James O'Brien Daily Is Keir Starmer acting in the greater good?
Jan 27, 2026
Helen (former dustman’s daughter turned senior GP and medical school lead) and Matilda share personal stories of social mobility and education. They discuss childhood obesity in very young children and how doctors and parents navigate it. The programme also examines political fallout from Keir Starmer blocking Andy Burnham and reflects on Holocaust Memorial Day remembrance.
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Utilitarian Calculus Behind Blocking Burnham
- James O'Brien frames Keir Starmer's decision as a utilitarian calculation prioritising keeping the mayoralty over risking multiple electoral losses.
- The move may be right in principle but still damages Starmer's perceived competence and could backfire if the by-election is lost.
Prioritise Party Stability Over Short-Term Wins
- Alan and callers advise prioritising long-term party stability over short-term electoral glory when choices force trade-offs.
- Delay leadership challenges until well before a general election to maximise party recovery time.
Doctors Spot Early Obesity But Avoid Conversations
- Nearly a quarter of GPs see obese children aged four or younger but most feel uncomfortable addressing it with families.
- That gap between recognition and communication creates a major public-health blind spot.
