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
Jul 26, 2025 • 51min
Tax Netflix now! | Peter Kosminsky interview
Peter Kosminsky, an acclaimed director and writer known for the BBC's adaptation of Wolf Hall, shares his insights on the troubled state of British television. He passionately argues for government support of public broadcasting amidst fierce competition from streaming giants. Kosminsky emphasizes the importance of storytelling in addressing societal issues and discusses the challenges of maintaining high-quality content. He also critiques the pressures on the BBC's independence and calls for a 'streamer's levy' to ensure investment in local programming.
Jul 25, 2025 • 38min
If you care about Gaza, why vote Labour? - Listener questions episode
The podcast dives into the Labour Party's controversial stance on Gaza, questioning why voters should still support them. As dissatisfaction with public services rises, discussions about a potential new political movement emerge, aiming to address pressing issues like poverty. The impact of current events on voter behavior is explored, alongside concerns about rising water bills and inadequate infrastructure. The decline in public investment over recent decades highlights the struggles of the UK government in effectively managing resources and communicating its priorities.
7 snips
Jul 24, 2025 • 20min
The fraying of the social fabric | Politics with Rachel Cunliffe
The Deputy Prime Minister highlights immigration, economic insecurity, and digital influence as triggers for social unrest in the UK, tied to recent events like the Southport attacks. Discussions reveal a rift between government responses and public sentiment. The Labour Party faces challenges under Keir Starmer, blending humor with serious issues as Rachel Reeves navigates fiscal concerns. Experts raise alarms about the UK's financial stability amid government cuts, weighing gradual reforms against the need for bold action.
Jul 23, 2025 • 41min
Kemi Badenoch isn't working | Cover Story with Tom McTague
Will Lloyd, a writer for the New Statesman known for his incisive political profiles, delves into the rise and fall of Kemi Badenoch, a once-celebrated Conservative leader. He discusses the factors leading to her decline, including internal party dynamics and public perception. The conversation explores racism's role in her treatment and the evolving challenges within the Conservative Party versus the emerging Reform opposition. Lloyd also highlights the rivalry between Badenoch and Robert Jenrick, contrasting their approaches in today’s political landscape.
11 snips
Jul 22, 2025 • 40min
The Trump, Epstein and MAGA saga
Freddie Hayward, the US Correspondent for the New Statesman, navigates the intriguing ties between Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein. He discusses whether Trump's recent comments could alienate his MAGA base. The conversation delves into conspiracy theories entwined with MAGA's identity and examines the shifting alliances within the Republican Party amidst the Epstein scandal. Hayward also touches on Trump's upcoming Scottish visit and the political ramifications of free speech debates in the UK, underscoring the complexities of US-UK relations.
Jul 21, 2025 • 21min
Now, re-nationalise water | Politics with Anoosh Chakelian
Megan Kenyon, a writer for New Statesman, attended the pivotal announcement regarding the future of the UK water industry, while George Eaton offers insights from his analysis of the independent review. They discuss the abolition of the regulator Ofwat and the urgent need for a radical overhaul to combat sewage pollution. The duo also delves into the debate over privatization and the calls for re-nationalisation, reflecting on public sentiment towards escalating water costs and leadership challenges within the Labour Party in a digital age.
Jul 20, 2025 • 27min
What does "Blue Labour" really mean? - Morgan Jones interview
Morgan Jones, an expert on Labour Party politics and co-editor of Renewal, dives into the intriguing world of 'Blue Labour.' She discusses how this movement aims to reconnect mainstream Labour with everyday people, exploring its ambitions for a moral political discourse. Jones highlights its surprising ideological intersections with the Corbynite left and even the Conservative Party. The conversation also tackles the internal dynamics and popularity of Blue Labour, emphasizing the role of media branding in shaping political identities.
Jul 18, 2025 • 24min
Is AI coming for our jobs? - Listener questions episode
The podcast delves into pressing issues like the impact of AI on jobs, raising concerns about potential job losses and societal unrest. It questions whether the decline in retail and hospitality roles is truly about automation or a smokescreen for workforce cuts. The discussion also addresses the inequities of council tax and explores the intricacies of left-wing political alliances, particularly with Jeremy Corbyn and the Green Party. Finally, the need for unity among leftist factions to avoid votes splitting is emphasized.
Jul 17, 2025 • 29min
Is Keir Starmer "bold and brave" to suspend rebels?
The podcast dives into the recent suspension of Labour MPs, exploring internal party dynamics and potential new factions. It also debates the implications of lowering the voting age to 16, questioning how it might shift political alignments. The discussion touches on the rise in UK inflation, its impact on the economy, and the balancing act facing the Bank of England. Ethical concerns surrounding Afghan resettlement are examined alongside the challenges of UK asylum policy and broader economic sentiments related to tax contributions from high earners.
Jul 16, 2025 • 39min
Israel is committing war crimes - former Supreme Court judge Jonathan Sumption exclusive interview
In an engaging discussion, Jonathan Sumption, a former UK Supreme Court judge and noted legal scholar, addresses the contentious issue of Israel's actions in Gaza. He discusses the legal complexities surrounding accusations of war crimes and explores the moral responsibilities of both Israel and Hamas. Sumption emphasizes the history of international humanitarian law and its implications for current conflicts. He also examines the influence of leadership on military conduct and urges for a deeper understanding of the Israel-Palestine conflict beyond simplistic narratives.
