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10 snips
Dec 4, 2025 • 33min

Putin ‘Morally Responsible’ For Novichok Death

In this engaging discussion, Tom Symonds, a BBC news correspondent with firsthand experience of the Salisbury incidents, delves into the inquiry that deemed Putin 'morally responsible' for the death of Dawn Sturgess. Alongside Marie Lennon, a local journalist and host of the Salisbury Poisonings podcast, they explore the harrowing details of how Dawn was exposed to the deadly Novichok. Alex Forsyth, a local government expert, elaborates on the unexpected postponement of mayoral elections, revealing political tensions and implications for candidates.
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28 snips
Dec 3, 2025 • 45min

Is Russia Really Ready For War With Europe?

Join Europe editor Katya Adler, who analyzes EU politics and diplomacy, and The Economist's defense editor Shashank Joshi, as they explore Russia's alarming assertion of readiness for war with Europe. They dissect Putin's strategic messages, highlighting Russia's preference for battlefield gains over negotiations. BBC Economics Editor Faisal Islam sheds light on the UK government's moves towards a new European defense fund and potential closer ties with the EU, revealing the economic implications of these shifts.
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9 snips
Dec 2, 2025 • 39min

The Jury’s (Kind Of) Out

Dominic Casciani, a BBC Home and Legal Affairs correspondent, discusses proposed reforms to jury trials, highlighting the shift of minor cases to magistrates and the implications for court backlogs. He emphasizes the potential efficiency of judge-only trials for fraud and complex cases while preserving jury trials for serious crimes. Meanwhile, John Fingleton, an independent regulator and author, critiques the UK's nuclear sector, revealing how regulatory complexity hinders infrastructure projects and advocating for broader reform in risk management and regulatory practices.
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15 snips
Dec 1, 2025 • 38min

The Budget: Starmer Defends The Chancellor

Join Simon Jack, BBC business editor, as he dives into the recent UK–US pharmaceuticals deal, exploring its implications for NHS funding and the healthcare sector. He explains how the agreement secures zero tariffs on UK pharmaceutical exports for three years, but at a cost of increased NHS spending. Simon also discusses the possible effects of this deal on future investments in the UK pharma industry and reflects on the recent resignation of OBR's Richard Hughes, shedding light on the importance of fiscal oversight.
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50 snips
Nov 30, 2025 • 32min

The Budget: Rachel Reeves Denies Claims She Lied in the Run-Up

Rachel Reeves, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, faces tough questions about whether she misled the public regarding the UK’s finances and her fiscal policies. Joining her is Henry Zeffman, BBC's chief political correspondent, who breaks down the implications of Reeves' claims and the timing of the Office for Budget Responsibility's forecasts. The discussion includes a closer look at Labour's manifesto promises, the impact on public trust, and the controversial budget trade-offs. They also address the mixed reactions from the public regarding increased contributions.
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16 snips
Nov 29, 2025 • 43min

The Budget: Did Rachel Reeves Mislead the Public in the Run-Up?

Luke Sullivan, former political director for Keir Starmer, shares insider insights into the political fallout from Rachel Reeves' budget speech. He discusses allegations of misleading statements about public finances and examines the internal Labour Party response. Sullivan explains the complexities of budget projections, potential manifesto compromises, and how party dynamics are shaped by poll ratings. He also highlights the long-term political risks and emphasizes the need for competence as Labour navigates its future.
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10 snips
Nov 28, 2025 • 29min

The Week: Send Funding, Workers Rights And A Big Drop In Legal Migration

This week’s discussion dives into the implications of changes to SEND funding, which could significantly impact children across the UK. The hosts explore how Labour might position themselves to reverse tax rises later in their term. A startling drop in legal migration figures sparks conversation about its political ramifications. They also touch on the government's shift in employment rights protections and increasing pressures for businesses amid wage changes. Lastly, they discuss the unbudgeted defence spending commitments ahead of elections.
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10 snips
Nov 27, 2025 • 35min

The Budget: What Does It Actually Mean For You?

Claer Barrett, Consumer Editor at the Financial Times, and Helen Miller, Director at the Institute for Fiscal Studies, join to delve into the intricacies of the latest budget. They discuss the implications of higher taxes and the government's claim of lifting children out of poverty amidst rising costs for households. They explore how tax changes affect high earners, the challenges facing pensions, and the long-term pressures on education funding. It's a deep dive into what these fiscal decisions really mean for everyday citizens.
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15 snips
Nov 26, 2025 • 35min

The Budget: It’s Finally Here!

Ben Chu, a policy correspondent at BBC Verify, and Darshini David, the BBC's Deputy Economics Editor, delve into the intricacies of the recent budget announcement. They discuss the £26.1 billion in tax increases laid out by Chancellor Rachel Reeves and the implications for households. Highlights include the controversial pension salary sacrifice cap and how the income threshold freeze could affect low earners. They also explore reactions from various political parties and the challenges that still loom ahead for the Chancellor.
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18 snips
Nov 25, 2025 • 33min

The Budget: What To Watch Out For

Claer Barrett, the Consumer Editor at the Financial Times, dives into the looming budget changes that could affect your wallet. She discusses the expansion of the sugar tax and upcoming hikes in minimum wage. Claer highlights potential shifts in ISA regulations aimed at nudging savers towards stocks. Plus, she explores the implications of frozen tax thresholds and introduces the concept of a 'tourist tax' and potential council tax reforms targeting high-value properties. It's a captivating look at what to expect in the financial landscape!

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