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
14 snips
Jun 7, 2025 • 43min
The Trans Ex Judge Challenging The Supreme Court Gender Ruling
Victoria McCloud, the UK’s only transgender judge, discusses her brave challenge against a Supreme Court ruling defining a woman solely by biological sex. She shares her motivations for pursuing this legal battle and the ruling's broader implications on transgender rights. The conversation highlights the complexities of gender identity, the emotional toll of current laws, and the urgent need for genuine dialogue. McCloud emphasizes the importance of inclusivity and advocates for fair legal representation for the trans community.
30 snips
Jun 6, 2025 • 30min
Americast: Trump vs Elon Musk
Tensions escalate as Donald Trump and Elon Musk clash publicly, lobbing insults and threats on social media. The fallout could influence the 2026 midterms, given their significant political and financial power. Their rivalry is examined, revealing how personal spats affect public perceptions and political alliances. The podcast delves into the impact of their disinhibited online behaviors and the broader implications for the MAGA movement. With potential diplomatic efforts on the table, audiences are left pondering the future of this powerful duo.
Jun 6, 2025 • 30min
The Week: Defence, Spending Review and What Next For Reform UK?
The podcast kicks off with a humorous tale of a train adventure from a Prime Minister's defense announcement, complete with delays and scenic distractions. The discussion shifts to the looming Spending Review, where hard choices on defense spending are on the table amid global uncertainties. The hosts dive into the new zero-based budgeting approach, aiming to optimize financial management. They also reflect on the internal strife within Reform UK following Zia Youssef's resignation and explore the broader political impacts on the Conservative party’s future.
Jun 5, 2025 • 41min
Resignationcast: Zia Yusuf Quits Reform UK
In this discussion, Alex Forsyth, a BBC correspondent, and Jeremy Hunt, former UK Chancellor, delve into the recent resignation of Zia Yusuf from Reform UK, raising questions about the party's future and leadership dynamics. They explore the implications for Nigel Farage and how internal tensions could reshape political strategies. Hunt shares insights from his new book and the fallout from the Conservative Party's past financial decisions, emphasizing the need for accountability and fresh ideas in the face of challenging political landscapes.
Jun 4, 2025 • 41min
All Aboard The Spending Bus
Kim McGuinness, the Labour Mayor for the North East of England, advocates for regional development and transport expansion. The discussion focuses on a £15 billion investment in England's mass transit systems, aiming to address regional funding disparities. They delve into the importance of empowering local voices in policymaking and highlight the pressing issues of child poverty and the need for support systems. The conversation also touches on the relationship between national government and local mayors, showcasing collaborative efforts to secure funding and drive meaningful change.
4 snips
Jun 3, 2025 • 35min
Major New Search For Madeleine McCann
Daniel Sandford, BBC home affairs correspondent, shares insights from the latest search for Madeleine McCann, discussing the new developments in the investigation and the emotional toll on her family. Jane Hill, veteran BBC presenter, reflects on the media impact of this heart-wrenching case. Meanwhile, Katja Adler examines recent political turmoil, including the collapse of the Dutch government and the election of a new right-wing president in Poland, shedding light on the implications for European geopolitics.
11 snips
Jun 2, 2025 • 41min
The Plan To Get Britain Ready For War
Fiona Hill, a former White House advisor and foreign policy expert, explores Britain's strategic defense review, emphasizing its significance in preparing for modern warfare. James Waterhouse, the BBC's Ukraine correspondent, shares insights into a recent large-scale drone attack on Russian air bases and its implications. They discuss the need for a unified approach to national security amidst rising tensions, the evolving role of technology in warfare, and the balance between defense spending and job creation.
11 snips
Jun 1, 2025 • 28min
The UK’s 'Message To Moscow’
The UK is boosting its defense budget with a bold message to Moscow, sparking debates about affordability and NATO responses. The discussion dives into job creation linked to military spending and the political tensions within the Labour Party. They also analyze the decline in policing and prison resources under Conservative governance. Amidst these serious topics, there's playful banter about board games and fashion flops, bringing humor to the conversation. It's a lively mix of politics, defense, and light-hearted fun!
May 31, 2025 • 32min
Ex MI6 Chief On The Future of UK Defence
Alex Younger, former head of MI6, dives into the future of UK defense, sharing critical insights into evolving threats from Russia and China. He discusses the importance of innovation and readiness in military strategy, emphasizing a holistic approach to national security. Younger also highlights the need for diversifying the UK's nuclear capabilities and reassessing its reliance on US support. With defense spending expected to rise, he advocates for a forward-thinking stance to address emerging global challenges and technological advancements.
6 snips
May 30, 2025 • 29min
The Week: Starmer v Farage, Trump Tariffs and Political Stunts
The hosts dive into Keir Starmer's bold claim that Nigel Farage could 'crash the economy.' They share a laugh while recalling political stunts, including a cringe-worthy confrontation on the London Underground. The discussion then shifts to the chaotic implications of Trump's tariffs on the UK-US trade relationship. They also explore recent shifts in European rhetoric regarding Gaza and the potential for political action, alongside lighthearted banter about quirky political gifts that reveal a more personal side to politicians.
