Newscast
BBC News
The BBC's daily news podcast, Newscast dives into the day's biggest news stories so you're never out of your depth.Newscast picks the brains of BBC News experts so you're ready if someone picks yours, covering the latest news, developments in politics in Westminster and beyond.Newscast is hosted by trusted politics and news journalists including Adam Fleming, BBC Political Editor Chris Mason, Laura Kuenssberg and Paddy O'Connell. You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers.Catch Newscast seven-days a week and watch on BBC One at 23:40 on Thursday night or later on BBC iPlayer. GET IN TOUCH:
You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscord
Send us a message or voicenote via WhatsApp to 03301239480
Email Newscast@bbc.co.uk
Or use the hashtag #BBCNewscastYou can register for Castfest tickets here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/showsandtours/shows/castfest-2026
You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscord
Send us a message or voicenote via WhatsApp to 03301239480
Email Newscast@bbc.co.uk
Or use the hashtag #BBCNewscastYou can register for Castfest tickets here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/showsandtours/shows/castfest-2026
Episodes
Mentioned books
22 snips
Sep 19, 2025 • 44min
Leo Varadkar on Brexit, Boris Johnson & Coming Out
Leo Varadkar, former Taoiseach of Ireland and author of "Speaking My Mind," shares his journey to leadership and discusses Brexit's impact on Ireland. He delves into his experiences with Boris Johnson during key negotiations and reflects on how coming out influenced his views on social issues. Varadkar addresses Ireland's housing crisis and the need for updated international refugee policies. He also shares light-hearted concert memories, revealing a love for pop music that adds a personal touch to his political narrative.
24 snips
Sep 18, 2025 • 30min
Trump's State Visit: The President and Starmer Agree To Disagree
Chris Mason, a seasoned BBC political correspondent, shares insights from the high-stakes press conference at Chequers during Donald Trump's state visit. Discussions range from the nuanced political dance between Trump and Sir Keir Starmer to the shadow of Lord Mandelson. They tackle the controversy surrounding Gaza and the UK–US divide over Palestinian state recognition. Mason delves into US–UK tech agreements and offers advice on adapting to AI in the workforce, highlighting the need for skills needed to thrive in a changing job landscape.
20 snips
Sep 17, 2025 • 37min
Trump’s State Visit: King Charles's Royal Reception
Faisal Islam, BBC Economics Editor, shares insights on the groundbreaking £31 billion UK-US tech deal and its potential impact on the AI sector. Daniela Relph, Senior BBC Royal Correspondent, dives into the grandeur of King Charles's royal reception for President Trump, detailing the ceremonial elements and royal protocol during the state visit. Together, they explore the implications of this high-profile event for both nations, balancing pomp with economic strategy.
31 snips
Sep 16, 2025 • 35min
Israel Committing Genocide in Gaza Says UN Commission
John Simpson, the BBC World Affairs Editor, discusses a UN commission's alarming allegations of genocide by Israel against Palestinians in Gaza. He shares insights into the commission's findings and how Israel has vehemently rejected these claims. The conversation also touches on the potential legal repercussions, the complexities of UN recognition for a Palestinian state, and the ongoing media scrutiny regarding terminology used in the conflict. Plus, there’s a look at the political intrigue surrounding Lord Mandelson’s appointment as the UK Ambassador to the US.
68 snips
Sep 15, 2025 • 47min
Are The Conservatives 'Over'?
Jane Corbin, a Panorama presenter and expert in American politics, joins the discussion following Conservative MP Danny Kruger's recent defection to the Reform Party. They explore the shifting political landscape in the UK and whether the Conservatives are losing their grip. Jane also delves into Donald Trump’s impending state visit, analyzing its implications for the US-UK special relationship and how it might benefit Labour's Keir Starmer. The conversation highlights the historical context and the evolving dynamics of political alliances.
25 snips
Sep 14, 2025 • 38min
Epstein Victim's Family Speaks Out Over Mandelson
The family of Virginia Giuffre voices concerns over Lord Mandelson's appointment as UK ambassador, questioning the ethics of political connections to Jeffrey Epstein. They highlight how such associations impact victims and call for accountability. The discussion also touches on the internal struggles within the Labour Party and the upcoming state visit of Donald Trump, reflecting on the political dynamics at play. Amidst all this, the need for justice and support for survivors remains a pressing theme.
6 snips
Sep 13, 2025 • 21min
The Mandelson-Epstein Emails - Who Knew What, When?
A major scandal unfolds as Peter Mandelson's emails to Jeffrey Epstein are scrutinized, revealing their political fallout. The investigation sheds light on leadership accountability amid public scrutiny and tensions in the party. Journalists face challenges uncovering these powerful connections, highlighting the emotional toll of their work. As opposition voices rise, the discussion also hints at future explorations of political themes and further audience engagement.
Sep 12, 2025 • 38min
The Week: When Keir Starmer Sacked Peter Mandelson
In this discussion, Patrick Maguire, Chief Political Commentator at The Times, and Sienna Rodgers, Deputy Editor at The House Magazine, analyze the turbulent week for Keir Starmer. They delve into the sacking of Peter Mandelson as ambassador amidst scandals tying him to Jeffrey Epstein. The pair discuss how these controversies affect the Labour Party's identity and leadership dynamics. They also explore the implications of these events on public trust and the challenges Starmer faces as his party navigates political turmoil.
Sep 11, 2025 • 33min
Peter Mandelson Sacked Over Epstein Messages
Marianna Spring, the BBC's social media and disinformation correspondent, teams up with Washington journalist Caitriona Perry as they dive into the political storm created by Peter Mandelson's sacking after his connections with Jeffrey Epstein were unveiled. They explore the scandal's fallout on Labour leadership and its implications for Starmer. The discussion also touches on the tragic shooting of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk, examining the intersection of political rhetoric and violence, while addressing broader societal reactions and the impact on public discourse.
32 snips
Sep 10, 2025 • 34min
Will Mandelson Have To Quit Over Epstein Revelations?
Mikey Kay, a former Royal Air Force member and current presenter of the BBC's Security Brief, dives into the fallout from Lord Mandelson's ties to Jeffrey Epstein. Kay discusses the implications of Mandelson's regret over his associations with Epstein, who he called a 'charismatic criminal liar.' The conversation also shifts to global security concerns, especially following Poland's dramatic response to Russian drones crossing its airspace. Kay provides insights on the evolving military landscape and the strategic significance of drone technology.
