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
10 snips
May 29, 2025 • 1h 4min
Labour’s looming spending review chaos
Labour faces a chaotic spending review with unclear details on winter fuel payments and the potential cut to the two-child benefit cap. The discussion shifts to King Charles’s diplomatic visit to Canada and the complexities of UK-US relations, especially regarding Donald Trump’s upcoming state visit. The hosts also explore the dominance of Apple and Google in the UK app store and how it may hinder economic growth. Finally, they emphasize the need for stronger competition policies to spur innovation in the tech sector.
May 26, 2025 • 48min
EMQs: Can Kemi Badenoch cheer up the Conservatives?
This discussion unpacks whether quick political wins can sway public opinion, especially within the beleaguered Conservative Party. The hosts contemplate Kemi Badenoch's potential to lift morale amidst internal strife. They analyze how symbolic changes in governance affect voter support and the importance of leadership during turbulent times. Delving into accountability in government contracts, they highlight the historical struggles of political integrity. Plus, there's a reflection on Keynes' influence, offering insights into economic policy and governance.
11 snips
May 22, 2025 • 59min
Is winter fuel U-turn a leadership 'fiasco' for Labour?
The political landscape is heating up with a controversial U-turn on winter fuel allowances, sparking debates on leadership credibility. Speakers reflect on the messy implications for Labour's standing with voters and discuss the suspension of trade talks with Israel amidst Gaza tensions. A deep dive into the recent UK-EU trade deal reveals the complexities of fishing industry dynamics. The conversation also touches on the ongoing debate around bank ring-fencing, weighing the legacy of prior regulations against current economic needs.
6 snips
May 19, 2025 • 39min
EMQs: Is Trump accidentally going green?
Join a lively discussion about the surprising green implications of Trump's tariffs. Hear insights on the political dynamics between senators and governors, and reflect on personal memories from PMQs in Parliament. Explore innovative proposals for employment incentives and the complexities of job seeking in today's climate. The hosts also share whimsical hypotheticals about future political ambitions, all while keeping the tone light and engaging.
20 snips
May 15, 2025 • 1h 5min
Is Labour’s immigration blitz worth the price?
Keir Starmer's divisive immigration remarks have stirred debate, with Ed Balls seeing potential benefits and George Osborne sensing a shift towards conservative rhetoric. The discussion expands to Donald Trump's Middle East tour and its implications for U.S. foreign policy. Attention also turns to Trump's tariffs on film production, analyzing the potential impact on the UK industry. Amidst this, exciting news emerges about a live show opportunity for listeners looking to engage further with the content.
13 snips
May 12, 2025 • 30min
EMQs: Can Reform UK fix broken councils?
Join a lively discussion as hosts reflect on the impact of the new trade deal with India and the proposed CANZUK alliance. They dive into the challenges facing local councils, including how to support the most vulnerable amidst financial pressures. Listeners also hear personal anecdotes about camping adventures, bringing some lighthearted fun into the mix. The dynamics of international relations and the role of young Conservatives in local governance are also explored, providing a blend of humor and insight into current political landscapes.
22 snips
May 8, 2025 • 1h 2min
Starmer's Trump Bump? The UK-US trade deal
The Labour government's recent trade deals with India and the US spark intriguing discussions about Starmer's approach to the Trump administration. Ed and George dissect how these agreements may influence Labour's stance on immigration and economic priorities. The rise of Nigel Farage's Reform Party adds pressure on traditional parties, prompting a reassessment of strategies. Meanwhile, the Bank of England's interest rate decisions raise questions about the UK's economic future amidst contrasting policies from the US Federal Reserve.
May 5, 2025 • 36min
EMQs: A Brit for Governor of California?
The candidacy of a British figure for California's governorship sparks intriguing discussions about multicultural governance. Exploring podcast habits among politicians reveals fascinating insights into media influence on election strategies. The conversation dives into the complexities of fundraising and local Republican dynamics in California's unique political landscape. Also highlighted is the essential interplay of economics and political decision-making, encouraging young listeners to engage more in political discourse.
21 snips
May 1, 2025 • 1h 5min
Trump’s tumultuous first 100 days, UK local elections and the end of two party politics?
Local elections in England are a critical test for key political figures, while Donald Trump’s first 100 days have pushed stock markets into turmoil. The podcast delves into the potential collapse of traditional two-party politics amidst the rise of new movements. It highlights the challenges faced by Labour and the Conservatives and the implications of Mark Carney's recent victory in Canada. Additionally, the discussion touches on negotiating trade deals post-Brexit and the evolving dynamics of U.S.-Canada relations.
7 snips
Apr 28, 2025 • 52min
Inside The Room: The Election That Never Was (Part 3)
In this installment, Andrew Marr, a seasoned political journalist, and Deborah Mattinson, a veteran political pollster, dive into the chaos of October 2007 when Gordon Brown hesitated to call a snap general election. They discuss the intense strategy sessions leading up to the decision, revealing the swirling doubts and pressures within Brown's team. Marr shares the inside scoop on his historic interview with Brown right after the cancellation, shedding light on the dynamics of political decision-making and media influence during this tumultuous period.
