Novara Live

Stephen Methven, a journalist and correspondent, shares his insights from the chaotic Your Party conference in Liverpool. He discusses the growing support for collective leadership and the dramatic expulsions of SWP and RCG members. Zarah Sultana highlights her boycott over top-down decisions, advocating for democracy within the conference. Methven reveals the enthusiasm of members and the intricacies of the new leadership structure, while also debating the party's future electoral strategy and identity. Ash Sarkar adds to the conversation with her balanced view on the potential risks of factionalism.

Labour faces criticism for diluting their workers' rights bill, raising questions about broken promises. The debate heats up over party strategies and trade-union influences in these concessions. Meanwhile, Rachel Reeves' unsettling budget press conference sparks speculation over looming tax hikes, contrasted by data suggesting a fiscal surplus. The narrative shifts in the press as emigration concerns rise, with young people leaving Britain for reasons beyond taxes. The hosts analyze public sentiments on recent budget measures and the political implications.

Dalia Gebrial, a political commentator dedicated to social justice and international solidarity, dives into pressing topics. She critiques Rachel Reeves’ budget, arguing it fails to uphold promises to working-class citizens while benefiting the wealthy. The discussion highlights the generational divide in UK politics, with younger voters leaning left while older voters shift right. Dalia emphasizes the humanitarian impact of migration policies and warns of polarizing trends among youth if economic grievances go unaddressed, advocating for unity across generations.

In this discussion, economist James Meadway breaks down the implications of Rachel Reeves' historic tax increases and critiques the government’s fiscal approach, emphasizing the stealthy effects of frozen tax thresholds. Journalist Steven Methven shares insights on the contentious Palestine Action judicial review, raising alarms about judicial transparency and potential biases. Together, they explore the implications of drastic legal reforms in the UK, including the proposal to scrap jury trials, and the intersection of economic policy and justice issues.

In this discussion, Helena, a passionate political commentator, highlights the detrimental impact of Tory policies on unpaid carers, driving many into debt. Dale Vince, a green energy pioneer, shares insights on creating a sustainable economy and critiques the latest climate strategies. Chris Bratt, a games journalist, reveals the unsettling reality of union-busting in the gaming industry, explaining the far-reaching consequences for affected workers. Together, they tackle pressing social issues, from care policies to the rise of disinformation online, making for a thought-provoking conversation.

Economist Daniela Gabor, a professor at SOAS, dives into the complexities of bond markets and government fiscal choices, challenging the common narrative that pits the two against each other. She critiques the political use of Modern Monetary Theory while emphasizing the importance of taxation for redistribution and strategic investment. The discussion also covers the potential effects of borrowing on public services like the NHS, exploring when it can lead to long-term economic benefits.

Join Jayati Ghosh, a professor of economics focusing on global inequality, and Carole Cadwalladr, an investigative journalist known for her work on corruption, as they dive into pressing issues. Ghosh discusses the significance of international inequality data and policy reforms to combat extreme wealth. Cadwalladr reveals shocking details about Nathan Gill's bribery case linked to Russian interference, raising questions about political integrity. Together, they explore how these issues intersect with fiscal policy and the role of markets in governance.

Aditya Chakrabortty, Senior economics commentator at The Guardian, discusses the limitations of a modest wealth tax and argues for more ambitious economic reforms. He emphasizes the need for comprehensive policies addressing asset ownership and everyday costs. Palestine campaigner Aisha Behit shares her harrowing experience of being arrested and the fallout from her conviction being overturned, highlighting activism and policing challenges in Cardiff. Together, they explore pressing political and economic issues affecting leftist strategy and activism today.

Murtaza Hussain, an investigative journalist known for his work on Jeffrey Epstein, dives deep into Epstein's ties to Israeli figures and the implications of hacked emails on his influence. Laurie Laybourn-Langton, a climate policy expert, discusses the alarming admission of missing the 1.5°C target and the necessity of reframing climate narratives toward resilience and navigation. The duo explores the political ramifications of these pivotal issues, from Labour's leadership crisis to the intricacies of U.S. foreign policy.

Freddie Feltham, former Labour staffer and host of 'What the F is Left,' dissects the backlash against Shabana Mahmood's asylum overhaul. Beth Gardner-Smith offers insights on how family ties, not policy, actually shape asylum decisions. Tom Darling discusses the forthcoming Renters' Rights Act, emphasizing protections like the end of Section 21 evictions. Meanwhile, Sami Hamdi shares his harrowing detention by ICE, highlighting the injustices faced by detainees and the importance of free speech advocacy.