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
Feb 15, 2024 • 31min
Was The Recession Inevitable?
The podcast explores whether the UK could have avoided a recession, discussing the impact of spending less, doctors' strikes, and fall in school attendance. They also discuss Taylor Swift's influence and her involvement in politics, exploring conspiracy theories and fan engagement strategies. Additionally, the hosts delve into the implications of the UK's recession announcement, the Treasury's plan for spending cuts, and upcoming bi-elections.
Feb 14, 2024 • 32min
Biden, Trump and the Survival of Nato
Former Commanding General of US Army Europe Ben Hodges discusses whether NATO can survive a potential Trump presidency. BBC's Marianna Spring investigates a deepfake of London Mayor Sadiq Khan and its implications. Topics include NATO defense spending, rising Russian aggression, AI and its impact on elections, and the spread of fake content.
Feb 13, 2024 • 37min
Steve Wright Tributes + Labour Suspend Another Candidate
Renowned DJ Steve Wright, who presented programmes for BBC Radio 1 and Radio 2, is remembered by fellow DJ Tony Blackburn and presenter Nicky Campbell. Labour suspends parliamentary candidates over comments about Israel. Keir Starmer faces challenges amid controversies. The podcast also pays tribute to Steve Wright's legendary career in radio.
Feb 12, 2024 • 36min
Is the NHS ready for Alzheimer’s drug breakthroughs?
The podcast discusses the NHS being unprepared for breakthrough Alzheimer's drugs, with insights from medical editor Fergus Walsh and Dr. Susan Kohlhaas. It also covers the Israel-Gaza conflict, including the situation in Rafah and international reactions. The chapter additionally touches on Trump's remarks about NATO and implications for the international community.
Feb 11, 2024 • 29min
How Do You Fix the UK's Housing Crisis?
Discussion on the UK's housing crisis and the government's promise to ban no-fault evictions. Interview with Alan Bates on the controversy surrounding Fujitsu UK and the need for compensation for subpostmasters. Debate on trigger warnings in theater and the importance of accessibility. Exploration of upcoming by-elections and economic concerns.
Feb 10, 2024 • 28min
Are the Politics of Climate Change Going Out of Fashion?
Politics and climate change policies, Labour's U-turn on green spending, Keir Starmer on Vogue cover, upcoming by-elections. Impact of Prime Minister's political incident on Tories' electoral fortunes. Abandoning promised investment in the green economy. Messy politics and its impact on Labour Party. Casual conversation about various topics including blue, upcoming guests, and youngest ever peer.
Feb 9, 2024 • 40min
Is Biden Too Old?
Is Biden Too Old? Emma Tucker, Editor in Chief of the Wall Street Journal, discusses the investigation into Biden's competency and his fiery exchanges with reporters. Comedian Matt Forde shares his experience with cancer and how he faced it with laughter and optimism.
Feb 8, 2024 • 31min
Keir Starmer's Big Green £28bn U-turn
Labour's £28bn green investment pledge is ditched, facing criticism within the party. Keir Starmer blames the Conservatives. Discussion on the challenges faced by Labour and an interview with the Scottish Labour Leader. The strategy of reassurance and change in England and Scotland. The concept of authenticity in relation to Scottish Labour and winning the general election. Implications of Keir Starmer's U-turn on green energy policy and the political battle with the Scottish National Party.
Feb 7, 2024 • 33min
Calls for Sunak apology over PMQs trans jibe to Starmer
Today, we discuss the controversy surrounding the Prime Minister's comment about trans people. We also explore the government's measures to improve access to dentistry and the struggles faced by individuals in accessing dental care in the UK. Issues like inadequate investment in NHS dentistry and regional disparities in access are highlighted.
Feb 6, 2024 • 32min
Liz Truss & The Pop Cons
Former prime minister Liz Truss launches Popular Conservatism movement with Tory backbench MPs, discussing its impact on Rishi Sunak. Children's commissioner for England Dame Rachel De Souza talks about keeping children safe online and the challenges of implementing legislation. The podcast also explores the Online Safety Act, raising the age limit for social media access, and the importance of safety by design and parental controls.
