Politics Unpacked

Tim Shipman, the Sunday Times' chief political commentator, joins comedian Ria Lina to dissect the latest antics from Prime Minister's Questions. They humorously critique Rishi Sunak's unexpected endurance as leader and Keir Starmer’s adherence to his script. The duo navigates pressing topics like the £22 billion deficit, food security challenges, and the complexities of political accountability. With clever observations and sharp wit, they explore the dynamics of PMQs and the tension between humor and serious governance.

Hugo Rifkind is back to unpack the politics of the day, and all the other news, with the brightest minds from the Times and the Sunday Times.Today he's joined by James Marriott and Libby Purves to discuss why so many people are going straight from university to long-term sickness, whether ID cards could tackle illegal immigration, and 'Judge Libby' delivers her verdict on some of the ethical dilemmas of the day. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hugo Rifkind is here to unpack the politics of the day, and plenty of other news, with the brightest minds from the Times and the Sunday Times.Today he's joined by Hadley Freeman and Patrick Maguire to discuss threats from the wealthy to flee the UK, Dominic Cummings' threat to start a new political party, and what we can tell about society from the rape case that has stunned France. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As the 335 new MPs elected at the last election continue to deliver their first speeches to Parliament, Ed Vaizey asks what is the secret to standing out from the crowd. He takes a look at some of the best (and worst) from the past, including Boris Johnson, Theresa May.... and Ed Vaizey. Plus: Columnists India Knight and James Marriott discuss whether shutting libraries is cultural vandalism, if life’s greatest moments can be purchased, and we find out how James is getting on without a smartphone six months on. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ed Vaizey interrogates the past, present and future of espionage, from moments that could have come from fiction to the reality of spying in the modern world. He speaks to former GCHQ director Sir David Omand and Lord Robin Renwick, former UK ambassador to the United States and author of 'The Intelligent Spy's Handbook'.Plus: Columnists Manveen Rana and Timandra Harkness discuss how to make companies take responsibility for Grenfell, Tony Blair's call for closer links to Europe, and kicking hereditary peers out of Parliament. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

PMQs is back from summer recess, with Rishi Sunak quizzing Keir Starmer - although the prime minister is still having a hard time getting used to his new job title.Ed Vaizey unpacks the action from the Commons chamber with the help of Tim Shipman and Lara Spirit. Plus: Columnists Alice Thomson and Robert Crampton discuss whether public inquiries are too expensive, whether Robert Jenrick is right to talk about segregation, and what does (and doesn't) make them proud to be British. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Ed Vaizey as he dives into the radical theory of 'degrowth', exploring whether happiness should replace GDP as a success measure. Columnists Melanie Reid and Robert Colvile weigh in on Britain's wavering national pride and the critical importance of public libraries facing closures. They discuss the impact of Brexit and the Tories' odd reputation amidst changing political landscapes. Can we redefine success beyond economic growth? This lively conversation challenges conventional beliefs and advocates for a focus on well-being over mere numbers.

In this lively discussion, Ed Vaizey, a seasoned political figure, shares insights on the government's ambitious plans as Parliament resumes. Columnists Rachel Sylvester and Libby Purves delve into the proposed overhaul of school inspections, advocating for a shift from Ofsted's one-word judgments to a more nuanced report card approach. They explore the implications of such reforms for students and educators. The trio also light-heartedly debates whether politicians should dance publicly, alongside serious discussions on the complexities of current political dynamics.

With the SNP gathering in Edinburgh, party conference season is well and truly upon us. Ed Vaizey is joined by a panel of political advisers to discuss what to expect this autumn, as well as looking back at some of the best (and worst) moments from conferences past.Plus: Columnists James Marriott and India Knight discuss the four-day work week, whether you should let your dog lick your face, Keir Starmer moving Margaret Thatcher's portrait, and why AI may not be as revolutionary as originally promised. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kevin Hollinrake, the shadow business secretary, and Matt Wrack, a representative from the Fire Brigades Union, dive into the complicated dynamics between the Labour Party and trade unions. They discuss how Keir Starmer's decisions may clash with union expectations regarding public sector pay. The conversation also touches on the historical roots of the Labour Party in the trade union movement and current public sentiment surrounding workers' rights. Can the party balance these interests amidst rising inflation?