Matt Chorley's Urgent Questions

BBC Radio 5 Live
undefined
Jan 29, 2026 • 41min

Will Reform crash & burn like the SDP in the 1980s?

Will Reform crash & burn like the SDP in the 1980s?Is politics full of sulkers?What will critics make of the Melania film?Who will be the MMP for Birmingham Selly Oak? Matt Chorley brings you the who, what, where, why and when of British politics. If you've got urgent questions... then email Chorley@bbc.co.uk
undefined
Jan 28, 2026 • 46min

Did Dara Ó Briain find Deputy PMQs funny?

Dara Ó Briain, Irish stand-up and TV presenter, chats about PMQs and the craft of topical gags. Kim Darroch, veteran US envoy, reflects on posting beyond capitals. Lee Turner, ex-ambassador to Ukraine and Austria, shares stories of influence and security. Francis Guy, former envoy to Yemen and Lebanon, recounts evacuations, diplomacy in crises and the art of hosting.
undefined
Jan 27, 2026 • 43min

What's the naughtiest thing Shabana Mahmood has ever done?

What's the naughtiest thing Shabana Mahmood has ever done?What can politicians learn from Jaws?Should there be a time limit on Traitors spoilers?Who will be the MMP for Motherwell, Wishaw and Carluke?Matt Chorley brings you the who, what, where, why and when of British politics. If you've got urgent questions... then email Chorley@bbc.co.uk
undefined
Jan 26, 2026 • 30min

Will Braverman feel at home in Reform?

Will Braverman feel at home in Reform? What are Labour MPs saying about Starmer and Burnham? Did the King influence Trump on Afghanistan? Who will be the MMP for Southampton Test? Matt Chorley brings you the who, what, where, why and when of British politics. If you've got urgent questions... then email Chorley@bbc.co.uk
undefined
Jan 23, 2026 • 52min

Do Labour MPs want a Burnham comeback?

1. Do Labour MPs want a Burnham comeback? 2. What did William Waldegrave learn from working with three PMs? 3. What's it like being lectured by Boris Johnson? 4. Who will be the MMP for Brentwood and Ongar? Matt Chorley brings you the who, what, where, why and when of British politics. If you've got urgent questions... then email Chorley@bbc.co.uk
undefined
10 snips
Jan 22, 2026 • 49min

Is there NOW a route to Number 10 for Andy Burnham?

James Lyons, former Director of Communications for Keir Starmer, discusses the potential political path for Andy Burnham following Andrew Gwynne's resignation and the implications for Labour. David Pinto-Dushinsky shares his personal journey with stammering in politics, emphasizing the need for inclusivity and support in public roles. The panel also debates strategies for addressing Donald Trump and the challenges of political messaging, highlighting the significance of representation and role models in overcoming stigma.
undefined
9 snips
Jan 21, 2026 • 32min

Did Trump just de-escalate the Greenland row?

David Baddiel, a witty writer and comedian, joins to share insights on his show 'Cat Man' and the unique chaos of Prime Minister's Questions (PMQs). He hilariously critiques political exchanges, highlighting the theatrical performances and jabs that define UK politics. Baddiel also champions the virtues of cats and proposes a quirky idea for periodic internet blackouts to boost mindfulness. The duo delves into the implications of Trump's recent comments on Greenland and their impact on UK diplomatic relations.
undefined
Jan 20, 2026 • 37min

Why won't Badenoch kick out Truss?

Why won't Badenoch kick out Truss?How does Starmer respond to Trump calling the UK stupid?Is a shortage of haggis winding you up?Who will be the MMP for Brentford and Isleworth?Matt Chorley brings you the who, what, where, why and when of British politics. If you've got urgent questions... then email Chorley@bbc.co.uk
undefined
Jan 19, 2026 • 41min

What's Mandelson's Trump advice for Starmer?

What's Mandelson's Trump advice for Starmer? Should the PM ‘do a Kemi’ and sack Wes Streeting? Which listener has the best Order Order? Who will be the MMP for Wokingham? Matt Chorley brings you the who, what, where, why and when of British politics. If you've got urgent questions... then email Chorley@bbc.co.uk
undefined
12 snips
Jan 16, 2026 • 38min

What's it like to defect from the Tories to Reform?

Robert Craig, Chair of the Royal Association of British Dairy Farmers, dives into the intriguing world of the dairy industry. He discusses the political implications affecting farmers post-Brexit and the tension between dairy and import policies. Milk's deep history and its symbolism in political rhetoric are explored, revealing how it's been used to connect with voters. Craig also highlights the surprising resurgence of full-fat milk amidst the rise of plant-based alternatives, providing a tasty twist on agricultural politics.

The AI-powered Podcast Player

Save insights by tapping your headphones, chat with episodes, discover the best highlights - and more!
App store bannerPlay store banner
Get the app