Political Currency
Persephonica
Ed Balls and George Osborne take us behind closed doors into the rooms where decisions are made. Having battled it out across the despatch box, the former Chancellor and shadow chancellor now meet in the studio to discuss the decisions that affect the nation’s pockets. Our frenemies have the knowledge and experience to explain how good politics follows the economics - and expose how the powerful become powerless when faced with market forces and political currents they can’t control. Join us every Thursday.Send your messages or voice notes to questions@politicalcurrency.co.ukFind us on social media @polcurrencyPolitical Currency is a Persephonica production. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
37 snips
Jul 3, 2025 • 56min
Week from Hell for Reeves and Starmer
This week featured a dramatic moment in PMQs with Chancellor Rachel Reeves in tears, sparking discussions on the Labour government's challenges. The turmoil around welfare reforms led to market instability and concerns over leadership. French President Macron's historic state visit is on the horizon, amidst contrasting issues in Franco-British relations. Anecdotes from state banquets added humor to the political landscape, while reflections on the past year of Starmer's leadership highlighted the ongoing struggle for clear communication and public trust.
6 snips
Jun 30, 2025 • 43min
EMQs: Can the G20 still keep the peace?
Is the G20 still effective in promoting peace, or merely a political show? The hosts discuss global issues like nuclear non-proliferation and trade strategies post-Brexit. They examine the evolving UK trade landscape and the G20's diplomatic role. Cultural pride meets tax challenges, highlighting the nuances of housing policy and public services. AI's integration in the NHS raises questions about balancing innovation with quality care. Engaging the community remains central to shaping governance and improving services.
21 snips
Jun 26, 2025 • 1h 5min
Will the welfare rebellion be the end of Starmer?
Key discussions revolve around the NATO meeting where defense spending was raised, but the spotlight is on Trump being referred to as "Daddy". Back home, Labour faces turmoil with over 120 MPs rebelling against welfare reforms, testing Starmer's leadership. The podcast also tackles the ambiguous stance on U.S. military actions in Iran and the implications for international relations. Additionally, tensions flare over the exclusion of Irish rap group Kneecap from Glastonbury, hinting at a brewing culture war.
8 snips
Jun 23, 2025 • 50min
EMQs: Is politics worth the family sacrifice?
What do personal sacrifices in politics mean for family life? Ed Balls and George Osborne tackle this dilemma, inspired by a listener's question about the long-term effects of political careers. They reflect on David Cameron's resignation and its impact, while also exploring the troubled legacy of the Mull of Kintyre Chinook crash and the secrets surrounding it. Plus, a spirited discussion on the role of AI in the economy uncovers its potential to reshape work and creativity. Light-hearted anecdotes and culinary confessions keep the tone engaging!
23 snips
Jun 19, 2025 • 1h 2min
How far will Trump go on Iran and what could it mean for Britain?
Tensions escalate as Donald Trump navigates the unpredictable waters of U.S.-Iran relations, leaving Britain in a precarious position. Insightful discussions reveal the challenges UK leaders face regarding potential military use of British bases. Closer to home, Keir Starmer's call for an inquiry into grooming gangs raises questions about accountability versus political maneuvering. Meanwhile, Labour's retreat on taxing non-doms signals struggles to retain wealthy residents while staying true to fiscal promises, igniting debates on migration and tax reform.
6 snips
Jun 16, 2025 • 45min
EMQs: Could PMQs save America?
Could a UK-style Prime Minister’s Questions bring accountability to American politics? Join the discussion on the dynamics of political engagement and the insights from the latest analysis of Joe Biden's presidency. Explore the peculiarities of traditional red boxes used by UK ministers versus digital solutions. Delve into the soft power impact of the BBC World Service amidst rising military expenditures, and hear about innovative policy advocacy for social initiatives like health and school meals.
27 snips
Jun 12, 2025 • 60min
Reeves's Spending Review ‘gamble’: continuity or change for Labour?
Rachel Reeves' Spending Review has sparked debate, with critics like George Osborne claiming it continues the previous government's economic path. Ed Balls warns that Reeves' substantial promises lack a safety net in uncertain times. Defense and NHS funding are prioritized while cuts loom for the Foreign Office. Meanwhile, Trump's recent tensions with Musk and response to immigration protests shake U.S.-UK relations, complicating Starmer’s diplomatic strategy. Discussions delve into the implications of these political gambles for Labour's future.
11 snips
Jun 9, 2025 • 48min
EMQs: The art of political sacking
Two MPs seek advice from Ed Balls and George Osborne on handling political sackings, with humor about coping strategies like sherries and coffee machines. They discuss the impact of AI on government efficiency and elaborate on the complexities of UK immigration policy. The importance of a Politics, Philosophy, and Economics degree is debated, emphasizing its elitism in politics. They share anecdotes of political blunders and explore how humor can be a tool for engagement in this challenging landscape.
11 snips
Jun 5, 2025 • 59min
Welfare vs Warfare: Can Labour Afford NATO’s Demands?
The podcast dives into the tension between escalating NATO defense spending and domestic welfare needs, questioning if Labour can balance both effectively. It discusses Trump's renewed trade war and its potential ripple effects on the UK economy amidst market instability. Boris Johnson's possible political comeback is examined, with debates on whether it could solve crises or create new ones. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the challenging navigation of economic pressures and political leadership within the current UK landscape.
Jun 2, 2025 • 30min
EMQs: Can Britain capitalise on Trump’s student crackdown?
The podcast dives deep into the impact of Trump's student visa policies, exploring how Britain could potentially attract international talent fleeing restrictive U.S. regulations. Ed Balls and George Osborne discuss systemic government failures in compensating victims of scandals, emphasizing the need for timely accountability. They also share humorous stories from their political memorabilia collection, revealing unexpected connections to former leaders. Listeners are encouraged to engage with the show for a chance at exclusive live event tickets.
