? How did he rise to power? What do his three years in office mean for his successor and how the media will cover them?Rachel Cunliffe speaks to[...]

As the cost-of-living crisis and rapidly rising energy prices look set to push the UK into recession, how bad is the situation and what could be done about it?The economist and journalist Duncan Weldon speaks to Will Dunn, the New Statesman’s business editor, about just how serious the crisis is, how it compares to the[...]

The Conservative leadership contest limps towards its conclusion with Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak attending the final hustings this week. And as the country heads towards a difficult winter, raw sewage is being pumped into Britain’s waterways and the economy goes from bad to worse. Anoosh Chakelian, Freddie Hayward and Rachel Cunliffe discuss the leadership hopefuls’[...]

As the US president Joe Biden starts to turn around his poor polling figures ahead of the midterm elections later this year, are there lessons that the Labour leader Keir Starmer can learn from his Democrat counterpart? The veteran campaigner Matthew McGregor, who worked for Ed Miliband and supported digital campaigns for the Democrats in[...]

UK inflation has risen above 10 per cent for the first time in 40 years, driving the fastest fall in real pay on record. The defining challenge for the next prime minister will be preventing millions from facing destitution this winter.Rachel Wearmouth and Freddie Hayward are joined by Emma Haslett, the New Statesman’s associate business editor, to[...]

The Labour leader Keir Starmer has announced that the party wants to tackle the energy bills crisis by freezing the energy price cap, to be chiefly funded by a windfall tax. Has Labour finally shown its economic competence?Rachel Wearmouth is joined by Freddie Hayward and Ben Walker to discuss the plans, whether they’ve come at[...]

Against the backdrop of a predicted massive increase in energy bills and the coming recession, the Tory leadership contest grinds grimly on. There is a palpable feeling that the country is adrift, with Rishi Sunak and Liz Truss focused on personal attacks and appealing to the Tory party membership. Rachel Cunliffe, Freddie Hayward and Ben Walker[...]

After more factional strife within Labour, the academic and former Downing Street staffer Patrick Diamond speaks to Anoosh Chakelian about his new book: Labour's Civil War: How infighting has kept the left from power (and what can be done about it). They discuss the party’s history of fighting itself, what lessons can be learned from its time[...]

This podcast is sponsored by Rio AI As the world faces a climate emergency, what power do ordinary people have to try and shape the way big companies behave. One of the biggest areas of investment is our pension funds – but do we have the information or ability to shape how companies invest our money?Philippa[...]

The Bank of England has raised interest rates by 0.5 per cent to 1.75 per cent, the highest increase in 27 years, and predicts that the UK will enter a deep recession within months. As the cost-of-living crisis worsens and with strikes planned throughout the summer, Labour remains split over frontbenchers joining picketing workers. Anoosh Chakelian,[...]

With the Conservative leadership hopefuls offering competing promises of tax cuts, the New Statesman podcast looks at whether either has anything to say about Britain’s cost-of-living crisis.Anoosh Chakelian is joined by Rachel Wearmouth, deputy political editor, and Emma Haslett from the New Statesman’s business desk to pick through the promises, and ask whether Rishi Sunak’s[...]

Two years after it was commissioned, the Forde report into infighting in the Labour Party during the years of Jeremy Corbyn’s leadership has finally been published. Such tensions have never fully gone away. Keir Starmer sacked Sam Tarry, a shadow transport minister, on July 27 after he joined a rail picket line against the leadership’s instructions.Anoosh[...]

 After Boris Johnson talked of a "deep state" undermining his ability to govern, have we entered an era of conspiracy theories? Jonn Elledge, one of the authors of a new book, Conspiracy: A History of Boll*cks Theories and How Not To Fall For Them, talks to Rachel Cunliffe about how conspiracy theories are nothing new. They discuss[...]

With Penny Mordaunt having been eliminated from the contest on Wednesday 20 July, either Rishi Sunak or Liz Truss will become Britain’s next prime minister.  Anoosh Chakelian and Rachel Cunliffe speak to the New Statesman’s political editor, Andrew Marr, about how the Johnson “loyalist” and the “traitor” emerged victorious, whether Boris Johnson will indeed be back as he hinted in[...]

This evening one of the remaining five candidates to be the next prime minister will be eliminated in a vote of MPs. Anoosh Chakelian is joined by Rachel Cunliffe, Ben Walker and Rachel Wearmouth, our new deputy political editor, to discuss who came out of the two debates over the weekend best and why Labour[...]

Rory Stewart, the former international development secretary and Conservative leadership candidate, speaks to Rachel Cunliffe about the lessons he learned from running for leader in 2019. They talk about whether this year’s candidates show growing diversity in the party, why our political culture has got so bad at argument and debate, and what he got[...]

Nadhim Zahawi, Jeremy Hunt and Suella Braverman have been eliminated from the Conservative leadership election, with Penny Mordaunt climbing to second place behind Rishi Sunak. Anoosh Chakelian, Freddie Hayward and Harry Lambert discuss the remaining candidates in this unpredictable race, the latest polling on front-runners Penny Mordaunt and Rishi Sunak, and whether being a “fresh face” will ultimately[...]

At the time of recording, 11 Conservative MPs had launched official bids to replace Boris Johnson as prime minister. Anoosh Chakelian, Freddie Hayward and Ben Walker discuss the candidates' prospects, promises and pitfalls – as well as how the leadership election could reshape the Conservative Party.Then in You Ask Us, a listener asks which Tory candidate would pose the biggest[...]

After a dramatic twenty-four hours in which over fifty ministers and advisors resigned from government, Boris Johnson has finally admitted defeat and announced he will step down as prime minister and leader of the Conservative Party. In his speech to the public at lunchtime today, he set out his desire to remain in post as a[...]

After a torrid 24 hours in Westminster for Boris Johnson, in which Rishi Sunak and Sajid Javid both resigned, Anoosh Chakelian is joined by Harry Lambert, Ben Walker and Rachel Cunliffe to discuss whether this, finally, is a mess that the Prime Minister can't get out of. Is this the straw that broke the camel’s[...]

This special episode was recorded live at the New Statesman’s Politics Live event.  Keir Starmer speaks to Rachel Wearmouth, currently the senior political correspondent at the Mirror, but soon to join the New Statesman as deputy political editor. They discuss the radical views of his youth, his promise for economic growth, and why he is scrapping the 2019 Labour Party[...]

Nicola Sturgeon, Scotland’s First Minister and leader of the SNP, has announced that she wants to hold a second independence referendum on 19 October 2023. The constitutional debate was widely seen to be at a political deadlock, but now it enters a new phase.Anoosh Chakelian is joined by Chris Deerin, the New Statesman Scotland editor, to discuss[...]

As the official measure of inflation in the UK hits 9.1 per cent, Anoosh Chakelian is joined by the New Statesman business team, Will Dunn and Emma Haslett, to discuss why inflation is hitting the country so badly.How much is Brexit making matters worse, and is inflation simply a worldwide problem? And what can the government do[...]

In a major blow to Boris Johnson, the Conservatives have lost the seats of Tiverton and Honiton and Wakefield to the Liberal Democrats and Labour respectively, by double-digit margins. In the wake of the results, Oliver Dowden, the co-chairman of the Conservative Party, became the first cabinet minister to resign (if implicitly) over the PMs[...]

 With just a few days until the Tiverton and Honiton by-election on 23 June, Anoosh Chakelian is joined by the New Statesman’s business editor and Devonian Will Dunn, who has returned from a reporting trip to the south-west constituency. They discuss how cost of living is the big issue on the doorstep, why the Lib Dems have[...]

The by-election in Wakefield on June 23 will be a crucial test of whether Labour can win the Red Wall back from the Conservatives. The election was triggered by the resignation of the Conservative MP Imran Ahmad Khan after he was found guilty in April of sexually assaulting a teenaged boy. Khan was elected in the[...]

The New Statesman podcast takes a special look at the Green Party, following their success in the local elections. Why did they do so well in May? And how can they build on this to become a major player in UK politics? Anoosh Chakelian is joined by our polling expert, Ben Walker, and environment correspondent India Bourke. If you[...]

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is attempting yet another relaunch of his government just days after 148 MPs told him they don’t have confidence in his leadership. Anoosh Chakelian, Rachel Cunliffe and Harry Lambert discuss the rebels' next move, what this means for the government, and whether Keir Starmer should have been more aggressive at PMQs. Then[...]

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has won a vote of confidence from Conservative MPs. But 148 members voted against him, leaving a split party. In this special episode of the New Statesman Podcast, recorded at the Tate Britain just down the road from the Palace of Westminster, Rachel Cunliffe interviews the political editor Andrew Marr on where this[...]

On the day that Boris Johnson faces a vote of no confidence in his leadership, Rachel Cunliffe speaks to Harry Lambert, senior political correspondent, and Ben Walker, the New Statesman’s polling expert, about how we got here.They talk about the Prime Minister’s chances of survival, the damage done to him already and what to expect[...]

The campaign to remove Boris Johnson as Prime Minister is building. The steady trickle of letters from Conservative MPs declaring they have no confidence in him and criticism from high-profile dissenters has sparked speculation that there could be a vote as early as next week.Anoosh Chakelian, Rachel Cunliffe and Freddie Hayward discuss what’s causing the[...]

Fresh from Sydney, Professor Marc Stears, a former Labour speechwriter and author of its 2015 manifesto, tells Anoosh Chakelian what Labour can learn, and where Keir Starmer is going wrong.Stears reflects on how Anthony Albanese, the new Labor prime minister of Australia, avoided culture warring with Scott Morrison, his predecessor, what Keir Starmer can learn[...]

Sue Gray’s long-awaited report has been published at last. It contains lurid details of excessive drinking and partying at Downing Street during lockdown, as well as a “lack of respect and poor treatment” towards cleaners and security guards. But what does it mean for Boris Johnson? Anoosh Chakelian, Rachel Cunliffe, Freddie Hayward and Harry Lambert discuss[...]

Jeremy Hunt tells Anoosh Chakelian how he regrets the "silent killer" of social-care cuts made when he was in the cabinet, calls for the "penny to drop" for the current health secretary Sajid Javid on properly funding social care, and warns of electoral woes for the Tories in their southern English "heartlands". He also admits[...]

UK inflation has reached its highest rate in 40 years, jumping from 7 per cent in March to 9 per cent in the year to April. With inflation hitting the poorest hardest, pressure is growing on the government to reverse its opposition to a windfall tax on energy profits. Anoosh Chakelian is joined by the New Statesman's associate business editor[...]

While polling revealed exclusively by the New Statesman suggests that voters aren’t divided on so-called culture war issues, the Johnson administration is putting them at the centre of its political project. To understand why the Prime Minister seems intent on winning a war that doesn’t exist, Anoosh Chakelian is joined by Kim Leadbeater, Labour MP for Batley and Spen, who[...]

Having cast himself as “Mr Rules” in opposition to Boris Johnson, Keir Starmer's reputation hangs in the balance amid allegations of breaking Covid restrictions. Anoosh Chakelian is joined by the NS's political editor, Andrew Marr, to discuss Starmer’s future, the mutinous atmosphere in the Labour machine and rumours of runners and riders who could replace him. Then they answer a listener’s question[...]

The renowned satirist and broadcaster Armando Iannucci returns to the New Statesman Podcast to co-host five more special episodes. In these shows Iannucci, explores the parts of British public life that he believes are broken, and he will be joined by guests from both inside and outside Westminster to discuss how politics could be better.In this episode,[...]

Voters in many areas deserted the Conservatives in last week's local elections, yet this was not a comprehensive victory for Labour. Anoosh Chakelian is joined by the New Statesman’s polling expert Ben Walker and political reporter Freddie Hayward to discuss the headline results and whether Labour has achieved the sea change it needs ahead of the next general election. Next, they turn to[...]

As voting in the local elections begins, Anoosh Chakelian is joined by the New Statesman’s polling expert Ben Walker to discuss key councils to watch and predict the outcome. They talk about the driving forces behind people’s votes, from partygate and rising living costs to potholes, and what the political consequences of the results could be. Then they answer listeners’ questions on[...]

The renowned satirist and broadcaster Armando Iannucci returns to the New Statesman Podcast to co-host five more special episodes. In these shows Iannucci, explores the parts of British public life that he believes are broken, and he will be joined by guests from inside and outside Westminster to discuss how politics could be better.In this episode, Iannucci[...]

Anoosh Chakelian chairs a special episode of the New Statesman Podcast, recorded live at the Cambridge Literary Festival. In recent years, Britain has witnessed the unlawful prorogation of parliament; debacles in the management of public health, education and immigration; and scandals of cronyism, incompetence and sleaze. How has the cultural and political debate become so degraded? Can such failures[...]

The misogyny that many women working in parliament experience has reared its ugly head once more. Anoosh Chakelian, Ailbhe Rea and Harry Lambert discuss the latest revelations of sexual misconduct at Westminster and the personal cost for the women who speak out.The team then discuss Labour’s prospects for the local elections and whether the cost of living,[...]

The renowned satirist and broadcaster Armando Iannucci returns to the New Statesman Podcast to co-host five more special episodes. In these shows Iannucci, explores the parts of British public life that he believes are broken, and he will be joined by guests from both inside and outside Westminster to discuss how politics could be better.In this episode,[...]

With partygate rumbling on and Boris Johnson referred to the House of Commons’ Committee of Priviliges, Anoosh Chakelian speaks to Hannah White, the deputy director of the Institute for Government.  White is a former civil servant who worked on standards in public life and as a Commons clerk. She explains exactly how the privileges committee works,[...]

As MPs debate the fallout from partygate, Anoosh Chakelian is joined by Andrew Marr, political editor, and Freddie Hayward, political reporter, to discuss why Boris Johnson may still be safe as PM and the opinions of Conservatives about their leader.Then in a special section on Northern Ireland, Ailbhe Rea reports from Belfast on what is[...]

The legendary writer, satirist and broadcaster Armando Iannucci returns to the New Statesman podcast to co-host five more special episodes. In these shows, Iannucci explores parts of British public life he believes to be broken, and is joined by guests from both inside and outside Westminster to discuss how politics could be better.In this episode, Armando and Anoosh Chakelian examine whether[...]

A devolution special of the New Statesman Podcast looks ahead to the local elections in Scotland and Wales. Anoosh Chakelian is joined by Scotland Editor Chris Deerin to discuss Scotland, including Nicola Sturgeon's face mask slip-up, why the real race is for second, and whether Labour can win back Glasgow. Anoosh then talks about the state of play in[...]

When the Taliban took control of Kabul in August 2021, the Koofi family were among 8,000 Afghans airlifted to safety in the UK, as part of the government’s Operation Warm Welcome. The New Statesman’s Sophie McBain met them in a hotel in the north of England soon afterwards, where they were waiting to be resettled. As the[...]

Boris Johnson, Rishi Sunak and Carrie Johnson have all received fixed-penalty notices for attending parties in Downing Street during lockdown, but could the Prime Minister now be safer than he was at the height of partygate?Harry Lambert, Senior Correspondent, joins Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea to discuss the fines, the downfall of Rishi Sunak and[...]

The legendary writer, satirist and broadcaster Armando Iannucci returns to the New Statesman podcast to co-host five more special episodes. In these shows, Iannucci explores parts of British public life he believes to be broken, and is joined by guests from both inside and outside Westminster to discuss how politics could be better.In this episode, Armando and Ailbhe Rea examine the[...]

As Rishi Sunak comes under investigation by the government’s standards watchdog, Ailbhe Rea and Anoosh Chakelian discuss the fallout from the revelations about the Chancellor and the tax affairs of his wife, Akshata Murty, and why it shows he is still naïve as a politician.Then in You Ask Us, they answer a listener’s question about how Labour[...]

Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea are joined by the senior data journalist Ben Walker to mark the launch of State of the Nation, the New Statesman’s new data site for understanding Britain in numbers, maps, words and charts.Ben responds to listeners’ questions on what’s going on in the polls. Do they show an increase for Labour and Keir[...]

As the EU and UK debate further sanctions on Russia after evidence of massacres by Russian forces in Bucha, north of Kyiv, Ailbhe Rea speaks to the exiled opposition campaigner Vladimir Ashurkov.They discuss how London got its reputation for hosting the world’s dirty money, why it took so long for the UK to take the[...]

As the fallout from Rishi Sunak’s Spring Statement continues, New Statesman Political Editor Andrew Marr joins Ailbhe Rea to discuss why it was received quite so badly and whether it has ruined the Chancellor’s hopes of becoming prime minister. Then, as partygate returns to the news, they look at whether it is now too late for the[...]

This special episode of the New Statesman Podcast marks “A Dream of Britain”, the New Statesman’s latest issue. It is guest edited by Michael Sheen and explores class, culture and identity in Britain today.Anoosh Chakelian is joined by the writer and academic Gary Younge, the Turner Prize-winning artist Jeremy Deller, and the New Statesman editor-in-chief Jason Cowley to discuss why it is[...]

Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss Rishi Sunak’s Spring Statement as the Office for Budget Responsibility warns the UK is about to face the biggest rise in the cost of living since records began. They discuss why Sunak still wants to be seen as a low-tax Chancellor, whether any of his measures will make a difference[...]

Ahead of his guest-edited issue of the New Statesman, the actor and campaigner Michael Sheen speaks to Anoosh Chakelian for a special episode of the New Statesman podcast. Titled "A Dream of Britain", the magazine explores what British identity means in 2022. They discuss why he wanted to tackle the idea of our national story, how widening inequality and the British obsession[...]

P&O Ferries caused outrage last week (17 March) when it sacked 800 crew members to replace them with “cheap agency workers from eastern Europe” overnight. Anoosh Chakelian is joined by the Labour MP for Kingston upon Hull East, Karl Turner, who has been on King George Dock advocating for local workers who lost their jobs. They discuss the stand-off[...]

Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe has been reunited with her family in Britain, having been imprisoned for years in Iran on charges of seeking to overthrow the country’s government, which she has always denied. Her release along with another dual citizen, Anoosheh Ashoori, came after the payment of a long withheld £450m debt owed by the British government to Iran. Ailbhe[...]

As the government scrabbles its policy together for Ukrainian refugees, the Labour peer and refugee campaigner Alf Dubs tells Anoosh Chakelian that the response has been a "disgrace". He discusses how the government finds itself on the wrong side of public opinion, why Priti Patel is the worst Home Secretary he's worked with, and why he'd[...]

The owner of Chelsea Football Club, Roman Abramovich, and leading industrialist Oleg Deripaska are among the seven wealthy and influential Russian oligarchs who have been sanctioned by the UK over Russia’s war in Ukraine.Anoosh Chakelian is joined by the New Statesman’s associate editor of business, Emma Haslett, to discuss the UK’s history of welcoming and protecting Russian[...]

As parliament rushes through the Economic Crime Bill in an attempt to toughen sanctions on Russian oligarchs, investor and anti-corruption campaigner Bill Browder talks to Anoosh Chakelian about the impact of sanctions on Russia. He opens up about whether the UK has gone far enough, the psychology of Russian oligarchs, and why we should boycott McDonald’s. If[...]

As Russia’s invasion of Ukraine enters a second week, the New Statesman’s polling expert Ben Walker joins Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea to talk about the latest polls.They discuss exclusive polling for the New Statesman published today on Boris Johnson’s approval rating since the war began, as well as public attitudes to the UK government’s stance on Ukrainian refugees and economic sanctionsagainst Russia. Then in You Ask[...]

As the UK considers further sanctions on oligarchs linked to Vladimir Putin, Ailbhe Rea speaks to the journalist and author Oliver Bullough about how London became the home for so much Russian money. They talk about the ways in which the huge volumes of money corrupt all parts of public life, the spotlight that the invasion[...]

As Russia invades Ukraine, Boris Johnson has come under fire from allies and critics alike for his feeble attempt to clamp down on Russian wealth in the UK. In an address to the nation this morning (24 February), the Prime Minister vowed that Britain “cannot and will not just look away” ahead of the announcement of further sanctions against[...]

The New Statesman’s Britain editor Anoosh Chakelian interviews the satirist and broadcaster Andy Zaltzman, the host of Radio 4’s The News Quiz and the podcast The Bugle. Ahead of his Satirist for Hire tour, they talk about the history of political comedy, whether there are some topics too serious to joke about, and if you can really have political balance in comedy.Plus,[...]

Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea host a special episode to say goodbye to Stephen Bush.   Kir royales are sunk and Stephen takes an audio trip down memory lane, featuring a rendition of “American Pie”, this time about Scottish Labour, as well as his teenage Harry Potter fanfiction and his honest opinion on “Devil with the Devil”.   Then in You[...]

As Theresa May’s final chief of staff, Gavin Barwell knows what it’s like to see a party oust its leader first-hand. He speaks to political correspondent Ailbhe Rea about what it takes to get rid of a leader, where Boris Jonson is going wrong, and whether the Conservatives still feels like his party. Then in a special We[...]

As parliament enters recess, against all the odds Boris Johnson has clung onto his premiership. Anoosh Chakelian, Ailbhe Rea and Stephen Bush discuss the PM's various survival strategies, the ongoing police investigation into parties held in Downing Street and the political calculations of leadership contenders.  Then in You Ask Us, a listener asks what is Jacob Rees-Mogg's plan[...]

Anoosh Chakelian, Ailbhe Rea and Stephen Bush discuss the latest events in the crisis surrounding Boris Johnson, including the appointment of the MP Steve Barclay and the former GB News presenter Guto Harri to key Downing Street jobs.They explain why the resignation of Munira Mirza from the No 10 Policy Unit was so important and whether[...]

The New Statesman’s incoming political editor Andrew Marr makes his New Statesman podcast debut to discuss his cover story on Boris Johnson’s moment of peril with Anoosh Chakelian, Britain editor. They talk about what’s gone wrong for Johnson, whether the current crisis is terminal and who could be the next Prime Minister. If you have a question for You[...]

With a trickle of letters to the 1922 Committee chairman and Labour pivoting to take the Conservative Party to task for low economic growth and an incoming tax rise, could Boris Johnson soon face a vote of no confidence after all?Anoosh Chakelian, Ailbhe Rea and Stephen Bush discuss the Prime Minister’s fate and the catastrophic impact of the[...]

A special episode of the New Statesman podcast recorded immediately after Boris Johnson’s announcement on the published Sue Gray report. A heavily censored version of Sue Gray’s report has finally been published, as 12 of the 16 alleged gatherings at Downing Street are currently being investigated by the Metropolitan Police. Anoosh Chakelian and Stephen Bush discuss the hostility of[...]

Ailbhe interviews the Bury South MP Christian Wakeford, who dramatically defected from the Tories to Labour at the height of partygate.  They talk about why he did it, what the reaction has been from friends as well as new colleagues, and how the whips threaten new MPs.  If you have a question for You Ask Us, email podcasts@newstatesman.co.uk[...]

As Westminster waits for Sue Gray’s report on Downing Street’s lockdown-breaking parties, the Metropolitan police has announced that it will begin an investigation into the alleged incidents.  Stephen Bush, Ailbhe Rea and Anoosh Chakelian discuss Boris Johnson’s confident performance at Prime Minister’s Questions and why the investigation matters. Then in You Ask Us, a listener asks whether Keir Starmer[...]

The New Statesman’s Scotland editor Chris Deerin joins Ailbhe Rea and Stephen Bush to discuss the growing rift between the Scottish Conservatives and the national party in Westminster.They talk about how the Scottish Tories have become alienated from the party, whether it could harm them in the local elections in May, and whether they could[...]

The senior Conservative MP William Wragg has accused government ministers of intimidating and attempting to blackmail colleagues who they suspect oppose the Prime Minister, adding that the incidents should be reported to the police. While Christian Wakeford’s defection appears to have united Conservative MPs to help Boris Johnson survive another week, the PM is not in the clear[...]

A special episode of the NS podcast recorded immediately after a dramatic Prime Minister’s Questions. Boris Johnson is facing an escalating leadership crisis over allegations that a string of parties were held across Whitehall during lockdown. Christian Wakeford, the MP for Bury South, defected to Labour just minutes before PMQs, while in an equally dramatic moment David Davis urged him[...]

The New Statesman’s polling expert Ben Walker joins Anoosh Chakelian, Ailbhe Rea and Stephen Bush to talk about the latest polls in the aftermath of the No 10 party revelations. They discuss whether this could do long-term damage to the Conservative Party, how soft the labour lead is and why Ben was wrong on North Shropshire. Then in You[...]

Boris Johnson has been caught red-handed and forced to admit that he attended a party in the Downing Street garden in May 2020, however he claimed that he believed it was a “work event”. Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea, discuss his chances of survival and the awkward questions this culture of insouciance raises for his potential successors. Then in[...]

Welcome to Prime Ministerial. In each episode Jonn Elledge and Stephen Bush will look at the legacy of the previous six prime ministers and ask whether they achieved success on their own terms. This final episode examines Margaret Thatcher’s premiership. The first woman to be prime minister and one of the Conservative Party’s most successful election[...]

Boris Johnson’s approval rating plummeted at the end of 2021 following a string of Christmas parties at No 10, sleaze scandals and senior resignations – and his troubles continue into 2022.    Anoosh Chakelian and Stephen Bush discuss whether the Prime Minister can survive as energy bills soar, taxes rise in April and pressure mounts on an overwhelmed and underfunded NHS.   Then[...]

Welcome to Prime Ministerial. In each episode Jonn Elledge and Stephen Bush will look at the legacy of the previous six prime ministers and ask whether they achieved success on their own terms. This episode examines John Major’s premiership. Major inherited a majority government in 1990 after Margaret Thatcher was driven out of office. Against the[...]

Welcome to Prime Ministerial. In each episode Jonn Elledge and Stephen Bush will look at the legacy of the previous six prime ministers and ask whether they achieved success on their own terms. This episode focuses on Tony Blair. As one of the architects of New Labour, he returned the party to power after 18 years.[...]

Welcome to Prime Ministerial. In each episode Jonn Elledge and Stephen Bush will look at the legacy of the previous six prime ministers and ask whether they achieved success on their own terms. This episode focuses on Gordon Brown. When the former chancellor of the exchequer took office, he emphasised his breach with his predecessor Tony[...]

Welcome to Prime Ministerial. In each episode Jonn Elledge and Stephen Bush will look at the legacy of the previous six prime ministers and ask whether they achieved success on their own terms. This episode focuses on David Cameron. A special adviser during the Major government, he eventually succeeded his old boss, Michael Howard, as party[...]

Welcome to Prime Ministerial. Each episode Jonn Elledge and Stephen Bush will look at the legacy of the previous six prime ministers and ask whether they achieved success on their own terms. Episode one focuses on Theresa May. May took office in the aftermath of the vote to leave the EU, she promised to unite the[...]

The Conservative Party has lost North Shropshire for the first time in nearly 200 years, to the Liberal Democrats. The shocking defeat follows months of sleaze and Christmas party scandals, and with new Plan B Covid restrictions, confidence in Boris Johnson’s leadership has collapsed. Ailbhe Rea and Stephen Bush discuss the mood on the ground in North Shropshire and the story[...]

New Statesman data journalist Ben Walker joins Anoosh Chakelian, Ailbhe Rea and Stephen Bush in our monthly polling update. They discuss the impact of the No 10 Christmas party revelations, the public’s appetite for Covid restrictions, how inflation could influence the way people vote, and what might happen in the North Shropshire by-election on 16 December. Then[...]

Allegra Stratton has resigned as a government adviser after a video that showed her laughing about a Downing Street Christmas party, reportedly held during the peak of lockdown in December last year, was leaked to the media. The government continues to deny that the party took place. Anoosh Chakelian, Ailbhe Rea and Stephen Bush discuss whether the scandal spells the beginning of[...]

Ailbhe Rea and Stephen Bush interview the former Conservative chief whip Mark Harper MP.They discuss his journey from chief whip under David Cameron to becoming a high-profile Tory rebel under Boris Johnson, his 2019 leadership campaign and why Keir Starmer’s new top team reminds him of Ed Miliband.If you have a question for You Ask[...]

Keir Starmer carried out a surprise shake-up of the top ranks of the Labour Party this week. Anoosh Chakelian, Ailbhe Rea and Stephen Bush discuss who’s up and who’s down, and what the reshuffle signals for the party. Then, in You Ask Us a listener questions why Boris Johnson continues to be regarded as an electoral asset by Conservative[...]

In this special episode of the New Statesman podcast in partnership with Lloyds Bank, Britain Editor Anoosh Chakelian is joined by Hannah Essex, co-executive director of the British Chambers of Commerce and Mark Burton, Head of Regions, Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking to talk levelling up. They discuss the government’s levelling up agenda, why there is such[...]

Ailbhe Rea and Anoosh Chakelian interview Thangam Debbonaire, the Labour MP and shadow leader of the House of Commons.They talk about the missteps of Jacob Rees-Mogg, whether MPs should have second jobs, and Labour's prospects of winning a general election. If you have a question for You Ask Us, email podcasts@newstatesman.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In what was an avoidable tragedy, at least 27 people have died trying to reach the UK after their boat capsized in the English Channel. Anoosh Chakelian, Ailbhe Rea and Stephen Bush discuss the political context that allowed this to happen, and its implications for the government. Then, in You Ask Us, a listener wonders whether[...]

In the first of our monthly devolution specials, Stephen Bush is joined by the New Statesman's Scotland editor Chris Deerin to examine the Scottish and Welsh parliaments. They discuss the interview in Holyrood magazine with Jack McConnell, the last Labour member to serve as first minister of Scotland, and answer a listener’s question on why Plaid Cymru hasn't been to replicate[...]

The UN climate summit ended with the president of Cop26, Alok Sharma, in tears, after the conference united behind a “watered down” agreement in which coal power will be “phased down” rather than “phased out”. Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian discuss what really happened in those final days in Glasgow and where the world goes from here to tackle climate change.[...]

The Standards Committee chair Chris Bryant joins Anoosh Chakelian, Stephen Bush and Ailbhe Rea to discuss the ongoing fallout from the Owen Paterson lobbying scandal. They talk about whether the UK is a corrupt country, how the scandal could affect the reputation of all MPs and why this moment feels similar to the run-up to the[...]

Geoffrey Cox is the latest MP to come under fire over his extra earnings for legal work outside of his parliamentary duties.   It follows the resignation of MP Owen Paterson after he was found to have breached lobbying rules, as well as criticism over the way the government awarded Covid-related contracts.   Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian discuss the ethics of[...]

Ailbhe Rea is joined by New Statesman data journalist Ben Walker for the first of a monthly look at what’s going on in the opinion polls.They look at the current state of the parties, what polls can and can’t tell you and why the don’t knows really matter.Then in You Ask Us, they answer a[...]

The government has performed a spectacular U-turn over the controversial blocking of Conservative MP Owen Paterson’s suspension for breaching lobbying rules.Ailbhe Rea is joined by New Statesman’s deputy online editor Rachel Cunliffe and Tim Durrant from the Institute for Government to discuss the scandal as it unfolds. What is the damage for the government and[...]

In the final part of our special series on the politics of climate change, Anoosh Chakelian and Environment and Sustainability Editor Philippa Nuttall speak to former Norwegian energy minister Tony C. Tiller.They discuss Norway’s success in rolling out heat pumps. With around 60% of homes fitted with them, Norway has the most successful roll out in Europe;[...]

Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian are joined by special guest former Chief Secretary to the Treasury and New Statesman contributing writer David Gauke to discuss how the Chancellor’s budget went down the morning after.They talk about why the response was muted on Conservative benches, where the chancellor focussed his spending pledges and why, and whether[...]

In this special episode of the New Statesman Podcast, in association with Smart Energy GB, Ailbhe Rea and guest co-host Philippa Nuttall discuss how the ways we use energy in the future will change, and what we can do to make sure that change benefits everyone including the most vulnerable.They are joined by Liberal Democrat Energy and Climate Emergency Spokesperson[...]

A week after the death of the Southend West MP David Amess, Anoosh Chakelian and Stephen Bush discuss how MPs have reflected on the incident, what might make a difference to the security of MPs and why some MPs have been talking about online abuse.Then in You Ask Us, they answer a listener’s question on[...]

In this special episode of the New Statesman podcast, in association with Smart Energy GB, Anoosh Chakelian and guest co-host Philippa Nuttall discuss how we can improve our homes and workplaces to reduce our dependence on energy They are joined by Adrian Joyce, from the European Alliance of Companies for Energy Efficiency in Buildings and the Renovate Europe[...]

Multiple crises are putting unprecedented pressure on the economy and state institutions, and look set to last for months. As winter approaches, could this spell disaster for the government? In this episode of the New Statesman Podcast, Anoosh Chakelian is joined by the New Statesman’s executive editor of politics Tim Ross to discuss the latest negotiations[...]

In this special episode of the New Statesman podcast, in association with Smart Energy GB, Stephen Bush and guest co-host Philippa Nuttall discuss how to convince people to change their behaviour to reduce emissions.They are joined by Ruth Mourik, the founder of Research for Benefit organisation Duneworks, and Rob Cheesewright, from Smart Energy GB, to[...]

Anoosh Chakelian, Ailbhe Rea and Stephen Bush reflect on Boris Johnson’s conference speech. They discuss whether Tory members love Johnson - but not Johnsonism, the spontaneous applause for the argument capitalism was responsible for the success of the vaccine programme and Johnson’s many omissions.In part two, we have special correspondent at the New Statesman, Sophie[...]

In the first of a special series of episodes in the run up to the global climate conference COP 26, Anoosh Chakelian interviews our guest co-host Philippa Nuttall, The New Statesman’s environment and Sustainability Editor, about how the Government is facing up to climate change and what to expect from Glasgow’s environmental summit. They talk about how[...]

Anoosh Chakelian, Ailbhe Rea and Stephen Bush give their verdict on Labour leader Keir Starmer’s big conference speech. They discussed the heckling, how it went down in the hall and whether we learned anything about Labour’s big idea for government.Then in You Ask Us, they answer a listener’s question on whether the Conservative party really[...]

Stephen Bush, Ailbhe Rea and Anoosh Chakelian host a live recording of the New Statesman podcast at the Labour Party Conference in Brighton. They talk Labour’s rule changes, Andy McDonald’s resignation and whether the party’s message could cut through against a backdrop of rising prices and queues at petrol stations.Then in You Ask Us they take live questions[...]

Stephen Bush, Ailbhe Rea and Anoosh Chakelian discuss the series of crisis facing the Boris Johnson including gas prices, CO2 shortages and the end of the Universal Credit uplift. Could this could have a lasting impact on the Government?Then in You Ask Us, they answer a listener’s question on why we don’t talk about the Conservative party in terms of[...]

Anoosh Chakelian, Ailbhe Rea and Stephen Bush talk to FT feature writer and author Henry Mance about his new book: How to Love Animals: In a Human-Shaped WorldThey discuss what it was like to work in an abattoir, the evacuation of pets from Afghanistan and what it will take to get real political change when[...]

Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss Boris Johnson's cabinet reshuffle in which Dominic Raab was demoted to Justice Secretary and Liz Truss became Foreign Secretary. Then, in You Ask Us, they answer listener questions about Stephen's extended interview with Keir Starmer.If you'd like to submit a question for You Ask Us, please email podcasts@newstatesman.co.uk**This episode[...]

Stephen Bush interviews writer and journalist Jonn Elledge about his new book, The Compendium of (Not Quite) Everything. They discuss the joy of facts, what Stephen keeps on his toilet bookshelf and the best sci-fi and dystopias.Jonn’s book if available from all good book stores from 16 SeptemberIf you have a question for You Ask Us,[...]

Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss Boris Johnson’s National Insurance rise to fund the NHS and Social Care and why there was no significant rebellion from Conservative MPs.Then in You Ask Us, they answer a listener’s question on why Labour aren’t calling for a wealth tax.If you have a question for You Ask Us, email[...]

Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea speak to New Statesman special correspondent Harry Lambert about his cover story on the decline of the Labour party. They talk about the key moments over the last 20 years and whether there’s any sign of any optimism for the party’s future.Then in You Ask Us, they answer a listener’s[...]

Stephen Bush and Ailbhe Rea discuss their interview with Anneliese Dodds, what she said and didn’t say about her treatment by the party leadership and the strategy for the labour party.Then in You Ask Us, they answer a listener’s question on whether Labour needs to drop the trade union link.If you have a question for[...]

Stephen Bush interviews Tom Black and Owen Kingston, the writer and director of the interactive political play Crisis What Crisis, which gives the audience the chance to see if they could have survived the winter of discontent better than the Callaghan government.They discuss the perils of making interactive theatre for a knowledgable audience, why Monopoly[...]

Ailbhe Rea speaks to journalist and author Marie Le Conte about the life of a diary columnist, the gossip that keeps westminster running, and how to write a book in a global pandemic.Marie's new book Honourable Misfits is out now.If you have a question for You Ask Us, email podcasts@newstatesman.co.uk  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stephen Bush interviews economist, journalist, and author Duncan Weldon on his new book Two Hundred Years of Muddling Through. They talk through the lessons learned, and not learned from British political and economic history, whether the response to the pandemic will be a turning point in UK politics, and why writing a book is a bit[...]

Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian discuss the Afghanistan crisis and the governments refugee scheme, and why MPs from all sides of the house were giving the government a hard time.  Then in You Ask Us, they answer listeners' quesitons on whether the situation could really have been handled differently, and how party supporters split on what should have happened. If you have a[...]

The legendary writer, satirist and broadcaster Armando Iannucci joins the New Statesman Podcast to co-host four special episodes. In these shows, Iannucci explores areas of British politics that he believes are broken, and is joined by guests from inside and outside Westminster to discuss how politics could be better.In episode four, Iannucci and Ailbhe Rea examine consensus: Why do we find[...]

Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss the pandemic affected A Level and GCSE results and why Labour have chosen now to call for Gavin Williamson's sacking.Then in You Ask Us, they answer a listeners question on whether climate change will ever become a major issue at general elections.If you have a question for You Ask Us email podcasts@newstatesman.co.uk Hosted on[...]

The legendary writer, satirist and broadcaster Armando Iannucci joins the New Statesman Podcast to co-host four special episodes. In these shows, Iannucci explores areas of British politics that he believes are broken, and is joined by guests from inside and outside the Westminster machine to discuss how politics could be better.In episode three, Iannucci and Anoosh Chakelian examine political campaigning and centrism[...]

Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian discuss David Liddington's three ways Brexit could have been stopped and why none of them were realistic.Then in You Ask Us, they answer a listener's question on whether not engaging with Scottish Independence will make it go away? If you have a question for You Ask Us, email podcast@newstatesman.co.uk  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more[...]

The legendary writer, satirist and broadcaster Armando Iannucci joins the New Statesman Podcast to co-host four special episodes. In these shows, Armando explores areas of British politics that he believes are broken, and is joined by guests from inside and outside the Westminster machine to discuss how politics could be better.In Episode two, Armando and Stephen Bush examine activism and whether[...]

Ailbhe Rea, Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian discuss Boris Johnson's latest plan to reduce crime and whether the proposals will actually have any impact.Then in You Ask Us, they answer a listeners question on why some in Westminster think there'll be a 2023 electionYou can send a question for You Ask Us to podcasts@newstatesman.co.uk  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy[...]

The legendary writer, satirist and broadcaster Armando Iannucci joins the New Statesman podcast to co-host four special episodes. In these shows, Armando explores areas of British politics that he believes are broken, and is joined by guests from inside and outside the Westminster machine to discuss how politics could be better. In episode one, Armando and Anoosh Chakelian[...]

Anoosh Chakelian, Stephen Bush and Ailbhe Rea discuss the government's announcment on the Northern Ireland protocol and whether they really will be able to renegotiate, and do they even knows what it wants? Then in You Ask Us, they answer your question on what's going on with the Green Party, after the resignation of both the party's leaders  Hosted[...]

Ailbhe Rea and Stephen Bush discuss No. 10's tough weekend and why 'Freedom Day' is still causing lots of problems for the government.Then in You Ask Us, they take your question on whether reimposing covid restrictions later could bring down Boris JohnsonIf you'd like to submit a question for You Ask Us, please email podcasts@newstatesman.co.uk. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for[...]

Stephen Bush, Ailbhe Rea and Anoosh Chakelion discuss the government's plans for a prosecution amnesty over the Troubles and why no party in Northern Ireland is particularly happy. They also look at Keir Starmer's new improved operation.Then in You Ask Us, they answer a question on whether in the wake of the Euro 2020, the Conservative[...]

Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss England’s performance in Euro 2020 and what it says about the country feels about itself.Then in You Ask Us, they answer your question whether the Liberal Democrats are a policy desert Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Anoosh, Stephen and Ailbhe discuss whether Labour will be able to avoid the usual difficult summer for Opposition parties, and how the loosening of covid restrictions goes will have an impact.Then in You Ask Us, they take your question on why the parties are so bad at picking by-election candidatesIf you'd like to submit a question for You Ask[...]

Anoosh and Stephen discuss the future of the Labour party and how Andy Burnham might fit in to that.Then in You Ask Us, they take your question on who has a better grasp of Englishness: Keir Starmer, Boris Johnson or Gareth SouthgateIf you'd like to submit a question for You Ask Us, please email podcasts@newstatesman.co.uk  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for[...]

Anoosh and Ailbhe discuss the upcoming Batley and Spen By- Election and why many in Labour think it's not going well for the party.Then in You Ask Us, they take your question on who's doing a better job: Keir Starmer or Boris Johnson To submit a question to You Ask Us, please email podcasts@newstatesman.co.uk  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Anoosh and Ailbhe discuss the fallout from the Matt Hancock affair and the appointment of Sajid Javid as the new Health Secretary.Then in You Ask Us, they take your question on the troubled future of Keir Starmer's Labour party leadership.To submit a question to You Ask Us, please email podcasts@newstatesman.co.ukSubscribing to the New Statesman helps us keep making these podcasts.[...]

Anoosh has been reporting in Batley and Spen ahead of the by-election on 1st July. Here she talks to Stephen Bush and Ailbhe Rea about the mood on the ground, and why George Galloway is posing a problem for Labour.Then, in You Ask Us, Ailbhe, Stephen and Anoosh take your question on Keir Starmer's reshuffle[...]

Following the Liberal Democrat by-election victory in the "Blue Wall" seat of Chesham and Amersham, Stephen, Anoosh and Ailbhe dissect the Conservative post-vote blame-game and discuss what the upset means for the party.In You Ask Us, they also look ahead to the Batley and Spen by-election and answer your - many - questions about Keir Starmer's future[...]

Stephen, Anoosh and Ailbhe discuss the Chesham and Amersham by-election. Ailbhe reported from the constituency shortly before the by-election, and here talks through the impact the result will have on the electoral strategy of the UK political parties.Then, in You Ask Us, they take your questions about Metropolitan Police Commissioner Cressida Dick: after a report[...]

On the fourth anniversary of the Grenfell fire tragedy, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea explore the ongoing scandal of flammable cladding which continues to trap over a million people in dangerous tower blocks. Will it take another tragedy for the government to take notice?In You Ask Us, they take your question on the Northern Ireland[...]

As Boris Johnson and Joe Biden meet for their first bilateral summit ahead of the G7, Stephen and Ailbhe discuss the impact the US President could have on the UK's attitude to the Northern Ireland protocol.Then, in You Ask Us, they take your question on the government's culture war strategy.If you'd like to submit a question for You[...]

Ahead of the Speaker's decision on holding a vote over the planned cuts to the UK foreign aid budget, Anoosh, Stephen and Ailbhe discuss the coalition of Conservative rebels who could make life difficult for the Treasury.Then, in You Ask Us, they take your questions on the Prime Minister's religion: does it matter that Boris Johnson[...]

Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian discuss the acquittal of two former police officers charged with perverting the course of justice by allegedly altering police statements to an inquiry after the Hillsborough disaster.Now a judge has ruled there was 'no case to answer' since the inquiry was 'an administrative exercise' and the accused were not under[...]

As Westminster reels from Dominic Cummings' excoriating critique of the government's pandemic response, unleashed with full force during Wednesday's marathon select committee hearing, Stephen, Anoosh and Ailbhe dissect the former senior adviser's claims.Then, in You Ask Us, they take your questions on whether the civil service – so maligned by Cummings  – is adequately represented in journalism.If you would like[...]

As Westminster braces for Dominic Cummings' appearance at the Health and Science select committee over the Government's handling of the Covid-19 pandemic, Anoosh, Stephen and Ailbhe discuss whether his claims - previewed in a rambling, 50-tweet thread - are worrisome... or, indeed, surprising.Then in You Ask Us, they take your questions on why Liz Truss[...]

Keir Starmer's approval ratings dipped this week into dangerous territory - falling below both David Cameron's and Ed Miliband's after the same time in office. On this episode, Stephen and Anoosh discuss why the Labour leader should be concerned about this, and what the party should do about it.Then, in You Ask Us, they take your questions[...]

As lockdown restrictions ease in England, Wales and much of Scotland, the country is grappling with a new variant of Covid-19. On this episode, Anoosh, Stephen and Ailbhe discuss the messaging around unlocking and how the spread of the Indian variant exposes the government's shortcomings.Then, in You Ask Us, they take your questions on what the new[...]

Reunited in the studio for the first time in over a year, Anoosh, Stephen and Ailbhe discuss Tony Blair's dramatic Labour Party intervention in which he claims that 'without total change, Labour will die'. In You Ask Us, the team take your questions on whether the Greens can become the third party in UK politics.If you'd[...]

In the second of two episodes looking at the results of the May 6 elections, Stephen, Anoosh and Ailbhe are joined by Chris Deerin to dissect the consequences of the results in Scotland. In You Ask Us, they're joined by polling expert Ben Walker to discuss the wider picture of the local votes around the UK.In[...]

As the dust settles on Keir Starmer's mystifying reshuffle of the Labour party following the local elections, Stephen, Anoosh and Ailbhe discuss what it all means.In an extended 'You Ask Us' they take on as many listener questions as possible from the deluge the New Statesman received in the wake of the election results.This is[...]

As the UK heads to the polls on 'Super Thursday', Anoosh, Stephen and Ailbhe discuss the things they are most interested to learn from this wide-ranging vote.Then, in You Ask Us, they take your questions on whether Labour are setting out a positive view of their plans for the UK.If you'd like to submit a[...]

Chris Deerin hosts the fourth and final special Scottish Election episode of the New Statesman podcast, featuring an interview with First Minister Nicola Sturgeon and analysis from Ben Walker, Dani Garavelli and the Spectator's Alex Massie.Read Chris Deerin's full interview with Nicola Sturgeon on NewStatesman.comWatch the full conversation with Nicola Sturgeon See the latest polling data[...]

Anoosh, Stephen and Ailbhe are joined by data journalist Ben Van De Merwe to discuss the New Statesman's exclusive research showing how many years of life the UK has lost to Covid-19.Ailbhe is in Hartlepool where she's been following candidates on the campaign trail in a decidedly 'un-electiony' election.And You Ask Us, who will replace Arlene Foster[...]

Chris Deerin's guest this week is Kate Forbes, SNP Cabinet Secretary for Finance and young star of the independence movement.She responds to the Institute of Fiscal Studies report which claims the manifestos for the May 6th Scottish Parliamentary elections are united by a "lack of credibility".Also, New Statesman polling analyst Ben Walker joins the podcast[...]

Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea address the ongoing public war of words between Boris Johnson and former advisor Dominic Cummings.They discuss allegations (which Number 10 have denied) that the Prime Minister said he'd rather let "bodies pile high in their thousands" than go into a third national lockdown - and why questions over[...]

Can Labour make lasting political capital from Boris Johnson's texts with James Dyson?Stephen Bush and Ailbhe Rea discuss the fallout of leaked texts from the Prime Minister's phone, and whether it is an effective opposition attack line.Then, in You Ask Us, they take your questions on whether we're heading for a poll on a united[...]

Chris Deerin, the New Statesman's Scotland editor, hosts a special edition of the New Statesman podcast.In this episode Chris is joined by Ricky Ross and Darren McGarvey, both musicians and activists for the case of Scottish independence, to discuss the state of the independence movement and why so many artists seem to be in favour[...]

The announcement that 12 European football clubs intend to form a 'super league' occupied the top of the news agenda for most of the day on Monday.Why does football - a game designed for entertainment, predominantly followed by men - occupy such a significant place in Britain's public discourse?In this episode of the New Statesman[...]

The lobbying scandal rumbles on, enveloping senior civil servants as well as MPs - and Labour are determined to make this a story about 'Tory sleaze'.In this episode Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss whether public outrage over the story is at a tipping point, and what damage it might do to the[...]

The Scottish parliamentary elections are likely to be pivotal for the future of the United Kingdom. So, New Statesman Scotland editor, Chris Deerin, is hosting four bonus episodes in the lead up to the vote on May 6th. Chris will be joined by some familiar voices from the New Statesman team, as well as guests[...]

Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss what the Greensill lobbying scandal means for British politics, and why the problem isn't going away. Then, in You Ask Us, they take your questions on the national response to the death of Prince Philip: is modern Britain ready for the death of Queen Elizabeth II?Plus: introducing[...]

On today's episode of the New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea look at Keir Starmer's first year leading the Labour party and offer their assessment of his performance. Then, in You Ask Us, they take your question on whether the recent violence in Northern Ireland was inevitable.Subscribing to the New Statesman helps[...]

On today's episode of the New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss the Commission on Race and Ethnic Disparities' report and whether they can find coherence in its findings and proposals. Then, in You Ask Us, they take your question on the latest polling ahead of the Hartlepool by-election.Subscribing to the New[...]

On today's episode of the New Statesman Podcast, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea are joined by a very special Guest Stephen: Armando Iannucci. They discuss his piece in the spring special of the New Statesman on the role of Prime Minister at 300, whether The Thick of It has poisoned British politics, and how he's[...]

On today's episode of the New Statesman Podcast, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss Alex Salmond launching his new party, Alba, the implications for Scottish voters, and whether Salmond's return to the political arena is appropriate. Then, in You Ask Us, they look at a weekend of briefings about a potential reshuffle to Keir Starmer's[...]

On today's episode of the New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss the concerns around the government's ambiguous hints at a vaccine passport system for the hospitality sector. Then, in You Ask Us, they take your questions on what difference the year's delay will have made to the upcoming local elections.Subscribing to[...]

Protests in Bristol against the controversial police, crime, sentencing and courts bill erupted into violence over the weekend. In this episode, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss what impact this might have on the progress of the bill through parliament.Then, in You Ask Us, they take your questions on the selection of Dr. Paul Williams as the[...]

Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea are joined by former Business Secretary and leader of the Liberal Democrats, Sir Vince Cable, to discuss his new book on how politicians have shaped economic policy, as well as Labour and the Lib Dems in the age of covid, and the West's response to China. Then, in[...]

On today's episode of the New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss the distressing scenes on Clapham Common as police clashed with people attending a vigil for Sarah Everard. Then, in You Ask Us, they take your questions on where Labour should be positioning on the contentious issue of policing.Subscribing to the[...]

On today's episode of the New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss the launch of Labour's local elections campaign and their prioritisation of increasing the 1% 'pay rise' offered to nurses. Then, in You Ask Us, they take your question on whether the Tories are starting to regret choosing Shaun Bailey[...]

On today's episode of the New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea, somewhat reluctantly, give their takes on the explosive revelations from Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's interview with Oprah Winfrey. Then, in You Ask Us, they answer your question on why the government keeps setting themselves up for U-turns.Subscribing to the New[...]

On today's episode of the New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea look back at yesterday's budget announcement and what the implications might be. Is austerity back? Has Rishi Sunak got one over on Boris Johnson? And how should Labour respond? Then, in You Ask Us, they take your question on whether[...]

On today's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss the election of Anas Sarwar as the leader of Scottish Labour, and whether he can turn things around after Richard Leonard's disappointing tenure. Then, in You Ask Us, they answer your question about whether potential Shadow Chancellors are on manoeuvres against Anneliese[...]

On today's episode of the New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian discuss the anticipated corporation tax changes ahead of Rishi Sunak's budget announcement, as well as what Labour's response could be. Then, in You Ask Us, they try and explain what's going on in Scotland with the Alex Salmond inquiry.Subscribing to the New Statesman[...]

Boris Johnson has outlined his four-step plan to bring the UK out of lockdown. The Prime Minister announced pupils will return to schools on 8 March, with rules relaxing in phases thereafter. If strict criteria are met, all restrictions on social contact could be lifted by 21 June. On this episode of the New Statesman podcast, Stephen Bush and Anoosh[...]

On today's episode of the New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea are joined by the NS's Special Correspondent, Harry Lambert, to discuss his cover feature on the future of the BBC. Then, in You Ask Us, they take your question about whether Keir Starmer's big speech had real policy substance or[...]

On today's episode of the New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss the latest chapter in the campus free speech saga. Then, in You Ask Us, they tackle your question of whether Ed Balls' stellar performance on Celebrity Best Home Cook shows he could've achieved more in politics.Subscribing to the New Statesman[...]

On today's episode of the New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss housing secretary Robert Jenrick's narrow offer to leaseholders affected by the cladding crisis brought on in the wake of the Grenfell Tower fire and the resultant inquiry. Then, in You Ask Us, they take on your question about why[...]

Rachel Reeves, the shadow Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, has made an intervention calling for an end to the government’s “outsourcing obsession”. She’s accused the government of handing £2bn of coronavirus contracts to Conservative friends and donors and wasting hundreds of millions of pounds on faulty equipment that can’t be used. Ailbhe has interviewed Ms.[...]

As Stephen writes in his latest political column, a concensus is growing among the commentariat that Keir Starmer is not up to the job. But does this underestimate the gains he’s made outside of the Westminster bubble?On this episode of the New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss why this matters[...]

The European Commission has rowed back on their 'hugely inflammatory' attempt to trigger Article 16 of the Northern Ireland protocol, after outcry from the British and Irish governments. The fact that it was even attempted in the first place exposes a misunderstanding of the Irish border on the part of the EU, and sets a[...]

Over 100,000 people have now died with Covid-19 in the United Kingdom. In this episode, Stephen, Anoosh and Ailbhe look at the mistakes that were made, how they might yet be countered, and what the electoral cost of the disaster will be when the country next heads to the polls.We'd love to hear from you.[...]

Travellers to the UK from Covid hotspots will be required to quarantine in hotels, under plans expected to be announced this week. Epidimiologists have long been arguing for tighter border controls, but debate continues among MPs who are divided on how tough these measures should be.On The New Statesman podcast Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and[...]

Following the inauguration of President Joe Biden on Wednesday, Boris Johnson struggled to answer a question about whether the new US leader is 'woke'. On this episode of the New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss the debate that ensued, and whether the so-called 'culture wars' pack an electoral punch. Then,[...]

As the commons prepares to vote on whether to extend the £20 uplift to universal credit - due to be reduced at the end of March - Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss the divisions it exposes in the Conservative party, and whether Labour's position is consistent. Then, in You Ask Us, they[...]

As Britain's hospitals face crisis, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss what it really means for the NHS to be overwhelmed. Then, in You Ask Us, they take your questions on the food parcel scandal and the most effective routes to tackling poverty.We'd love to hear from you! Send us your You Ask[...]

On Monday, Keir Starmer made his first big speech of the year, which was widely reported as an excoriating attack on the Prime Minister's flawed response to the Covid crisis. Beyond his comments on the pandemic, though, Starmer was also making a streetwise move to set his party up for strong case in future elections.[...]

Stephen Bush and Ailbhe Rea discuss the aftermath of the shocking scenes from Washington as a pro-Trump mob stormed the Capitol building, and what those events mean for changing international norms around politics and the media. Then, in You Ask Us, they look at what impact lockdown scepticism has actually had on UK Government policy.Subscribing[...]

Stephen Bush and Ailbhe Rea sit down for the first time in 2021 to discuss the government's response to the new Covid variation, the inevitability of a new national lockdown, and the political fallout for Boris Johnson. They also take your questions on Labour's uncertain stance on school closures.Subscribing to the New Statesman helps us[...]

On today's New Statesman Podcast – the last of 2020 – Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian sort through the mess that it is our Christmas plans, and then give you their bespoke guide to dealing the the Yuletide gloom (also featuring a lament for conference seasons of yore).If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can[...]

On today's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea sit down as a trio for the last time this year and go over their moments that defined 2020 – from distant murmurings about a far-flung flu to lockdown in London – and dive into the mailbag for a bumper You Ask Us.If[...]

On today's episode of the New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea bring out the tinsel and baubles to discuss Christmas (and how the government has got itself into a policy muddle that is risking thousands of lives)! Then, in You Ask Us, they look at the latest phase of the Grenfell[...]

On today's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea look at the big decision – deal or no deal – facing the Brexit negotiators. Then, in You Ask Us, they take your question on whether there's any path through the polling thorns for Labour in 2021.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you[...]

On today's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian look at the so-called 'crunch' week for Brexit talks and what's left to be resolved in the UK's negotiations with the EU. Then, in You Ask Us, they answer your question on the current state of play for green politics in Britain.If you are a New[...]

On today's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian discuss the vaccine roll-out and Gavin Williamson's controversial comments about Brexit's impact on Britain's regulatory abilities. Then, in You Ask Us, they answer your question on how substantial a scotch egg is.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get advert free access to this[...]

On today's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea look at the upcoming Conservative rebellion on the tier system. Then, in You Ask Us, they field your questions on whether there's anything that Kier Starmer could do to better appease the Labour left. Also, happy birthday Anoosh!If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber[...]

On today's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss the Spending Review and whether we are heading for the long-awaited next level, or slipping back into austerity. Then, in You Ask Us, they look at the options facing Keir Starmer's Labour party ahead of a prospective Brexit vote.If you are a New[...]

On today's New Statesman podcast, Stephen Bush and Ailbhe Rea gather to discuss the latest news from the Oxford vaccine trial, and what impact a return to normality in 2021 ought to have on government policy in the here and now. Then, in You Ask Us, they take your questions on what Keir Starmer's endgame[...]

On today's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea are joined by special guest Gordon Brown to discuss devolution, Scottish Labour, Jeremy Corbyn, the covid crisis and much more. If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get advert free access to this podcast by visiting newstatesman.com/nssubscribers.Send us your You Ask Us questions[...]

On today's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea look at the fallout from the departure of Dominic Cummings and analyse the ideological rifts at No.10. Then, in You Ask Us, they consider Labour's chances of upsetting the odds at the next election.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get advert[...]

On today's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian discuss the departure of Downing Street's comms supremo, Lee Cain, and what it means for the future of the Johnson administration. Then, in You Ask Us, they answer your questions on Croydon council going bankrupt.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get advert free[...]

On today's episode of the New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss the impact that frosty relations between President-Elect Joe Biden and Boris Johnson could mean for the UK's pursuit of a trade deal with the US. Then they tackle the issue that is turning communities on one another all across[...]

On today's episode of the New Statesman podcast, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss the first day of Lockdown 2.0 and the announcement that the furlough scheme will be extended into 2021. Then, for You Ask Us, they're joined by US Editor Emily Tamkin to probe her on what on earth is happening her side[...]

On today's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss the imminent return of lockdown, and how it's dividing the nation and government. Then, in You Ask Us, they take your questions on the successes and failures of Angela Rayner as Labour's deputy leader.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get[...]

On today's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss EHRC's verdict on antisemitism in the Labour party, as well as the suspension of Jeremy Corbyn. Then, in You Ask Us, they're joined by US Editor Emily Tamkin, to get the lowdown from Washington ahead of next week's Presidential election.If you are[...]

On today's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss the latest round of Marcus Rashford vs the Government over Free School Meals. Then, in You Ask Us, they take your questions on regulating source attribution in journalism.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get advert free access to this podcast[...]

On today's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss the new measures announced by Rishi Sunak – and whether his star is falling – and the response from Andy Burnham that has seen him dubbed 'King in the North'. Then, in You Ask Us, they take your question on how seriously[...]

On today's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss the Welsh 'firebreak' and the continued uncertainty over regional lockdowns. Then, in You Ask Us, they field your questions on whether Keir Starmer is still a man of the 'soft Left'.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get advert free access[...]

On today's New Statesman Podcast, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss the move to bring London up to a 'tier two' covid warning, and then, in You Ask Us, are joined by Stephen Bush to answer your questions on Dan Carden's resignation and what it could mean for Starmer's leadership.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber[...]

On this episode of the New Statesman Podcast, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss the government's new three-tier system for covid control, and how the Labour party has responded. Then, You Ask Us temporarily makes way for Ailbhe Asks Anoosh, as we look at the data on people dying at home during the crisis.If you[...]

On today's episode of the New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea gather to discuss the latest rumours about local lockdown restrictions, and then, in You Ask Us, take your questions on Labour's approach to the Covert Human Intelligence Sources Bill.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get advert free access[...]

On September 11th 2001, as he faced incalculable losses after the terrorist attacks that day, President George W Bush made a call to his greatest international ally: British Prime Minister Tony Blair. 18 months later, Bush and Blair led a coalition into a war that went horribly wrong. David Dimbleby, one of the BBC’s best known news hosts and reporters, takes[...]

On this special episode of the New Statesman Podcast, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea are joined by Dr Phil Whitaker, a GP and the New Statesman's health columnist, to get his perspective from the long months inside the covid crisis. If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get advert free access to this podcast by[...]

On today's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush and Ailbhe Rea discuss the leaked reports that Priti Patel was considering sending asylum seekers to far-flung offshore detention centres, such as on Ascension Island in the South Atlantic. Then, in You Ask Us, they take your questions on the route forward for Labour in Scotland.If you are[...]

On today's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss the troubled return of students to British universities. Then, in You Ask Us, they take your questions on what the installation of Charles Moore and Paul Dacre at the BBC and Ofcom means for the future of the press.If you are a New[...]

On today's episode of the New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea look at the Chancellor's post-furlough economic plans and ask whether they go far enough. Then they answer your question on how the government intends to manage unlocking as it rolls out test and trace.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you[...]

On today's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss Labour's virtual conference and Anneliese Dodds' speech. Then, in You Ask Us, they run listeners through the activities they're trying to squeeze in before the second lockdown.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get advert free access to this podcast by[...]

On today's episode of the New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss whether we are heading for a second national lockdown. Then, in You Ask Us, they answer your question on what the government's ultimate goal with the Internal Market Bill is.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get advert[...]

On today's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea dissect the dissent on Tory benches over the Internal Market Bill and, in You Ask Us, field your questions on what marks the new Conservative MPs out from the rest of the parliamentary party.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get advert[...]

On today's New Statesman Podcast, Anoosh Chakelian, Stephen Bush and Ailbhe Rea discuss the government's latest limitations, imposed to stop a resurgence of the coronavirus. Then, in You Ask Us, they take your questions on the evolution of Keir Starmer's leadership position.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get advert free access to this[...]

On today's New Statesman Podcast, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea are joined by Anand Menon, director of the UK in a Changing Europe think tank, to discuss the latest Brexit news, as the government's 'oven-ready' deal starts to look more half-baked. Then, in You Ask Us, Stephen Bush joins to take your questions on why[...]

On today's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss Richard Leonard's position as leader of Scottish Labour and its long term viability. Then, in You Ask Us, they take your questions on the dissatisfaction of Tory backbenchers and how many U-turns until it's the coup's turn. If you are a New Statesman digital[...]

On today's episode of the New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe discuss the government's conflicted 'back to the office' strategy and the economic challenges it poses. Then, in You Ask Us, they take your questions on how the BBC fits into the political landscape.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get[...]

On today's New Statesman Podcast, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss Ed Davey's election as leader of the Liberal Democrats, and the new support rules for quarantining workers. Then, in You Ask Us, they take your questions on whether U-turns are actually good.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get advert free access to[...]

On today's New Statesman Podcast, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss the final furlong of the Lib Dems' leadership race and then, in You Ask Us, take your question on whether middle class drug consumption should be the focus of greater scrutiny from the media and policy makers. If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss the government's plans to scrap Public Health England and place Dido Harding in charge of its replacement. Then, in You Ask Us, the team answer your questions on the schemes – like the furlough and rent eviction pauses – that are[...]

On today's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss the latest in the summer of U-turns, as the government disown the algorithm responsible for last week's controversial A-level results. Then, in You Ask Us, they discuss how severe the Labour party's internal rumblings really are.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush and Ailbhe Rea discuss the rest of the UK following Scotland in receiving a controversial set of A-level results. Then, in You Ask Us, they take some listener feedback on Priti Patel and ask what makes her a good political operator.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush and Ailbhe Rea discuss Labour MP Dawn Butler being pulled over by the police. Then, in You Ask Us, they tackle your question on what the modern signifier of being middle class is.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get advert free access to this podcast[...]

On today's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss the appetite for the government's Eat Out to Help Out policy. Then, in You Ask Us, they take your question on the Scottish school grades debacle.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get advert free access to this podcast by visiting newstatesman.com/nssubscribers.Send[...]

On today's New Statesman Podcast, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea are joined by the SDLP MP for South Belfast Claire Hanna for a special conversation about the life and legacy of John Hume, one of the principal architects of Northern Irish peace, who died today at the age of 83.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss the prospect of a second wave and Ailbhe gives the team an update on the situation in Belfast. Then, in You Ask Us, they take your questions on the chances of Boris Johnson (politically) surviving another round of covid-19 shutdown.If you[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian discuss Boris Johnson's obesity busting plans. Then, in You Ask Us, they answer questions on London's post-covid future and how an independent Scotland would've eased the lockdown.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get advert free access to this podcast by visiting newstatesman.com/nssubscribers.Send us[...]

On today's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian discuss Prime Minister Boris Johnson's trip to Scotland and what's next for the independence movement. Then, in You Ask Us, they take your question on Downing Street's shake-up of Whitehall communications.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get advert free access to this podcast[...]

On today's episode of the New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss the positive news coming out of the Oxford trial looking at a coronavirus vaccine. Then, in You Ask Us, they examine the counterfactual looking at whether the Lib Dems' decision to support a 2019 General Election backfired.If you are[...]

On today's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian sit down to appraise Keir Starmer's first hundred days as Labour leader. Then, in You Ask Us, they cast their eye over the Chris Grayling debacle and what it says about the government's party management.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get advert free[...]

On today's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss the government's confusingly non-committal policy on returning to work, and then, in You Ask Us, they answer your question on whether Keir Starmer is in danger of being 'Captain Hindsight' at PMQs.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get advert free[...]

On today's episode of the New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea take a look at Rishi Sunak's mini-budget, as well as the response of Anneliese Dodds, Labour's shadow chancellor. Then, in You Ask Us, they tackle the counterfactual: what would Sajid Javid's chancellorship have looked like during this crisis? If you are[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss their results from the latest iteration of the political compass test, and then, in You Ask Us, look at the power sharing agreement in Northern Ireland and how it's faring during a coronavirus-related scandal.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Anoosh Chakelian interviews David Ottewell, Head of Data Journalism, about the special edition of the New Statesman that dissects the coronavirus crisis via the use of data and polling. Then, in You Ask Us, Stephen Bush and Ailbhe Rea answer your question on Keir Starmer's stance on the Black[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss the departure of Mark Sedwill as Cabinet Secretary and consider what's next for the fractious relationship between Boris Johnson's government and the Civil Service. Then, in You Ask Us, they answer your questions on where the sacking of Rebecca Long-Bailey leaves[...]

On today's New Statesman Podcast, with Stephen Bush having to shoot off seconds before recording in order to cover Rebecca Long-Bailey's sacking, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea are left to look at the fallout and how Robert Jenrick has avoided the same fate on the Conservative benches. Then, in You Ask Us, they take your[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss the Labour Together report into the party's 2019 general election performance, and how Layla Moran is trying to position the Lib Dems to drink Labour's milkshake. Then, in You Ask Us, the gang take your question on Opposition Day Debates and[...]

On today's New Statesman Podcast, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea are joined by the New Statesman's International Editor, Jeremy Cliffe, and US Editor, Emily Tamkin, ahead of the launch of their new podcast, World Review. The team discuss how Britain is perceived around the world in 2020, how India and China figure in global geopolitics,[...]

On today's New Statesman Podcast, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss Boris Johnson's vague announcement of a racism inquiry and whether it's a serious prospect, and then, in You Ask Us, they take your questions on the furore around changes to the Gender Recognition Act.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get advert free[...]

On this episode of the New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss the government's introduction of 'bubbles' into the coronavirus messaging, and then, in You Ask Us, look at the different perspectives being offered in Britain's debate over its statuesIf you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get advert free access[...]

On this week's episode of the New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss the weekend's Black Lives Matter protests and the toppling of the Edward Colston statue in Bristol. Then, in You Ask Us, they tackle the counterfactual of whether Jeremy Corbyn and Keir Starmer's time as Leader of the Opposition[...]

On today's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian are joined by Gary Younge to discuss his cover piece which looks at how systemic racism has impacted Britain's covid-19 response, and how the George Floyd protests in America could catalyse a movement.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get advert free access to[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss the decision to reopen schools and Parliament, and whether this is a premature move in the fight against the novel coronavirus. Then, in You Ask Us, they look at the killing of George Floyd in America, and the shape of this[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian, Ailbhe Rea and, for the final time, Patrick Maguire, sit down to discuss Boris Johnson's performance in the face of scrutiny from select committee chairs. Then, You Ask Us turns into You Ask Patrick, as he relives his finest moments at the New Statesman, including[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian, Ailbhe Rea and Patrick Maguire discuss the story that dominated the bank holiday weekend: Dominic Cummings and his trip to Durham. Then, in You Ask Us, they talk about their experiences in the manufactured world of political punditry. If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss how the economic impact of covid-19 is pushing its way to the political foreground. Then, in You Ask Us, they tackle your question on whether PMQs has any cut-through in the 'real world'.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get[...]

On today's episode of the New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss the thorny question of when schools ought to return, before, in You Ask Us, looking at the lessons that might be learnt from the Liberal Democrats 2019 election autopsy.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get advert free[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea gather to discuss whether Keir Starmer turned PMQs into an effective opposition moment. Then, in You Ask Us, we turn to digital culture writer Sarah Manavis to look at the rise of eco-fascism.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get advert[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Ailbhe Rea discuss the confusion surrounding the government's latest round of coronavirus communications. Then, in You Ask Us, they pitch their fantasy political parties and who would lead them.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get advert free access to this podcast by[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Patrick Maguire and Ailbhe Rea replace Stephen Bush with Steve Baker to ask the former-ERG chair to explain why he thinks lockdown needs lifting. They also discuss how public opinion is impacting the early days of Keir Starmer's leadership.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get advert free[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Anoosh Chakelian, Ailbhe Rea and Patrick Maguire take a look at the 'constructive criticism' strategy of Keir Starmer's front bench, before putting their collective boffinery to the task of answering your questions on how to avoid reading British politics as a soap opera.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you[...]

In today's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian, Patrick Maguire and Ailbhe Rea are back to look at how Boris Johnson's first week back in No.10 has gone. Then, in You Ask Us, they tackle your question on how the smaller parties – particularly the Lib Dems – are faring during the crisis.If you[...]

On today's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian, Ailbhe Rea and Patrick Maguire discuss Boris Johnson's first day back in the driving seat. Then, in You Ask Us, they respond to your queries about how to emotionally separate weekdays from weekends.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get advert free access to this[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Anoosh Chakelian, Stephen Bush, Ailbhe Rea and Patrick Maguire convene to (once again) discuss when this crisis might be over, and, in You Ask Us, take your questions on what, if anything, that government has got right. If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get advert free access to[...]

On this week's podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian, Patrick Maguire and Ailbhe Rea link up to discuss the questions being raised about the government's response in the early days of the coronavirus crisis. Then, in You Ask Us, they field your queries on the role of journalists in the current moment, before looking ahead to[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian, Patrick Maguire and Ailbhe Rea gather to discuss Keir Starmer's decision to push the government on its coronavirus exit strategy, as well as the thorny political question of social care. Then, in You Ask Us, Stephen and Anoosh are joined by the New Statesman's digital[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Patrick Maguire, Anoosh Chakelian, Ailbhe Rea and Stephen Bush discuss the leak of a Labour party report and what it could mean for the nascent Starmer leadership. Then, in You Ask Us, the team recommend the books, games and activities that have been getting them through lockdown, from babyfoot[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Patrick Maguire sit down to discuss the latest from the covid-19 crisis, the response of the devolved governments, and then, in You Ask Us, they wonder whether things would be better or worse if this crisis were happening at the peak of Theresa May's[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Anoosh Chakelian, Stephen Bush and Patrick Maguire come to you live from a sell-out show at Zoom Arena! They discuss the latest from the coronavirus crisis before taking your questions on subjects ranging from Keir Starmer's shadow cabinet to universal basic income.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Ailbhe Rea, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian and Patrick Maguire connect to dissect the latest from coronavirus's political fallout. Then they look at the unprecedented demand for Universal Credit before, in You Ask Us, taking your questions on who are the most likely faces to pop up in Keir Starmer's[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian, Patrick Maguire and Ailbhe Rea get together to discuss the latest news from the coronavirus crisis. Then, in You Ask Us, they take Kieran's question on Labour's deputy leadership race before, in Now For Something Completely Different, Patrick takes us on a tour of the[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian, Patrick Maguire and Ailbhe Rea sit down to discuss Jeremy Corbyn's, almost complete, time as Labour leader. Then Ailbhe is joined by Labour leadership candidate Rebecca Long-Bailey to discuss her response to the coronavirus crisis, before, in You Ask Us, they take your question on[...]

On this week's first New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian are joined by Patrick Maguire and Ailbhe Rea to discuss the government's continued fight against the coronavirus. Then, in You Ask Us, they tackle the questions around Alex Salmond's acquittal and, finally, Patrick debriefs the team on his upcoming profile of Keir Starmer. If[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian are joined by Ailbhe Rea and Patrick Maguire to adjust to the new reality, as Britain approaches lockdown over the coronavirus crisis. Then Ailbhe is joined by Lisa Nandy to discuss how her leadership campaign is managing the the issues around covid-19 and what[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Anoosh Chakelian and Stephen Bush are joined by Sir Howard Davies, economist and Chairman of RBS, to discuss Rishi Sunak's first budget. Has he done enough to allay fears about the spread of the coronavirus? Is this really the big spending budget it's being briefed as? And will changes[...]

On this week's episode of the New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian are joined by Patrick Maguire and Ailbhe Rea to discuss the bullying allegations made against Home Secretary Priti Patel. Then, in You Ask Us, they take your questions on why a Labour leadership candidate would want to actually win, before finally[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian are joined by Ailbhe Rea and Patrick Maguire to discuss Sajid Javid's personal statement on his departure from the Treasury. Then, in You Ask Us, they take your questions on the supposed ambiguity of Labour leadership candidates' positions, before, finally, looking at the Marmot[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian are joined by Ailbhe Rea and Patrick Maguire to discuss the new proposals for Britain's post-Brexit immigration system. Then, in You Ask Us, they take your questions on the role of the trans debate in the Labour leadership race before discussing the new "Britain's[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian are joined by Ailbhe Rea and Patrick Maguire to look at Boris Johnson's reshuffle and the shock departures of Julian Smith and Sajid Javid. Then, in You Ask Us, they tackle your questions on what a Labour party led by Keir Starmer might look[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian are joined by Ailbhe Rea and Patrick Maguire to talk about the latest setbacks in the rollout of Universal Credit. Then, in You Ask Us, they take your question on scoping out new MPs for gossip fodder, and, finally, Ailbhe reports back from the[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian are joined by Ailbhe Rea and Patrick Maguire to discuss how Brexit (or B*****, as the government would have it known) has slipped off the parliamentary agenda. Then, in You Ask Us, they take your question on why Keir Starmer's coronation seems so inevitable,[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian are joined by Ailbhe Rea and Patrick Maguire to discuss Jess Phillips' departure from the Labour leadership race, take your question on Lisa Nandy's route to the top job, and look at the nuclear cockroach of British politics: the Welsh Labour party. If you are[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian are joined by the NS's political correspondence duo of Patrick Maguire and Ailbhe Rea to discuss, first, the Nandy surge and other Labour leadership talking points. Then, in You Ask Us, they consider whether there's a future for the Liberal Democrats before rounding things[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, the first of the new decade, Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian are joined by Ailbhe Rea and Patrick Maguire to run through the cakelike tiers of candidates vying to be the next leader of the Labour party. Is it Starmer's to lose? Can Long-Bailey break out of Corbyn's shadow?[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Anoosh Chakelian is joined by Patrick Maguire to consider the fallout from last week's election. Is Scotland heading for a second independence referendum? Could Northern Ireland's nationalist parties push for a split there? And then, finally, in You Ask Us, they give a first appraisal to the runners and[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian arrive with a combined six hours of sleep to deliver you immediate analysis of the 2019 General Election result. How well did the Tories actually do? What went wrong for Labour? And are the Lib Dems doomed forever?If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush is joined by Ailbhe Rea and Patrick Maguire live from the Cambridge Literary Festival where they discuss their biggest successes, failures and surprises from 2019, and cast an eye over how the election is shaping up in the week before the country heads to the polls.If you[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian are joined by Ailbhe Rea and Patrick Maguire to discuss the Conservatives' manifesto launch. Then, in You Ask Us, George Grylls subs in for Ailbhe to talk about all things Wales, before, finally, the original gang are brought back together to discuss Labour and[...]

In this special episode of the New Statesman podcast, Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian discuss the highs and lows from the Liberal Democrats' and Labour's manifesto launches. Then they're joined by the NS's new International Editor, Jeremy Cliffe, to consider how this election is being viewed across the continent.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you[...]

On this week's episode of the New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian are giving their verdicts on last night's first leaders debate. Then, Anoosh reports back from East Devon and, in You Ask Us, they tackle your questions on why electoral pacts fall apart.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get advert[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Anoosh Chakelian is joined by Ailbhe Rea and Patrick Maguire (and then, midway through, by late arrival Stephen Bush) to discuss the floods in the North, how the campaign is shaping up so far, and, in You Ask Us, whether coverage of Northern Ireland will improve with this election.If[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian are discussing the first week of the General Election campaign, as the Conservatives get off to a rocky start. Then, in You Ask Us, they answer your questions about the new Speaker and, finally, Anoosh runs us through a new report on food banks. If[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian discuss the first findings of the report into the Grenfell fire which was presented to Parliament today. Then, in You Ask Us, they speak to Lib Dem MEP Luisa Porritt about life in the European Parliament, and then, finally, they get onto the subject[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian are defying technical limitations to bring you the latest updates from a(nother) tumultuous week in Brexit. They also discuss whether a Christmas General Election is becoming more or less likely by the day.  If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get advert free access[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush and Ailbhe Rea have finally completely their conference marathon, returning from Aberdeen with tales of the Granite City, the SNP, and Richard Curtis. In You Ask Us, they tackle your questions about Boris Johnson's deal and, finally, Ailbhe brings tidings from the candidates to fill John Bercow[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian are joined by Ailbhe Rea and Patrick Maguire at a live event in London to discuss conference season and bring you a mega You Ask Us, as they answer questions on subjects ranging from Jeremy Corbyn's successor to whether anyone will bother turning out[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian recap Tory conference as a worse-for-wear Stephen returns from Manchester. Then, in You Ask Us, they consider your questions on whether the next election will be about Brexit, before rounding up by looking at Labour's Universal Credit announcements.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian have returned (in one piece) from Labour conference in Brighton, which they recap along with the news of the Supreme Court's ruling on Boris Johnson's prorogation of Parliament. Then, in You Ask Us, they answer your question on why the ERG didn't bite for[...]

On this week's New Statesman podcast, Stephen Bush and Ailbhe Rea discuss the Liberal Democrat conference in Bournemouth and whether the party is ready to welcome defectors with open arms. Then, Stephen talks to Emily Bootle about a new BBC app trying to make classical music accessible to the masses.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush and Ailbhe Rea are discussing the latest from Parliament, as Labour duck a general election and John Bercow heads for the exit door. Then, in You Ask Us, they consider whether Corbyn ought to shift the dial further towards remain, and what the implications would be for[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian are bringing you the latest analysis as the country creeps ever closer to a general election. They also cast an eye over Sajid Javid's spending review and, in You Ask Us, answer your questions on the the timing and complexion of the country's trip[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian are discussing Boris Johnson's move to prorogue Parliament. They also touch upon the (long-awaited) spending review and, in You Ask Us, consider whether Jeremy Corbyn is stealthily using the media to his advantage. If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get advert free access[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Anoosh Chakelian and Stephen Bush are talking about how the preposterous idea of a government of national unity became part of mainstream political discourse. Then, in You Ask Us, they consider whether we're prepared for no deal and, finally, Anoosh is joined by Emily Bootle to discuss whether comedy[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush is joined by Patrick Maguire to look at the Tories' recent pledges and wonder whether they might be on election footing. Then, Stephen talks to Hettie O'Brien about political optimism before Patrick returns for You Ask Us, where this week they're looking at why independent candidates face[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush is joined by Ailbhe Rea to discuss whether Downing Street's new supremo, Dominic Cummings, is a genius or a charlatan. Then, in You Ask Us, they consider whether a deal is likely to return to the commons, and, finally, they wonder whether writing your dissertation over night[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian discuss new Prime Minister Boris Johnson's tour of the United Kingdom. Then, they discuss stories of migrant communities, before, in You Ask Us, tackling your question as to whether the PM could be unseated in his home seat of Uxbridge.If you are a New Statesman digital[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Anoosh Chakelian is joined by Patrick Maguire to discuss Boris Johnson's arrival at No.10, his cabinet appointments and the controversial strategist joining his team. Then, she's joined by Sarah Manavis to discuss the New Statesman's new culture newsletter, The Dress Down, and finally, in You Ask Us, Anoosh and[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Anoosh Chakelian and Stephen Bush are looking back on Theresa May's premiership: will historians rehabilitate her or savage her reputation? Then, they answer your questions on social care before, in You Ask Us, considering whether (new) Labour should be careful about how it talks about New Labour.If you are[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian discuss the resignation of Kim Darroch, the UK's ambassador to the US, and what it means for civil servants' trust in their political colleagues. Then, in You Ask Us, they look at Labour's new Brexit policy and, finally, consider how social care funding has[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian discuss the economic tussling of the Tory leadership contenders, Labour's trigger ballot crisis, and, in You Ask Us, they wonder whether the Conservatives could electorally weather a move to the economic left.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get advert free access to[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian discuss the latest controversy around Boris Johnson, and whether we ought to be outraged by his deceit. Then, in You Ask Us, they look at Labour and Conservatives' deselection issues, before asking whether the Tories are doing enough to combat Islamophobia within their party.If[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Helen Lewis and Stephen Bush are together for the final time. They discuss Brexit, the Tory leadership race and the problems facing all the major parties, before Helen interviews comedian Ahir Shah about race, politics and his new show Dots. Then, finally, in You Ask Us they tackle two[...]

On this week's New Statesman podcast, Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian are discussing the launches of a number of Tory leadership challengers, not least a certain Boris Johnson. In You Ask Us, they question whether he is truly the electable behemoth some in his party think, and, finally, they turn their attention to the forgotten[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Helen Lewis and Stephen Bush are discussing Donald Trump's state visit to the UK, and whether there's any point to all the pomp and ceremony. Then, Helen talks to Ben Power, writer of The Lehman Trilogy, about how to dramatise centuries of the financial system, and, finally, in You[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Helen Lewis and Stephen Bush are analysing the results from the European elections and considering whether there are any broader political messages to be extracted from the wreckage. Then they turn their eye to the question of the next Tory leader, rattling through the rabble of runners and riders[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian sit down on polling day to discuss how the European elections are playing second fiddle to Theresa May and her reluctance to secede. Then, in You Ask Us, they discuss the new political act of 'milkshaking' before finishing with a consideration of Arsenal, Armenia[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian are discussing the upcoming European elections, and whether the latest polling is more ominous for Labour or the Tories. Then, in You Ask Us, they answer your questions on what's going wrong for Change UK, before considering the end of the Jeremy Kyle show[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Helen Lewis and Stephen Bush are looking back on the lessons learnt from last week's local elections. Then, in You Ask Us, they tackle the question of the smaller parties and how they can gain traction in a media climate not actively seeking their input.If you are a New Statesman digital[...]

On this episode of the New Statesman Podcast, Helen Lewis and Stephen Bush are discussing this week's local elections and what their importance might be. Then, Helen is joined by satirist Matt Forde to consider whether there's anything to admire in modern politics, and finally, in You Ask Us, Helen and Stephen return to Brexit[...]

On this week's New Statesman podcast, Anoosh Chakelian is joined by Patrick Maguire and Eleni Courea to talk about Change UK (aka The Independent Group) who have launched their slate of candidates ahead of the European elections. Then, for something a bit different, Helen Lewis joins Anoosh to discuss Fleabag and the media's outrage cycle.If[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Helen Lewis and Stephen Bush are joined by Anoosh Chakelian for an episode looking at politics beyond Westminster – firstly in Wales, and then discussing local elections in Maidenhead and Hartlepool. Then, in You Ask Us, they're recommending ways to enjoy your politics-free week as Parliament heads to recess. If[...]

On this week's New Statesman podcast, Stephen Bush and Helen Lewis are discussing the latest Brexit developments, now that Theresa May has been granted a six-month extension. Then, in You Ask Us, they respond to a question on how proportional representation would've affected the Brexit process, and, finally, Helen is speaking to actor and writer[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush is joined by Patrick Maguire and Eleni Courea to discuss the May/Corbyn talks and all the latest rounds of voting. And then, in You Ask Us, it's another unlikely union under the microscope: the Lib Dems and Change UK (aka TIG).If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you[...]

On this week's New Statesman podcast, Stephen Bush briefs Helen Lewis on the Brexit developments during her absence, before Helen speaks to comedian Andy Zaltzman about his new show Satirist for Hire. Then, it's The Back Half, where Tom Gatti and Kate Mossman are reviewing Childish Gambino's live show and looking at the 'nonniversary' of[...]

On this week's New Statesman podcast, Helen is still on holiday, so it's up to Stephen, Patrick Maguire and Eleni Courea to be your guides through the possible outcomes to the continued Brexit stalemate. Then, on You Ask Us, Stephen is talking to a real, live parliamentary staffer, Tara Jane O'Reilly, about what her job[...]

On this week's New Statesman podcast, Stephen Bush is joined by Patrick Maguire and Eleni Courea (aka the New Statesman's politics desk) to discuss the past week in Brexit and look ahead to the next set of meaningful votes, amendments and other assorted bits of Brexit arcana. Then, in You Ask Us, they consider what[...]

On this week's New Statesman podcast, Helen Lewis and Stephen Bush are discussing Britain's issues with knife crime which have been under the microscope in recent weeks. Then, Helen speaks to Anne Washburn about her plays The Twilight Zone and Shipwreck, and what it's like to be a playwright trying to capture Trump's America. And[...]

On this week's New Statesman podcast, Stephen Bush is joined by Patrick Maguire and Eleni Courea to talk through the latest compromises and deferrals on both sides of the Brexit debate. And in You Ask Us, they tackle the question of whether the one month custodial sentence for Fiona Onasanya is doing anyone any good.If[...]

On this week's New Statesman podcast, it's a week without Brexit (kind of)! Helen Lewis and Stephen Bush are back to look at the formation of The Independent Group and their 11 splitter MPs. They also touch upon the case of Shamima Begum, before Tom Gatti and Kate Mossman deliver The Back Half, this week[...]

On this week's New Statesman podcast, Helen Lewis and Stephen Bush are looking at Jeremy Corbyn's five (new) demands for the Brexit process. Helen then speaks to playwright Laura Wade about her new production, Home, I'm Darling. And finally, in You Ask Us, Stephen and Helen tackle the thorny issue of why Labour's splitters don't[...]

On this week's podcast, Helen Lewis and Stephen Bush are examining rumours of a coming split within the Labour party. Then, in You Ask Us, they consider whether Liam Neeson deserves the condemnation he's received, and, finally, Helen speaks to an SME CEO about the prospect of a People's Vote.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush is joined, first, by Anoosh Chakelian to discuss the ongoing issues with Universal Credit, and then by Patrick Maguire in You Ask Us to consider whether there's any Brexit deal that could survive the Commons.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get advert free access to[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Helen Lewis and Stephen Bush are talking about... Brexit. Sorry. But also the public policy issues that might have slipped your attention in You Ask Us, and Helen interviews author John Lanchester about his new book The Wall.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get advert free access[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Helen Lewis and Stephen Bush are looking at an historic week, which saw the government's Brexit deal crushed in the Commons before surviving a no confidence motion from the opposition. And, in a new monthly feature, Tom Gatti and Kate Mossman present The Back Half, an arts and culture[...]

On this week's New Statesman podcast, Helen Lewis and Stephen Bush are discussing Channel 4's new political drama, Brexit: The Uncivil War, written by James Graham and starring Benedict Cumberbatch. And in You Ask Us, they consider whether a Labour party led by Yvette Cooper would be quite as pro-European as some seem to think.If[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Helen Lewis and Stephen Bush are considering whether the so-called 'migrant crisis' in the Channel is a storm in a teacup or something genuinely worthy of the alarmist response. And on You Ask Us they respond to the prompt: 'Should the Parliamentary Lobby be abolished?'.If you are a New Statesman digital[...]

From Brexit, Windrush and an unending sense of political crisis at home, to Trump, civil war and the rise of the far right abroad, this year proved to be as surreal and terrifying as the last.On the live podcast panel: our associate editor, Helen Lewis; our special correspondent, Stephen Bush; our political correspondent, Patrick Maguire; our senior[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Helen Lewis and Stephen Bush discuss Labour's double reverse ferret on the issue of no-confidencing Theresa May's government. In You Ask Us they tackle the question of whether ministers who resign from the cabinet should be allowed to rejoin in the future. And, finally, Helen is joined by Cariad[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Stephen Bush is joined by Patrick Maguire and LabourList's Sienna Rodgers in the House of Commons shortly after the announcement that Theresa May has survived a vote of no confidence. But what does this mean for the Prime Minister, the Labour party, and the prospect of a no-deal Brexit?If[...]

On this week's New Statesman podcast, Stephen and Helen are talking about how Sam Gyimah's resignation as the government's Universities Minister is a huge, and surprising, blow for the Prime Minister. In You Ask Us they tackle the thorny issues surrounding the resignation of Labour's Kate Osamor.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get[...]

Stephen and Patrick discuss the likely May vs Corbyn showdown in the mooted Brexit TV debate. Then Helen interviews Rebecca Frecknall and Patsy Ferran, director and star of Tennessee Williams' Summer and Smoke, currently playing at the Duke of York's theatre in London.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get advert free[...]

Stephen is joined by Patrick and Anoosh to discuss the impossible parliamentary arithmetic of the Brexit deal, and the UN poverty expert's tough criticism of the government's welfare policies.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get advert free access to this podcast by visiting newstatesman.com/nssubscribers. If you haven't signed up yet, visit[...]

Helen and Stephen discuss the chances of a Brexit deal passing through parliament, and take a look at what Jeremy Corbyn has been up to recently.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get advert free access to this podcast by visiting newstatesman.com/nssubscribers. If you haven't signed up yet, visit newstatesman.com/subscribe to purchase[...]

Helen and Stephen discuss the results of the US midterm elections, rumours of a cooling in the relationship between Jeremy Corbyn and John McDonnell, and what might have happened in British politics if the 2017 general election had never happened.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get early, ad free access to[...]

Helen and Stephen discuss the ongoing fallout from the Budget, a new play about women's football, and answer a pressing question: was Waitrose right to get rid of their magazine editor after an ill-judged joke about vegans?If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you can get early, ad free access to this podcast by[...]

Helen and Stephen are joined by Sir Howard Davies, chairman of RBS and former deputy governor of the Bank of England, to dissect this year's budget. What has Philip Hammond kept up his sleeve for Brexit? Is austerity really 'coming to an end'? And what's the deal with the tax cut for higher earners? All[...]

Helen and Stephen discuss the ongoing trials and tribulations of Tory Brexiteers. Then, they're joined by Labour MP and Shadow Treasury Minister Jonathan Reynolds to discuss the upcoming budget. Finally, Jonn Elledge pops in to answer a listener question: is Doctor Who best when it is just trying to be a children's programme?If you are a New[...]

Helen and Stephen attempt to bring some calm rationality to the discussion of Brexit and "the backstop" — whatever that turns out to be. Then Helen talks to the American author Rebecca Solnit about reporting on Trump and her new book Call Them by Their True Names. Finally, a listener question: what's going on with universal credit?If[...]

Helen and Stephen have been on a podcast school trip to David Hare's new play I'm Not Running, and they have some thoughts about how accurately it portrays contemporary Labour politics. Then Emily Sargent from the Wellcome Collection joins to discuss buildings, council estates and housing design.If you are a New Statesman digital subscriber you[...]

Helen, Stephen and Anoosh digest the happenings at the Conservative Party conference in Birmingham, discuss Boris Johnson's Telegraph column and the new left media, and answer a listener question: can we still enjoy the work of Kanye West? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stephen and Anoosh are straight off the train from the Labour Party conference in Liverpool, and they discuss why the mood felt more upbeat in previous years and how Labour are handling Brexit. Plus: a listener question — why do people care more about Jeremy Corbyn's euroscepticism than Theresa May's?Send us your questions for future[...]

Helen is joined by Anoosh Chakelian to discuss the shaming of Donald Trump by Stormy Daniels, plus why Labour Party conference gives her serious deja vu. Then Jonn Elledge reports back from Lib Dem conference, and hands out some TV recommendations too.Send us your questions for future episodes via Twitter @ns_podcasts, @helenlewis, @anoosh_c, @jonnelledge, or join us on[...]

Helen and Stephen itemise the worst ministers and shadow ministers in politics at the moment and explain why these people are failing so badly at their briefs. Then, Helen talks to John Ridding, CEO of the Financial Times and chairman of the Room to Read charity, about literacy and activism. Finally, they answer a popular[...]

Helen and Stephen are joined by New Statesman editor Jason Cowley to discuss his recent interview with the shadow chancellor, John McDonnell. Then, Helen talks to the feminist campaigner Caroline Criado-Perez about the anti-Brexit Women For A People's Vote campaign. Finally, they tackle a listener question: what's going on with Labour's NEC elections?Send us your[...]

Helen and Stephen discuss the coming autumn crunch over Brexit and how the parliamentary votes over the deal will go. Then, Helen talks to director Jude Christian about her upcoming production othellomacbeth and the ways in which we politicise Shakespeare. Finally, they tackle a listener question: should Vince Cable resign?Send us your questions for future[...]

Helen and Stephen discuss jerk rice and cultural appropriation, interview Emily Andrews from the Institute for Government about the state of Britain's public services, and look at the evidence for a possible Labour Party split.Send us your questions for future episodes via Twitter @ns_podcasts, @stephenkb, @helenlewis or join us on Facebook for a live Q&A.Further reading:—Stephen's cover story[...]

Helen and Stephen discuss the row over Jeremy Corbyn's attendance at a 2014 wreath-laying event in Tunis and what it tells us about the current internal state of the Labour Party.Then, for this week's "anything but Brexit section", they are joined by schools expert Laura McInerney (@miss_mcinerney) to talk about the UK's teacher shortage and[...]

Helen and Stephen discuss Boris Johnson's Telegraph column about the burqa, talk to Frances Crook of the Howard League about prisons and penal reform, and answer a listener question: how radical is Jeremy Corbyn's programme for government?Send us your questions for future episodes via Twitter @ns_podcasts, @stephenkb, @helenlewis or join us on Facebook for a live Q&A. Hosted[...]

Helen and Stephen discuss the ongoing row over anti-Semitism in the Labour Party, as well as the internal politics of the party's NEC elections and the possible deselection ballots against pro-Brexit MPs Kate Hoey and Frank Field. They also answer a popular listener question: will and should there be a “people's vote” on the exit[...]

Helen and Stephen look back at the parliamentary year – taking in discussions of new parties, luxury communism and climate change. Then Helen interviews the author Laurence Scott about his new book Picnic Comma Lightning. And you ask them: should parliament cancel recess to work on Brexit?  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Helen and Stephen discuss the news that the Vote Leave campaign has been found to have broken electoral law and explore whether Theresa May can face a no confidence vote while Parliament is on summer recess. They they're joined by Helen Thompson, Professor of Political Economy at Cambridge University and a regular on the Talking[...]

Helen and Stephen discuss the ongoing resignations and battles in the Tory party over Brexit, and then Stephen is joined by NS political correspondent Patrick Maguire to test out some Labour Party counterfactuals (warning: includes Liz Kendall content).Subscribe to the New Statesman's World Cup podcast, Political Football, now — find it at newstatesman.com/podcast or in your podcast app[...]

Helen and Stephen react to the resignations of David Davis and Boris Johnson (and who knows who else by the time you listen to this), and analyse what the upheaval in the Cabinet means for Theresa May's tenure as prime minister and the chances of a Brexit deal with the EU27. Hosted on Acast. See[...]

Helen talks to former White House aide Ben Rhodes, who was an advisor to Barack Obama, about Trump, US foreign policy, and the collapse of the Iran deal. Then, she and Stephen answer a listener question: is there now a stronger chance of a no-deal Brexit?The World as It is: Inside the Obama White House[...]

Helen is joined by the New Statesman's US editor Nicky Woolf to discuss the child detention scandal on America's borders and the "blue wave" of left wing candidates winning primaries. Then, they answer a provocative listener question: what's annoying you most at the moment? (Spoiler, it's a lot, and some of it is Brexit-related.)Subscribe to[...]

Stephen is joined by LabourList editor Sienna Rodgers (as Helen is on holiday) to pick over Theresa May's mythical "Brexit dividend" for the NHS, and to discuss what's going on with Labour's NEC elections. Finally, they answer a pressing question: why is Jeremy Corbyn pushing for a free vote on Heathrow expansion?Send us your questions[...]

Helen and Stephen discuss the Brexit votes in the Commons this week and how a Lords amendment on the EU Withdrawal Bill will work. Then, they analyse Paul Dacre's departure as editor of the Daily Mail and what it will mean for the paper. Finally, they answer a listener question: why hasn't the press picked[...]

Stephen and Anoosh discuss Labour's shift on Brexit, reflect on the year since the 2017 general election, and look at how austerity is affecting people around the country.Send us your questions for future episodes via Twitter @ns_podcasts, @anoosh_c or join us on Facebook for a live Q&A.Become a paying newstatesman.com subscriber and get the podcast in time for your[...]

Helen and Stephen discuss the Yes vote in the Irish referendum on repealing the eighth amendment, and then go head to head on whether referendums are a good way of making political decisions.Send us your questions for future episodes via Twitter @ns_podcasts, @helenlewis or join us on Facebook for a live Q&A. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more[...]

Helen and Stephen are joined by Tom Hamilton to discuss the prospect of an early election and the history of PMQs, and then they answer a listener question: is the media in trouble, or better than ever?Send us your questions for future episodes via Twitter @ns_podcasts, @helenlewis or join us on Facebook for a live Q&A.Get a copy of[...]

Can you tell your customs partnership from your max-fac? Helen and Stephen untangle the latest Brexit wrangling, and then discuss Stephen's recent trip to Israel and the moving of the US embassy to Jerusalem. Finally, they answer a listener question: what would the London mayoral race have looked like if Tessa Jowell had won the Labour nomination?Send[...]

Helen is joined by Sienna Rodgers, editor of LabourList, to discuss the local election results — was it a good night or a bad night for Jeremy Corbyn and the Labour party? Then the American playwright Rajiv Joseph joins to tell us about his new play, Describe the Night, which covers almost a hundred years[...]

Helen and Stephen discuss the politics of the new home secretary Sajid Javid, yet more Brexiteer nonsense about the customs union, and whether it's possible for a Conservative to be progressive.Send us your questions for future episodes via Twitter @ns_podcasts, @helenlewis, @stephenkb or join us on Facebook for a live Q&A. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Helen and Stephen discuss the Brexiteers' magical thinking on the customs union, Len McCluskey's forthright intervention on anti-Semitism in the Labour party in this week's New Statesman magazine, and the new statue of Millicent Fawcett in Parliament Square.Send us your questions for future episodes via Twitter @ns_podcasts, @helenlewis, @stephenkb or join us on Facebook for a live Q&A.Further reading:Len McCluskey: The Corbyn ulitmatum.[...]

Helen and Stephen discuss the immigration controversy now surrounding the handling of the Windrush generation and analyse what Theresa May's "hostile environment" policy could mean for her politically. Then contributing editor Mehdi Hasan joins from Washington DC to talk about Donald Trump's extraordinary run of outrageous scandals. Finally, they tackle a listener question: how did the[...]

Helen and Stephen discuss the conflict in Syria and the tests for any possible UK intervention. Then they take a close look at the return of crime as a political issue in Britain. Finally, they answer a listener question: are the conditions for a successful new centrist party unique to France?Send us your questions for future episodes[...]

Helen is back! She and Stephen discuss anti-Semitism in the Labour party, and then answer a listener question: should there be a new centrist party and should David Miliband lead it?Send us your questions for future episodes via Twitter @ns_podcasts, @helenlewis, @stephenkb or join us on Facebook for a live Q&A.Further reading:Stephen's column about Labour and[...]

Stephen and Anoosh discuss the ongoing story of Cambridge Analytica and the allegations of Vote Leave's overspending during the EU referendum. Then they answer a listener question about whether there is any truth in the accusation that Labour's anti-Semitism row is a smear. Finally, they look at an example of a dodgy election leaflet from[...]

Stephen is away this week, so Anoosh is at the helm. First, she is joined by Citymetric editor and known Brexit loather Jonn Elledge to discuss the transition deal and why fish were thrown into the Thames at Westminster. Then, she interviews Francisco Cantú, a former border guard on the US-Mexico border and the author of The[...]

Stephen and Anoosh discuss the unfolding story of the Russian spy attack in Salisbury, and wonder whether Jeremy Corbyn's previous foreign policy statements will cut through to voters. Then they analyse Philip Hammond's Spring Statement and the Conservatives' contradictory position on the economy. Finally, they answer a listener question: is Vince Cable right to say[...]

Stephen and Anoosh discuss Theresa Mays housing speech and the politics of homeowning vs renting. Then, they talk about the polling around awareness of Momentum, and whether it's a good attack line for the Tories (spoiler: no). Finally, they answer a listener question: is there any possibility of a second referendum on EU membership?Send us your[...]

Stephen and Anoosh discuss Jeremy Corbyn's Brexit speech and Labour's new position on the customs union. Then, they talk about the #LabourToo report on harassment in the party and give a brief guide to the left-wing blogosphere (can you tell your Canary from your Skwawkbox?). Finally, they answer a listener question: why do Brexiteers care so[...]

Stephen and Anoosh discuss the story of Jeremy Corbyn's alleged meeting with a Czech spy in the 1980s and why it has received so much coverage. Then, they analyse the Labour leader's response, including his pledges to crack down on the right wing press and tax exile media moguls. Finally, they answer a listener question: why[...]

Stephen and Anoosh discuss Boris Johnson's disingenuous Brexit intervention. Then they talk about a recent trip to see the Labour MP Laura Pidcock in Durham, and the art of a good political interview. Finally, they (try to) answer a very good listener question: what actually is the government's plan for the Northern Irish border after Brexit?Send us your[...]

Stephen and Anoosh discuss Theresa May's inept speech about the suffragettes. Then they answer a popular listener question: can the Conservatives can win a majority by maximising the white vote?Send us your questions for future episodes via Twitter @ns_podcasts, @anoosh_c or @stephenkb.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Helen and Stephen discuss the controversy surrounding Labour and the Haringey Development Vehicle (no wait, come back, it's really interesting). Then they answer a listener question: how does the Conservative no confidence process work?Send us your questions for future episodes via Twitter @ns_podcasts, @helenlewis or @stephenkb.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Helen and Stephen discuss Boris Johnson's terrible intervention on the NHS before getting very angry about the sleazy all-male fundraiser exposed by the FT this week.Send us your questions for future episodes via Twitter @ns_podcasts, @helenlewis or @stephenkb. Further reading:The FT exclusive about the Presidents Club fundraiser.Helen's piece about the Freemasons. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy[...]

What do Mary Stuart, Elizabeth Tudor, and the future leaders of both the Conservative and Labour parties have in common? They are all the subject of this bumper discussion between Helen and Stephen about women, power and political succession.Send us your questions for future episodes via Twitter @ns_podcasts, @helenlewis or @stephenkb.  Hosted on Acast. See[...]

Helen and Stephen dissect Theresa May's reshuffle and wonder what on earth the PM was thinking, getting rid of Justine Greening. Then Helen interviews the playwright David Eldridge about his upcoming play Beginning and theatre's problems with diversity and access. Finally, they tackle a big and serious question: how do we fix the NHS crisis?Send[...]

Helen and Stephen look back at everything they missed in politics over the Christmas break and make some predictions for the year ahead.Contact us with your predictions or questions on Twitter @ns_podcasts, @helenlewis or @stephenkb.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Helen and Stephen are joined by Dorian Lynskey of the Remainiacs podcast to look back at Britain's Brexit travails in 2017. They pick the best and worst Brexiteers, wonder if they ended the year feeling worse about politics than they did at the start, and look ahead to what political joys 2018 might bring.Contact us[...]

Stephen is joined by guest host Anoosh Chakelian (get well soon, Helen!) to discuss whether there is anything an MP can do these days to get the sack. They talk about the cases of Anne Marie Morris, Jared O'Mara and Damian Green, among others. Then, they address a listener question: what is a "meaningful" vote?You[...]

Helen and Stephen spend the whole episode unpicking the tangled threads of the Brexit negotiations. Why did the DUP wreck Theresa May's plans for the Irish border? Can the Lib Dems make a comeback as a party? Can the Tories reconcile their political objectives with their desire to leave the EU behind? This bumper special[...]

Helen and Stephen discuss the Brexit negotiations and the lack of progress on the Irish border question. Then, they wonder what Labour is up to at the moment. Finally, they answer a listener question: how sinister is the Legatum Institute?Contact us on Twitter @ns_podcasts, @helenlewis or @stephenkb. Further reading:Fred Studemann on German politics.Stephen in 2016 on[...]

Helen and Stephen are joined by Sir Howard Davies, chairman of RBS and former deputy governor of the Bank of England, to dissect this year's budget. Did Philip Hammond avoid mentioning Brexit? Will the stamp duty change really help first time buyers? How worried should you be about the downgraded growth forecasts? All these questions,[...]

Helen and Stephen discuss Theresa May's latest baffling Brexit blunder and the fate of the EU Withdrawal Bill. Then John Crace, parliamentary sketch writer at the Guardian, joins them to talk about parliamentary satire. Finally, they answer a listener question: are the culture wars worse now than ever before?Contact us on Twitter @ns_podcasts, @helenlewis or @stephenkb.Relevant links:Stephen in[...]

Helen and Anoosh discuss the extraordinary pile up of scandals in Westminster, from Priti Patel and Boris Johnson's foreign affairs gaffes to the continuing fallout from the sexual harassment allegations in Parliament. Then they find some glimmers of hope in the latest expert views on Brexit, and finally, they answer a listener question: why does[...]

Helen and Stephen discuss the resignation of Michael Fallon as defence secretary, and look more broadly at allegations of sexual harassment and abuse in Westminster. Then, they are joined by the author Nick Harkaway to talk about his new book Gnomon and the issues of surveillance and privacy that it raises. Finally, they answer a[...]

How badly does an MP have to behave before they get suspended? Helen and Stephen discuss the case of Sheffield Hallam MP Jared O'Mara and analyse the media kremlinology behind it. Then they look at the continuing problems with Universal Credit and explore its failures as a benefits system. Finally, they answer a question sent[...]

Why is the government delaying the EU Withdrawal Bill? Helen and Stephen discuss where it all went wrong. Then they look at the trend for setting up new "centrist" parties and wonder if the Lib Dems are screwed for good. Finally, they answer a listener question: how do you tell if a politician is a[...]

Would a "no deal" Brexit really be so bad? Helen and Stephen analyse the likelihood of the UK crashing out of the EU without a plan, and then take a look at the domestic policy problems brewing with Universal Credit. Then, they answer a listener question: would any of the 2016 Tory leadership candidates have[...]

Helen and Stephen discuss the fallout from the Conservative Party conference, and in particular Theresa May's disastrous speech. Then they answer a listener question: is the Labour Party ready to govern?Send us your questions and thoughts for future episodes on Twitter via @ns_podcasts, @helenlewis or @stephenkb.Further reading/listening:Stephen on the Conservatives' misunderstanding of Jeremy Corbyn.Mark Wallace at ConHome on the[...]

Helen and Stephen are back from the Labour Party conference in Brighton, and they reflect on the party's mood. Then they analyse how successful Jeremy Corbyn's speech was. Finally, they answer a listener question: was Labour right to wargame a run on the pound?Send us your questions and thoughts for future episodes on Twitter via @ns_podcasts, @helenlewis or @stephenkb.Listen[...]

Helen and Stephen are joined by satirist and Private Eye writer Craig Brown to discuss the royal family and his new book about Princess Margaret. Then they analyse the way that Boris Johnson's Brexit intervention was amplified by the right-wing media. Finally, they answer a vital question: will Corbynism dominate the Labour party forever?Send us[...]

Helen and Stephen discuss Theresa May's dislike of parliamentary scrutiny and Labour's use of opposition day debates. Then we hear what Stephen learned about Brexit on his recent trip to Poland. Finally, they answer a rather topical question: should former politicians like Tony Blair and Hillary Clinton just go away?Send us your questions and thoughts[...]

Helen and Stephen discuss the progress of the legislation formerly known as the Great Repeal Bill, and then assess whether Jacob Rees-Mogg might actually become Tory leader. Then, for the You Asked Us segment, they answer the most vital of all questions: which past UK election should you rewatch?Send us your questions and thoughts for[...]

Helen and Stephen discuss Kezia Dugdale's resignation as Scottish Labour leader and assess what her legacy will be. Then, they (reluctantly) dig into the details of the troubled Brexit negotiations. Finally, they answer an extremely fraught question: can you be friends with a Tory?Send us your questions and thoughts for future episodes on Twitter via[...]

Stephen is back from holiday, and he joins Helen to assess Labour's performance over the summer break. Then, they try to understand the row over Big Ben being silenced for refurbishment. Finally, they go head to head on a very controversial topic: is Game of Thrones still any good?Send us your questions and thoughts for[...]

Helen is joined by Anoosh to consider whether a new political party would have any chance of success in the UK. Then they discuss the TV shows everyone really likes to watch but doesn't admit to and analyse why the quality of Don't Tell The Bride has declined. Finally, a bumper You Asked Us section[...]

Helen and Stephen contemplate the escalation of hostilities between the United States and North Korea from the podcast bunker, and analyse why Venezuela causes such problems for British left. Then, in a new segment, they go head to head to determine which is the best Nineties sitcom: Frasier or The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air?Follow Helen[...]

Helen is joined by Anoosh Chakelian to ponder the fruits of this year's silly season. There's scandal and Scaramucci in Trump's White House. And debate over who should get passes to the UK lobby. They also share their thoughts on upcoming political plays and a new profile of Sadiq Khan. Plus, You Ask Us: Where[...]

Helen and Stephen discuss the row over student fees and what it means for Corbyn's electoral prospects. They also recommend their top TV shows to catch up on this summer. Plus, a selection of our magazine writers pick their favourite political fiction. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Helen is back and, together with Stephen, explores the politics of pay scandal at the BBC. From John Humphrys to Match of the Day, who do they think is worth what? And which non-fiction books do they recommend for the summer break? Plus, you ask us about the Conservatives' attempt to free themselves of the[...]

In this week's episode, Stephen and Anoosh touch on what makes a good political leader - from Emily Thornberry's impressive performance at this week's PMQs, to how Vince Cable is faring in his own leadership bid. They are then joined by the comedian and presenter, Nish Kumar, to discuss the racist outburst of Anna Marie[...]

Helen is away, so Stephen is joined by Anoosh Chakelian to discuss the latest rows over single market access and Cameron's defense of his austerity agenda. Amelia Tait then helps explore the gendered world of punctuation. And You Ask Us: should the Conservatives have a Momentum of their own? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for[...]

Helen and Stephen explore what's going on with the DUP: what's the best response to new investment for Northern Ireland? And how long will May last? They also roam into the mythical worlds of Wonder Woman and Sherlock Holmes. Plus: you ask us: why has there been no final death toll estimate for Grenfell? Hosted[...]

Helen and Stephen discuss what was left out, watered down and generally squished around in the Queen's Speech - from prison reform to fox hunting - and what kind of stage it sets for the coming parliamentary term. Will Labour's stance on immigration have to change? And what Brexit deal could secure a parliamentary majority?[...]

Helen and Stephen are joined by the author and editor Andrew O'Hagan, to explore selfhood in the internet era. Who are the slippery figures who populate our online worlds? Will there be a backlash against this new fluidity? And are these trends changing the way novelists write? Plus: why we love Instagram so much. Hosted[...]

Helen and Stephen digest the election results, with a focus on what can be learned for future campaigns: why Labour outperformed expectations, what the tories got wrong, and how should feedback from doorstep activists be best understood? Plus, You Ask Us: was the postal vote deadline too early for Labour? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy[...]

Doubt, deferral and the DUP: after a turbulent weekend, Helen and Stephen ask what next for the Tories? Could the new relationship with the DUP mean tougher laws on abortion? And is Theresa May's authority safe? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Wow. Helen and Stephen are just about still awake - and here with a summary of the night's events (rapping and singing ensue). Plus: we get the reactions of our guests at the NS election night party. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Election Day is here and so are Helen and Stephen - with a campaign roundup special! From Jeremy Corbyn to Theresa May, and El Gato to Paxman - listen in to find out who they think are the winners and losers of the 2017 election race. Plus: Predictions for tonight. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy[...]

In light of this weekend's terror attack in London and Theresa May's response, Helen and Stephen reflect on the how recent attacks have shaped the election. Was May right to politicise Saturday's events? Is regulating cyber-space even possible? And what are the true causes of extremism? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Helen and Stephen digest the latest from the battle for No.10: from the merits of Corbyn's on-screen performance, to concerns surrounding the Conservative campaign. Plus, You Ask Us: is the Labour poll surge right? And will there be high youth turnout? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join us for the New Statesman on-tour election special! As the polling day approaches, our team of politics writers regale Stephen Bush with news of their travels around the country. From Dover to Derby North, and from St Ives to Sheffield Hallam, via Birmingham, Belfast and Vauxhall - listen in for the interviews and insights[...]

In light of the attack in Manchester, the NS podcast is pausing its politics coverage until campaigning resumes. Join us next week and, in the meantime, do consider volunteering at your local hospital or donating blood: www.blood.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to 2017's epic, Manifesto Special edition of the podcast. Helen and Stephen begin with analysis of the Conservative's latest offerings - from the new policy on social care, to their (costly) targets on immigration. Next up is Labour, who get "Marx out of ten" for their ambitious pledges. And finally, You Ask Us: are[...]

As the campaigns heat up, our hosts delve into the problems with the Progressive Alliance, the trouble with tuition fees, and Helen's history of rodent control. They also ask whether Corbyn will carry on as leader. And why Theresa May is campaigning in a sealed box (where she can avoid meeting the public). Plus, You[...]

In this bonus edition of the podcast, Helen and Stephen review the results of last week’s local elections: what do they prophesy for the parties of the Left and what does Andy Burnham’s win mean for Labour? Plus: the many ways in which Emmanuel Macron’s victory in France is a good thing – even for[...]

Helen is away this week, so Stephen is joined by Senior Writer, Anoosh Chakelian, and Citymetric Editor, Jonn Elledge. Together they explore how Theresa May's latest EU dealings are less strong-and-stable, and more "like being in a car with a drunk driver". Then discuss which candidates to watch out for in this week's local elections.[...]

20 years on from Labour's general election landslide, Helen and Stephen host a special edition looking back at the party's journey. Lord Spencer Livermore describes what it was like to be part of the 1997 campaign team. Kate Mossman reminds us what critics say Cool Britannia was listening to - and what was actually topping[...]

Ian Leslie and Stewart Wood return for another episode of the Deep Dive. This time they're plunging into the murky world of election promises with Catherine Haddon, resident historian at the Institute of Government. Together they explore what an electoral mandate means, what a manifesto is for, and why we can't sue the government when[...]

The campaigns are on! Helen and Stephen discuss what are likely to be some of the upcoming election's stand-out themes - from the attacks on Corbyn, to why TV debates are a problem for Theresa May, and Tim Farron's views on homosexuality and faith. You also ask us: If Labour suffers a defeat, will Corbyn[...]

Emergency Podcast! Theresa May has called for an election on 8 June. Listen in to learn Helen and Stephen’s first thoughts on what this means for Labour and the country. Will the epic Tory poll lead hold? What next for Ukip and the SNP? And can Corbyn’s ratings make a come-back? Hosted on Acast. See[...]

Labour has used the Easter recess to announce a raft of new policies - but will they be popular with the electorate? Helen and Stephen analyse their merits. They also contemplate the (many) fears associated with flying, especially if it's with United Airlines. And you ask us: was Boris Johnson right over Russia? Hosted on[...]

Helen and Stephen discuss what the week's two wars - with Spain and Cadburys - reveal about the political identities behind Brexit. Stephen tells of his eggsclusive on Theresa May's egg-hunt beef. Plus, what should we make of the Ken Livingtstone verdict? And what does Helen think of Labour's media operation? Hosted on Acast. See[...]

When does an attack become terrorism? In another special edition of the podcast, Ian Leslie and Stewart Wood explore the the rise of lone-actor terror. They are joined by Sasha Havlicek, CEO of the Institute of Strategic Dialogue, who advises government on how to tackle violent extremism. And by Paul Gill, from UCL's Department of[...]

Helen and Stephen are joined by Jonn Elledge to lament our exit from the EU, discuss what they feel about the EEA, and decide who they loathe more: Douglas Carswell or Daniel Hannan. Jason Cowley and George Eaton then introduce our special-issue on Labour's collapse. And you ask us: what do we think of the[...]

In a podcast recorded before the terrible events of Wednesday afternoon, Helen and Stephen discuss George Osborne's new editorship at the London Evening Standard. The BBC's Mike Thomson joins to tell the story of an escape from the ISIS occupied city of Raqqa. And you ask us: will there be a snap election? Hosted on[...]

Ian Leslie and Stewart Wood are joined by the BBC’s political editor Laura Kuenssberg to interrogate the idea of media bias. It’s a phrase that is thrown around a lot in the age of fake news, including by some powerful politicians, but what does it really mean? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Helen and Stephen reflect on the fallout from last week's Budget, news of a potential second Scottish referendum, and chat bodies with special guest Sara Pascoe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Helen and Stephen sum up today's Spring budget. What happened to the argument for Grammar schools? Where was the preparation for Brexit? And how did the Chancellor's jokes stand up? (Answer: Spreadsheet-Phil did not Excel). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Helen and Stephen are joined by Anoosh Chakelian to chat UKIP's splits: should we finally be writing the party off? Or is its presence a gateway drug for more extreme parties on the right? Helen discusses her recent profile of Harriet Harman MP. And you ask us: should MPs do a deal to get Corbyn[...]

This week, Helen and Stephen discuss the fall of Milo Yiannopoulos. Pauline Bock joins with an update on the French elections and Macron's performance in London. And Anoosh Chakelian reports on concerns in Copeland. Plus: get your by-election predictions here! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Helen and Stephen discuss why it has been a bad week for Theresa May, the unravelling of Trump's stated commitment to NATO and other foreign policy fails. Anoosh Chakelian tells of the apathy she found on the streets of Stoke, ahead of next week's by-election. And you ask us: how is Chris Grayling still a[...]

This week, Helen and Stephen ask what Labour got out of the Article 50 vote. Was Clive Lewis right to defy the whip and who might succeed Corbyn as party leader? Jason Cowley, our editor, joins to discuss his interview with Theresa May and what she did (and did not say) about Donald Trump. And[...]

This week, Helen and Stephen ask whether or not Labour was right to whip its members for the second reading of Article 50. Anoosh joins to review Ken Clarke's striking performance in the debate. And you ask us about sexism in the House of Commons. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this podcast special, Helen and Stephen respond to Donald Trump's immigration ban. They unpick the many ways in which the policy is alarming and ask how can Britain best respond. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Helen and Stephen list the scary things we have already learnt about Donald Trump's administration. Julia Rampen's back-bencher-of-the-week is David Lammy MP, prompting a discussion of Labour's position on the article 50 vote. And you ask us: will there be a deal on Brexit? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Stephen and Anoosh explore what Theresa May has said about Brexit, what that means for a second Scottish referendum and what might be Labour’s best line of response. Julia Rampen's Back-Bencher-Of-The-Week is Michael Gove, for his interview with Donald Trump. And You Ask Us: can you get away with anything if you’re on[...]

This week, Helen and Stephen discuss Jeremy Corbyn's relaunch. Will it work and what is the wider outlook for left wing populism? Our Staggers editor, Julia Rampen, joins to explain why Caroline Lucas is her back bencher (and party co-leader) of the week. And you ask us: what is going on in Northern Ireland. Hosted[...]

Welcome to 2017! This week, Helen and Stephen talk about foreign aid, their predictions for the year ahead and Len McCluskey's game-plan at Unite. Amelia Tait joins to discuss the power of false memory. And you ask us: what to make of the latest Star Wars film? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Helen and Stephen review things which didn't suck in 2016. Papers Please, One Night Stand and Her Story get shout-outs in the section on video games. Helen became a Hamilton fan. Stephen read a lot of books. And Zac Goldsmith lost not once, but twice. Enjoy! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's a crossover episode! Helen and Stephen are joined by David Runciman and Helen Thompson of the Talking Politics podcast for the second part of a discussion about Trump, Brexit and what motivates voters in the new political landscape. Are economics or identity more important? Will Donald Trump start a trade war with China? And[...]

This week, Helen and Stephen discuss French politics: who are the viable candidates for president and what would a Marine Le Pen victory mean for Europe? Also up for debate is Keir Starmer's speech, how Labour should best take on the Tories, and our hosts' own experiences of a vicarage Christmas. And finally, you ask[...]

This week, Helen and Stephen discuss Emily Thornberry's performance at PMQs and the Tory response to female authority. George joins with a report from the lobby. And writer Emily Witt, author of Future Sex, explores what female sexual freedom might mean today. (Helen Lewis, Stephen Bush, Emily Witt) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more[...]

This week, Helen and Stephen discuss sex education, Jeremy Hunt's moves to stop sexting and how technology is changing childhood. George joins with the latest from the Lobby. Then Stephen and Anoosh pay a visit to James Graham, the writer of the hit West End play 'This House'. And finally, you ask us: who is[...]

This week, Helen and Stephen are joined by Staggers Editor, Julia Rampen, to discuss the winners and losers in this year's Autumn Statement. How much jam really was there for the just-about-managings? And why is that concept both so inclusive and so un-helpful? Helen and Stephen also discuss Tony Blair - the former Labour leader's[...]

This week, Helen and Stephen are joined by NS contributing editor, Laurie Penny. Together they consider the fallout from last week's US election, and explore what lies behind the urge to normalise the new president-elect. George Eaton joins with an analysis of Jeremy Corbyn's latest PMQs performance. And you ask us: should Nigel Farage be[...]

After a long night, Helen and Stephen reflect on the result of America’s 2016 election: how were the polls so wrong? Would Bernie have done better? And what might be the most concerning consequence of all? (Helen Lewis, Stephen Bush). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In a special election preview, Helen speaks to Jonn Elledge, who is currently touring the USA. Taking in the view from New England to Ohio they discuss which states are the ones to watch on Tuesday night? Is there such a thing as too much polling? And what are the parallels with Brexit? (Helen Lewis,[...]

This week, Helen and Stephen discuss Momentum and what its different factions might want the organisation to become. Anoosh joins with the latest from the lobby: what are Gordon Brown’s plans for regional empowerment and what should we make of the court’s decision on Brexit? Then Stephen and Helen look ahead to next week’s US[...]

This week, Helen and Stephen discuss the decision to build a third runway at Heathrow: is it right that collective cabinet responsibility has been suspended? And what are Zac Goldsmith’s chances in a by-election? Helen then shares her thoughts on the latest Marvel movie (to which Stephen was not invited). And you ask us: if[...]

This week, Helen and Stephen review the list of candidates for the select committee chair announcements, Helen worries that the language around Brexit is turning nasty and Stephen finds Football Manager knows more about Brexit than our politicians. Then our deputy web editor, Anoosh Chakelian, returns from a visit to Batley and Spen to discuss[...]

This week, Stephen and Helen discuss the symbolism of the royal yacht, the American election and their yearnings for a more straight-talking Brexit debate. Digital culture writer Amelia Tait joins to talk YouTubers and what might be worrying about their rise. George provides an analysis of PMQs. And you ask us: should Stop The War[...]

Stephen joins fresh from Birmingham to discuss the highs and lows of Tory conference - from Theresa May’s speech to Andrea Leadsom’s comments on naan-bread. Find out why May’s promises don’t work for Helen and whether Stephen thinks the message will cut through. You also ask us: where are the weaknesses in Theresa May’s vision?[...]

Helen and Stephen are joined by author and editor-at-large for the Guardian, Gary Younge, to discuss the findings of his new book: Another Day in the Death of America. Seven kids die every day from gun violence in the US yet very few make the national news. Is there any way to stop Americans becoming[...]

Helen and Stephen fight through colds to bring you their first thoughts on Jeremy Corbyn's conference performance. How has the party responded to his re-election? What's the relationship with Welsh Labour? And who made this year's stand-out speeches? (Helen Lewis, Stephen Bush) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this New Statesman podcast special we expand on our New Times issue which identifies the political, economic and philosophical shifts shaping our society. The series will run across two episodes with special guests giving their view on what lies ahead for Labour and the left. (Serena Kutchinsky, Jason Cowley, Colin Robinson, George Eaton, Philip[...]

This week, Helen and Stephen review Labour’s pre-conference predicament: will Corbyn be elected with a bigger mandate than last time? They also explore why Labour’s support increases when people see themselves as British rather than English. George joins from the Lib Dem conference in Brighton with thoughts on Tim Farron. And you ask us about[...]

Helen is back and set to discuss grammar schools, electoral pacts and why Stephen is particularly upset about boundary change. George joins with the reaction to Corbyn’s PMQ performance. NS tech editor, Kirsty Styles, explores whether whistleblowers can maintain their credibility - and how far big data is to be welcomed. And you ask us:[...]

Anoosh once again joins to co-host this week’s podcast. Shadow cabinet elections and Brexit strategy are both up for debate as Parliament returns from recess. George Eaton discusses the latest thinking on grammar schools. And culture writer Anna Leszkiewicz explores the language of political fandom. You also ask us: Will the boundary changes help Corbyn?[...]

Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian co-host this week’s podcast. Together they discuss the latest YouGov Polls, the feasibility of a Progressive Alliance and the strategy of the ‘Three-Brexiteers’. Our new digital culture writer, Amelia Tait, joins to review Labour's thoughts on online protection. And you ask us: which Harry Potter houses would Britain’s political leadership[...]

This week, Helen and Stephen tackle Traingate and Lunaticgate. George Eaton comes down-the-line from the valleys with the latest on the Owen Smith campaign. Anna Leszkiewicz joins to discuss feminism in the new Ghostbusters film. And you-ask-us: what is the role of the John McDonell in the Corbyn ménage? (Helen Lewis, Stephen Bush, George Eaton,[...]

Helen and Stephen are both away this week. But in their absence we've delved into the podcast archive to bring you a highlight from the 2015 Labour leadership race.... (Anoosh Chakelian, Helen Lewis). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the week's second podcast, Helen and Stephen talk Labour politics in relation to Scotland, sexism and mayoral selections. Did anti-Westminster sentiment effect the results? What should we make of Andy Burnham? And who rescued Stephen from a broken lift? (Helen Lewis, Stephen Bush) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's another emergency podcast! Helen and Stephen discuss the High Court's decision to overturn the ban on new Labour members voting in the leadership election. Will this help or harm Jeremy Corbyn? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Helen is joined by Anoosh and Julia to play “Whose policy is it anyway?” and predict how new members will vote in the Labour leadership contest. Citymetric editor John Elledge joins to discuss how home ownership rates have fallen around the country. And you ask us: will article 50 ever be triggered and,[...]

This week, Helen and Stephen explore Jeremy Corbyn’s appeal among different parts of the Labour membership, discuss Sarah Champion's return to the shadow-cabinet, and question the value of social mobility as an aim for the Left. You also ask us: When will Labour’s turmoil end? And what do we think about More United? (Helen Lewis,[...]

This week, Helen and Stephen discuss the thousands of newly registered Labour supporters, Corbyn’s flair for campaigning and what they feel about Owen Smith. George Eaton reports on Theresa May's very first PMQs. And you ask us: what will happen if Corbyn wins the leadership election for a second time? (Helen Lewis, Stephen Bush, George[...]

Emergency Politics Podcast! Stephen Bush is joined by NS deputy web-editor, Anoosh Chakelian, and Staggers editor, Julia Rampen, to discuss Theresa May's new cabinet appointments, pick their least favourite members, and speculate on what the changes might mean for Britain. (Stephen Bush, Anoosh Chakelian, Julia Rampen) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the latest podcast to tackle the week's fast-moving events, Helen and Stephen discuss the coup against Corbyn and how his response contrasts to the actions of Bernie Sanders in America. Also up for debate is Jeremy's popularity among members, the impact of Corbynite memes, as well as the shortcomings of some of his internal[...]

🚨 It's an emergency politics update! 🚨 Theresa May is the new Conservative Party leader, and our new PM from Wednesday. We discuss this tumultuous day in politics. (Helen Lewis, Stephen Bush) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Helen and Stephen explore whether Labour should split and what kind of party might be left if they did. They also discuss the prospects of the Tory leadership candidates and Ukip's MEPs. George Eaton and Julia Rampen, our new Staggers Editor, then join to talk about the legacy of the Chilcot report. And[...]

In this week’s podcast special, Helen and Stephen discuss Westminster’s latest raft of party contests: who is in the running to replace Nigel Farage? Have the favourites for Tory top spot changed again? And what should the Left demand from a Brexit? They also explore why bookmaker odds are no substitute for polls. (Helen Lewis,[...]

In this second podcast of the week, Helen and Stephen examine the latest in leadership battles: from the chances of Michael Gove and Theresa May, to the shake-up of Jeremy Corbyn’s shadow cabinet. Contributing editor Laurie Penny then joins to help answer questions on Brexit: is it a good idea for Labour to pursue a[...]

Today, Helen and Stephen discuss the audacity of the Leave campaign and the extent to which it was dominated by lies and deceit. What will Cameron do next? What is Labour’s next move? And how angry should we be about Brexit? (Helen Lewis, Stephen Bush) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

NS editor, Jason Cowley, joins Helen and Stephen to examine how the referendum results have broken-down across the country. What will happen next in Scotland and Northern Ireland? How will the parties react? And can anyone stop Boris Johnson? (Jason Cowley, Helen Lewis, Stephen Bush) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Helen and Stephen reflect on the death of Jo Cox and how the tragedy has resonated through politics. They also take stock of the EU debate ahead of the country going to the polls on Thursday: what will be the referendum’s lasting legacy and will it hurt UKIP? Stephen reports on the atmosphere[...]

We're taking a break this week, following the death of Jo Cox MP. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Helen and Stephen are joined by deputy web editor Anoosh Chakelian to talk about Europe: are the polls to be believed? Who is making the positive case for immigration? And will Stephen stick to his earlier referendum prediction? George Eaton joins from the Lobby. Then the tone lightens with a spin around the[...]

This week, Helen and Stephen get to grips with Jeremy Corbyn’s Vice News documentary. Together they probe Labour’s media strategy and query whether Ed Miliband should come back. Then, from documentaries to dragons, the parliamentary recess provides an excuse to tackle role-playing videogames – and question why politics fans are often into world-building? You also[...]

This week, Helen and Stephen try their best not to talk about the EU. Instead they turn to Boris Johnson’s media strategy, MP’s expenses, and Labour and the idea of Englishness. They go down-the-line to the Lobby with George Eaton. Then Henry Zeffman joins to discuss the politics of the new X-men movie. You also[...]

This week, Helen Lewis and Stephen Bush review the Queen’s Speech and discuss candidates for the next mayor of Manchester. George Eaton catches up with the latest from the Lobby. And CityMetric editor, Jonn Elledge, joins to debate the value of Monarchy. You also ask us: How real is the media conspiracy against Corbyn? (Helen[...]

This week, Helen and Stephen discuss the shake-up in the Welsh assembly: what’s going on with UKIP? And can Labour work with Plaid Cymru? George Eaton explores the lobby’s latest thoughts on Vote Leave. Then Anna Leszkiewicz joins from the SRSLY podcast to discuss the politics behind Beyonce’s latest album, Lemonade. (Helen Lewis, Stephen Bush,[...]

Helen Lewis and Stephen Bush are joined by our acting Staggers editor, Henry Zeffman, to digest last Thursday’s elections. What do the results mean for Labour? How might Sadiq Khan implement his manifesto? And why is Lord Adonis like Pokemon? (Helen Lewis, Stephen Bush, Henry Zeffman) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, the NS podcast comes to you on the day the country heads to the polls. Helen and Stephen are joined by acting Staggers editor, Henry Zeffman, to discuss their predictions for the election and its fall-out. They also pick teams in the week’s other political showdown: Captain America’s superhero civil war. George Eaton[...]

This week, Helen Lewis and Stephen Bush are joined by Henry Zeffman, our acting Staggers editor, to discuss Labour's anti-Semitism controversy. George Eaton takes the temperature within Westminster. And Anoosh Chakelian questions Zac Goldsmith’s campaign against fellow mayoral candidate Sadiq Khan. You also ask us: is TTIP a reason to vote leave in the EU[...]

This week, Helen and Stephen take a break from Brexit coverage to interview two special guests. Laura McInerney, editor of Schools Week, joins to talk about academisation and her FOI battle with the Department of Education. Then Ian Leslie discusses the New York primaries, and George Eaton is back with the latest from Westminster. You[...]

This week, Helen Lewis and Stephen Bush are joined by our team of ballot-box buffs from London, Wales, Ireland and Scotland. Get set for 5 May with stories, scrutiny and stats straight from the campaign trails. (Stephen Bush, Helen Lewis, Stephen Brasher, Jonn Elledge, Anoosh Chakelian, Siobhan Fenton, David Torrance) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy[...]

This week, Helen and Stephen discuss British politics since the election of Jeremy Corbyn: what has changed and what are politicians over-looking? Anna Leszkiewicz, the New Statesman pop culture writer, then joins to explore the BBC’s new production of The Night Manager and the enduring appeal of spy novels. You also ask us: Donald Trump[...]

This week, Stephen Bush and Anoosh Chakelian discuss post-budget ructions in the Tory party. George Eaton considers the fall-out from Labour’s leaked list. And our Anthony Howard scholar, Henry Zeffman, joins to discuss student politics and the climate of antisemitism. You also ask us: post-election, why did Labour not refer to the “small” conservative majority?[...]

This week, Helen, Stephen and George discuss Osborne’s latest budget. Listen in to find out what cola-glugging Stephen Bush thinks about the sugar tax, what George Eaton’s thoughts are on academies, and why Helen Lewis is outraged about disability allowance cuts. You also ask us: can local authorities handle increased devolution? (Helen Lewis, Stephen Bush,[...]

This week, Helen and Stephen talk women and the EU (and expensive hovercraft). George Eaton joins down-the-line-from-the-lobby, with Corbyn's latest attempts to rally his party. And tech writer, Barbara Speed, helps explore the death of social networks. You also ask us: Is the focus on 2020 damaging Labour's duty of opposition today? (Helen Lewis, Stephen[...]

Helen and Stephen talk plots from Super Tuesday and Europe. George Eaton explores Labour’s latest drama. Then the SRSLY Podcast’s Anna Leszkiewicz joins to discuss what we love and loathe about the Oscars. You also ask us: Has politics been paused? (Helen Lewis, Stephen Bush, George Eaton, Anna Leszkiewicz) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for[...]

This week, Helen and Stephen discuss Boris Johnson's Vote Leave announcement. We hear from George Eaton on the latest dispatch-box battles. And tech-writer Barbara Speed joins to explore the dark side of online social networks. You also ask us: How do you explain Donald Trump? (Helen Lewis, Stephen Bush, George Eaton, Barbara speed) Hosted on[...]

This week, Helen and Stephen hand out half term report cards to the Tory front bench. George Eaton brings us the latest from Westminster. And Barbara Speed joins to discuss award ceremonies and prejudice in the press industry. You also ask us: Who are the MPs to watch? (Helen Lewis, Stephen Bush, George Eaton, Barbara[...]

This week, Helen and Stephen talk Trident: the terrors of nuclear war and the attractions of virility symbols. We hear from George Eaton, down-the-line from the Lobby, on the latest speculation over a Tory leadership contest. And the SRSLY Podcast’s Anna Leszkiewicz joins to discuss the dark side of romcoms (Helen Lewis, Stephen Bush, George[...]

This week, Helen and Stephen ask what we can learn from Cameron’s EU renegotiations, and discuss why we need banking to stay in Britain. George Eaton then joins with the latest campaign developments in Westminster. And we hear from Emad Ahmed, our in-house Bernie Sanders fan, on who is more likely to win their respective[...]

This week, Helen Lewis and Stephen Bush talk Labour splits, George Eaton discusses Osborne’s Google tax blunder, and a new feature - ‘You Ask Us’ - sees our presenters place their bets on the next Labour Leader. Plus: CityMetric’s Jonn Elledge joins to debate the Dr Who showrunners. Want to know how the show reflects[...]

This week Helen Lewis and Stephen Bush discuss Labour's post-mortem into its general election defeat, then delve inside the world of forensic anthropology (and breeding face-mites) with Stephanie Boland. We also hear from George Eaton about the latest Westminster resignation, in Down-the-Line from the Lobby, and finish up with Stephen's Joke of the Week. (Stephanie[...]

This week, co-hosts Helen Lewis and Stephen Bush review the extended Labour reshuffle and discuss David Cameron’s legacy. We also hear from George Eaton, down-the-line from the lobby, on who might be the next Labour leader. And from Emad Ahmed on the videogames that are making us cry. (Helen Lewis, Stephen Bush, George Eaton, Emad[...]

This week co-chairs Helen Lewis and Stephen Bush discuss the never-ending Labour reshuffle and are joined by Stephanie Boland to talk about gender in confessional writing. We then hear from George Eaton, down the line from the lobby, on the latest from Westminster. (Helen Lewis, Stephen Bush, Stephanie Boland, George Eaton) Hosted on Acast. See[...]

We review the latest Star Wars film, The Force Awakens, and ask: in what order should you watch the full series? And who might possibly be related to whom? (Helen Lewis, Stephen Bush, Barbara Speed) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We review the year in politics, and ask the most important of questions: what is your favourite siege? Plus, a festive Joke of the Week. (Helen Lewis, Stephen Bush, George Eaton, Jonn Elledge) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we talk about Momentum: what is it for and what do people fear it is? Then consider Trump's devastating views on Muslims: is this a turning point in his campaign? Also listen out for Stephen Bush's joke-of-the-week. (Caroline Crampton, Anoosh Chakelian, Stephen Bush, George Eaton, Jonn Elledge, Barbara Speed) Hosted on Acast. See[...]

This week we discuss Hilary Benn's electrifying speech before the Syria vote and Labour's prospects ahead of the Oldham by-election. We then take a look at Marlon James and prejudice in the publishing industry. (Caroline Crampton, Stephen Bush, Barbara Speed, Helen Lewis) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week Jason Cowley interviews the philosopher John Gray about the future of the state. We also discuss the spending review, the tampon tax, and finish up with Stephen Bush's joke of the week. (Helen Lewis, Anoosh Chakelian, Stephen Bush, Barbara Speed, Jason Cowley, John Gray) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we talk about Corbyn's media gaffes, and explain how cities will save the world. (Helen Lewis, Anoosh Chakelian, George Eaton, Jonn Elledge, Barbara Speed) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Editor Jason Cowley talks to Shiraz Maher about the threat Isis pose to Britain. Plus: we talk Corbyn's week in Westminster, and an interview with Goldsmiths prize-winner Kevin Barry. (Jason Cowley, Xan Rice, Shiraz Maher, Helen Lewis, Anoosh Chakelian, George Eaton, Tom Gatti, Kevin Barry) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We talk the week in politics and the newly announced BBC adaptation of Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials. (Helen Lewis, Stephen Bush, George Eaton, Barbara Speed.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We talk a taxing week for the Tories and the women in rock and roll. (Anoosh Chakelian, Stephen Bush, George Eaton, Kate Mossman, Stephanie Boland) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we talk Corbyn's China problem, and William Boyd talks about a new John le Carré biography. (Helen Lewis, Stephen Bush, George Eaton, Tom Gatti, William Boyd). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We talk the fiscal charter, Labour in chaos, and the lives of Terence Trent D'Arby. (Helen Lewis, Stephen Bush, George Eaton, Anna Leszkiewicz, Kate Mossman) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we talk Conservative Party Conference, David Cameron's speech, and discuss the problem with "cultural appropriation". (Helen Lewis, Anoosh Chakelian, George Eaton, Stephen Bush, Yo Zushi). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we discuss the end of Labour's party conference (and the start of the Conservatives') and a new biography of Ted Hughes. (Helen Lewis, George Eaton, Stephen Bush, Tom Gatti, Erica Wagner). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we discuss the upcoming Labour Party Conference, and ask, when should we start caring about the US presidential race? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we digest what the success of Jeremy Corbyn means for the Labour party. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, the Labour leadership contest finally comes to an end and the Queen celebrates a record-breaking reign. Plus, we chat Abel Ferrara's Pasolini. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we ask whether Cameron will respond to the growing refugee crisis in Europe, discuss the Labour leadership as the election grows ever closer, and discuss Terry Pratchett's final posthumous work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we explain why we're backing Tessa Jowell as Labour's candidate for London mayor, talk women-only carriages on the tube, and speak to Tom Shone about Woody Allen. (Caroline Crampton, Barbara Speed, John Elledge, Stephen Bush, George Eaton). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sarah Churchwell talks to Tom Gatti about how nostalgic literature became an agent in American racism. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we talk about the Labour supporters denied a vote in the leadership election, and the Ashley Madison leak. (Helen Lewis, Anoosh Chakelian, Stephen Bush, George Eaton, Barbara Speed, Helen Thomas). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we turn to speeches great and good: discussing Yvette Cooper's attack on Jeremy Corbyn and Benedict Cumberbatch's take on the famous Hamlet soliloquy. (Helen Lewis, Caroline Crampton, George Eaton, Stephen Bush, Anna Leszkiewicz) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we discuss London's Tube strike and Andy Burnham's recent moves in the leadership election (Helen Lewis, Stephen Bush, Jonn Elledge, Anoosh Chakelian). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jason Cowley, Stephen Bush and Stephen Brasher assess the Labour leadership race and Jeremy Corbyn’s surprise surge. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we discuss the Labour leadership race and the US presidential race. (Helen Lewis, George Eaton, Stephen Bush, Nicky Woolf). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This special edition of the NS podcast brings you the highlights of our live events from the literature tent at Latitude festival. Featuring Richard Curtis, Kate Mosse, John Mullan, Andrew Marr, Kate Fox, Owen Jones, Suzanne Moore, Georgia Gould, Caroline Crampton, and Tom Gatti. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We discuss the Labour leadership race, as Jeremy Corbyn jumps into the lead, and ask why women in parliament face a double-edged sword when it comes to having (or not having) children. (Helen Lewis, George Eaton, Stephen Bush, Caroline Crampton). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We talk the budget, and what it means for Labour, and the mysterious case of Reddit's disappearing moderators. (Helen Lewis, George Eaton, Stephen Bush, Barbara Speed) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From inheritance tax to maintenance loans to the new "living wage", we bring you a run down of this morning's budget. (Anoosh Chakelian, Stephen Bush, Helen Lewis). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We talk about the financial crisis in Greece, its domestic ramifications, and ask whether the UK really needs another runway. (Helen Lewis, Stephen Bush, George Eaton, Matina Stevis, Caroline Crampton, Jonn Elledge, Anoosh Chakelian) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For the 100th episode of the NS podcast, the team explore the politics, economics, and pedagogy of the Harry Potter series. In collaboration with the NS's new pop culture podcast, SRSLY. (Helen Lewis, Caroline Crampton, Anna Leszkiewicz, Stephen Bush, Stephanie Boland, Barbara Speed, Jonn Elledge) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we discuss our interview with Labour leadership hopeful Andy Burnham, and how drone technology could aid women who need abortions. (Helen Lewis, Anoosh Chakelian, Stephen Bush, Barbara Speed, Caroline Crampton.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We discuss Labour leadership contests and binge-watching Netflix's Orange is the New Black. (Helen Lewis, Stephen Bush, George Eaton, Caroline Crampton, Barbara Speed, Anna Leszkiewicz) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we discuss party leadership elections, the problem with the tube map, and why we get bored. (Caroline Crampton, Stephen Bush, George Eaton, Barbara Speed, Jonn Elledge, Anoosh Chakelian, Tosin Thompson). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We talk about the Labour leadership race and Ali Smith's How to Be Both. Plus, a poem from a reader. (Caroline Crampton, George Eaton, Anoosh Chakelian, Tom Gatti, Stephanie Boland.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Singer and artist Amanda Palmer and her husband, novelist Neil Gaiman, talk about their guest edit of the New Statesman. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We talk the week in politics (warning: features Tristram Hunt impressions. Listen to the end for a special Easter Egg! (Helen Lewis, Stephen Bush, George Eaton, Anoosh Chakelian). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The changing political scene in Scotland, discussed by NS editor Jason Cowley and writer Gerry Hassan. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We discuss the Labour leadership campaign and the rise and rise of women in comedy. Featuring Helen Lewis, George Eaton, Stephen Bush, Barbara Speed and Anna Leszkiewicz. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After the election: the post-mortem. We discuss the results, and look to the future - considering the Labour leadership candidates. (Helen Lewis, Stephen Bush, George Eaton) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On the day before the 2015 general election, we talk Scotland (Gerry Hassan, Jason Cowley) and the final polls (George Eaton, Stephen Bush). Hosted by Helen Lewis. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Helen Lewis talks to NS editor Jason Cowley and political editor George Eaton about marginal constituencies and the magazine's endorsement of Labour, and Caroline Crampton and Anoosh Chakelian ask what do those pesky women voters want? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Helen Lewis asks Jason Cowley and George Eaton if the SNP are as scary as the Tories say they are, and Stephen Bush and Harry Lambert talk #milifandom Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Helen Lewis talks to Stephen Bush about the political landscape in Wales, and Jonn Elledge explains why the Tories's Right to Buy scheme spells disaster for the housing crisis. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Helen Lewis, George Eaton and Stephen Bush discuss an exciting week in politics, from yet more televised debates to those pesky non-doms. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Helen Lewis talks to editor Jason Cowley and George Eaton about Labour's approach to business, Harry Lambert and Stephen Bush talk polls, and Ian Steadman gets philosophical with John Gray. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special edition of the New Statesman podcast, New Statesman editor Jason Cowley speaks to George Eaton and philosopher and contributor John Gray on the question: has Ed Miliband misunderstood the present? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Helen Lewis speaks to Anoosh Chakelian, Stephen Bush and Ashley Cowburn about the week in politics and the end of term. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Cost-neutral rabbits alive! It's a special episode of the podcast this week as we get nerdy about all things #Budget2015. Helen Lewis, Anoosh Chakelian and Stephen Bush discuss whether Osborne's budget was purely political, the response from Parliament and what it all means in practical terms. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Anoosh Chakelian speaks to George Eaton and Stephen Bush about Ed Balls, while Helen Lewis, Stephanie Boland and Jonn Elledge get angry about the internet, and Ian Steadman and Tosin Thompson evaluate the Apple watch. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Helen Lewis talks to Stephen Bush and Jonn Elledge about swinging polls and televised debates, and Ian Steadman and Tosin Thompson discuss a fossil discovery that alters our understanding of the origins of man. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, George Eaton and Stephen Bush ask if it's too soon to write off Ukip, Ian Steadman tells you everything you need to know about dwarf planet Ceres, and Stephanie Boland praises London's Feminist Library. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, George Eaton and Anoosh Chakelian talk about Labour's plans for the railways and the Tories' plans for welfare, Ian Steadman and Tosin Thompson consider whether they'd be willing to die on Mars, and Caroline Crampton and Barbara Speed look to the future of podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Barbara Speed and Caroline Crampton ask, is Labour's pink bus really that patronising? Plus, George Eaton and Ashley Cowburn discuss the rise of the small party, and Ian Steadman warns of the dangers of talking to your TV. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Harry Lambert and George Eaton debate the implications of the Ashcroft poll, Ian Steadman and Barbara Speed discuss the measles outbreak in America, and Caroline Crampton and Jonn Elledge find the current housing crisis inescapably depressing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, George Eaton and Stephen Bush find it's been another bad week for Labour, Caroline Crampton and Jonn Elledge talk girls and Ghostbusters, and Stephanie Boland chats to Stuart Maconie about the problem of posh pop. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week's New Statesman podcast, George Eaton and Anoosh Chakelian discuss Labour's hopes for young voters, Ian Steadman explains the significance of 4chan now its founder, Christopher Poole, is stepping down, and Tom Gatti talks through the first episode of the BBC's Wolf Hall adaptation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week's New Statesman podcast, George Eaton and Jonn Elledge discuss the televised election debates, New Statesman editor Jason Cowley and Xan Rice talk to Shiraz Maher about the jihadi threat to Britain, and Ian Steadman and Alex Hern talk through the decline of Bitcoin. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week's New Statesman podcast, George Eaton and Anoosh Chakelian break down the first week of the general election campaign, Ian Steadman discusses a new breakthrough in antibiotic research, and Jonn Elledge and Helen Lewis talk through what it means that London is now bigger than it's ever been. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy[...]

On this week's New Statesman podcast: George Eaton, Anoosh Chakelian and Helen Lewis review the year in politics, the year that nobody "won", Ian Steadman and Philip Maughan discuss the North Korea hacking scandal, and Caroline Crampton explains why Libby Lane is the perfect candidate to be the Church of England's first female bishop. Hosted[...]

Fantasy writer Neil Gaiman has a long affiliation with cartoonists, and illustrators, and a history of fighting for them, partly because he spent 12 years on the board of the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund. Here he speaks to Index on Censorship for an upcoming feature in their magazine. “A nice easy place for freedom[...]

On this week's New Statesman podcast: George Eaton, Anoosh Chakelian and Helen Lewis discuss the fallout from the Autumn Statement (and the ugly cuts that will define government policy after 2015), Daniel Trilling tells Xan Rice about the migrants risking life and limb to enter Fortress Europe, and Jonn Elledge, Philip Maughan and Rhiannon Lucy[...]

On this week's New Statesman podcast: Harry Lambert, George Eaton and Anoosh Chakelian discuss Ed Miliband on the attack ahead of next year's general election, Ian Steadman asks how much use personal data might be in the fight against terrorism, and Jonn Elledge and Caroline Crampton wonder whether private schools deserve charity status. Hosted on[...]

On this week's New Statesman podcast: Jason Cowley and Helen Lewis ask what Ed Miliband needs to do next, Philip Maughan talks to Goldsmiths Prize-winner Ali Smith, and Ian Steadman explains why it's so important that we landed a probe on a comet. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week's New Statesman podcast: Scottish Labour in meltdown, Shiraz Maher explains how he befriended young British Muslims fighting for Isis in the Middle East, and Peter Millar recalls his part in the fall of the Berlin Wall. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week's New Statesman Podcast: BIG NEWS For the first time wind power has exceeded nuclear power usage in the UK, though of course, there's more to it than meets the eye PLUS George Eaton, Helen Lewis and Anoosh Chakelian wonder if the Tories are damaging themselves by trying to emulate Ukip's rhetoric on[...]

On this week's New Statesman podcast, Helen Lewis, George Eaton and Caroline Crampton discuss the troubles facing Labour, and whether the Greens really are poised to split the centre-left vote at the next election. Plus, Helen Lewis and Ian Steadman discuss some worrying news for astronauts hoping to colonise Mars. [Ed: Apologies in advance for[...]

Artist and New Statesman guest-editor Grayson Perry talks to critic Miranda Sawyer at the Royal Institution, London, on 13 October 2014. They discuss the idea of the "Great White Male", politics, fashion and much more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week's New Statesman Podcast: as the hangover from the party conference season kicks in, our politics team look forward to the results of two upcoming by-elections, Elizabeth Minkel and Ian Steadman discuss the pros and cons of becoming involved with a massive online community, while writer Damian Barr discusses sexuality, masculinity and the[...]

On this week's New Statesman podcast: our team return from the Conservative Party Conference in Birmingham, where they found the party in an oddly buoyant mood despite being four points behind in the polls. Ian Steadman explains the massive change in copyright law that took place this week and Caroline Crampton explains the concept behind[...]

Party conference special: On this week's New Statesman podcast, Caroline Crampton, George Eaton and Anoosh Chakelian reflect on a disappointing Labour Party conference in Manchester, and look forward to the upcoming Ukip and Conservative Party conferences this week. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After the referendum: George Eaton reports from Edinburgh with reactions to the No victory in the Scottish independence vote, Helen Lewis, Jonn Elledge and Philip Maughan ask whether now is the time to devolve greater power to the rest of the country, while Ian Steadman and Fiona Rutherford mark one giant leap towards private space[...]

On this week's podcast: New Statesman editor Jason Cowley talks to Scottish writer, academic and independence-supporter Gerry Hassan, Helen Lewis, George Eaton and Anoosh Chekelian discuss the panic in Westminster, and Fiona Rutherford and Ian Steadman wonder what's so exciting about the Apple Watch and iPhone 6. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

MIDDLE EAST SPECIAL: On this week's New Statesman podcast, John Bew, Shiraz Maher, Jason Cowley and Sophie McBain discuss the roots of radicalisation in Britain and instability in the Middle East, while George Eaton and Anoosh Chakelian ask why the polls are narrowing in the run-up to the Scottish referendum. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy[...]

On this week's New Statesman podcast, George Eaton, Anoosh Chekelian and Helen Lewis ask how David Cameron will respond to former Tory MP Douglas Carswell's defection to UKIP, while Ian Steadman and Fiona Rutherford wonder why Amazon would pay $970 million for a social network built around watching other people play video games. Hosted on[...]

On this week's New Statesman podcast, George Eaton and Jonn Elledge assess a strong summer for Labour, Ian Steadman and Juliet Jacques rejoice at the start of a new football season and Caroline Crampton attempts to convince resident philistines Helen Lewis and Philip Maughan that the Proms are a good thing. Hosted on Acast. See[...]

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Helen Lewis, George Eaton and Anoosh Chakelian discuss the week's politics, BuzzFeed founder Jonah Peretti and artist Cory Arcangel talk about their new book "Working On My Novel" with Ian Steadman, and CityMetric Editors Jonn Elledge and Barbara Speed go back to basics to ask: what exactly is a[...]

The full audio from the New Statesman's sell-out event with Mary Beard, Laurie Penny and Helen Lewis at Conway Hall on 30 July 2014. The speakers address the question: why are we so afraid of outspoken women? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week's New Statesman podcast: as parliament rises for recess, George Eaton and Helen Lewis review the year in politics, Sophie McBain tells Kate Mossman about a mysterious commission in pre-revolution Libya, and Ian Steadman and Juliet Jacques consider the history of football's most enduring feuds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week's New Statesman Podcast, Helen Lewis, George Eaton and Lucy Fisher consider the fallout from the Conservative Party reshuffle, and ask what Labour can do in response. As life returns to normal in Brazil, Juliet Jacques and Ian Steadman decide once and for all whether this was THE BEST WORLD CUP EVER. Hosted[...]

A special edition of the NS podcast to discuss the Conservative shuffle-kerfuffle, featuring Helen Lewis, Caroline Crampton, and Anoosh Chakelian. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Helen Lewis, George Eaton and Lucy Fisher discuss the Conservative Party's lady troubles, Mark Lawson tells Kate Mossman why he found the Monty Python reunion so moving and Ian Steadman explains how and why the government's emergency data laws came into being. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week's New Statesman podcast, George Eaton, Helen Lewis and Jonn Elledge ask whether Ed Miliband is better off being a radical, Robin Ince explains why he hates Christmas and thinks we should ban it (or not), and Ian Steadman and Ajit Niranjan consider whether Facebook is evil. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for[...]

On this week's New Statesman podcast, Caroline Crampton, Jonn Elledge and Lucy Fisher talk about the problems facing the Tory party at home and abroad, Ajit Niranjan, Helen Lewis and Ian Steadman wonder whether it's possible to wear Google Glass without becoming a Glasshole, and Philip Maughan talks to Robin Lustig about his German-Jewish grandfather's[...]

On this week's New Statesman podcast, George Eaton and Jonn Elledge discuss Labour plans to restrict benefits to the under-22s; Ian Steadman and Ajit Niranjan look at a surprising study about ant sperm; and Helen Lewis talks to Shiraz Maher about the rise of terror group Isis. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week's New Statesman podcast, George Eaton and Lucy Fisher talk to Caroline Crampton about Labour's need to engage the blue-collar vote, N​S editor Jason Cowley explains why Brazil will be the last authentic World Cup tournament, Philip Maughan talks to Baileys and Goldsmiths Prize-winning novelist Eimear McBride, and Yo Zushi interviews Texas-based musician[...]

On this week's New Statesman podcast Helen Lewis, George Eaton, Tim Wigmore and Lucy Fisher discuss the fall of the BNP, Lib Dems in turmoil and the results of the European Elections, Ian Leslie tells the story of a pilot determined to banish avoidable error from the NHS, and Ian Steadman weighs the advantages of[...]

On this week's New Statesman podcast, Helen Lewis, Rafael Behr and George Eaton discuss the European elections and the Ukip bubble, Ian Steadman unpicks a new book's radical claims about genetics and race, and Yo Zushi explains why he's a Bobcat (that is, a die-hard Bob Dylan fan). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more[...]

On this week's New Statesman podcast, Rafael Behr, Helen Lewis and George Eaton discuss two disastrous new polls for the Labour Party, Ian Steadman explains how the International Space Station became embroiled in a diplomatic ping pong game, and Jonn Elledge argues that London's housing problem should be worrying the Tories even more than it[...]

On this week's New Statesman podcast, Rafael Behr, George Eaton and Anoosh Chakelian discuss the prospects for Newark's by-election, sound artist Aleks Kolkowski explains why he re-built the Exponential Horn - a device capable of creating "the perfect sound" - and Ian Steadman asks why Nintendo won't recognise gay marriage. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy[...]

On this week's New Statesman podcast, Caroline Crampton talks to George Eaton and Rafael Behr about Labour's plans for the rental housing market, Sophie McBain talks to Mona Siddiqui about the "Arabisation" of Islam, and Ian Steadman explains why there are millions of video games buried in the New Mexico desert. (A note on drilling:[...]

Rafael Behr, Helen Lewis and George Eaton discuss a rather lacklustre week in politics, tragedy strikes on Mount Everest and Sophie McBain asks - why are we all so anxious? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Helen Lewis, Laurie Penny and Caroline Crampton discuss the politics of the BBC zombie drama In The Flesh, Mark Haddon tells Tom Gatti why he's not just "a nice guy who writes about dogs", and Ian Steadman explains the pros and cons of wearable technology. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

George Eaton and Helen Lewis file an end of term report card for the parties in Westminster, and discuss the fallout from Maria Miller's resignation, Michael Prodger talks to Man Booker Prize-shortlisted novelist Jim Crace, and Ian Steadman explain why everyone should change their internet passwords. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week's podcast, Alex Clark talks to Man Booker-winner Eleanor Catton about the New Zealand gold fields and her prize-winning novel The Luminaries, Rafael Behr and Helen Lewis discuss the fallout from the Nick Clegg and Nigel Farage EU debate, and Ian Steadman considers the pros and cons of #activism. Hosted on Acast. See[...]

On this week's podcast: Helen Lewis, George Eaton and Rafael Behr discuss the fallout from the 2014 Budget, Kate Mossman talks to Jude Rogers about her recent encounter with Kylie Minogue and Ian Steadman explains why we could, but probably won't, bring back mammoths from extinction. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week's podcast: Helen Lewis, Rafael Behr and George Eaton discuss Labour, the EU and the George Osborne's upcoming Budget, Erica Wagner talks to Tom Gatti about neurosurgeon Henry Marsh, and Ian Steadman, Caroline Crampton and Sophie McBain ask how a plane can just disappear in mid air? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for[...]

On 4 March, Alex Salmond came to Westminster to deliver a New Statesman lecture putting forward his case for Scottish independence. Listen to the full audio of the lecture and the question and answer session, hosted by NS editor Jason Cowley. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

NS political editor Rafael Behr spoke to shadow Northern Ireland minster Ivan Lewis - listen to the full interview here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rafael Behr and George Eaton discuss the Scottish independence referendum and the situation in Crimea, Helen Lewis and Ed Smith talk about the rowdy nature of politics and PMQs, and Rafael Behr interviews Ivan Lewis, the Northern Ireland minister. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week's podcast Rafael Behr, Helen Lewis and George Eaton talk Wythenshawe and leadership prospects, Ian Steadman asks why nobody is stating the obvious on climate change, and Laurie Penny describes her experience at Yarl's Wood Immigration Removal Centre. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rafael Behr, George Eaton and Caroline Crampton assess David Cameron's future as leader of the Conservatives, Kate Mossman tells Philip Maughan why Taylor Swift isn't only for teenagers, and Ian Steadman considers the likelihood that your house will be swallowed by a giant sinkhole. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week's podcast David and George Kynaston talk to NS editor Jason Cowley about Britain's 7 per cent problem: the dominance of the privately-educated in public life. Rafael Behr and Caroline Crampton ask whether Labour are really bashing the rich and Caroline Criado-Perez discusses reforms to the laws on domestic violence. Hosted on Acast.[...]

Rafael Behr, Helen Lewis and George Eaton discuss the progress of London's Crossrail project and the possibility of a gradual re-nationalisation of the train network under Labour, Caroline Crampton asks why Lena Dunham's "Girls" is such a lightning rod for criticism, and Ian Steadman tells us about the space probe which has just woken up[...]

Helen Lewis, George Eaton and Rafael Behr discuss Labour's drive to be the party of the middle class, Philip Maughan talks to New Statesman film critic Ryan Gilbey about reactions to Martin Scorsese's The Wolf of Wall Street, while Ian Steadman explains why America is running out of the drugs it needs to carry out[...]

Helen Lewis and George Eaton talk about Ed Balls and Labour's fortunes, Rafael Behr interviews Ryan Shorthouse of Bright Blue about Tory modernisation, and Ian Steadman and Laurie Penny join Helen to discuss trolling and internet abuse. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rafael Behr, Helen Lewis and George Eaton discuss the year in politics, and make predictions for 2014, while Sean Anderson and Ian Steadman consider the year's best internet memes (with a crib for the uninitiated). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Helen Lewis, Rafael Behr and George Eaton talk about housing and the London mayoral race, Philip Maughan and Michael Prodger round up the real books of 2013, and Ian Steadman explains the possiblities and potential pitfalls of home genome testing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A special northern-themed episode of the podcast. George Eaton and Rafael Behr ask - who speaks for the north? Stuart Maconie explains how (not) to write about the north, Philip Maughan reads a new poem by Simon Armitage and Ian Steadman explains what the hell is actually happening with the onlinecryptocurrency Bitcoin. Hosted on Acast.[...]

Is Labour winning the battle of ideas? Rafael Behr, George Eaton, and Helen Lewis discuss Labour's prospects and the rumbling debate about welfare; we dissect the news that the London Underground is to stay open 24 hours a day, but shed 750 jobs; and Ian Steadman and Sophie McBain ask whether we are approaching the[...]

We discuss the Conservative Party's attempt to erase their pre-2010 speeches from the internet; Caroline Crampton interviews Adam Price, writer of Danish political drama Borgen; and Ian Steadman reviews a new Science Museum exhibition about the Large Hadron Collider. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rafael Behr, George Eaton and Helen Lewis discuss why Iain Duncan Smith is still a government minister despite the trouble many of his flagship welfare reforms are in; Caroline Crampton and Rachel Cooke discuss the year in television; and Ian Steadman tells us about Gravity, one of the best disaster films he's ever seen. Hosted[...]

George Eaton, Caroline Crampton and Helen Lewis discuss the week in politics; Rachel Cooke talks about her book uncovering the amazing career women of the 1950s; and Ian Steadman tells us about the modular smartphone which could mean you never have to buy a new mobile again. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Russell Brand introduces his guest-edited issue of the magazine; Rafael Behr, George Eaton and Helen Lewis discuss the week in politics; and Ian Steadman tells us about 3D printing and chairs made from fungus. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rafael Behr and George Eaton talk about political polls, Labour and the teachers' strike; Caroline Crampton interviews the founder of mediadiversityuk.com Samantha Asumadu; and Philip Maughan talks to Kate Mossman upon her return from two exclusive concerts in New York - Sting and the Coen Brothers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week's podcast: our crack team of political writers consider the week in politics, science writer Michael Brooks tells us about the greatest science writer you've never heard of and Philip Maughan and Caroline Crampton discuss some sexy prime time telly new this week on Channel 4. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more[...]

The New Statesman podcast is moving to a new location - you can now find us on Audioboo. Your iTunes feed should update automatically, but if not, visit newstatesman.com/podcast for help. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week's New Statesman podcast, Rafael Behr and George Eaton discuss Ed Miliband's fortunes at Labour conference as well as looking forward to the Conservative extravaganza in Manchester next week, Philip Maughan and Caroline Crampton discuss Breaking Bad, and NS film critic Ryan Gilbey previews the new Woody Allen film, Blue Jasmine. Hosted on[...]

On this week's New Statesman podcast, Rafael Behr and George Eaton discuss the upcoming Labour conference, Philip Maughan and Kate Mossman talk about Elton John's latest album "The Diving Board" and the iTunes festival, then Helen Lewis speaks to Sarah Ditum and Vagenda-blogger Holly Baxter about their love for One Direction, and teenage sexuality. Hosted[...]

Helen Lewis, George Eaton and Rafael Behr discuss the week in politics, including the fortunes of the Lib Dems and the New Statesman's interviews with Tim Farron and Jeremy Browne. Helen and Raf are then joined by Caroline Crampton for a new segment entitled "Raf got a babysitter and went to the theatre", and finally[...]

On this week's podcast Rafael Behr and George Eaton discuss the fallout from the Syria vote and wax political with predictions and opinion ahead of the party conference season, Alex Hern talks to comic book author Keiron Gillen and we discuss the Wikipedia controversy over Chelsea Manning. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Helen Lewis, Rafael Behr and George Eaton discuss the upcoming Labour reshuffle, Philip Maughan talks with Kate Mossman about aging Tory metalheads Iron Maiden, and Alex Hern talks about Elon Musk's HYPERLOOP. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Caroline Crampton and Rafael Behr discuss fracking and the Tory's demographic problem, Alex Hern talks with Kieron Gillen about his comic work, and we assess the maelstrom around Ask.fm and "cyberbulling". Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

George Eaton, Rafael Behr and Helen Lewis discuss the week in politics, our Arts Editor and pop critic Kate Mossman talks Philip Maughan about Spotify, and Alex Hern wonders whether Amazon has finally decided to make some serious money. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, George Eaton, who edits our politics blog The Staggers, talks to the Conservative campaigner David Skelton, Caroline Crampton grills NS science columnist Michael Brooks and junior space correspondent Alex Hern about the search for alien life, our online writer Alex Andreou discusses the current situation in Greece, and Eleanor Margolis rails against the[...]

This week, we discuss reshuffle rumours with Rafael Behr and George Eaton, NS bloggers Alan White and Kate Belgrave talk about their investigation into the coalition’s secret cuts, and Caroline Crampton, Laurie Penny and Helen Lewis disagree about Jane Austen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week's podcast, Helen Lewis, George Eaton and Rafael Behr discuss Labour's woes in the wake of the Falkirk selection scandal, Caroline Crampton and Eleanor Margolis thrash out how to make MPs less "moaty" and Alex Hern explains why there are so many "hulks" on Twitter. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In a special episode of the New Statesman podcast, Helen Lewis discusses the Spending Round with George Eaton and Rafael Behr. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week's podcast, the New Statesman's crack politics squad examine the spending review, guests Willard Foxton and Rebecca Wait explore the ethics of writing about suicide, Daniel Trilling talks about the continued effects of austerity on Greece, and Alex and Helen discuss Kickstarter. Also Helen calls everyone "Jeffrey". Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for[...]

On the podcast this week, we discuss our "Ed the Unready" cover story and the Labour Party's readiness to rule in 2015, Philip Maughan and Caroline Crampton debate the merits of 3D cinema, our art critic Tom Calvocoressi dissects two new exhibitions at the Tates in London and Alex Hern and Helen Lewis talk about[...]

This week, we discuss Labour’s big week, George Eaton interviews the political scientist Ian Bremmer about his G-Zero magazine cover story and Alex Hern and Philip Maughan talk about the different problems of spoilers in TV, films and videogames. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week's half-term edition of the New Statesman podcast Sophie Elmhirst talks to George Pitcher about the new Power Christians at work in the City of London, we discuss Robert Macfarlane's "Holloway" and the problems with the "new" nature writing and Alex Hern explains the saga of Grant Morrison and Steve Yeowell's Zenith. Hosted[...]

In this week's podcast George Eaton and Rafel Behr talk about the failure of David Cameron's modernisation project, Holly Baxter (from the Vagenda) talks about the most important issues facing modern feminism, Sophie Elmhirst and Philip Maughan talk about the return of American novelist James Salter, and Alex Hern explains all you need to know[...]

Rafael Behr, George Eaton and the Spectator's Isabel Hardman talk about the future of the Tory party, Helen Lewis and Felicity Cloake discuss this week's feature on the politics of fatness, and resident young person Alex Hern says "space" a lot. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Featuring George Eaton and Rafael Behr discussing the future of the Liberal Democrats, Sophie Elmhirst speaking to Daniel Dorling about social mobility, Laurie Penny's visit to Iceland to meet the Pirate Party and Jonathan Derbyshire talking books for the last time. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Will Ukip break through? Can Labour stay on course? Are the Lib Dems going to be annihilated? In this special episode, NS political correspondents Rafael Behr and George Eaton talk to Helen Lewis about the upcoming local elections. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we discuss our Len McCluskey interview, ask whether tattoos will ever hang in the Louvre, look at spring books with Jonathan Derbyshire, hear about America from Nicky Woolf, and follow up on the role that Reddit played in the hunt for the Boston bombers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As part of the New Statesman's Centenary Debates series, on 18 April the NS held a debate with the motion "This house believes the left won the 20th century. Speaking for the motion were NS deputy editor Helen Lewis, author and columnist Simon Heffer and NS contributing writer and Huffington Post political director Mehdi Hasan.[...]

In a special bumper hour-long episode, we celebrate a hundred years of the New Statesman. Rafael Behr and George Eaton discuss Thatcher's legacy, Philip Maughan and Jonathan Derbyshire take a trip into the magazine's archives, Daniel Trilling, Yiannis Baboulias and Laurie Penny talk about the reaction to austerity in Europe, Will Self makes the case[...]

What is the most important issue facing feminism today? New Statesman writers Helen Lewis, Laurie Penny, Bim Adewunmi, Juliet Jacques, Victoria Smith, Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett and Holly Baxter came together at Conway Hall in London on 4 April 2013 to debate it. Chaired by New Statesman web editor Caroline Crampton, the debate and the audience[...]

The first ever episode of the New Statesman podcast, featuring political analysis, cultural reviews, interviews and more. In our first audio outing, George Eaton talks about Iain Duncan Smith and welfare cuts, Rafael Behr stares into the dark heart of the Conservative Party, Alex Hern talks to the Guardian's Aditya Chakrabortty about the future of[...]