Politics from the New Statesman
The New Statesman
Helping you make sense of politics – every week.Anoosh Chakelian and the New Statesman team bring you sharp reporting, clear analysis and thoughtful conversations to help you understand what’s really going on in Westminster and beyond.The New Statesman is Britain’s leading source of news and commentary on politics and culture with a progressive perspective. On Politics, our journalists and expert guests cut through the noise of the headlines to explain the forces shaping our world. From the battles inside the Labour Party to the future of the Conservatives, from the rise of Reform UK to the debates that dominate Parliament, we provide the clarity you need to follow UK politics.--START HERE:▶︎ Kemi Badenoch isn't working | Cover Story with Tom McTague▶︎ Do billionaires really benefit the UK?▶︎ One year of Labour rule: can things still only get better?--LISTEN AD-FREE:📱Download and subscribe in the New Statesman app to enjoy all our episodes without the ads.--MORE FROM THE NEW STATESMAN:❓ Ask a question - we answer them on the podcast every Friday⏰ Get our daily politics newsletter in your inbox every morning✍️ Enjoy the best of our writing via email every Saturday--Hosts:Anoosh ChakelianRegular contributors and co-hosts:Tom McTague, Editor-in-chiefAilbhe Rea, Political editorProduction team:Senior podcast producer: Catharine HughesPodcast and video producer: Rob Le MareAssistant producer: Biba KangExecutive producer: Chris Stone Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
10 snips
Dec 7, 2025 • 29min
How can the UK win back the net zero narrative?
Polly Billington, a climate campaigner and MP, joins energy expert Benj Sykes from Ørsted and Daisy Powell-Chandler, Head of Energy and Environment at Public First. They discuss the current challenge of reconnecting climate action with public priorities like jobs and energy security amidst rising costs. The trio debates the effectiveness of the term 'net zero' and suggests a focus on the energy transition narrative. They also examine the importance of local benefits, the impact of political discourse on investments, and framing decarbonisation as a national security priority.
13 snips
Dec 6, 2025 • 29min
Is Labour still Labour?
The discussion dives deep into whether the Labour Party has strayed from its founding principles. Modern identities of the working class are explored, highlighting shifts in demographics and priorities. A critical look at public trust in the police reveals serious concerns about consent and accountability. The hosts address recession fears and how perceptions impact economic behavior, while questioning government messaging around inflation and wages. The conversation wraps up with reflections on the declining ability to enjoy 'nice things' in everyday life.
Dec 5, 2025 • 29min
Labour’s polling nightmare
Ben Walker, a senior data journalist and polling expert at the New Statesman, joins to dissect Labour's alarming polling crisis as the party sits at just 14%. He highlights the importance of aggregating multiple polls due to methodological differences and warns that current numbers indicate a 'rock bottom' low. They discuss Keir Starmer's dwindling approval ratings and potential leadership changes, while exploring how evolving political volatility might impact Labour's future. The conversation underscores the urgent need for the party to reassess its strategy amid rising challenges.
Dec 4, 2025 • 36min
Angela Rayner vs. Wes Streeting: has the next leadership race begun?
Alva Ray, a political editor known for her insights on Labour dynamics, and Rachel Cunliffe, an associate political editor, dive into the internal maneuvers shaping Labour's future. They discuss the potential for a leadership contest sparked by poor local elections, highlighting Wes Streeting's unofficial candidacy and Angela Rayner as a formidable obstacle. The duo explores rising figures like Ed Miliband and Andy Burnham, weighing their strengths against policy constraints and public expectations. It’s a captivating analysis of the shifting landscape in the Labour Party.
Dec 3, 2025 • 28min
Inside the battle to lead Your Party
Megan Kenyon, a political correspondent and on-the-ground reporter for the New Statesman, discusses the chaotic yet hopeful atmosphere at the 'Your Party' conference in Liverpool. She details the internal struggles causing upheaval within the party, including the rise of the Green Party amidst their chaos. Kenyon shares insights on the organization's growth challenges, key power figures around Jeremy Corbyn and Zarah Sultana, and the contrasting leadership styles that affect their future direction. The complexities of membership disputes and policy clarity are also explored.
Dec 2, 2025 • 24min
Our justice system is leaking from the sides
Oli Dugmore interviews Rachel Cunliffe, the Associate Political Editor at the New Statesman, who shares her insights on the UK justice system's recent turmoil. They discuss the alarming rise in accidental prisoner releases due to systemic issues like understaffing and outdated paperwork. Rachel critiques a proposed plan to eliminate jury trials, highlighting the balance between ancient rights and the need for timely justice. Funding cuts and their impact on the justice crisis are also examined, raising concerns about public trust in the system.
Dec 1, 2025 • 30min
Keir Starmer is in denial
Keir Starmer's defense of Rachel Reeves raises questions about the government's grasp on the economic crisis. Discussion revolves around Reeves' claims regarding a 'fiscal black hole' that led to recent budget decisions. The hosts explore whether Labour can realistically address systemic economic issues, and if the budget represents a drift towards social democracy. Public sentiment shows deep despair over the cost-of-living crisis, while political dynamics suggest potential openings for the Conservatives to challenge Labour's narrative.
Nov 29, 2025 • 24min
Labour U-turn again, this time on employment rights
Ailbhe Rea, a political editor and journalist renowned for her insights into UK party politics, joins to discuss Labour's shocking U-turn on employment rights. She breaks down the shift from day-one unfair dismissal protections to a controversial six-month probation period, irritating MPs and unions alike. Ailbhe also explores zero-hours contracts, Angela Rayner's silent influence, and the dynamics of Labour's internal tensions. The discussion reveals how this strategy affects both workers and business while considering the repercussions for leadership stability.
Nov 28, 2025 • 27min
Crap, trash and greed
As Black Friday shoppers hunt for deals, a new phenomenon called 'crapflation' emerges, where consumers spend more on lower-quality goods. Will Dunn explores how e-commerce drives the production of stretchy, disposable clothing and reveals troubling trends in shrinkflation. He recounts a visit to an illegal dump in Oxfordshire, shedding light on organized crime's exploitation of the waste industry. The discussion highlights environmental concerns, political implications, and the urgency to address the growing issue of consumer waste.
Nov 27, 2025 • 27min
Middle earners targeted by budget
Join Will Dunn, the sharp-witted business editor who deconstructs fiscal policies, and Ailbhe Rea, the astute political editor analyzing Labour dynamics, as they tackle the latest budget. They explore the implications of stealth taxes and fiscal drag, which could disproportionately affect middle earners. The discussion dives into how these financial maneuvers might alienate voters and impact party politics. They also dissect Labour's strategies, including the contentious scrapping of the two-child cap, and ponder the broader effects on younger generations.
