In this discussion, Jonathan Ashworth, former Labour MP and current director of Labour Together, analyzes Keir Starmer's challenges and vision for his government after a turbulent start. He emphasizes the importance of clear communication around Starmer's five core missions and the political reset needed following recent resignations and public backlash. Ashworth probes the complexities of leadership and the necessity of engaging with citizens amidst political realities. The conversation also touches on the ethical dilemmas faced by politicians and the significance of emotional connections in politics.
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insights INSIGHT
Starmer's Governing Philosophy
Starmer's two big ideas are "missions" (six specific goals) and a "government of service."
This concept responds to controversies about government serving citizens versus itself.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Starmer's Seriousness
Jonathan Ashworth argues that Starmer doesn't see political issues as a "game."
He believes Starmer's frustration stems from important issues being reduced to political gamesmanship.
insights INSIGHT
Starmer's Pragmatism
Keir Starmer focuses on pragmatic solutions for specific issues.
His approach is shaped by his modest upbringing and focuses on practical improvements for families.
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After a bumpy first few months in power Keir Starmer is giving a speech to outline his milestones for the next five years, so in this episode Amol and Nick are joined by the former Labour MP Jonathan Ashworth to discuss the prime minister’s approach to politics and whether the speech should be seen as a reset moment for his government.
Since winning the election in July, Keir Starmer chief of staff Sue Gray and transport secretary Louise Haigh have both resigned. He’s also faced a backlash over the decision to scrap the winter fuel payment for millions of pensioners, there was a row over senior Labour figures receiving freebies and Rachel Reeves’ first budget got a frosty reception from some business leaders. But Jonathan Ashworth, who now runs the think tank Labour Together, insists the speech is not a reset for the government and is instead a moment for Keir Starmer to explain to the country how he will achieve his five missions.
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The Today Podcast is hosted by Amol Rajan and Nick Robinson who are both presenters of BBC Radio 4’s Today programme. Amol was the BBC’s media editor for six years and is the former editor of the Independent, he’s also the current presenter of University Challenge. Nick has presented the Today programme since 2015, he was the BBC’s political editor for ten years before that and also previously worked as ITV’s political editor.
This episode was made by Lewis Vickers with Nadia Gyane and Joe Wilkinson. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The editor is Louisa Lewis. The executive producer is Owenna Griffiths.
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