Politics Weekly UK

Politics Weekly UK is taking a break for the summer. John Harris will be back on Thursday 29 August, and in the meantime you can listen to our previous episodes here. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod

John Harris, a prominent journalist and commentator for The Guardian, shares a curated list of must-read books, captivating albums, and eye-opening documentaries from 2024. He dives into the complexities of the British Empire's legacy, urging listeners to confront their past. Harris also highlights the fragility of global supply chains and discusses the dark side of human exploitation. The conversation touches on the rise of authoritarianism in the U.S. while celebrating music that tackles social issues and honors historical events like the miners' strike.

Jessica Elgot, deputy political editor at the Guardian, and Nazir Afzal, former chief prosecutor for the north-west of England, tackle urgent issues surrounding far-right violence in the UK. They discuss the government's response to the recent unrest and the challenges in addressing the root causes of aggression. The conversation also highlights the delicate balance between policing protests and protecting free speech, along with the complexities of online hate speech regulation. Their insights shed light on the emotional impact on minority communities and the need for informed dialogue.

Hannah Al-Othman, a Guardian correspondent on the Southport riots, discusses how misinformation ignited chaos after a tragic knife attack, resulting in violent confrontations involving far-right groups. Political editor Pippa Crerar reveals allegations against Kemi Badenoch, a frontrunner in the Conservative leadership race, who faces bullying claims. The conversation dives into the implications of political rhetoric on community tensions, welfare reforms proposed by Labour, and the complexities of Conservative party dynamics in a turbulent landscape.

Columnist Gaby Hinsliff discusses Keir Starmer suspending 7 MPs over the two-child benefit cap, Labour's financial position, and the Tory leadership race with insights from Gavin Barwell. They delve into the challenges of political governance, Tory leadership race dynamics, voter strategies, and coalition building.

The podcast discusses Joe Biden's withdrawal from the US presidential race, Keir Starmer's success as a leader, the challenges facing the government, and the Conservative Party's leadership succession plan

Join John Harris along with political editor Pippa Crerar and political correspondent Kiran Stacey as they discuss Labour's ambitious plans highlighted in the King's Speech. Delve into topics such as re-nationalization of railways, housing reforms, global tensions, and the Labour party's response. Explore the challenges ahead and the importance of transparency in decision-making.

Pippa Crerar and Kiran Stacey discuss the Trump assassination attempt and its impact on UK politics. They also preview the king’s speech. Topics include US election implications, England vs. Spain football match banter, UK-EU post-Brexit negotiations, and analysis of the upcoming King's speech legislative agenda.

The Guardian’s Pippa Crerar and Kiran Stacey are on two sides of the Atlantic this week. They discuss Keir Starmer’s first foreign trip, and whether the Conservatives can find the soul of their party. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod

The Guardian’s Pippa Crerar and Kiran Stacey look ahead to the first week of the new Labour government. Plus, Pippa is going to be in Washington with Keir Starmer on his first foreign trip as prime minister. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod