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Coffee House Shots

1 年前
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Coffee House Shots
Instant political analysis from the Spectator's top team of writers, including Fraser Nelson, James Forsyth, Isabel Hardman, Katy Balls and many others.
Sat, 18 Feb 2023 07:00:01 +0000
Is Scottish independence dead?
After the news this week that Nicola Sturgeon will step aside as leader of the Scottish National Party, can the cause of Scottish independence survive without her?

James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and James Johnson, former Downing Street pollster and co-founder of JL Partners.
Sat, 18 Feb 2023 07:00:00 +0000
Will the DUP accept Sunak’s deal?
As it looks like the government is about to agree a new deal with the European Union on the Northern Ireland Protocol, Rishi Sunak is in Belfast today meeting with the DUP. Will they accept a compromise?

Max Jeffery speaks to Isabel Hardman and Charles Grant, director of the Centre for European Reform.

Produced by Max Jeffery.
Fri, 17 Feb 2023 17:19:05 +0000
How powerful is Keir Starmer?
With Labour nearly 30 points ahead in the polls, Keir Starmer is consolidating his position at the top. He said yesterday that Jeremy Corbyn will not stand as a Labour candidate in the next election, and he could be looking to reshuffle his shadow cabinet soon. How much power does Starmer have? Could he completely cut Labour's ties to the trade unions?

James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and the Times's Patrick Maguire.

Produced by Cindy Yu and Max Jeffery.
Thu, 16 Feb 2023 17:17:09 +0000
Is Sunak making a mistake on the NI protocol?
James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Conservative Home editor Paul Goodman about the union. Both in terms of Nicola Sturgeon's sudden decision to resign this morning and the possibility of an imminent agreement on the Northern Ireland protocol.
Wed, 15 Feb 2023 17:43:58 +0000
Nicola Sturgeon resigns – why now?
Nicola Sturgeon has announced her resignation as First Minister of Scotland. James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman about her decision to leave and Sturgeon's nine years as leader.
Wed, 15 Feb 2023 13:46:39 +0000
Is Rishi Sunak tough enough on China?
Ben Wallace, the Secretary of State for defence has launched a security review in the wake of Chinese spy balloons entering Western airspace. This accelerated a row over defence spending ahead of the Spring Budget. How far is the government willing to go under pressure over the Ukraine war and now an intensified Chinese threat?

James Heale speaks to Cindy Yu and Katy Balls.

To learn more about Chinese politics, society and culture, listen to The Spectator's Chinese Whispers podcast.
Tue, 14 Feb 2023 17:00:52 +0000
Is there a plot to unravel Brexit?
Whilst the government is in recess, a group of cross-party politicians joined a private meeting to discuss 'How we can make Brexit work better with our European neighbours?' Are the critics right that this is an attempt to unravel Brexit?

Also on the podcast, Labour dropped their GPC files [government procurement cards] early this morning – what can be learnt from their big scoop?

Natasha Feroze speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.
Mon, 13 Feb 2023 12:12:21 +0000
Was Liz Truss right?
This week has seen the return of Liz Truss, firstly with her op-ed in the Telegraph and then her Spectator TV exclusive interview. Has enough time passed to revise our opinion of her pro-growth agenda?

Cindy Yu speaks to Fraser Nelson and Kate Andrews.
Sat, 11 Feb 2023 10:00:00 +0000
Is our economy OK?
New GDP figures show that the UK economy narrowly avoided recession at the end of 2022. Between the final quarter and the third quarter of last year, there was no change in the economy's output. Is this really good news? And do GDP figures matter if people still feel poorer?

Max Jeffery speaks to Kate Andrews and James Heale.
Fri, 10 Feb 2023 16:51:53 +0000
Is Lee Anderson No. 10's secret weapon?
The chatter in Westminster has been dominated by comments the new deputy chairman of the Conservative Party gave to James Heale, The Spectator's diary editor, in an interview published today. When asked if he was in support of the death penalty, Lee Anderson said: 'Yes. Nobody has ever committed a crime after being executed. You know that, don’t you? 100 per cent success rate.’

On the podcast, Isabel Hardman talks to James and Katy Balls about whether No. 10 anticipated that the Conservative Party's new deputy chairman would be making quite so many headlines, so soon into his promotion.

Produced by Cindy Yu.
Thu, 09 Feb 2023 17:59:59 +0000
Will Britain send Ukraine jets?
President Zelensky was in Westminster today to address Parliament. The Ukrainian leader came to London to ask MPs to give Ukraine fighter jets. Will Rishi Sunak agree to?

Max Jeffery speaks to Svitlana Morenets and Isabel Hardman.

Produced by Max Jeffery.
Wed, 08 Feb 2023 18:31:42 +0000
What's behind Rishi's reshuffle?
Rishi Sunak announced a reshuffle of his cabinet this morning. Among other changes, Greg Hands will become the Tory party chair, and Michelle Donelan will become the culture secretary. Why is Sunak making these changes just 18 months before an election? Will they make any real difference to how his government works?

Max Jeffery speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.

Produced by Max Jeffery.
Tue, 07 Feb 2023 13:35:34 +0000
The Liz Truss interview: 'I didn't get everything right'
Today Liz Truss has broken her silence, giving her first broadcast interview since leaving No.10 to SpectatorTV. Was she denied a ‘realistic chance’ at success?

Fraser Nelson speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.

Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

You can watch the full interview now on SpectatorTV: https://www.youtube.com/@SpectatorTV
Mon, 06 Feb 2023 18:00:00 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday roundup – Truss returns
Isabel Hardman hosts the highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows. Featured today are interviews with Business Secretary Grant Shapps, Sharon Graham from Unite and Labour's Liz Kendall and Jonathan Reynolds.

Produced by Joe Bedell-Brill.
Sun, 05 Feb 2023 18:05:19 +0000
Are Sweden's liberal laws incubating violent crime?
In his column for the Telegraph, Fraser Nelson says that Sweden has become a gangster's paradise, with its liberal approach to criminal justice allowing a shocking subculture of violence. He is joined by Katy Balls and Fredrik Erixon, Swedish economist and writer, to discuss how the country should respond to gun violence.
Sat, 04 Feb 2023 09:53:08 +0000
Is Rishi about to get radical?
In her Times column this week Katy Balls says that Rishi Sunak is about to roll his sleeves up on EU trade and small boats, potentially setting him against both the right and the left of his party. What should we expect?

Also on the podcast, as allegations about Dominic Raab's bullying continue to swirl, is this another area where Rishi will be forced to get tough?

Oscar Edmondson speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.

Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Fri, 03 Feb 2023 18:23:32 +0000
Did Sunak ever have a political honeymoon?
A new poll today shows that more than half of voters think that Rishi Sunak has handled the economy badly, and that a third of voters think Boris Johnson was a better prime minister. This comes as Sunak marks his first 100 days in office. But did the PM ever have a political honeymoon to speak of? Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.

Produced by Cindy Yu.
Thu, 02 Feb 2023 18:14:40 +0000
Are we close to a breakthrough on the Northern Ireland Protocol?
Today the Times has reported that a partial agreement has been made over the Northern Ireland Protocol. Why are the government playing down the progress made over the Irish border?

Also on podcast, Boris Johnson has been on maneuvres this week, weighing in on the row over sending jets to Ukraine. Has he succeeded in undermining Rishi Sunak?

Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and Charles Grant, director of the Centre for European Reform.

Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
Wed, 01 Feb 2023 16:57:59 +0000
Can we trust the IMF's forecasts?
The IMF report suggests Britain will be the only advanced economy to fall into recession this year – predicting the worst growth figures of any G7 country. Historically, how reliable have these forecasts been? Can we take some of it with a pinch of salt? Also on the podcast, MPs have approved new powers to curb public sector strikes, is this a ray of hope for party cohesion?

Natasha Feroze speaks to Kate Andrews and Katy Balls.
Tue, 31 Jan 2023 13:41:21 +0000
Is Zahawi getting his own back?
The problem of Nadhim Zahawi may not have gone away as quickly as the Prime Minister might have hoped. Today, allies of the former Tory Chairman have suggested the decision to sack Zahawi has been 'rushed' and 'unfair'. Is there more of this story to come?

Natasha Feroze speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Mon, 30 Jan 2023 13:39:44 +0000
Isabel Hardman’s Sunday Roundup – 29/01/23
Isabel Hardman hosts the highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows. Featured today are interviews with Michael Gove, Bridget Phillipson, Mary Bousted and Michel Barnier.
Sun, 29 Jan 2023 18:33:31 +0000
Why Nadhim Zahawi was sacked
This morning, the Prime Minister Rishi Sunak fired the Conservative party chairman Nadhim Zahawi over the scandal surrounding his tax affairs. This story has been ongoing for a few weeks now – why now?

Natasha Feroze speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Sun, 29 Jan 2023 11:07:13 +0000
Should politicians stick out a scandal?
It emerged this week that Nadhim Zahawi was in a row last year with HMRC over tax payments, but he is currently holding onto his post as Conservative party chairman. When should a politician resign? And is it worth fighting back? Ten years ago, the News of the World broke a story about then Liberal Democrat MP Mark Oaten’s personal life. On the podcast, Mark joins Fraser Nelson and James Heale to talk about what it’s like to be in the centre of a scandal.
Sat, 28 Jan 2023 10:00:00 +0000
Does Hunt's growth agenda add up?
Jeremy Hunt unveiled his plans to grow the economy in a speech this morning. His strategy will focus on four pillars or 'four E's': enterprise, education, employment and everywhere. Natasha Feroze speaks to Kate Andrews and Fraser Nelson – who were at the Bloomberg headquarters, on their key takeaways from the speech.
Fri, 27 Jan 2023 13:34:22 +0000
Is No. 10 preparing to let Zahawi go?
Over the last few days, Downing Street has been quietly distancing itself from Nadhim Zahawi, though seems unwilling to do anything until the investigation into Zahawi's tax affairs finishes. Today, the Tory chairman's plight was made worse by comments from Jim Harra, chief executive of HMRC. Is the government preparing for the inevitable? Cindy Yu discusses with Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.

Produced by Cindy Yu.
Thu, 26 Jan 2023 17:29:42 +0000
Is Tory sleaze cutting through?
Today, Rishi Sunak faced another round of questioning over the two ongoing Tory sleaze scandals. What is it about these stories that infuriate voters, and can the Prime Minister close the chapter on them as he promised to do? Max Jeffery talks to Katy Balls and pollster James Johnson, co-founder of JL Partners.

Produced by Max Jeffery and Cindy Yu.
Wed, 25 Jan 2023 16:42:59 +0000
Does Zahawi have to resign?
This morning government minister Chris Philp gave a less than convincing defence of former chancellor Nadhim Zahawi as the row over his tax affairs continue to cast a cloud over Rishi Sunak’s government. Does he have to go?

Also on the podcast, shadow foreign secretary David Lammy will lay out Labour's foreign policy plans today at Chatham House. What can we expect?

Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and Stephen Bush.

Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
Tue, 24 Jan 2023 12:54:55 +0000
Will Tory sleaze hurt Sunak?
Having just recovered from his own seatbelt fine saga, Rishi Sunak spent the weekend fighting two more Tory sleaze scandals. First over the ongoing investigation into Nadhim Zahawi's taxes and the second linked to the BBC chairman Richard Sharp's £800,000 loan guarantee. Both stories link back to Boris Johnson's time as Prime Minister, but how much damage could this do to Rishi Sunak?

Natasha Feroze speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.
Mon, 23 Jan 2023 12:34:38 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 22/01/23
Isabel Hardman brings you the highlights from Sunday morning's political shows. Guests featured today include James Cleverly, Nicola Sturgeon and Rachel Reeves.
Sun, 22 Jan 2023 18:36:31 +0000
Why did Jacinda Ardern resign?
Kate Andrews talks to Fraser Nelson and the New Zealand based journalist and author Andrea Vance about the surprise announcement from Jacinda Ardern that she will be leaving the world stage next month.
Sat, 21 Jan 2023 10:00:00 +0000
Should Sunak be fined over seatbelt-gate?
Rishi Sunak may be facing a fine from the police for not wearing a seatbelt in the backseat of a car on his tour around the country yesterday. Is this all a storm in a teacup or is there a legitimate point to the row? Kate Andrews and Fraser Nelson debate on the podcast, hosted by Katy Balls.

Produced by Cindy Yu.
Fri, 20 Jan 2023 13:04:02 +0000
What's behind the Tory rift on levelling up?
Rishi Sunak faces the fury of Red Wall MPs and other Tories today as he announced the distribution of the second round of the government's levelling up fund. Of all the regions receiving money, the southeast will in fact receive the most (£210 million), while the government would rather point to the fact that, on a per capita basis, the North and Wales benefit more. Cindy Yu discusses with Katy Balls and James Heale.

Produced by Cindy Yu.
Thu, 19 Jan 2023 16:33:24 +0000
Can Keir Starmer be trusted?
In today's Prime Minister's Questions, Rishi Sunak went heavy on accusations that Keir Starmer cannot be trusted, having flip-flopped on various policy positions throughout his time in politics – 'he is not just for the free movement of people; he also has the free movement of principles'. On the podcast, Katy Balls discusses with Fraser Nelson and Isabel Hardman whether that's such a bad thing.

Produced by Cindy Yu.
Wed, 18 Jan 2023 17:50:27 +0000
Will the Scottish trans row go to court?
Westminster and Holyrood are going head to head on Scotland's newly passed Gender Recognition Bill. Last night, the UK government blocked the legislation from Edinburgh, citing that the powers it gives – requiring those identifying as a different gender to only live in that gender for three months, and reducing the age of self-identification to 16 – would contravene the UK's Equality Act. In the end, it may be the courts that decide. Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.

Produced by Cindy Yu.
Tue, 17 Jan 2023 13:04:40 +0000
What will be on the agenda at Davos?
It's looking like a busy week in Westminster. So busy in fact that prime minister Rishi Sunak will not be attending the annual Davos meeting, organised by the World Economic Forum. His opposite number Kier Starmer will be making the trip however, is this a shrewd move from Labour?

Also on the podcast, amended plans to widen police powers when it comes to public protests are being introduced to parliament today, what impact will the Public Order Bill have on civil liberties? Will the government come to regret this?

Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and Kate Andrews.

Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Mon, 16 Jan 2023 12:27:46 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 15/01/23
Isabel Hardman presents the highlights from Sunday's political shows, with interviews from Sir Keir Starmer, Mark Harper, and John Bercow.
Sun, 15 Jan 2023 16:17:05 +0000
Is Boris on manoeuvres?
Boris Johnson's potential comeback has been dominating headlines for several months now. As Rishi struggles to unite the party, Katy Balls, Fraser Nelson and James Heale discuss whether the prime minister should be worried.
Sat, 14 Jan 2023 10:00:00 +0000
Should Sunak unleash Kemi Badenoch?
Rishi Sunak is in Scotland meeting with First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, and said today that he is concerned about new gender laws in Scotland which would allow 16-year-olds to apply for a gender recognition certificate to change their gender. But with Sunak trying to improve relations with Holyrood, should he send Kemi Badenoch, the minister for women and equalities, to fight the fight for him?

James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Fri, 13 Jan 2023 14:13:41 +0000
SNP: do you attract more flies with honey or vinegar?
Welfare reform is back on the agenda. Today there have been reports of how the Tories plan to reform welfare benefits in this country. What is Mel Stride thinking?

Also on the podcast, Rishi Sunak will this evening travel to meet with Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon. What will they be discussing? Why is it that our prime ministers treat trips north of the border like foreign visits?

Cindy Yu speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.

Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
Thu, 12 Jan 2023 17:05:25 +0000
Why did Sunak change tack on private healthcare?
Rishi Sunak has finally answered questions over his healthcare arrangements with a statement in Prime Minister's Questions, stating that he is currently registered with an NHS GP but has used private healthcare in the past. Is this change in tack an admission that he should have answered the question sooner? Katy Balls talks to Isabel Hardman.

Produced by Cindy Yu.
Wed, 11 Jan 2023 13:58:26 +0000
Is No. 10 trying to ban strikes?
Business Secretary, Grant Shapps has introduced a bill proposing a minimum level of public sector work during strike action for six key industries. Labour's Angela Rayner told the Commons these plans are 'insulting and utterly stupid'. As a policy that Tories largely agree on, could this bill bring the party together? Also on the podcast, Isabel Hardman reacts to Ken Clarke's suggestion that the middle class should pay fees to use the NHS, and why has former minister Claire Perry O'Neill torn up her Conservative party membership?

James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.

Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Tue, 10 Jan 2023 16:54:03 +0000
Should Sunak use an NHS GP?
In an interview on Sunday, Rishi Sunak refused to tell Laura Kuenssberg whether he has a private GP. Could this question come back to haunt him amid accusations he is 'out of touch'? As Parliament returns from recess, ministers are holding talks with unions to avoid further public sector strikes. However, with strike action still set to go ahead, the expectation of these talks by union bosses may not coincide with reality. Is the government fighting a losing battle?

Also on the podcast, could a Boris Johnson comeback be on the cards? Isabel Hardman speaks to Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson.

Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Mon, 09 Jan 2023 12:56:33 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 08/01/23
Isabel Hardman presents the highlights from Sunday's political shows, with Rishi Sunak, Sir Keir Starmer and Wes Streeting.
Sun, 08 Jan 2023 17:15:47 +0000
Is Trussonomics really dead?
Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and James Heale about the former Prime Minister's lunch with her loyalists at Ma La Sichuan, and whether her ideas might be mounting a comeback.
Sat, 07 Jan 2023 10:00:00 +0000
What is Prince Harry thinking?
Prince Harry describes losing his virginity, taking drugs, and scrapping with his brother in his upcoming book, Spare. Will Buckingham Palace have anything to say about it? And junior doctors are threatening to stage a walkout for three days in March. Can the government stop them?

James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and Isabel Hardman.
Fri, 06 Jan 2023 13:44:14 +0000
Why did Starmer steal 'take back control'?
Keir Starmer said this morning that communities would 'take back control' under a Labour government. In a speech delivered just down the road from where Rishi Sunak spoke yesterday, the Labour leader promised to expand devolution. Is his vision radical enough?

Max Jeffery speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Heale.
Thu, 05 Jan 2023 13:15:45 +0000
Are Sunak's five pledges enough to sort Britain out?
Rishi Sunak made five pledges to fix Britain in a speech in London today. Inflation will halve, the economy will grow, debt will fall, NHS waiting lists will be cut, and the government will pass laws to tackle the small boats crisis. Is the PM promising too much, or not enough?

Max Jeffery speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Heale.
Wed, 04 Jan 2023 16:59:47 +0000
Will Brits shun trains?
Millions of Britons will forever shun trains because of the ongoing strikes, a government sources told the Times today. Are the strikes proving as effective as unions hoped?

James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and Isabel Hardman.

Produced by Max Jeffery.
Tue, 03 Jan 2023 16:45:30 +0000
What's on Sunak's New Year agenda?
This year in politics has ended with a row over nurses pay. Will the government be able to resolve the dispute in the New Year? Meanwhile, in Scotland, a new law about gender identification has caused a standoff between Westminster and Holyrood. Who will blink first? And finally, has Christmas come early for the Prime Minister?

Cindy Yu speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Sat, 24 Dec 2022 09:00:00 +0000
Was Zelensky's visit to the US a success?
On this special podcast, Cindy Yu speaks to Svitlana Morenets, author of The Spectator's Ukraine in Focus newsletter.

Whilst Zelensky's visit to the US yesterday was his first trip outside Ukraine since the start of the invasion, Svitlana has recently arrived home for the first time since the war began to spend Christmas with her family. They discuss whether Zelensky struck the right tone, how decisive US Patriot missiles could be and why this Christmas in Ukraine will be different.

Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
Thu, 22 Dec 2022 10:03:22 +0000
Ambulance strikes: who will blink first?
Today tens of thousands of ambulance workers are on strike over a pay dispute. The government is calling on people to stay safe, avoid doing anything dangerous and only call 999 if essential. With patient safety at risk, where is public opinion?

Also on the podcast, after the high court ruled the government's controversial Rwanda policy to be legal, is the judgement a complete win for the government?

Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and James Heale.

Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
Wed, 21 Dec 2022 12:10:28 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 18/12/22
Isabel Hardman rounds up the highlights from Sunday morning's political shows. The final guests highlighted from 2022 are Oliver Dowden, Yvette Cooper, Justin Welby and Victoria Newton.
Sun, 18 Dec 2022 16:54:15 +0000
2022: The year in review
Katy Balls, Isabel Hardman and James Heale review the political maelstrom that was 2022, a year with more Prime Ministers than some decades have managed.
Sat, 17 Dec 2022 10:00:00 +0000
What's Jake Berry up to?
The nurses' strike is well underway and there seems to be no sign of an agreement over pay any time soon. The government seems to be receiving fiercer criticism from within the Conservative party than from across the aisle, as former Conservative party chairman (and Truss and Johnson ally) Jake Berry turns into the rebel-in-chief. What's he up to? James Heale talks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.

Produced by Natasha Feroze and Cindy Yu.
Fri, 16 Dec 2022 11:59:14 +0000
Nurses strike: will there be a resolution?
Nurses in England, Wales and Northern Ireland are on strike today in search of a 19 per cent pay rise. Chief Nursing Officer Dame Ruth May appeared outside St Thomas's hospital to show her solidarity with those striking. What is the significance of this?

Also on the podcast, after a further three episodes of Harry and Meghan's new Netflix documentary were released, can either side end up the winner in the war of the Windsors?

Max Jeffery speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Heale.

Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Thu, 15 Dec 2022 15:07:19 +0000
Did Starmer flop at PMQs?
Keir Starmer put in a weak performance in today's Prime Minister's Questions, Isabel Hardman says on today's podcast. Is Labour's fence sitting and vagueness on the strikes starting to hurt them? Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.
Wed, 14 Dec 2022 13:55:53 +0000
Will Rishi's immigration plan work?
Rishi Sunak today revealed a plan he says will tackle illegal immigration. 'Enough is enough', he said. The asylum backlog of 150,000 will be cleared by the end of next year, and the government will do a deal with Albania to return people from the country. Will it work?

Max Jeffery speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Tue, 13 Dec 2022 16:55:12 +0000
Is the Tory party undemocratic?
Rishi Sunak has now served as prime minister longer than his predecessor Liz Truss, but that doesn't mean that it's all plane sailing. Former Home Secretary Priti Patel has backed a campaign to 'restore democracy' in the Conservative party. Should the government be worried?

Also on the podcast, as Rishi prepares to set out his agenda, is there a narrow path to conservative re-election?

Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.

Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Mon, 12 Dec 2022 16:50:47 +0000
Katy Balls' Sunday Roundup - 11/12/22
Katy Balls presents the highlights from Sunday morning's politics shows. Featured on today's podcast are Sir Stephen Powis, James Cleverly, Wes Streeting and Dr Emma Runswick.
Sun, 11 Dec 2022 14:33:19 +0000
Can Labour retain their lead on the economy?
James Heale asks Katy Balls and Stephen Bush about whether Labour can maintain the public's confidence on tax and spending decisions now that the mini budget is fading from memory.
Sat, 10 Dec 2022 10:00:00 +0000
Will Hunt’s ‘Brexit freedoms’ kickstart Britain’s economy?
James Heale speaks to Kate Andrews and Katy Balls about Jeremy Hunt's latest proposals to reform the banking system. Will the 'Edinburgh Reforms' kickstart the much-needed growth in Britain's economy? And is this the Brexit future Rishi Sunak always wanted?

Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Fri, 09 Dec 2022 15:36:48 +0000
Are Harry and Meghan bad for Global Britain?
A number of measures are under discussion as Christmas looks like it will be dominated by strike action. What measures will the government put in place to limit the disruption?

Also on the podcast, after the first episodes of Netflix's new series Harry and Meghan were released, could the documentary be bad for Global Britain?

Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.

Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Thu, 08 Dec 2022 17:16:39 +0000
Is Rishi Sunak a blancmange Prime Minister?
Shots were fired at PMQs today as Keir Starmer referred to Rishi Sunak as a 'blancmange Prime Minister'. The line came after Rishi Sunak conceded on the Tory rebellion over mandatory housing targets. Katy James and Fraser mull over this attack. Also on the podcast, with Stephen Fry elected as the SNP's new Westminster leader, what could this mean for Sturgeon?

Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Wed, 07 Dec 2022 15:00:46 +0000
Can Sunak grip the Tory coalition?
The government has backed down in the face of the planning rebellion, watering down their targets for housebuilding. At the same time, another revolt is brewing over permissions to build onshore wind. Is Rishi Sunak facing a more unruly Tory coalition than his predecessors, and does he have a grip on the party? Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson.

Produced by Cindy Yu.
Tue, 06 Dec 2022 15:57:49 +0000
Why is Labour so keen to reform the House of Lords?
Today former prime minister Gordon Brown has released a review which includes recommendations to overhaul the constitution and replace the House of Lords. Could Labour push through reform?

Also on the podcast, after Kier Starmer said that he doesn't see Jeremy Corbyn standing at the next election, has Starmer finally silenced the far left faction in his party?

Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.

Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Mon, 05 Dec 2022 12:56:06 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 04/12/22
Isabel Hardman presents the highlights from Sunday's political programmes. Featured today are Nadhim Zahawi, Bridget Phillipson and Iain Duncan Smith.
Sun, 04 Dec 2022 17:35:38 +0000
Is Rishi Sunak going soft on China?
Katy Balls speaks to Cindy Yu, James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson about the Prime Minister’s attitudes towards China and how to deal with the challenges it presents for the UK and the world.
Sat, 03 Dec 2022 10:00:00 +0000
Are the Tories in terminal decline?
Sajid Javid has announced that he won't be standing for re-election, while also today, the Chester by-election saw the Conservative party suffered the worst loss in seat since 1832. Is the party in terminal decline? Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson.

Produced by Cindy Yu.
Fri, 02 Dec 2022 12:54:58 +0000
Who could replace Ian Blackford?
Ian Blackford will stand down as SNP leader. After five years in the role, it is time for 'fresh leadership', Blackford says. But who will take over? Cindy Yu speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Thu, 01 Dec 2022 19:17:15 +0000
How effective is Labour's class war?
In today's Prime Minister's Questions, Keir Starmer went in on Rishi Sunak's privileged background. Starmer detailed the various facilities available at Winchester College, where Sunak was educated, from an art gallery to a shooting range. Is this an effective line of attack, or do voters simply not care? Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson.

Produced by Cindy Yu.
Wed, 30 Nov 2022 17:44:36 +0000
Does Sunak see China as a threat?
Rishi Sunak has signalled the end of the 'golden era' of relations between Britain and China, warning of Xi Jinping's creeping authoritarianism. In his first foreign policy set piece, was it enough to get the China hawks onside? Also on the podcast, James Forsyth and Katy Balls look at the latest amendments to the Online Harms Bill.

Produced by Natasha Feroze
Tue, 29 Nov 2022 15:43:02 +0000
Can Sunak get a grip on his party?
As MPs mull over whether they would like to stand in the next general election, the cracks in the party widen. Notable MPs like Chloe Smith and Dehenna Davison have already declared they will not stand but there are likely to be more over the coming days.

Meanwhile, the Prime Minister has two rebellions to take on this week. One led by Theresa Villiers over mandatory housing targets; the other by Simon Clarke railing against the ban on offshore wind farms. On the podcast, Katy, James and Fraser discuss what kind of uphill struggle this week might bring. Can the cracks in the party be patched over ahead of the general election?

Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Mon, 28 Nov 2022 13:18:19 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 27/11/22
Isabel Hardman presents the highlights from Sunday's political shows. Today's interviewees include Mark Harper, Lisa Nandy, Jake Berry and Theresa Villiers.
Sun, 27 Nov 2022 14:41:43 +0000
Is the SNP juggernaut slowing down?
Katy Balls, Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth discuss the impact of the Supreme Court ruling on the SNP and the union.
Sat, 26 Nov 2022 10:00:00 +0000
How will the NHS cope this winter?
Today the nurses' union have announced that they will strike this winter as they seek a pay rise of 5 per cent above inflation. How do the government navigate these strikes? Where do Labour stand?

Also on the podcast, with the government trying to fill the 1 million vacancies in the job market, how do they get people back into work?

Cindy speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.

Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
Fri, 25 Nov 2022 11:02:23 +0000
Can the government get a grip on immigration?
New migration numbers out today show that, for the first time ever, net migration have exceeded 500,000 a year. Is this a problem for the government, or is this the kind of immigration that they actually quite like to see? Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.

Produced by Cindy Yu.
Thu, 24 Nov 2022 17:19:14 +0000
What does the Supreme Court ruling mean for the SNP?
Starmer and Sunak have today come up against each other at PMQs for the first time since the Autumn Statement. It was an occasion dominated by questions from the Scottish Nationalists on the decision handed down by the Supreme Court ruling against a new independence referendum.

James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman discuss.

Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 16:44:22 +0000
Can Rishi weather his first Tory rebellion?
Rishi Sunak is facing his first Tory Commons rebellion on the issue of UK house building targets. Could this be game over?

Also on the podcast, after Chloe Smith announced that she will be leaving politics at the next election, could more follow her out of parliament?

Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.

Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Tue, 22 Nov 2022 17:39:12 +0000
Is the government trying to soften Brexit?
Over the weekend, government briefings that they will be looking towards a Swiss-style arrangement with the EU reignited the Brexit rows. Dormant Brexiteers like Nigel Farage and the European Research Group resurfaced, making it clear that they would not accept a so-called 'Chequers 2.0'. On the record, the government has been keen to reject this briefing. So what really happened? Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.

Produced by Cindy Yu.
Mon, 21 Nov 2022 13:39:19 +0000
Isabel Hardman’s Sunday Roundup - 20/11/22
Isabel Hardman rounds up the highlights from Sunday morning’s politics shows. Featured today are Steve Barclay, Gary Smith, Kwajo Tweneboa and Chloe Morgan.
Sun, 20 Nov 2022 17:42:35 +0000
Austerity 2.0: is all the pain really necessary?
It's no doubt a depressing time for the British economy, but how much that is the fault of the government, either for getting us to this stage and/or for not setting out a more optimistic exit route? On this episode, Cindy Yu moderates a debate between Fraser Nelson, James Forsyth and Kate Andrews who battle out their respective views.

Produced by Cindy Yu and Matt Taylor.
Sat, 19 Nov 2022 10:00:00 +0000
Will Hunt's budget survive scrutiny?
The front pages are almost universally bad today, but the government is more concerned with the reaction from the markets, which, so far, have not turned against yesterday's budget. Could this high tax low spend fiscal statement yet pass scrutiny, given the torrid economic climate at large? Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.

Produced by Cindy Yu.
Fri, 18 Nov 2022 11:28:40 +0000
Will the Autumn Statement break the Tory truce?
The Conservative party is still digesting Rishi Sunak and Jeremy Hunt's Autumn Statement, a far cry from the last fiscal statement from this party. Have the Prime Minister and the Chancellor managed to deliver a budget that hits the political sweet spot of cornering Labour without splitting their own party? Isabel Hardman talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.

Produced by Cindy Yu.
Thu, 17 Nov 2022 17:14:51 +0000
What do we know about the Polish missile tragedy?
Last night there were fears of a direct attack from Russia on a NATO country, after a missile struck two Polish nationals on the border with Ukraine. An investigation is now underway, but who is responsible for these deaths?

Also on the podcast, Dominic Raab took PMQs today despite bullying allegations against him gathering pace. What are the latest developments in the bullying row?

Cindy Yu speaks with James Forsyth and Katy Balls.

Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
Wed, 16 Nov 2022 15:02:09 +0000
Why is the workforce shrinking?
Figures released today show that the number of people in employment has dropped by 50,000 since September, despite a national worker shortage of 1.25 million. Does this shed some light on the recession? Are these shortages simply because of disputes over pay or could the NHS waiting list be to blame?

Also on the podcast, as public sector pay stagnates, how many will be lost to the private sector?

Cindy Yu speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.

Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
Tue, 15 Nov 2022 16:50:51 +0000
What can we expect from the G20 summit?
The G20 summit kicked off as world leaders arrived in Bali overnight. Ahead of the summit, Biden and Xi met to discuss tensions over trade, tech and human rights. The two claim they are ready for candid exchanges as China-US relations are at their lowest in decades.

Rishi Sunak also flew to his first G20 summit. The Prime Minister is expected to hold multiple bilateral meetings as he tries to make his mark on the world stage. Meanwhile, can he keep a grip on domestic issues ahead of the Autumn Statement this Thursday?

Isabel Hardman speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Mon, 14 Nov 2022 13:04:23 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 13/11/22
Isabel Hardman presents the highlights from Sunday morning's political shows. Featured today are Jeremy Hunt, Rachel Reeves, Admiral Sir Tony Radakin and Simon Clarke.
Sun, 13 Nov 2022 16:52:19 +0000
Was Lord Wolfson right?
Natasha Feroze hosts as Fraser Nelson and Kate Andrews debate Lord Wolfson’s recent BBC interview in which he called for the UK to import more low skilled workers in order to fill the country’s job vacancies.
Sat, 12 Nov 2022 10:00:00 +0000
Is the UK on the brink of recession?
The ONS forecasts reveal that UK output fell by 0.2 per cent between July-September. Whilst not a recession yet, it is increasingly likely the next quarter will see another dip following a surge in interest rates. Will the government's messaging change ahead of the Autumn Statement next week? Also on the podcast, Kate and James discuss Kwasi Kwarteng's interview in The Times as he reflects on his short time as Chancellor.

Isabel Hardman is joined by Kate Andrews and James Forsyth.

Produced by Natasha Feroze
Fri, 11 Nov 2022 14:59:18 +0000
Nurses on strike: how can the NHS cope?
For the first time in history, nurses have voted to go on strike. As the NHS grapples with record wait lists and excess deaths, how will it cope this winter?

Also on the podcast, James and Isabel discuss the ongoing situation in Northern Ireland. And how will Matt Hancock fare in the jungle?

Natasha Feroze is joined by Isabel Hardman and James Forysth.

Produced by Natasha Feroze
Thu, 10 Nov 2022 17:09:55 +0000
How much has the Williamson row damaged Rishi Sunak?
Though Gavin Williamson has now resigned, Rishi Sunak still had to fend off a number of questions on the disgraced minister at today's Prime Minister's Questions. How much damage has the row done to the Prime Minister? Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.

Produced by Cindy Yu.
Wed, 09 Nov 2022 15:59:41 +0000
Will Hunt protect the pensions triple lock?
Ahead of the Autumn Statement next week, questions remain over whether the government intends to protect the pensions triple lock. With pensioners being such an important part of the Conservative party's demographic, will Jeremy Hunt risk the inevitable backlash? Also on the podcast, what will Rishi Sunak do about Gavin Williamson as the bullying claims grow?

Cindy Yu is joined by Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.

Produced by Cindy Yu and Natasha Feroze.
Tue, 08 Nov 2022 14:10:24 +0000
Does Westminster have a whipping problem?
Gavin Williamson is in trouble, again. This time the reveal of some expletive-laden texts he sent to then-chief whip Wendy Morton has raised questions for the government over why Williamson was brought back into frontline politics. On the podcast, Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman about whether the dual role of government whips (as discipline enforcers and pastoral carers) is confused and out of date.

Produced by Cindy Yu.
Mon, 07 Nov 2022 14:53:49 +0000
Isabel Hardman’s Sunday Roundup – 06/11/22
Isabel Hardman rounds up the highlights from Sunday’s interview shows. Today’s guests include Oliver Dowden, Ed Miliband and Paul Blomfield.
Sun, 06 Nov 2022 17:30:50 +0000
What will Rishi Sunak be able to achieve in two years?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson, James Forsyth and opinion pollster James Johnson, about how the Conservatives can carve a path back to electoral relevance in the face of a gloomy economic picture.

Sat, 05 Nov 2022 10:00:00 +0000
Why have the RMT cancelled the strikes?
Today the planned rail strikes have been cancelled at the 11th hour. Is this an indication that a deal may be soon reached to end the months of disruption?

Also on the podcast, after it was announced that Arts Council England would cut its funding, it looks like the English National Opera will be forced out of London. Is this 'levelling up'?

Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.

Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Fri, 04 Nov 2022 18:23:41 +0000
Are we heading for a recession?
Alongside an interest rate hike of 3 per cent, the Bank of England have today warned the economy will 'be in recession for a long period'. How much of the blame can we place on Truss's economic policy? What will this recession look like?

Also on the podcast, Rishi Sunak plans to remove the 'legal but harmful' censorship clause from the Online Harms Bill, what will this mean for online safety?

Katy Balls speaks with Fraser Nelson, James Forsyth and Kate Andrews.

Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.
Thu, 03 Nov 2022 17:35:07 +0000
Why is Rishi now going to Cop?
Rishi Sunak has said that he will now attend the Cop 27 summit in Sharm el-Sheikh, which begins on Sunday. What's behind the U-turn, and should we expect more policy reversals from the new PM?

Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.

Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Max Jeffery.
Wed, 02 Nov 2022 17:41:04 +0000
What is Matt Hancock up to?
Matt Hancock has signed up to be a contestant on I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! What's behind the former health secretary's move into reality television? Robert Jenrick, the immigration minister, took to television studios this morning to defend how the government has handled overcrowding at the Manston processing centre for asylum seekers. Is there a rift growing between him and the Home Secretary, Suella Braverman?

Max Jeffery speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.

Produced by Max Jeffery.
Tue, 01 Nov 2022 13:37:14 +0000
How much trouble is Suella in?
Suella Braverman is under attack for sharing confidential documents with other members of parliament, and has admitted to sending official documents to her personal email on six occasions. Could she be forced out, again?

Also on the podcast, as Rishi Sunak faces pressure on the small boats crisis as well as his decision not to attend the COP27 climate summit, what sort of leader will he be? Will he buckle under the pressure?

James Heale speaks with Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.

Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.
Mon, 31 Oct 2022 13:17:32 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 30/10/22
Isabel Hardman hosts the highlights from Sunday's political shows, with Michael Gove, Yvette Cooper, Jeffrey Donaldson and Caroline Lucas.
Sun, 30 Oct 2022 17:27:14 +0000
How will Starmer attack Sunak?
A poll in the i on Friday showed that Rishi Sunak is more trusted with the economy than Keir Starmer. How will Labour break down that support? Max Jeffery speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Sat, 29 Oct 2022 16:56:47 +0000
Will Rishi take the difficult decisions?
Reports today suggest the government is planning to pledge £50 billion to close the fiscal black hole. Are they laying the groundwork for a combination of spending cuts and tax rises?

Also on the podcast, after Elon Musk completed his purchase of Twitter today, what will the repercussions be for the Online Safety Bill?

Max Jeffery speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.

Produced by Max Jeffery and Oscar Edmondson.
Fri, 28 Oct 2022 11:58:38 +0000
What will Rishi do on education?
Rishi Sunak has completed ministerial appointments to the Department for Education. Now led by Gillian Keegan, who left school at 16 to become an apprentice, and with old hands such as Robert Halfon and Nick Gibb returning, how ambitious will he be on education reform? Katy Balls and James Forsyth discuss on this episode.

Produced by Cindy Yu.
Thu, 27 Oct 2022 17:08:34 +0000
Did Rishi win at PMQs?
Rishi Sunak faced up against Keir Starmer in his first Prime Minister's Questions today, and rallied the Conservative backbenches to a more enthusiastic mood than has been seen in, perhaps, months. Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth about the attack lines that Labour are trying out at the moment (on everything from the appointment of Suella Braverman to Rishi Sunak's comments about diverting money away from 'deprived urban areas').
Wed, 26 Oct 2022 16:57:01 +0000
What happened in Rishi's reshuffle?
Rishi Sunak has spent his first day in office appointing his new Cabinet. As the Prime Minister vowed to fix the 'mistakes' of his predecessor's administration – who's in and who's out?

Katy Balls and James Forsyth discuss.

Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Tue, 25 Oct 2022 18:53:00 +0000
Does Liz Truss have any regrets?
Katy Balls and James Forsyth discuss from the rooftop of Parliament the key takeaways from Liz Truss' departure speech. How does she reflect on her time in office?

Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Tue, 25 Oct 2022 10:16:06 +0000
Can Rishi steady the ship?
We have a new leader of the Conservative party. After Penny Mordaunt dropped out of the race just seconds before the deadline, Rishi Sunak will become the next prime minister. But he inherits a disunited party, war in Ukraine and a huge economic mountain to climb. What comes next?

James Forsyth and Katy Balls discuss.

Produced by Max Jeffery and Oscar Edmondson.
Mon, 24 Oct 2022 17:08:56 +0000
Ready for Rishi?
After Boris pulled out of the leadership race last night, all eyes are on Rishi Sunak who could be Prime Minister by lunchtime. Can Rishi rescue the Conservatives?

Kate Andrews speaks to Katy Balls, James Forysth and Fraser Nelson.

Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Mon, 24 Oct 2022 09:57:20 +0000
Why did Boris pull out?
Kate Andrews, James Forsyth and Katy Balls discuss the surprise withdrawal of Boris Johnson from the Conservative leadership race.

Sun, 23 Oct 2022 21:51:35 +0000
Katy Balls' Sunday Roundup - 23/10/22
Katy Balls presents the highlights from Sunday's political shows. Featured today's Conservative leadership special are interviews with Steve Baker, Penny Mordaunt, Jacob Rees-Mogg, Sir Keir Starmer and George Osborne.
Sun, 23 Oct 2022 17:00:00 +0000
Will there be a new PM by tomorrow?
Katy Balls, James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson discuss the latest party leader endorsements by MPs and the likelihood that the next Prime Minister will be in 10 Downing Street by tomorrow.
Sun, 23 Oct 2022 13:57:37 +0000
Are the Conservatives ungovernable?
James Heale, James Forsyth and Katy Balls discuss whether the Tories are an impossible coalition to preside over.
Sat, 22 Oct 2022 09:00:00 +0000
Will Boris get the numbers he needs?
Whilst no candidate has officially declared their candidacy for the Tory leadership race, speculation is rife about a possible Boris Johnson return. Could he get the 100 supporters he needs? Will he extend an olive branch to Rishi Sunak?

James Heale speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.

Produced by Max Jeffery and Oscar Edmondson.
Fri, 21 Oct 2022 13:25:29 +0000
Liz Truss resigns
Forty-four days into her premiership, Liz Truss said she was resigning as Prime Minister. There will now be a week-long race to elect a new leader. Who will be the contenders?

Isabel Hardman speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.

Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Thu, 20 Oct 2022 13:16:34 +0000
Coffee House Shots Live: Another winter of discontent?
Fraser Nelson, James Forsyth, Katy Balls and Kate Andrews discuss plans to stop spiralling inflation – and a spiralling government.
Wed, 19 Oct 2022 20:00:00 +0000
Braverman out. Has the great resignation begun?
Suella Braverman has resigned as Home Secretary over a row on immigration measures. Grant Shapps has been selected to replace her. Will more follow?

Isabel Hardman speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Wed, 19 Oct 2022 17:32:04 +0000
Will there be resignations?
Another day, another u-turn. Liz Truss met with her Cabinet today and is reportedly considering u-turning on the pensions triple lock. Are ministers heading for more ‘lengthy discussions’ on public spending? Should we brace ourselves for resignations?

Also on the podcast, as Hunt looks at which departments to cut, what could this mean for the NHS?

Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.

Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Tue, 18 Oct 2022 14:51:51 +0000
Was Truss hiding under a desk?
This afternoon Leader of the House Penny Mordaunt stepped in for Liz Truss to field an urgent questions called by the Leader of the Opposition. What could the Prime Minister have been doing which was so urgent that she couldn't attend?

Also on the podcast, after Jeremy Hunt reverses nearly all of Trussonomics, will there be a raft of departmental cuts? Could we be looking at a number of Cabinet resignations?

James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.

Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.
Mon, 17 Oct 2022 17:58:39 +0000
Trussonomics is dead
Chancellor Jeremy Hunt gave a statement this morning in which he outlined plans to scrap 'almost all' the tax measures announced by his predecessor, Kwasi Kwarteng just four weeks ago. In one of the largest U-turns in history, the markets have become the most important force in British politics.

James Forsyth, Katy Balls, Kate Andrews and Fraser Nelson discuss what may happen over the next few weeks.

Produced by Max Jeffery and Natasha Feroze.
Mon, 17 Oct 2022 11:46:27 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 16/10/22
Isabel Hardman presents the highlights from Sunday's political shows. Featured today are Jeremy Hunt, Matt Hancock, Robert Halfon and Crispin Blunt.
Sun, 16 Oct 2022 14:38:22 +0000
How long has Liz Truss got left?
Isabel Hardman, James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson discuss the appropriate units of time in which to measure the remainder of the Prime Minister’s tenure...

Sat, 15 Oct 2022 14:47:49 +0000
Can Truss calm the markets?
Liz Truss has delivered an 8-minute long press conference confirming the latest corporation tax U-turn and insisting she will stay on as Prime Minister. Did it do enough to reassure voters and calm the markets?

Cindy Yu speaks to James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson.

Produced by Cindy Yu and Natasha Feroze.
Fri, 14 Oct 2022 15:33:45 +0000
Truss sacks Kwarteng. What next?
Prime Minister Liz Truss has sacked her Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng and replaced him with Jeremy Hunt. By removing her closest ideological ally. Can she save herself?

Kate Andrews speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.

Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Fri, 14 Oct 2022 13:34:32 +0000
What will Kwasi do?
It's one of those flight tracker days here in Westminster as Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng is about to land from a trip to the IMF in Washington, cut short last night. Is the government about to U-turn on its three-week-old mini budget? If so, will the Chancellor resign? Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson.
Fri, 14 Oct 2022 09:48:35 +0000
Will Truss be gone by Christmas?
After a day of speculation, the rumours that Liz Truss was about to U-turn on more areas of the mini-budget proved untrue. Conservative MPs had a tense evening in the 1922 Committee meeting last night – are there any good options left for the Prime Minister?

Isabel Hardman speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.

Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Thu, 13 Oct 2022 15:47:53 +0000
Is Truss ruling out spending cuts?
Did Liz Truss misspeak or did she mean it when she said that she wouldn't go ahead with spending cuts, as promised in her leadership campaign? On the episode, Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls about what the Prime Minister could have meant, given the need to balance the books to pay for her tax cuts. James suggests that there may be a question over whether she meant nominal or real spending cuts. Whatever it is, the government needs to do more to reassure the markets – the team also discuss whether or not the Bank of England's bailout will really end in the coming days.
Wed, 12 Oct 2022 12:45:44 +0000
What is the way out for Kwasi?
Parliament is back today and Kwasi Kwarteng is facing questions from the opposition as well as from those within his party. How much pressure is he under?

Also on the podcast, looking ahead to another fiscal event at the end of the month, are we heading for a series of departmental spending cuts? What would our political team announce if they were Chancellor on October 31st?

Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Kate Andrews.

Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Tue, 11 Oct 2022 15:17:00 +0000
Can Truss heal the divisions within her party?
This morning the Chancellor has announced that the government will bring forward both its medium term fiscal event and the accompanying Office for Budget Responsibility forecast. Will Kwarteng exercise some spending restraint to calm the Bank of England?

Also on the podcast, after Truss appointed Sunak ally Greg Hands as Minister of State for Trade Policy, is she extending an olive branch to unite her party?

Natasha Feroze speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.

Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.
Mon, 10 Oct 2022 10:20:28 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 09/10/22
Isabel Hardman presents the best bits from Sunday morning's political interview shows, with highlights today coming from Nadhim Zahawi, Nicola Sturgeon, Alistair Darling, Nadine Dorries and Jonathan Ashworth.
Sun, 09 Oct 2022 16:08:57 +0000
How will this end?
Max Jeffery, Katy Balls and James Forsyth discuss Liz Truss's premiership and walk through the various options being cooked up to replace her.
Sat, 08 Oct 2022 09:00:00 +0000
Are Truss and Macron now 'bons amis'?
Liz Truss attended the European Political Community summit in Prague, where her frosty relations with Macron came to a head. Rather than 'frenemies', there were signs of thawing relations between the two. After years of diplomatic tensions over Brexit, immigration and energy, can the two leaders kiss and make up?

Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.

Produced by Max Jeffery and Natasha Feroze.
Fri, 07 Oct 2022 11:57:43 +0000
Has Team Boris turned on Truss?
Nadine Dorries, a loyalist to Boris Johnson, has a front-page piece in the Times today, accusing the new Liz Truss government of lurching too far towards the right. As someone who previously backed Liz for leader, is there a growing sense people wish Boris never left?

Also on the podcast, the National Grid has suggested we may face blackouts this winter – how likely is this? And will we end up relying on energy supplies from the French?

Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.

Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Thu, 06 Oct 2022 16:08:09 +0000
Is Truss back on track?
Liz Truss has today delivered her speech to the Conservative Party Conference where she set out the vision for her government. It was arguably the best moment of a difficult week for the party. Has she succeeded in calming Tory nerves? Who are the 'anti-growth coalition' that she is taking on?

Isabel Hardman speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.

Produced by Max Jeffery.
Wed, 05 Oct 2022 14:13:10 +0000
Is Truss facing another rebellion?
Liz Truss is coming under pressure over another of her policies. Should she increase benefits payments in line with inflation, or in line with earnings, as she would prefer? Will the PM change her mind again?

Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.

Produced by Max Jeffery.
Tue, 04 Oct 2022 11:26:55 +0000
Are the Tories in the business of managing decline?
Kwasi Kwarteng has just spoken at the Conservative Party Conference in Birmingham defending his mini-Budget, despite having u-turned on the cut to the 45p tax rate this morning. Will his speech have calmed his fellow Tories and, more importantly, the markets?

Katy Balls speaks with James Forsyth, Kate Andrews and Isabel Hardman.

Produced by Max Jeffery and Oscar Edmondson.
Mon, 03 Oct 2022 16:50:43 +0000
Why has Truss u-turned?
The Prime Minister has abandoned her plan to scrap the top 45 per cent rate of income tax. Why?

Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.

Produced by Max Jeffery.
Mon, 03 Oct 2022 09:31:58 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 02/10/22
Isabel Hardman presents the highlights from Sunday morning's political shows as the Conservative party conference enters the spotlight. Featured in today's podcast are Liz Truss, Michael Gove, Jake Berry and Mel Stride.
Sun, 02 Oct 2022 15:55:37 +0000
Did Gove just torpedo Truss?
Michael Gove this morning said that Liz Truss's plans to scrap the top 45 per cent tax rate are a 'display of the wrong values'. It comes as Jake Berry, the Tory party chairman, confirmed that MPs who vote against the budget would lose the Conservative whip. Has Gove just ruined Truss's conference?

James Heale speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.

Produced by Max Jeffery.
Sun, 02 Oct 2022 14:07:24 +0000
Is Tory conference going to be a meltdown?
Isabel Hardman, James Forsyth and Katy Balls discuss whether Liz Truss will be able to recover her authority after several opinion polls show the Conservative party trailing Labour by double digit margins.
Sat, 01 Oct 2022 09:00:00 +0000
Liz Truss's mea cupla moment
Despite rejecting the Office for Budget Responsibility's offer of a forecast to accompany last week's so-called fiscal event, this morning it appears that the government have u-turned. What can we expect from the OBR's statement ahead of the November budget?

Also on the podcast, after last night's YouGov poll put Labour ahead by 33 points, how has the news been received by Conservative MPs? Will Truss row back on her economic plans?

Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.

Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.
Fri, 30 Sep 2022 12:35:29 +0000
Will Truss axe Kwarteng?
Liz Truss broke her silence this morning and embarked on a pre-Tory conference media round of regional stations across the UK. In a brutal set of interviews, the Prime Minister faced questions on tax cutting the rich at the expense of the poor, fracking and bankers' bonuses.

With the conference just three days away, what will be her next moves to take back control of her party, and win back the British public? Could Chancellor, Kwasi Kwarteng be sacrificed to save her instead?

Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.

Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Thu, 29 Sep 2022 16:07:53 +0000
Why is the Bank of England buying gilts?
The Bank of England has today announced a major intervention into gilts to prevent a 'material risk' to financial stability as a result of government policy. How unprecedented is this move? Will Liz Truss and Kwasi Kwarteng break their silence? Are we heading for another leadership election?

Kate Andrews speaks with Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.

Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Wed, 28 Sep 2022 16:07:37 +0000
Is Starmer ready for No.10?
Keir Stamer took centre stage for his speech at the Labour party conference today. Unlike last year, there were several standing ovations and loud cheers from the audience. Was his speech one to remember in Labour's history? And has he secured his position as the man to lead Labour back into government?

James Heale speaks to Katy Ball and Isabel Hardman.

Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Tue, 27 Sep 2022 16:05:30 +0000
Is Labour on the cusp of victory?
It's day two of Labour Conference and the party appear upbeat and confident of their chances at the next election. But are they being too reactionary in their narrative? What do they have to offer other than not being the Conservative party?

From Liverpool, James Heale speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.

Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Mon, 26 Sep 2022 14:17:18 +0000
How worrying is the falling pound?
Following Chancellor, Kwasi Kwarteng's 'mini' budget, the pound has fallen to a record low against the dollar, fueling speculation that the Bank of England will hike interest rates. How worrying are these figures?

'I think the pound falling is a bit of a distraction from the real problem' - James Forsyth

Katy Balls speaks to Kate Andrews and James Forsyth.

Produced by Natasha Feroze
Mon, 26 Sep 2022 12:25:16 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 25/09/22
Isabel Hardman rounds up the highlights from Sunday's political shows as the Labour party conference begins. Highlights this week come from Sir Keir Starmer, Andy Burnham, Kwasi Kwarteng and Mick Lynch.
Sun, 25 Sep 2022 16:48:03 +0000
How will Labour react to the mini-budget?
Kate Andrews speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls about how Labour will position themselves in response to Friday’s statement, as they prepare for their party conference in Liverpool.
Sat, 24 Sep 2022 09:00:00 +0000
Kwarteng's audacious budget
Kwasi Kwarteng has today announced what has been dubbed as his mini-Budget, but looking at the scale of the package it is far from small. The Coffee House Shots team take us through what has been revealed. Who are the winners and who are the losers?

Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson, James Forsyth and Kate Andrews.

Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Fri, 23 Sep 2022 11:32:25 +0000
NI rise scrapped: how much further will Kwasi go?
With hours to go till the Chancellor's fiscal statement, we've heard today that the National Insurance hike will be scrapped, as promised during Liz Truss's leadership campaign. This comes as the Bank of England increases the base rate to 2.25 per cent. How much further will Kwasi Kwarteng go, and just how willing is the Truss government to be unpopular? Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.

Produced by Cindy Yu.
Thu, 22 Sep 2022 17:17:09 +0000
What's behind Putin's mobilisation?
Vladimir Putin warned the West that, if pushed, Russia would use a nuclear weapon. How seriously should we take his threat? And reports emerged overnight that Liz Truss will cut stamp duty to increase demand for housing. But will that help more people get onto the housing ladder?

Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.

Produced by Max Jeffery.
Wed, 21 Sep 2022 13:40:35 +0000
Why is Liz Truss ruling out a US trade deal?
Liz Truss is in New York today on her first foreign visit as prime minister. On the flight across the Atlantic, Truss said that a trade deal with the United States was unlikely in the 'short to medium term'. Why has the PM, who was so vocal about a free trade agreement with the US in the 2019 election, changed her tune?

Cindy Yu speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.

Produced by Cindy Yu and Max Jeffery.
Tue, 20 Sep 2022 12:07:48 +0000
How will Queen Elizabeth II be remembered?
Today was the state funeral of Britain's longest reigning monarch Queen Elizabeth II. From Westminster, we evaluate the day's proceedings.

Also on the podcast, as the period of mourning ends and politics resumes, can Liz Truss hit the ground running? Will we get some clarity on how much her energy plan will cost?

Katy Balls speaks with Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.

Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Mon, 19 Sep 2022 15:42:04 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 18/09/22
Isabel Hardman rounds up the highlights from Sunday morning's political shows. Today's podcast features Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, Jacinda Ardern, Sheikh Hasina, John Kerry and The Right Reverend John Sentamu.
Sun, 18 Sep 2022 16:16:03 +0000
How did the Queen change the world?
Cindy Yu, James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson discuss the impression Queen Elizabeth II made during her 70 years as a head of state.
Sat, 17 Sep 2022 09:00:00 +0000
Can the Met fix London's spiralling crime problem?
Two police officers were stabbed this morning near Leicester Square in central London. What can new Metropolitan Police Commissioner Mark Rowley do to fix the capital's crime epidemic? And the pound today fell to a 37-year low against the dollar. What can the government do to give the markets confidence?

Max Jeffery speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.

Produced by Max Jeffery.
Fri, 16 Sep 2022 12:58:53 +0000
Who will be at the Queen's funeral?
Preparations are well under way for the Queen's funeral next week, but which world leaders will be in attendance? Will they all be able to behave themselves?

Also on the podcast, as the new Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng works quietly in the background, is his idea to scrap caps on banker's bonuses a risk worth taking?

Cindy Yu speaks with James Forsyth and Katy Balls.

Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
Thu, 15 Sep 2022 11:37:23 +0000
What will happen while the Queen lies in state?
The Queen's coffin has been taken from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Hall. Mourners will pay their respects for the next four days before the funeral on Monday.

Also on the podcast, James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson discuss the latest news in the Ukraine conflict.
Wed, 14 Sep 2022 18:11:26 +0000
What was the message behind King Charles's visit to Belfast?
King Charles arrived in Belfast where he was met by the new Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Chris Heaton-Harris. The King pledged to follow the 'shining example' set by his mother during her life of public service. Tonight, the Queen's body will be moved from Edinburgh to Buckingham Palace where her body will lie in state ahead of the funeral.

Also on the podcast, is Ukraine's largest counteroffensive against Russia working? And how might Russia escalate?

Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.

Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Tue, 13 Sep 2022 16:32:17 +0000
King Charles III addresses parliament
This morning, surrounded by the lead, oak and stone of Westminster Hall, King Charles III addressed parliament. Lindsay Hoyle, speaker of the Commons, introduced him, and said that he knew the new King would 'bear those responsibilities which fall to you'. King Charles said that he was resolved to follow his mother's 'selfless duty'.

Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth about what comes next.

Produced by Max Jeffery.
Mon, 12 Sep 2022 13:18:24 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 11/09/22
Isabel Hardman hosts the highlights from Sunday's political shows, with Anthony Albanese, Gordon Brown, Gabriel Gavin, Dr Mike Martin and David Cameron.
Sun, 11 Sep 2022 14:04:50 +0000
Queen Elizabeth II: coronation, reign and succession
Freddy Gray, The Spectator's deputy editor, is joined by our former editor Charles Moore, and our political editor James Forsyth, to discuss the Queen's death. What was her coronation like? Should unionists be concerned? How important was the Queen's faith to her? What do we miss about the Queen?
Sat, 10 Sep 2022 09:56:53 +0000
Queen Elizabeth II, our remarkable monarch
Fraser Nelson, James Forsyth and Katy Balls pay tribute to and reflect upon the life and reign of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
Thu, 08 Sep 2022 20:04:08 +0000
How much will Truss's energy plan cost?
Today Liz Truss has announced in parliament an energy price cap to tackle rising bills. As of October, the average household energy bill will be frozen at £2,500 for the next two years. How effective will this be? And how have her free market allies reacted to her use of price controls?

James Forsyth and Katy Balls discuss.
Thu, 08 Sep 2022 12:47:07 +0000
Have Labour underestimated Truss?
It's Liz Truss's first full day as prime minister and, backed by a fully assembled cabinet, she has conducted her first Prime Minister's Questions with Labour leader Keir Starmer. Who came out on top?

Cindy Yu speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.

Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.
Wed, 07 Sep 2022 14:19:49 +0000
Truss's cabinet: Who's in? Who's out?
Liz Truss has appointed her cabinet. Allies of Rishi Sunak are out, and the former foreign secretary's closest allies are in. What does this mean for her government? Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Tue, 06 Sep 2022 20:24:00 +0000
Was it a fond farewall for Boris Johnson?
Boris Johnson finally departed Downing Street early this morning, but left the door slightly ajar on the prospect of a comeback. What will this mean for Liz Truss?

Also on the podcast, as Truss makes her way to Balmoral to meet with the Queen, what will the rest of the day look like for the new prime minister?

Isabel Hardman speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.

Produced by Max Jeffery and Oscar Edmondson.
Tue, 06 Sep 2022 12:16:46 +0000
Liz Truss wins. What next?
Liz Truss has won the Conservative leadership race, and will become Britain's prime minister tomorrow. In a speech in Westminster this morning, after finding out the result, Truss paid tribute to Boris Johnson, promised to 'govern as a conservative' and said she would 'deliver, deliver, deliver'. What should we expect from the first days of the Truss premiership?

Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.

Produced by Max Jeffery.
Mon, 05 Sep 2022 13:45:45 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 04/09/22
Isabel Hardman is back with the highlights from the Sunday interviews. Featured today are clips from Liz Truss, Nicola Sturgeon, Rishi Sunak, Emily Thornberry and Lord Edward Lister.
Sun, 04 Sep 2022 17:56:28 +0000
Will the next PM be a good one?
James Forsyth speaks to Anthony Seldon, historian and biographer, about how the incoming PM can make their mark before the next general election.
Sat, 03 Sep 2022 09:00:00 +0000
Can Boris get himself off the hook from partygate?
Boris Johnson has released legal advice that he received from Lord Pannick about the Commons investigation into partygate, where the lawyer said the investigation in its current form would be 'unlawful' if it were taking place in the courts. Can Boris really get off the hook?

Max Jeffery speaks to James Forsyth and James Heale.

Produced by Max Jeffery.
Fri, 02 Sep 2022 16:16:48 +0000
Can Boris leave a nuclear legacy?
Despite a relatively quiet summer from the government, Boris Johnson has waded finally waded into the energy crisis, announcing £700 million of funding for Sizewell C, the nuclear plant. On the podcast, Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman about what's behind this development (and whether it could be anything to do with Johnson trying to establish some kind of legacy, in the last days of his premiership). Isabel sums up his energy contribution as: 'To a certain extent it's him saying: if you look backwards or forwards, it's not my fault'.

Produced by Cindy Yu.
Thu, 01 Sep 2022 16:53:21 +0000
Is Labour in trouble again with the rail strikes?
Today rail union leaders announced another round of strikes, this time to coincide with the Labour party conference. Is there a message here that they are trying to send to Kier Starmer? Should we expect similar disruption during the Conservative Party Conference?

Also on the podcast, after the death of the last leader of the Soviet Union, Mikhail Gorbachev, who was instrumental in ending the Cold War, how well do we understand future geopolitical threats?

Cindy Yu speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.

Produced by Cindy Yu and Oscar Edmondson.

Get tickets to Coffee House Shots Live here: www.spectator.co.uk/afterboris
Wed, 31 Aug 2022 15:38:44 +0000
Will Boris be back?
Boris Johnson is on his farewell tour but is remaining coy about the possibility of a political comeback. What problems will this throw up for the next prime minister? Will Boris be friend or foe?

Also on the podcast, after Liz Truss pulled out of her BBC interview with Nick Robinson, is she trying to avoid scrutiny of her plan to tackle the cost of living?

Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.

Produced by Max Jeffery and Oscar Edmondson.
Tue, 30 Aug 2022 17:33:46 +0000
Is the NHS beyond repair?
Kate Andrews and Isabel Hardman discuss the challenges facing the NHS and whether the incoming government will be able to tackle these burdens when it takes office.

Produced by Matt Taylor.
Sat, 27 Aug 2022 09:00:00 +0000
How high will energy prices go?
Today Ofgem announced that household energy bills will climb to an average of £3,549 a year, starting in October. Have the government prepared Brits for how bad the crisis could get? How do Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak plan to reach those that need help the most urgently?

Also on the podcast, there are reports that Liz Truss plans to trigger Article 16, suspending parts of the Northern Ireland Protocol. Is now a good time for a trade war?

Max Jeffery speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.

Produced by Max Jeffery and Oscar Edmondson.
Fri, 26 Aug 2022 11:55:27 +0000
Is Rishi heading for political Siberia?
Rishi Sunak has today confirmed that he will stay on as an MP if he loses the leadership contest, and that he will also vote for a Liz Truss budget. Will this help the Tory party heal? Also, Rishi Sunak told The Spectator that scientists had too much power during lockdown. What has their response been?

Max Jeffery speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.

Produced by Max Jeffery and Oscar Edmondson.
Thu, 25 Aug 2022 17:09:47 +0000
Is Truss's social care pledge more borrowing in disguise?
In the latest leadership hustings, Liz Truss promised to take money away from the NHS to put into social care. But as Kate Andrews points out in this episode, given that Truss is also planning on scrapping the National Insurance rise, Truss'll need to find more money in order to fund this latest pledge. On the episode, Kate talks with Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.

'This is the second time in her campaign that she has done something which has made me really doubt whether she's serious about her economic mission. And the other time, of course, was when she announced that she'd do regional pay.' - Fraser Nelson.

Produced by Natasha Feroze and Cindy Yu.
Wed, 24 Aug 2022 16:18:24 +0000
Can only Corbyn fix the Tories?
There are only three hustings left in the Tory leadership race, after six weeks which have seen the party tear itself apart. What will fix the party? Is Jeremy Corbyn the solution?

Max Jeffery speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.

Produced by Max Jeffery.

'Liz Truss is going to have a short window to give the good news of a tax cut. After that, I suspect it'll be bad, after bad, after bad.' – Fraser Nelson
Tue, 23 Aug 2022 17:24:17 +0000
Is Truss scared of the OBR?
The focus is on Liz Truss's planned emergency budget. Over the weekend it was revealed that she wouldn't consult the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) before announcing her plans. Could this backfire politically?

Also on the podcast, investment bank Citi have warned that inflation could hit 18 per cent come January: Were the Bank of England's projections too optimistic?

Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and Kate Andrews.

Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.
Mon, 22 Aug 2022 12:29:36 +0000
A level results: is the system broken?
Isabel Hardman discusses the latest A level results and the impact on university places, with Fraser Nelson and student Lella Halloum. What more can the government do?

Produced by Matt Taylor.
Sat, 20 Aug 2022 09:00:00 +0000
What does Mick Lynch want?
The UK has been hit by another round of rail strikes today with rising inflation and falling wages a recipe for continued disruption in the public sector. Labour rebels such as Sam Tarry are fast becoming celebrities among the unions, could this leave Starmer in another predicament?

Also on the podcast, as Liz Truss remains ahead in the leadership polls: is the special relationship safe in her hands?

Natasha Feroze is joined by Fraser Nelson and Kate Andrews.

Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.
Fri, 19 Aug 2022 12:52:22 +0000
Is the Labour party in trouble?
It seems like Labour has a problem when it comes to the size of its membership. It lost 91,000 members last year and recorded a £4.8 million deficit. Is this the Keir Starmer effect on the Corbyn membership?

Also on the podcast, Rishi Sunak has gone viral after sharing his McDonald's breakfast order on This Morning today. Katy Balls tells us why it was such a controversial choice.

Cindy Yu speaks to Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls.

Produced by Cindy Yu & Natasha Feroze.
Thu, 18 Aug 2022 14:08:39 +0000
Inflation hits double digits: what next?
The UK inflation rate is now at 10.1 per cent according to the Office for National Statistics. Is there much that the government can do to relieve its effects? Also on the podcast, the leadership contenders are in Belfast for the next hustings: how will the audience respond to the candidate's position on The Northern Ireland Protocol? Katy Balls is joined by Kate Andrews and Isabel Hardman. Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.
Wed, 17 Aug 2022 11:19:10 +0000
When will the inflation rate fall?
New figures released this week show that wages have fallen significantly behind the rising cost of living. Are we yet to see the extent of the impacts of inflation? Should we brace ourselves for more disruption in the public sector? Also on the podcast, as Rishi Sunak and Liz Truss attend hustings in Scotland: which candidate is favoured the most north of the border? Katy Balls is joined by Kate Andrews and Isabel Hardman. Produced by Max Jeffery and Oscar Edmondson.
Tue, 16 Aug 2022 15:40:39 +0000
Would Starmer's energy plan work?
Keir Starmer has unveiled a £29 billion plan to freeze energy bills for six months. Under his proposals, the Labour leader said Brits would not face the enormous price hikes anticipated in October and January.

But is his idea a serious one? Where would the money come from? And how have the Tories responded? Isabel Hardman speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.

Produced by Max Jeffery.
Mon, 15 Aug 2022 12:03:28 +0000
Is Labour missing in action?
Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth about why Sir Keir Starmer and his frontbench have been seemingly missing in action during the Tory leadership race and the ongoing cost of living crisis.
Sat, 13 Aug 2022 09:00:00 +0000
Could Truss reverse the windfall tax?
'Profit is not a dirty word', Liz Truss said at last night's leadership hustings. The Foreign Secretary has made clear that she would prefer to cut taxes than take money from energy firms and give it directly to struggling Brits. But, if Truss makes it into No. 10, could she really reverse the windfall tax?

Isabel Hardman speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.

Produced by Max Jeffery.
Fri, 12 Aug 2022 11:49:23 +0000
Has the NHS winter crisis already arrived?
Thirty thousand people waited 12 hours or more in A&E, new figures showed today – the highest number on record. The NHS usually runs into trouble during the cold winter weather, but it looks like the annual crisis has already arrived. Is there any solution? Max Jeffery speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.

Produced by Max Jeffery.
Thu, 11 Aug 2022 16:50:49 +0000
When will the blue-on-blue end?
The Tory contenders are expected to announce their own measures to protect households and businesses from the energy crisis. Why has it taken this long? Labour too, is yet to reveal a strategy. Will they leave the Tories to fight amongst themselves?

Also on the podcast, Nicola Sturgeon has made a comeback at Liz Truss who earlier in the month called the Scottish leader an attention seeker. At the Edinburgh fringe festival, she told the audience that Liz Truss once asked her how to be featured in Vogue. So who is the real attention seeker now? And will they ever see eye-to-eye if Truss gets into No.10?

Isabel Hardman speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Wed, 10 Aug 2022 15:06:52 +0000
How do you solve a problem like energy prices?
Rishi Sunak and Liz Truss head to the Red Wall for hustings in Darlington this evening. Meanwhile, new figures released by Cornwall Insight on the extent of the energy price cap make for grim reading. Will Labour respond with their own package?

Also on the podcast, as countries look to ensure domestic energy supply, What could this mean for the UK, as a net importer of energy?

'In a crisis, borders want to reassert themselves. Any country is going to prioritise preventing black-outs over exporting power' - James Forsyth

Finally, it’s results day in Scotland, how do they compare to previous years?

Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.
Tue, 09 Aug 2022 12:21:12 +0000
Can the new PM hit the ground running?
As the leadership contest refocuses on the economy, Katy and James discuss each camp's plan to deal with the cost of living crisis. Are both candidates being pushed towards the centre ground?

Also, looking ahead to winter, does the UK have enough energy in storage to keep the lights on, and what is being done to prepare the NHS?

Cindy Yu speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Mon, 08 Aug 2022 12:26:11 +0000
Is it just one crisis after another?
Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman about the challenges facing the incoming Prime Minister, not least the dire forecast from the Bank of England predicting recession for 2023.
Sat, 06 Aug 2022 09:00:00 +0000
Is the next PM ready for the coming economic crisis?
The Bank of England's announcement to raise interest rates comes as the UK is predicted to fall into recession this year – with the lowest downturn expected since 2008. Are Rishi Sunak or Liz Truss ready for what's ahead?

The two candidates went head-to-head once again last night in the Sky News studios. This time, the audience, made up of Conservative party members, grilled contenders and Kay Burley followed with some hard-hitting questions. By the end, most of the audience were persuaded by Rishi. Could the tide be turning?

Katy Balls speaks to James Forysth.

Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Fri, 05 Aug 2022 12:00:51 +0000
Does the Bank of England need to be reviewed?
The Bank of England raised its rates by another half per cent today, as it warned that inflation will peak at 13 per cent by the end of this year. The question about the Bank of England's effectiveness arises again – should it have foreseen the inflationary crisis we are in now, and done more about it? Liz Truss has pledged to review the Bank's mandate. Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.

Produced by Cindy Yu.
Thu, 04 Aug 2022 15:53:14 +0000
Who's to blame for Boris's fall?
On today's podcast, Katy Balls and James Forsyth discuss a sticking point for Rishi Sunak as he meets the membership – that he led a 'coup' to overthrow Boris Johnson. Whilst travelling the country, can he persuade the membership otherwise?

Also today, a new YouGov poll of Conservative members gives Liz Truss a 34-point lead ahead of Rishi Sunak. Is there enough time for him to turn the tide? How many Tory members have already made up their minds?

And finally, is GCHQ at risk of being hacked?

Cindy Yu is joined by James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Produced by Oscar Edmondson.
Wed, 03 Aug 2022 15:11:05 +0000
Has Liz Truss had her first stumble?
Liz Truss has U-turned on a public worker pay plan announced just last night – the idea being that pay would reflect the cost of living in regional areas. What made her backtrack on the announcement? And how damaging has this been to her campaign?

'Any discussion of lowering pay right now is politically intolerable. Timing matters a lot here' - Kate Andrews.

Also on the podcast, Kate and James discuss the political tensions behind 'fat cat' pay and windfall taxes on the day BP announce its largest profit in 14 years.

Cindy Yu is joined by Kate Andrews and James Forsyth.
Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Tue, 02 Aug 2022 13:38:44 +0000
Has Keir Starmer lost control over strikes?
This morning, Lisa Nandy defied party orders by joining a picket line in Wigan to support striking BT and Openreach staff. This comes after last week, Keir Starmer sacked Sam Tarry MP, who went on an unauthorised media round at an RMT picket line. Similarly, Labour’s biggest union, Unite, threatened to pull all funding from the party over the Labour leader's refusal to back strike action. Is Keir Starmer losing control over his party?

Also on the podcast, what's the latest on the Liz Truss vs Rishi Sunak leadership contest?

Max Jeffery is joined by Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.

Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Mon, 01 Aug 2022 11:52:04 +0000
Andrew Neil vs Rishi Sunak. What happened?
Rishi Sunak sat down this evening for a 30-minute interview with Andrew Neil. They covered the economy, the NHS, immigration and the former chancellor's personal finances. Sunak knew he was taking a risk in sitting down with Neil. Was it worth it?

Max Jeffery speaks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews.

Produced by Max Jeffery.
Fri, 29 Jul 2022 19:51:35 +0000
Is Truss unstoppable?
Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak were in Leeds yesterday for the first of the leadership hustings in front of Tory members. Truss put in an assured performance, while Sunak had to defend his announcement that he would cut VAT on energy bills, after saying that tax cuts would be 'immoral'. With little time left for the former chancellor to turn things around, is Truss unstoppable?

Cindy Yu speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.

Produced by Max Jeffery.
Fri, 29 Jul 2022 12:18:53 +0000
Labour's trade union troubles
You can always count on Labour to descend into civil war while the media is focused on the Conservative party's in-fighting. After Keir Starmer fired a junior shadow transport minister, Sam Tarry, earlier this week for his involvement in the strike action, the left of the party has hit back, raising questions over Keir Starmer's leadership and the raison d'etre of the Labour party itself. Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Kate Andrews about the best line for Starmer to take, as this will not be the last strike of the summer. On the episode, they also discuss the energy crisis coming in the autumn and what Truss and Sunak plan to do about it.

Produced by Cindy Yu.
Thu, 28 Jul 2022 16:48:18 +0000
Has Rishi U-turned on tax cuts?
Having spent the last four debates suggesting that tax cuts are irresponsible and immoral, Rishi Sunak says he will cut VAT on energy bills if he becomes the next prime minister. Those defending him have suggested that this particular tax cut is temporary, it is funded and will help ease the cost of living crisis. Are they right?

Katy Balls is joined by Kate Andrews.

Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Wed, 27 Jul 2022 16:01:09 +0000
Can Rishi turn things around?
Yet another post debate poll, out today, shows that Tory members believe Liz Truss performed better in Monday evening's BBC debate. With the next week pivotal according to received wisdom (members are expected to vote soon after they receive their ballot papers), can Rishi Sunak turn things around in time? Katy Balls discusses with James Forsyth.

Produced by Cindy Yu.
Tue, 26 Jul 2022 16:23:36 +0000
Truss vs Sunak: verdict on their first head to head
Fraser Nelson, James Forsyth, Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls give their analysis and snap reaction to Monday evening's first head-to-head debate between Rishi Sunak and Liz Truss. Was Rishi Sunak too aggressive? Or did Liz Truss's economic pledges get skewered? And ultimately, will this have changed any Conservative party member's mind?
Mon, 25 Jul 2022 22:08:18 +0000
Can the Tories come back together?
The Tory leadership contest is entering its third week, and becoming more bitter. Nadine Dorries, the culture secretary, today mocked Rishi Sunak for wearing a bespoke suit and Prada shoes while his rival Liz Truss would be travelling to the north of England wearing £4.50 earrings from Claire’s Accessories. ‘FFS Nadine! Muted.’ replied Tory MP Angela Richardson. Will whoever wins the contest be able to fix the party afterwards? Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.

Produced by Max Jeffery.
Mon, 25 Jul 2022 11:07:16 +0000
Why does Thatcher loom over the Tory leadership race?
Isabel Hardman speaks to Fraser Nelson, James Forsyth and Matthew Parris about the influence Margaret Thatcher exerts over the Conservative leadership race.
Sat, 23 Jul 2022 09:00:00 +0000
What do the polls tell us about Sunak vs Truss?
Over the next few weeks, Conservative party members will cast their votes on who they want to be the next Prime Minister. YouGov has released another poll suggesting that members have placed Liz Truss 24 points ahead of Rishi Sunak.

'This shows the difference between the parliamentary party from the membership at large' - Isabel Hardman.

Ballots start to go out on the 1st of August, does Rishi Sunak have enough time to pull it back?

Cindy Yu speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.
Fri, 22 Jul 2022 13:32:50 +0000
Can Rishi catch up?
So far, most polls of Tory members show that they'd prefer Liz Truss to Rishi Sunak when it comes to the next Conservative party leader. With ballots for the membership phase going out at the beginning of August, it's vitally important for Sunak to break through to members as soon as possible. Can he catch up? Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson.

Produced by Cindy Yu.
Thu, 21 Jul 2022 15:55:51 +0000
Liz Truss vs Rishi Sunak: will the next phase be less rancorous?
Conservative MPs have chosen the final two candidates to be presented to the Tory membership in the final round of this leadership contest. Over the rest of the summer, Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak will be travelling around the country to attend dozens of hustings with Tory members. Will this phase be less rancorous? Or will the divides between the two candidates only become more apparent? Isabel Hardman talks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.

Produced by Cindy Yu.
Wed, 20 Jul 2022 16:37:56 +0000
Spectator Hustings: Penny Mordaunt, Rishi Sunak and Liz Truss
One of Penny Mordaunt, Rishi Sunak or Liz Truss will be Britain's next prime minister. What are the contenders' answers to the big questions facing Britain? Isabel Hardman spoke to Mordaunt (00:36), Sunak (21:17) and Truss (42:15).
Tue, 19 Jul 2022 19:01:56 +0000
Kemi out – are Tory MPs lending votes?
There has been another elimination in the Tory leadership race. Break-out star Kemi Badenoch is out, with three remaining candidates left until tomorrow’s vote. Who will be the final two in the race? And are there signs of Tory MPs lending votes to manipulate the results?
James Forsyth is joined by Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.

Produced by Cindy Yu and Natasha Feroze.
Tue, 19 Jul 2022 15:14:35 +0000
Can Truss catch up with Mordaunt?
Tom Tugendhat has been knocked out of the Tory leadership race. With Rishi Sunak leading the pack, and Liz Truss, Penny Mordaunt and Kemi Badenoch in a cluster behind, who will come out on top? Max Jeffery speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Mon, 18 Jul 2022 20:05:19 +0000
What's behind the leadership debate boycott?
This morning, Rishi Sunak and Liz Truss pulled out of the Sky News leadership debate, scheduled for tomorrow evening. What does this say for public scrutiny in Britain?

'I’m afraid to say if you want to be Prime Minister you need to be able to fight anywhere, any place, anytime' - Fraser Nelson.

This evening, candidates will be whittled down to four remaining prospective leaders. Who do we expect to be knocked out and where will their votes go? Tune in again tonight for a second Coffee House Shots after the results.

Katy Balls is joined by Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Produced by Natasha Feroze
Mon, 18 Jul 2022 11:54:40 +0000
Who won the second leadership debate?
Isabel Hardman, James Forsyth and Katy Balls pick through tonight’s ITV debate with the five candidates for Prime Minister.
Sun, 17 Jul 2022 20:13:44 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 17/07/22
Isabel Hardman hosts the highlights from Sunday's political shows. Featured today are Penny Mordaunt, Suella Braverman, Iain Duncan Smith, Dominic Raab and Bridget Phillipson.
Sun, 17 Jul 2022 14:23:51 +0000
Tory leadership debate – who won?
In the first televised Tory leadership debate, the five remaining candidates set out their stalls on trust in politics, tax cuts and the NHS ahead of the next round of voting on Monday. How did each candidate fare tonight?

Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.
Fri, 15 Jul 2022 21:16:24 +0000
How many MPs can Truss take from Braverman?
The ERG's favoured candidate, Suella Braverman, dropped out of the Tory leadership race last night. This morning, ERG chair Mark Francois said that he wanted the 60-strong group to now back Liz Truss. Will they? And looking ahead to tonight's Channel 4 debate, why does the format most benefit Kemi Badenoch?

Cindy Yu speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.

Produced by Max Jeffery.
Fri, 15 Jul 2022 12:02:55 +0000
Can Penny Mordaunt hack the top job?
The Tory briefing war continues to get underway, with David Frost launching a vicious broadside at Penny Mordaunt on talkRadio this morning. 'She wasn't fully accountable or visible. Sometimes I didn't even know where she was', Lord Frost said.

On the episode, Cindy Yu talks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth about the latest round of the leadership ballot, where Suella Braverman has been culled, and look ahead to the weekend consisting of two TV debates, which present a make-or-break opportunity for relatively unknown candidates like Penny Mordaunt and Tom Tugendhat.
Thu, 14 Jul 2022 16:02:36 +0000
Hunt and Zahawi out: who will mop up their supporters?
The first ballot of the Tory leadership contest is now over, with Jeremy Hunt and Nadhim Zahawi knocked out as they weren't able to meet the 30 votes required in this round (on 18 votes, Hunt actually lost two supporters from yesterday's nomination round). The question of who their supporters fold in behind next is the biggest for the next 24 hours. On the podcast, Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls about the big night ahead for the remaining six leadership contenders, as well as the battle for the right of the party between Liz Truss, Kemi Badenoch and Suella Braverman.
Wed, 13 Jul 2022 18:07:19 +0000
Can Penny Mordaunt win it?
Today all candidates need 30 nominations to make it through to the next round. One dark horse in the race is Penny Mordaunt who is seen as Labour's greatest threat. This morning she held her official campaign launch in at Westminster's Cinnamon Club - promising to 'fix a broken Whitehall'.
But will she be able to see off her rivals in the Tory leadership race?

Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Wed, 13 Jul 2022 13:19:52 +0000
Can the leadership candidates take the heat?
Appropriately matched to the summer heatwave, the Tory leadership contest is hotting up. Whilst Grant Shapps has just pulled out and decided to back Rishi Sunak, candidates must secure nominations from at least 20 MPs by this evening to enter the contest.

Who will go through to the next round? And are they ready to be Prime Minister?

James Forsyth speaks to Katy Balls.
Tue, 12 Jul 2022 13:13:47 +0000
Who will win over the Tory right?
Liz Truss has today announced her candidacy for the Tory leadership. With Kemi Badenoch and Suella Braverman already looking to win votes from MPs on the right of the Conservative party, and with Jacob Rees-Mogg and Priti Patel also considering a run for the top job, who will become the candidate of the Tory right?

Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.

Produced by Max Jeffery.
Mon, 11 Jul 2022 13:03:45 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 10/07/22
Isabel Hardman hosts the highlights from Sunday morning's political shows as the Conservative leadership race kicks off, featuring interviews with Sajid Javid, Jeremy Hunt, Grant Shapps, Yvette Cooper, David Davis and Tom Tugendhat.
Sun, 10 Jul 2022 13:43:25 +0000
What is Boris Johnson's legacy?
James Forsyth speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls about what Boris Johnson has achieved and if he will leave a significant imprint as a result of his time in office.
Sat, 09 Jul 2022 09:00:00 +0000
Who wants to replace Boris?
The Tory leadership race has begun. Some candidates, like Steve Baker and Suella Braverman, have already declared that they will be running. Others, like Nadhim Zahawi, Rishi Sunak and Liz Truss, are expected to announce their candidacy in the coming days.

What are their platforms? How many MPs will hopefuls need to have supporting them to make it onto the ballot? What should the party look for in a new leader? Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.

Produced by Max Jeffery.
Fri, 08 Jul 2022 13:34:38 +0000
Boris resigns. What next?
After fighting words briefed out to the papers overnight, this morning, the Prime Minister has finally decided to resign. A statement is expected today. On the episode, Katy Balls discusses with Isabel Hardman and Fraser Nelson whether he should have gone sooner (and the implications for the post-politics speaking circuit) and the leadership race that is about to start.

Produced by Cindy Yu.
Thu, 07 Jul 2022 09:56:41 +0000
Boris refuses to resign – what next?
Despite mass resignations and calls from newly appointed ministers to resign, Boris has dug his heels in and refused to leave. What will be his next moves? And are the rumours of a snap general election really on the cards?

Isabel Hardman speaks to James Forsyth.
Wed, 06 Jul 2022 20:45:33 +0000
Is the end nigh for Boris?
As several cabinet ministers have resigned, is it hours, days, weeks or months before Boris Johnson is kicked out?

James Forsyth joins Katy Balls from the roof of Parliament.
Wed, 06 Jul 2022 16:04:28 +0000
Sunak and Javid resign. Now what?
Rishi Sunak and Sajid Javid have resigned from government. In letters to the Prime Minister this evening, Sunak said the government 'cannot continue like this', while Javid told the PM that 'the situation will not change under your leadership.' Will more ministers now resign? And is this the end of Boris Johnson's premiership?

Isabel Hardman speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Tue, 05 Jul 2022 18:26:17 +0000
Have Tory MPs reached breaking point?
Boris Johnson was briefed 'in person' on a formal Whitehall complaint into Chris Pincher, a former Foreign Office official said today, despite No. 10 saying yesterday that the Prime Minister was unaware of specific allegations against the MP. With the government having to explain itself once again, how much more will Tory MPs take?

Max Jeffery speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.

Subscribe to Isabel Hardman's Evening Blend newsletter at www.spectator.co.uk/evening-blend
Tue, 05 Jul 2022 11:32:30 +0000
What did Boris know about Chris Pincher?
Boris Johnson knew of media reports about Chris Pincher's conduct when he invited him to join the government, it emerged today. How serious a crisis is this for the government? And as the Prime Minister today returned from three international summits, was he able to put his domestic problems behind him in the Commons? Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Mon, 04 Jul 2022 16:49:25 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 03/07/22
Isabel Hardman presents the highlights from Sunday morning's political shows. Today's podcast features Thérèse Coffey, Jonathan Reynolds, Andy Burnham, Dr Jenny Harries and Lord Richard Dannatt.
Sun, 03 Jul 2022 13:55:00 +0000
Will Nicola Sturgeon get her way?
Isabel Hardman speaks to James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson about Nicola Sturgeon’s latest plans to hold a referendum on Scottish independence on 19th October 2023, and whether they will even get off the ground.
Sat, 02 Jul 2022 09:00:00 +0000
Has Tory sleaze hit a new low?
Last night Chris Pincher resigned from his role in the government - after 'drinking far too much' and 'embarrassing himself'. Witnesses reportedly saw the deputy chief whip 'groping' men at the Carlton Club in London.

Also on the podcast, today is the 25th anniversary of the handover of Hong Kong to China. Can the government keep its promise to protect Hong Kong?

Cindy Yu is joined by Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 12:50:41 +0000
Is the privileges committee a kangaroo court?
After an eight-day world tour, Boris Johnson is back on British soil to come face-to-face with Tory MPs for the first time since the hammering by-election defeat. Meanwhile, the privileges committee begins with Harriet Harman as its chair.
Critics have suggested this inquiry into whether The Prime Minister misled parliament over partygate risks becoming a 'kangaroo court'. Will this give Downing Street the chance to disregard the outcome of the inquiry?

Also on the podcast, food tariffs might be cut in order to curb the cost of living crisis. But difference will this make?

'You'll have to eat an awful lot of olives for this to make a difference' - James Forsyth.

Cindy Yu is joined by James Forsyth and Katy Balls.

Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Thu, 30 Jun 2022 13:20:31 +0000
Does Nicola Sturgeon really want an independence referendum?
The campaign for a second independence referendum is well and truly on, as Nicola Sturgeon tours the airwaves this week. But can the SNP will Indyref2 into existence, given Boris Johnson is very unlikely to allow it? Natasha Feroze speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth on the podcast, in which James suggests that, perhaps, Sturgeon doesn't even want an independence referendum right now.
Wed, 29 Jun 2022 16:24:49 +0000
Why did Tory rebels abstain from the NI Protocol Bill?
The Northern Ireland Protocol Bill passed its second reading last night with a majority of 74 votes. A number of Tory rebels voiced their opposition to the bill including former Prime Minister, Theresa May, Simon Hoare and Andrew Mitchell. However, despite vocal opposition, not one Tory MP voted against the bill – opting to abstain instead. Did the Whips office play a part in this?

Also on the podcast, Nicola Sturgeon unveils her plans to have a second independence referendum, with or without Boris Johnson’s consent. What chance has she got?

Katy Balls is joined by Isabel Hardman and James Forysth.
Tue, 28 Jun 2022 12:41:16 +0000
Is Boris being too bullish?
After a bruising few days, Boris Johnson remains bullish suggesting his intentions to stay in Downing Street for a third term. Is this rattling Tory MPs?

Also on the podcast, a Cabinet reshuffle may be approaching. Who is under threat and why?

Isabel Hardman is joined by Katy Balls and James Forsyth.

Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Mon, 27 Jun 2022 10:20:28 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 26/06/22
Isabel Hardman presents the highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows, with Brandon Lewis, David Lammy, João Vale de Almeida and Sir Ed Davey.
Sun, 26 Jun 2022 14:27:49 +0000
Will 2024 see an avalanche of tactical voting?
Isabel Hardman talks to James Forsyth and James Johnson of the J.L. Partners polling company, about how much the Conservative party has to fear from tactical votes at the next election.
Sat, 25 Jun 2022 09:00:00 +0000
Is Boris Johnson heading for a 1997 moment?
In a major blow, the Conservatives have lost two seats in the Tiverton and Wakefield by-elections. Immediately after, the Conservative party chairman, Oliver Dowden resigned citing 'a deeply personal decision' following a 'run of very poor results for our party'.

The Lib Dems overturned a huge Tory majority in Tiverton and Honiton, Devon, their third by-election victory over Boris Johnson's party in a year. What does this suggest about the public mood towards their current government?

‘At the moment, Boris Johnson motivates the anti-Tory vote more than the Tory vote’ - James Forsyth

Isabel Hardman is joined by Katy Balls and James Forsyth
Fri, 24 Jun 2022 10:00:36 +0000
Can the government prevent a 'bummer summer'?
Today, British Airways staff have voted have a strike of their own, adding to the government's woes as rail workers continue to strike throughout this week. On the podcast, James Forsyth adopts a term from the Americans and asks: can the government prevent a 'bummer summer', where nothing quite works? Cindy Yu also talks to Katy Balls, who gives the low down on the risks the Prime Minister is taking on with his eight days foreign trip at a time of two by-elections back home.

Produced by Cindy Yu.
Thu, 23 Jun 2022 17:10:17 +0000
Are the latest inflation figures worrying for the government?
The inflation figures released today suggest that inflation has risen at the highest rate in 40 years. Now at 9.1 per cent, some may say this is good news because the rate at which inflation is increasing has in fact slowed down. However, on the podcast, our economics editor, Kate Andrews suggests we are nowhere near the peak yet. How worried should the government be over these figures?

Also on the podcast, the strikes took centre stage at PMQs today, how much trouble is Keir Starmer in with Labour over the party line on strikes?
Wed, 22 Jun 2022 16:15:43 +0000
Is Labour in trouble over the rail strikes?
The first day of strike action has begun with large parts of the country's railways, as well as London's underground lines, shut down. But where workers are trying to put pressure on the government and Network Rail over higher pay, it seems like the Labour party is in more trouble. Disagreement over the party's position on strike action (after all, it was set up to represent the unions in parliament) are playing out publicly, even on the front bench. Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.

Produced by Cindy Yu.
Tue, 21 Jun 2022 11:59:08 +0000
Will the government hold their line on strike action?
Today begins a chaotic week for commuters who face major travel disruptions as rail staff stage the biggest walkout in 30 years. Union leaders have accused the government of 'inflaming tensions', as Grant Shapps has refused to negotiate with the unions over pay, conditions, job cuts and safety.

Also on the podcast, what could be the outcome of Thursday's two by-elections?

Isabel Hardman is joined by Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Mon, 20 Jun 2022 11:24:38 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 19/06/22
Isabel Hardman presents the highlights from Sunday morning's political shows, today featuring clips from Grant Shapps, Mick Lynch, Micheál Martin and Lisa Nandy.
Sun, 19 Jun 2022 15:36:34 +0000
Who will be the PM's next ethical compass?
Katy Balls discusses the vacant role of ethics adviser with James Forsyth and prime ministerial biographer Lord Anthony Seldon.
Sat, 18 Jun 2022 09:00:00 +0000
Is it time to call Sturgeon's Bluff?
The calls for Indyref2 are coming thick and fast from the SNP leader this week with a plan for a monthly speech to express the benefits of Scotland leaving the UK. But would allowing a referendum now be better than resisting one? Newer generations of Scots tend to be more nationalist than their elders. Should unionists push for Indyref2 now before more young people reach voting age?

Katy Balls talks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Fri, 17 Jun 2022 12:11:29 +0000
What caused Geidt's flight?
Lord Geidt became the second ethics advisor to leave Boris Johnson's government last night. It seems like Chinese steel tariffs was the straw that broke the camel's back, but it is clear that he hasn't been happy in the position for sometime. Will the Prime Minister be able to find anyone to pick up this poisoned chalice?

Max Jeffery speaks with James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Thu, 16 Jun 2022 13:21:03 +0000
Is the Rwanda flight block a problem for No.10?
the first flight taking asylum seekers to Rwanda was stalled just before takeoff after a late intervention from the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR). As Priti Patel returned to the Commons to defend the policy, many Tory MPs are furious at the prospect of the courts taking precedent over government legislation. Could this lead to the UK leaving the ECtHR?

Also on the podcast, is Keir Starmer too boring? After growing accusations, the Labour leader has urged his shadow cabinet to stop calling him boring and focus on returning to government.

Cindy Yu is joined by Katy Balls and James Forsyth
Wed, 15 Jun 2022 13:12:02 +0000
Is the row over Rwanda good for the government?
The government is fighting on two fronts today. Firstly defending is Rwandan immigration plan from a unified front of Bishops as the first flight is set to take off tonight. Secondly, the Northern Ireland protocol bill which was announced yesterday afternoon faces scrutiny on many fronts.

Katy Balls talks with Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Tue, 14 Jun 2022 12:15:38 +0000
The next Brexit battle
The Foreign Secretary has outlined fresh legislation to change the post-Brexit trade agreement with the EU today – allowing ministers to override parts of the Northern Ireland protocol. Whilst the government insists that this is not a breach of international law, critics remain unconvinced.

‘I had one member of government say to me this bill is going to be a proxy on Boris Johnson’s leadership’ - Katy Balls.
If this were a proxy, could this work in the Prime Minister’s favour? And why has the government not used the safety valve in the protocol itself which is to trigger Article 16?

James Forsyth speaks to Katy Balls.
Mon, 13 Jun 2022 19:47:24 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 12/06/22
Isabel Hardman presents the highlights from Sunday morning’s political shows, with clips from Brandon Lewis, Rachel Reeves, Mark Serwotka and Tony Danker.
Sun, 12 Jun 2022 19:05:23 +0000
Will Jeremy Hunt run for PM again?
Max Jeffery talks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth about the former Health Secretary's week.
Sat, 11 Jun 2022 09:00:00 +0000
Can the UK save the two Brits sentenced to death?
Two British citizens fighting the Russians have been sentenced to death in Ukrainian territory controlled by the Kremlin. How has the UK responded thus far?

And domestically, Lord Frost has said that Boris Johnson has until the autumn to turn things around.

Max Jeffery talks with Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Fri, 10 Jun 2022 09:58:36 +0000
What's behind Boris's relaunch?
By sticking to his promise to ‘move on’ after the confidence vote, Boris has announced his new flagship policies during a speech in Blackpool. He unveiled the ‘benefits-to-bricks' pledge aimed at extending a home-buying scheme. Will new housing measures be enough to regain the support of the public and the dwindling respect from his party?
Also on the podcast, two by-elections are on the way. This could be either a triumphant or disastrous result for the Prime Minister. How might he fare in an election of his own?
Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.
Thu, 09 Jun 2022 16:29:30 +0000
Did Boris Johnson survive PMQs?
Boris Johnson was surrounded by opposition at the despatch box when he faced the Labour leader at PMQs today. Did Keir Starmer make the most of his opportunity to score points against the Prime Minister's disappointing result in the confidence vote the night before?

Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.
Wed, 08 Jun 2022 12:15:00 +0000
What will the Tory rebels do next?
It is the day after the night before when Boris Johnson narrowly survived a confidence vote. Today he held a meeting with the Cabinet to encourage his colleagues that it was time to ‘move on’.
‘This looks like a slow Tory suicide to me’ - Fraser Nelson
Some critics have pointed to the fact that shortly after winning a confidence vote with similar margins, John Major, Margaret Thatcher and Theresa May ended up resigning. What will be Boris Johnson's fate as the Tory rebels plot out their next moves?
Isabel Hardman is joined by Katy Balls, James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson.
Tue, 07 Jun 2022 12:30:38 +0000
Is Boris Johnson finished?
The results are in. 211 Tory MPs expressed confidence in the Prime Minister, while 148 said they had no confidence in Boris Johnson continuing to lead the Conservative party. While this is technically a win, it is a narrower victory than Theresa May (who looked splendid in her ball gown tonight) got in her no-confidence vote which lead to her resignation only months later. Is this the beginning of the end for Boris?

Isabel Hardman is joined by Katy Balls and James Forsyth on the roof of Parliament to discuss.
Mon, 06 Jun 2022 21:47:18 +0000
Boris to face confidence vote tonight
Boris Johnson will face a confidence vote tonight. Announcing the news this morning, the chair of the 1922 committee Sir Graham Brady said in a statement: 'The threshold of the 15% of the parliamentary party seeking a vote of confidence in the leader of the Conservative Party has been exceeded.' Will he win? Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Mon, 06 Jun 2022 09:40:47 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 05/06/22
Isabel Hardman hosts the highlights from Sunday morning’s political programmes, with contributions coming from Grant Shapps, Sadiq Khan and Sir Howard Morrison QC.
Sun, 05 Jun 2022 17:59:39 +0000
Politics and the monarchy: a look back at the Queen's reign
As this week marks the Queen's platinum jubilee, we take a look back at her greatest political achievements in her role as head of state. How important is the relationship between the monarch and the Prime Minister?

'I think there is a restraining act on the behaviour of Prime Ministers, that they will have to explain themselves to the Queen at some point - James Forsyth.

Since her reign, she has served 14 Prime Ministers, one of whom was Margaret Thatcher. What was her relationship like with the Iron Lady? Lord Charles Moore, former editor of The Spectator who also wrote a biography on Mrs Thatcher spoke of the mutual respect the Queen and Margaret Thatcher had for one another.

Also on the podcast, the Queen has always made clear that her son, Prince Charles is the next in line to the throne. What kind of King will he be?

All to be discussed as Cindy Yu speaks to James Forsyth and Charles Moore.

Produced by Natasha Feroze.
Thu, 02 Jun 2022 11:00:00 +0000
Is the SNP more conservative than the Conservatives?
There is a lot of news to cover on Coffee House Shots before the celebrations for the Jubilee begin. First in Westminster with Lord Geidt threatening to resign over Boris Johnson's handling of partygate. Then more internationally to the fraying of the alliance to defend Ukraine. And finally, has Scotland found its Margret Thatcher in Kate Forbes?

Cindy Yu talks with James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson.
Wed, 01 Jun 2022 13:05:04 +0000
Why is Boris cutting the civil service?
The government wants to cut the civil service by over 90,000 people to 2016 levels. Part of the plan is to suspend the Fast Stream recruitment scheme, which hires high-achieving graduates out of university. Why is the government so set on the cut, and is this really the best way to do it? Cindy Yu speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.

James Forsyth: 'If these graduates go and work in the private sector instead, frankly the civil service won't be able to afford them in three, five or seven years time.'

Subscribe to The Spectator's Evening Blend, Britain's most-read politics email, to get an update on the day's politics every weeknight: https://www.spectator.co.uk/blend

And subscribe to The Spectator magazine too. To celebrate the Queen's Platinum Jubilee, you can subscribe to 10 weeks of The Spectator, in print and online, for just £1. We'll also send you a commemorative tea towel to commemorate the occasion. To claim the offer, which ends on Monday, go to: https://www.spectator.co.uk/jubilee
Tue, 31 May 2022 13:02:53 +0000
Could Boris be toppled by accident?
The Sue Gray report came in last week, but we haven't seen a coordinated effort to either stand behind the Prime Minister, or kick him out. Instead, there has reportedly been a drip of letters of no confidence letters coming in from individual Tories, rather than an organised group. Could we finally see the 54 letters needed to trigger a vote on Johnson's leadership?

Cindy Yu, Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth discuss.
Mon, 30 May 2022 12:23:49 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 29/05/22
Isabel Hardman presents the highlights from Sunday morning's political shows. This podcast contains clips featuring Andrei Kelin, Brandon Lewis, Anneliese Dodds and Mick Lynch.
Sun, 29 May 2022 15:56:39 +0000
Have the Tories lost their way?
Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson, James Forsyth, and Kate Andrews about Rishi Sunak's latest support package to aid with the cost of living, including the windfall tax on energy companies.
Sat, 28 May 2022 09:00:00 +0000
Will Rishi's stimulus backfire?
There have been mixed opinions following Rishi Sunak's plans to help the cost of living crisis. The £15 billion budget is targeted to help the whole country with a particular emphasis on those most in need - but has it gone far enough? Or will we pay the price for the Chancellor's handouts in the future?

Kate Andrews speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Fri, 27 May 2022 11:17:31 +0000
Is the windfall tax justified?
Rishi Sunak has announced a new tranche of economic measures designed to help ease the cost of living crisis in the UK. The new payments will be funded by a windfall tax on energy companies, which comes as the government U-turns on its previous opposition to the policy. On the episode, Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Kate Andrews about these measures – and especially the windfall tax.

Kate doesn't mince her words, arguing that 'This tax grab is possibly going to be a nail on the coffin for a Tory party that has been hiking taxes for the last two years'.

Produced by Natasha Feroze and Cindy Yu.
Thu, 26 May 2022 16:36:28 +0000
Did the Sue Gray report move the dial?
The long-awaited Sue Gray report is finally published today. It included new photographs (including of the birthday bash, though James Forsyth describes the photo as looking more like 'an enforced office socialising occasion' than a party), colourful details (one staffer was threw up at one drinks) and some unsavoury revelations (Sue Gray was damning about some of the staffers' treatment of cleaners and security staff). But amidst all this, has the report really worsened the situation for Boris Johnson? Katy Balls talks to Isabel Hardman and James on this episode.

Produced by Natasha Feroze and Cindy Yu.
Wed, 25 May 2022 15:34:48 +0000
How will Boris Johnson respond to the Gray report?
Sue Gray's report into Downing Street parties during lockdown is set to be released on Wednesday morning. The tone Boris Johnson takes will be vital to his political future. What will he say?

Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Tue, 24 May 2022 15:32:20 +0000
What do we know about the Sue Gray report?
It's finally happening! This is the week the infamous Sue Gray report into partygate will be released. Details are few and far between, although we do know that the Prime Minister will be mentioned by name in the document. Mutterings from Tory HQ are that this is not going to be a good week for the government but not the end of Boris Johnson. Only time will tell.

Isabel Hardman talks with Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Mon, 23 May 2022 12:47:57 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 22/05/22
Isabel Hardman presents the highlights from Sunday morning's political shows. Today's best bits come from Nadhim Zahawi, Pat McFadden and Michael Lewis.
Sun, 22 May 2022 15:29:18 +0000
Should the Tories try to lose the next election?
Some Tories want to lose the next election. Conservative policies and ideologies are stale, they say, and the party could do with a period in opposition. Is this really a good idea? And could a Labour, SNP and Liberal Democrat coalition find a way to keep the Tories out of government for decades?

'If anyone is thinking that way, they don't deserve to be in power.' – Fraser Nelson

Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Sat, 21 May 2022 09:00:00 +0000
Has Boris won back Tory MPs?
Given that Boris Johnson escaped the latest and final set of party fines from the police yesterday, does this mean partygate is over? Sue Gray's report is still yet to be published, where she intends to name and shame those in her report. Could this take some of the pressure off the Prime Minister?

Also on the podcast, there is a growing divide within the Conservative party between those who want a windfall tax and those that don't. But where does Boris stand on this?

All to be discussed as Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson.
Fri, 20 May 2022 13:11:08 +0000
Is Boris Johnson out of the woods on partygate?
The Met police have today announced that their investigation into No. 10 parties is now over, and No. 10 have confirmed that neither the Prime Minister nor his wife have received more fines. Is Boris Johnson out of the woods? Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.

James points out the fortunate timing of the Met police's announcement – at a time when the Durham police are investigating Keir Starmer for his potential breach when he was having a beer and curry, leaving the Labour party handicapped when the Sue Gray report comes out next week.

'The Gray report, though, I think is still very dangerous for Johnson, because it will highlight a lot of cultural and leadership problems within No. 10', Isabel says. Conservative MPs may yet have another wobble.
Thu, 19 May 2022 12:35:33 +0000
Is a windfall tax inevitable?
With the cost of living crisis looming large, pressure is on the government to come up with effective solutions. With Labour snapping at their heels for an emergency budget and a windfall tax on oil and gas companies, will the Conservatives eventually bend to this pressure? And if they do, will these solutions even work?

Katy Balls talks to Isabel Hardman and Kate Andrews.
Wed, 18 May 2022 17:47:18 +0000
Will the new Brexit bill spark a trade war with the EU?
Liz Truss made a speech in the House of Commons today laying out the government's plans to scrap parts of the Northern Ireland protocol. James Forsyth first broke this story in last week's Spectator magazine. How will the EU react to the news? And could this spark a trade war with the EU?

Moving onto the cost of living crisis, Labour have put forward an amendment to the Queen's Speech asking for a windfall tax. Having once dismissed the idea, the Conservatives are under pressure from some of their backbench MPs to go ahead with the tax. Could this be a big win for Labour?

All to be discussed as Isabel Hardman speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Tue, 17 May 2022 16:51:57 +0000
Will Boris break the Stormont deadlock?
Boris is in Belfast today in an attempt to repair relations between the DUP and Sinn Fein. In a 2000 word article for Belfast Telegraph, the Prime Minister laid out his intentions not to scrap the Northern Ireland Protocol, but instead to fix it. Can these two polarised parties find a middle ground?

Also on the podcast, Jeremy Hunt was on a media round over the weekend to publicise his new book on the NHS. Yet he was unable to avoid questions about his party.

All to be discussed as Isabel Hardman speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Mon, 16 May 2022 10:14:56 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 15/05/22
Isabel Hardman rounds up the highlights from Sunday's political shows, with Kwasi Kwarteng and Ed Miliband.
Sun, 15 May 2022 17:56:35 +0000
What is the future of Nato?
Finland this week has expressed its wish to join Nato and Sweden is expected to follow suit. But with an America more focused on China, an ever aggressive Russia and Turkey with a membership veto card what does the future of this organisation look like?

Cindy Yu talks with Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth
Sat, 14 May 2022 09:00:00 +0000
Why is the government planning to cull the civil service?
Jacob Rees-Mogg has said that the government plans to axe 91,000 posts within three years from the civil service. The argument for it is that the reduced tax burden will help the public deal with the ever-growing cost of living crisis. But will this have the desired effect and will it be anywhere near enough?

Kate Andrews talks to James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson about if the Prime Minister has the right temperament to weather this particular storm.
Fri, 13 May 2022 11:35:05 +0000
What's the point of a cost of living cabinet?
Boris Johnson met Conservative MPs in Stoke-on-Trent for a Cabinet away day. The focus is on how new legislation would level up the UK and protect people from the cost of living crisis as it intensifies.

Meanwhile, the GDP figures show the UK economy contracted in March as consumers cut back on spending. Can the government. Is the UK heading towards a recession?

All to be discussed as Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Thu, 12 May 2022 16:06:25 +0000
What's behind the Swedish security pact?
Today Boris Johnson pledged his support to protect Sweden and Finland in a mutual defence pact. As non Nato members, the deal is intended to protect these two countries from unexpected attacks. Will Putin see this as provocative? And how might this deal clash with Macron's view of a European defence bloc?

'I think we can see the phrase Global Britain taking some meaningful form now' - Fraser Nelson.

All to be discussed as Cindy Yu speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Wed, 11 May 2022 15:33:11 +0000
What did the Queen's Speech reveal?
Inside the Lord's Chamber, Prince Charles delivered the Queen's Speech in his mother's absence. The key themes of the Prime Minister's legislative agenda included easing the cost of living crisis, post-Brexit economic arrangements and a particular emphasis on crime.

'You can tell the Tory party is trying to shore itself up from being outflanked on crime and immigration come the next election' - James Forsyth.

What was the reaction to the speech in the debate that followed?

All to be discussed as James Forsyth speaks to Katy Balls.
Tue, 10 May 2022 16:29:19 +0000
How much trouble is Keir Starmer in?
As pressures mount over claims that Keir Starmer broke lockdown rules, the Labour leader has just pulled out of a keynote speech he is due to give today. How much trouble is he really in? Katy Balls looks at Starmer's future in a blog on Coffee House today.

Also on the podcast, what will be the fallout from the Sinn Fein victory in Northern Ireland? Brandon Lewis heads to Belfast today to press for the return of a fully functioning government.

Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.
Mon, 09 May 2022 10:24:25 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 08/05/22
Isabel Hardman hosts the highlights from Sunday's political shows, with Dominic Raab, Lisa Nandy, Sir Ed Davey and Jukka Siukosaari.
Sun, 08 May 2022 17:38:29 +0000
Could Boris win another election?
Katy Balls, James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman delve into the 2022 local election results and discuss how the Conservatives will adapt their strategy to remain in power.
Sat, 07 May 2022 09:00:00 +0000
Can the Lib Dem's declare victory?
We've had more election results in and it looks like the Lib Dems will be celebrating tonight, encroaching on many Tory seats around the country. But is this Liberal passion from voters or disaffection with the two major parties?

Katy Balls talks with James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman about all the latest results.
Fri, 06 May 2022 16:54:43 +0000
Who are the ‘winners’ in the local elections?
The results are coming in! While the Tories seem to have done quite badly in the capital, Labour have not made the gains in the rest of the country that many predicted they would. The Lib Dems and the Greens have had a good showing so far but we won't know just how good until the full tally of results come in.

Isabel Hardman talks with Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Fri, 06 May 2022 10:57:36 +0000
Is the UK headed towards recession?
The Monetary Policy Committee has just raised interest rates again. This is the fourth consecutive rise, the first time this has happened within a quarter of a century. Economically the future is looking pretty bleak and not just in the UK, this looks like it may be a global problem caused by several factors. China's no Covid policies, US inflation, the Eurozone trying to wean itself off Russia's oil and gas, etc.

Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Kate Andrews about the state of the global economy.
Thu, 05 May 2022 16:03:40 +0000
Could Labour overtake the Tories in Scotland?
A new poll from ComRes has shown Scottish Labour taking second place in tomorrow's local elections, overtaking the Scottish Conservatives. On the podcast, James Forsyth explains the torrid flip-flop that Douglas Ross, leader of the Scottish Tories, has made over partygate, first calling for Boris Johnson to resign before rowing back ('He thought that the 54 letters triggering a vote of no confidence were on their way in').

Katy Balls also talks to Isabel Hardman about the Environment Secretary George Eustice's suggestion that people might buy from cheaper supermarkets in order to deal with the cost-of-living crisis ('The phrase "teaching your grandma to suck eggs" was possibly invented for this piece of advice', Isabel says).
Wed, 04 May 2022 16:52:25 +0000
What does victory look like in the local elections?
Campaigning in the local elections is entering its final few days. But what are the expectations for the Tories and Labour and can they be met?

Both leaders Boris Johnson and Keir Starmer have already put their foot in it to some degree, with the Labour leader getting rather too defensive about his lockdown mid-work beer and Boris seeming out of touch over the cost of living crisis.

Isabel Hardman talks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth about the state of the race.
Tue, 03 May 2022 15:59:30 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 01/05/22
Isabel Hardman rounds up the best bits from Sunday's political shows, with Kwasi Kwarteng, Sir Keir Starmer, David Lammy, Adrian Bailey and Sir Ed Davey.
Sun, 01 May 2022 15:16:40 +0000
Why is it so hard to become a British citizen?
A big congratulations to Linda Nelson who has just become a British citizen. Fraser details the long and taxing journey it took for his wife to reach this point in his Telegraph column this week and asks why as an immigrant nation do we make becoming British so challenging for new arrivals?

On the podcast, Fraser talks with Cindy Yu and James Forsyth about this question. And Cindy brings a few questions from the citizenship test, to see if her colleagues would pass.
Sat, 30 Apr 2022 09:00:00 +0000
Will Starmer get a Covid fine?
Labour has admitted that deputy leader Angela Rayner, was also at an event where Keir Starmer was pictured drinking a beer. Could the pair be fined? Cindy Yu speaks to James Forsyth and Kate Andrews
Fri, 29 Apr 2022 15:08:45 +0000
Is Pestminster back?
This has been a bad week for the reputation of the House of Commons. From inappropriate comments toward female MPs, three cabinet ministers facing sexual misconduct claims and one MP accused of watching pornography in the chamber. Can anything be done to change this grotesque culture? And is it Westminster specific or an issue with society at large?

Isabel Hardman talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Thu, 28 Apr 2022 17:10:26 +0000
Will MPs be hit by another sleaze scandal?
The chief whip Chris Heaton-Harris has started an investigation after a female Tory MP reported that she had seen a male colleague watching pornography in the House of Commons. This comes in the wake of the Mail On Sunday's Angela Rayner/Basic Instinct story, and of the Sunday Times's investigation that three current cabinet ministers are under investigation for #MeToo claims. Will more allegations come out of the woodwork in the coming days? Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Wed, 27 Apr 2022 16:51:09 +0000
Can the Cabinet really solve the 'cost of living' crisis?
Today a pre-briefing on what Boris Johnson plans to say to the Cabinet about the cost of living crisis was released. He wants them to brainstorm ideas to ease the pain felt by the British public in the face of rising prices of food and energy. The catch, is these have to be non-fiscal ways.

Isabel Hardman talks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth about how effective these plans could be and how they may be received by the voters.

To keep up to date with the world of Westminster, sign up for unrivalled insight and analysis with Isabel Hardman’s Evening Blend newsletter, delivered to your inbox every weekday evening. Sign up at www.spectator.co.uk/evening-blend
Tue, 26 Apr 2022 11:23:10 +0000
What does Macron's victory mean for Anglo-French relations?
French President, Emmanuel Macron secured victory over the weekend. But with the election over, will we see a reset in relations between the UK and France? Apart from support for Ukraine, there has been little the governments on either side of the Channel have agreed on.

Katy Balls is joined by Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth to test the temperature of these turbulent political waters, as well as giving a look forward to our own local elections in May.
Mon, 25 Apr 2022 15:15:48 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 24/04/22
Isabel Hardman rounds up the highlights from Sunday's political shows, with Sir Keir Starmer, Oliver Dowden and Jamie Wallis.
Sun, 24 Apr 2022 17:03:25 +0000
Why are most Tory MPs so quiet over partygate?
At the beginning of the year, letters from Conservative MPs looked to be reaching the 54 threshold needed to trigger a no-confidence vote in Boris Johnson. Most would think a fixed penalty notice from the Met would bring us at least back to those levels. And though there have been some full-throated calls of support and condemnation of his leadership from his parliamentary party, the majority have remained conspicuously quiet.

James Forsyth asks Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson why?
Sat, 23 Apr 2022 09:00:00 +0000
What's behind Boris's trip to India?
Boris Johnson has met his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi to discuss defence, energy and trade ties. Will he be able to secure a trade deal with India?
Meanwhile back at home, Boris Johnson faces an investigation by the Commons Committee of Privileges over claims he misled Parliament on partygate.

All to be discussed as Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson

Fri, 22 Apr 2022 11:52:38 +0000
Why did No. 10 U-turn on the vote?
The government's response to Labour wanting to refer the Prime Minister to the Privileges Committee – who could then rule that he mislead the Commons – has been messy. At first, Conservative MPs were to be forced to vote with the government against the motion, but No. 10 then changed its position, saying it would be a free vote. Why the U-turn?

Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Thu, 21 Apr 2022 16:20:21 +0000
Will Tory MPs rebel in partygate vote?
Tomorrow there will be a vote in the Commons where Labour is pushing for an investigation into whether Boris Johnson is in contempt of Parliament over his comments on partygate. Which way will the Tory MPs vote?

'Tory MPs are sick to the back teeth of partygate now' - James Forsyth.

All to be discussed as Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson.
Wed, 20 Apr 2022 16:59:32 +0000
Boris says sorry. Is it enough?
Boris Johnson faced MPs today for the first time since he was issued a fine for breaking lockdown rules. He apologised in the Commons, but maintained that he did not know he was breaking any rules at the time. Is that enough?

Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.
Tue, 19 Apr 2022 19:01:30 +0000
What is the secret to Boris Johnson's political survival?
Cindy Yu, Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls discuss the Prime Minister's remarkable ability to keep his head above the surface of even the choppiest waters.
Fri, 15 Apr 2022 09:00:00 +0000
Is the government's Rwandan immigration plan viable?
This week the government has announced a pilot scheme meant to address the increasing number of asylum seekers dangerously crossing the English Channel. While some have criticised this plan as expensive and immoral it could prove to be popular among large swathes of Conservative voters.

Cindy Yu talks with Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls about this new policy as well as giving us a partygate update.
Thu, 14 Apr 2022 16:37:23 +0000
Has Boris got away with it?
After the news of the fixed penalty notices, Boris Johnson, his wife Carrie Johnson and Rishi Sunak paid their fines and issued a public apology.

For Boris, the reaction has been surprisingly positive compared to the beginning of the year. The majority of cabinet ministers have come out in support of the Prime Minister, but there are still some voices of discontent. Nigel Mills was the first Tory MP to announce he no longer has faith in the Prime Minister and thinks he should resign, who will be next?

All to be discussed as Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and Professor Sir John Curtice, a political scientist currently the professor of politics at the University of Strathclyde, and senior research fellow at NetCen Social Research and the ESRC’s ‘The UK in a Changing Europe’ initiative.
Wed, 13 Apr 2022 12:43:29 +0000
Boris and Rishi fined: what happens now?
Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak have been told that they are going to be fixed penalty notices by the Metropolitan Police over parties held in Downing Street. The Chancellor has already had a tough week – might he now resign? Could Tory MPs push the Prime Minister out of No. 10? Isabel Hardman speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.
Tue, 12 Apr 2022 14:22:11 +0000
Are Tories faced with another sleaze scandal?
Crispin Blunt, a Conservative MP, was forced to apologise today after he tweeted support last night for Imran Ahmad Khan, another Tory MP who was found guilty of sexual assault. His statement called the verdict 'a dreadful miscarriage of justice' that relied on ‘lazy tropes of LGBT+ people'.
‘The condemnation has been pretty universal. I haven’t spoken to anyone that has who has stuck up for him [Crispin Blunt].’ - Lucy Fisher

In the wake of the David Warburton scandal last week, does the Conservative party have a more widespread culture problem?
Also on the podcast, 50 more fines have been made for partying in Westminster during the lockdown. How serious is this?

Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and Lucy Fisher, the chief political commentator at Times Radio.
Tue, 12 Apr 2022 12:24:50 +0000
Have Tory MPs turned on Rishi?
Rishi Sunak has referred himself to Boris Johnson’s ethics advisor to investigate whether he followed the rules on ministers' interests. After the row over Rishi Sunak’s wife’s tax status has built up, how much has this weakened his position as a possible contender for the Tory leadership?
‘The two top players in the Tory Party have suddenly been taken out and it's now not clear who else there is in the government that can provide new momentum' - Paul Goodman
Also on the podcast, Boris Johnson made a surprise visit to Volodymyr Zelensky in Ukraine over the weekend? Could this be what saves his reputation from Partygate?
Isabel Hardman is joined by Katy Balls and Paul Goodman, Editor of ConservativeHome.
Mon, 11 Apr 2022 15:10:48 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 10/04/22
Isabel Hardman presents the highlights from Sunday's politics shows. Today's podcast features Kit Malthouse, Yvette Cooper, Caroline Lucas and Ihor Zhovkva.
Sun, 10 Apr 2022 14:12:17 +0000
Is Macron in for a surprise?
Ahead of the first round of France's presidential elections on Sunday, Katy Balls asks whether Emmanuel Macron will be able to justify his apparent distance from the campaign trail. Taking part in the discussion with Katy Balls are Spectator contributor Jonathan Miller, Georgina Wright, from Institute Montaigne, and The Spectator's data journalist Michael Simmons.
Sat, 09 Apr 2022 09:00:00 +0000
Can the Chancellor recover?
The Rishi Sunak star seems to be falling further every day. The latest revelation is that he and his wife, Akshata Murthy held American green cards for some time while Rishi was Chancellor. The response from his crisis coms team has been muddled at best. Is there any way for the former golden boy to restore his shine?

Cindy Yu talks with Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls.
Fri, 08 Apr 2022 15:57:34 +0000
Is the energy strategy a missed opportunity?
The government is publishing its long-awaited energy security strategy today, but Labour has criticised it for the strategy's lack of action on onshore wind, among other concerns. Has Boris wrongly buckled to backbenchers on a policy that would have been efficient and popular? Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman. Isabel argues that 'the failure of the Conservative government over the past - it's been more than a decade now - to address Britain's supply needs has come home to roost now'.

They also discuss the new revelations that Rishi Sunak's wife, Akshata Murthy, holds non-domicile status, which means she doesn't pay UK taxes. Katy points out that there is no suggestion of any wrongdoing, but nevertheless that 'this story is going to roll on, as people try to work out how much tax have they effectively saved? And I think pressure will grow on that'.
Thu, 07 Apr 2022 12:07:14 +0000
What’s behind Sunak’s poll slide?
The National Insurance hike comes into effect today which is going to hit doubly hard when coupled with the ever-increasing cost of living. While we are all going to feel this burden on our bank accounts, Rishi Sunak is taking his first major political blow. Is there anything he can do to bounce back, or are his future aspirations dead in the water?

Max Jeffery talks to Katy Balls and Kate Andrews about the Chancellor's political future and our economic one.
Wed, 06 Apr 2022 16:47:38 +0000
Should Channel 4 be privatised?
There has been a wave of backlash against the government's announcement that it intends to privatise Channel 4. What's behind their decision? Some argue it could be politically motivated given that Channel 4 has historically been a left-leaning news organisation.

Also on the podcast, Iain Anderson has resigned as the UK's LQBTQ business champion over the government's u-turn on trans conversation therapy. He said the decision to exclude trans people from the conversion therapy ban was 'deeply damaging'.

All to be discussed as Cindy Yu talks to Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls.
Tue, 05 Apr 2022 14:55:39 +0000
Could Boris ditch net zero?
The government will publish its long-awaited energy security strategy this Thursday. The plan, which has been repurposed since Putin's invasion of Ukraine, is expected to include commitments to reduce the 6 per cent of energy Britain currently gets from Russia, and pledges to increase the use of nuclear energy. But could net zero, a priority for the Prime Minister when he went into No. 10, also be quietly shelved? Cindy Yu speaks to Fraser Nelson, Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman.

To get a weekly summary of The Spectator's podcasts, subscribe to our Podcast Highlights email – https://www.spectator.co.uk/podcast-highlights
Mon, 04 Apr 2022 12:30:31 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 03/04/22
Isabel Hardman hosts the highlights from the day's political shows, with Sergey Nikiforov, Grant Shapps, Jonathan Reynolds, Alicia Kearns, Herman Halushchenko and Nathan McGovern.
Sun, 03 Apr 2022 17:52:15 +0000
What does victory for Ukraine look like?
This week it looks like the war in Ukraine is turning. The Ukrainian resistance has moved from the defensive to the offensive against their invaders and American intelligence has reported that the Russian forces are struggling by almost every metric. What does a true victory look like? And what should our attitude towards Russia be when the conflict ends?

Cindy Yu is joined by Fraser Nelson, James Forsyth and Paul Mason to discuss.
Sat, 02 Apr 2022 09:00:00 +0000
Does national security need to be redefined?
The cost of living crisis became a reality as millions today face a £700 per year price hike to their energy bills. What can the government do to support those that fall into fuel poverty?

Also on the podcast, the government has quietly approved the takeover of Newport Wafer Fab by a Chinese owned technology company, Wingtech. As the largest microchip firm in the country, what could this mean for China's dominance in the semiconductor market?

'China wants to create a market-dominant position which could create vulnerabilities for the UK' -James Forsyth.

All to be discussed as Cindy Yu speaks to James Forsyth.
Fri, 01 Apr 2022 13:48:13 +0000
Can Boris convince Nato to send tanks?
We've learnt from a speech this morning from GCHQ director Jeremy Fleming that the Russian army is in even more disarray than was previously thought. This has led some to think that not only could the Ukrainians succeed in holding the Russians at bay but even opens up the possibility of them retaking some of the lands that the Kremlin has already captured. But to be successful in this they would need to be sent more offensive weaponry than the UK and Nato have given so far. Boris Johnson seems keen to help in this manner but will other allies be as enthusiastic?

Isabel Hardman talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Thu, 31 Mar 2022 11:49:37 +0000
Have the Tories forgiven Boris for partygate?
Despite the fines issued yesterday, Keir Starmer's attacks at Prime Minister's Questions today failed to land on Boris Johnson. In part, this was down to the Prime Minister's 'remarkably pugnacious' attitude, according to James Forsyth on this episode. What's more, it seems that Conservative MPs are happy to allow partygate to take a back seat for now. James remarks that 'previously when Boris Johnson tried that kind of very aggressive tactic... you could see the discomfort on Tory benches. Today I thought that was much less visible.'

This all comes after a team bonding dinner at the Crowne Plaza last night, where Boris Johnson gave a boisterous speech to backbench MPs, followed by after-dinner remarks from broadcaster Gyles Brandreth. Was this good timing? 'I do think that the jokes that Boris Johnson was telling is a sign of the current confidence in No 10 about his position', James says.

Katy Balls and Isabel Hardman also discuss the Shrewsbury maternity scandal. On Sajid Javid's pledge that this won't happen again, Isabel Hardman says: 'I'm not sure that that is a promise he can really make, because we had that promise after Morecambe Bay, which again was exposed by a bereaved father'.
Wed, 30 Mar 2022 15:43:00 +0000
Will we find out who got fined?
Partygate is back in the news with fines being issued by the Metropolitan Police to twenty individuals. But this is not the end of the matter, this is only the first batch of fines and the full Sue Grey report is still to come. Is this scandal still enough to bring down the Prime Minister or have the party and the public moved on?

Isabel Hardman talks with James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Tue, 29 Mar 2022 12:35:38 +0000
Can the UK become energy independent?
During the tail end of his Europe trip, President Biden stated of Vladimir Putin 'for God's sake, this man cannot remain in power.' This was quickly walked back by his staff saying that the US had no plans for regime change in Russia. But with the potential of the Russia Ukraine situation turning into long-term conflict, the UK needs to adjust its priorities, particularly when it comes to energy. Whether that future is in wind, nuclear, or fracking.

Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Mon, 28 Mar 2022 13:15:13 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 27/03/22
Isabel Hardman rounds up the best bits from Sunday's politics shows, with today's guests Nadhim Zahawi, Jonathan Ashworth, Mariia Mezentseva and Frances Haughen.
Sun, 27 Mar 2022 19:12:32 +0000
Are Rishi's No. 10 dreams dashed?
For the last two years, Rishi Sunak has appeared the frontrunner in any future Tory leadership election. But has his spring statement and damaged his standing within his party and among the public?

Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth about Rishi Sunak's future and Britain's economic forecast.
Sat, 26 Mar 2022 10:00:00 +0000
Is Nato still unified?
The Prime Minister has just returned from a Nato meeting in Brussels. So far, the alliance's members have been unified in their response to Russia, but with President Zelensky now asking for Nato to send tanks to Ukraine, are we going to see cracks emerge?

Katy Balls talks with James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Fri, 25 Mar 2022 13:01:37 +0000
Did the spring statement go far enough?
Well the papers haven't been too kind about Rishi Sunak's spring statement. To unpack if it truly deserves this level of vitriol Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth about the UK's economic future as well as Nato's more unified front.
Thu, 24 Mar 2022 18:32:52 +0000
Is there a stealth tax hidden in the spring statement?
While on the surface there might seem like a lot to like in Rishi Sunak's spring statement. Yes, the NI tax increase is still there, but the tax threshold to pay it is being raised. And there is even a promise of an income tax cut coming in 2024. But does the spectre of inflation mean that many of these supposed benefits won't be felt tangibly for the average taxpayer and may even see the amount they give to the government go up?

Katy Balls is joined by James Forsyth, Kate Andrews and Fraser Nelson to discuss.
Wed, 23 Mar 2022 17:26:16 +0000
What are Sunak’s motives on the NI rise?
Tomorrow is the spring statement. The proposed NI rise set to be outlined in it has been described by the Labour leader Keir Starmer as a 'cynical' move so the Chancellor can cut taxes before the next election for political brownie points. But what are Rishi Sunak's true motives?

Cindy Yu deciphers them with Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Tue, 22 Mar 2022 16:34:05 +0000
Was Boris’s Ukraine/Brexit comparison a mistake?
Over the weekend, Boris Johnson sparked a wave of criticism after he linked the Ukraine crisis to Brexit. During his speech at the Conservative Party's Spring Conference, the PM suggested that Ukraine's decision to 'choose freedom' was reminiscent of Brexit.

'I think it was up there with the Jimmy Saville joke which he made about Keir Stamer in things which should not have been said.' - Fraser Nelson.

Also on the podcast, will Rishi Sunak be forced to u-turn on his commitment to low taxes? In the week of the Chancellor's Spring Statement, Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine means that the goalposts have moved.

All to be discussed as Isabel Hardman is joined by Katy Balls, James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson.
Mon, 21 Mar 2022 13:08:24 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 20/03/22
Isabel Hardman rounds up the highlights from Sunday's political shows, ahead of the Chancellor's Spring Statement on Wednesday, with Rishi Sunak, Rachel Reeves, Olga Stefanishyna and Martin Lewis.
Sun, 20 Mar 2022 18:14:55 +0000
Is a boost to defence spending feasible?
As Rishi Sunak finalises his Spring Statement, how can he resolve the trilemma of an ageing society, no peace dividend and low growth? Meanwhile, there is a broad Tory desire for increased defence spending amid the Russia Ukraine invasion. But from where will this money be taken?

'This isn't an easy time for Rishi. If you look at what it is costing us just to service the debt, it's going up by billions and billions of pounds' - Kate Andrews.

All to be discussed as Katy Balls speaks to Kate Andrews and James Forsyth.
Sat, 19 Mar 2022 10:00:00 +0000
Is partygate no longer an issue for Boris Johnson?
The Tory spring conference is this weekend. Before the invasion of Ukraine, when partygate dominated the headlines, it was predicted to have the feel of a pageant show for potential candidates to replace Boris Johnson. But now, with even Labour quieting their cries for resignation, what will the atmosphere of this event be?

Max Jeffery talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Fri, 18 Mar 2022 12:02:36 +0000
Why has P&O ferries laid off its staff?
Today P&O ferries announced to 800 staff that they were being made redundant with immediate effect as security mounted to ferries to escort the staff off the premises.
The company said the staff will be served with "enhanced" severance packages, calling it a "necessary decision" to protect its remaining 2,200 staff. Was this fair when they received furlough pay from the taxpayer all through lockdown?
Also on the podcast, the Bank of England has announced a rise in interest rates in a bid to curb inflationary pressures. Can this help ease the looming cost of living crisis?
All to be discussed as Katy Balls speaks to Kate Andrews and James Forsyth.
Thu, 17 Mar 2022 18:05:00 +0000
Why has Iran finally released Zaghari-Ratcliffe from prison?
After 6 years in jail, Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe has been released and will return home from Iran to her husband and their seven-year-old daughter. The UK has paid a debt of £400 million as part of this negotiation which has been an ongoing diplomatic dispute between Britain and the Iranian government. Who were the key players in her release negotiations? And is this a win for Boris Johnson?

Also on the podcast, Boris Johnson continues his trip in Saudi Arabia to encourage Mohammed bin Salman to sell more oil to the UK.

'Now we see a sort of Boris of Arabia heading off into Riyadh. He's always had a good relationship with bin Salman ever since he was Foreign Secretary, they are on texting terms' - Fraser Nelson.

All to be discussed as Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Wed, 16 Mar 2022 16:25:57 +0000
Will Saudi oil really fix Britain's energy crisis?
Boris Johnson is travelling to the Middle East tonight, where he'll be meeting Gulf leaders and trying to convince them to pump more oil. With Britain's energy price cap likely to rise to £3,000 in October, how important is it for the Prime Minister to get what he wants? And will more supply alone fix the problem?

Max Jeffery speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Tue, 15 Mar 2022 12:14:36 +0000
Will Boris Johnson charm the Saudis?
Vladimir Putin's war in Ukraine has caused the prices of oil and gas to skyrocket. One of the Prime Minster's strategies to combat this appears to be a visit Saudi Arabia this week, where he'll ask Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman to release more oil. But what's the chance of this working?

Katy Balls is joined by James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Mon, 14 Mar 2022 12:44:33 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 13/03/22
Isabel Hardman rounds up the highlights from Sunday's interview shows, with Michael Gove, Sir Keir Starmer and Polish president Andrzej Duda.
Sun, 13 Mar 2022 18:42:16 +0000
Why isn't the UK doing more to help Ukrainian refugees?
Kate Andrews and Fraser Nelson discuss the government's feet-dragging response to allowing Ukrainians easier entry to the UK.
Sat, 12 Mar 2022 10:00:00 +0000
What’s the point of the latest sanctions?
While the world is hearing mummers that Vladimir Putin is considering using chemical weapons in Ukraine, the UK government has imposed sanctions on hundreds of Russian Parliamentarians. But will this latest move make the Kremlin pause or is it a largely symbolic gesture?

Katy Balls talks with Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Fri, 11 Mar 2022 13:24:36 +0000
What is the significance of the sanctioning of Roman Abramovich?
After seemingly dragging its heels for weeks, the government is ramping up its individual sanction measures against those close to the Kremlin. When Roman Abramovich bought Chelsea football club it was seen as a symbol of closer Russian and British ties, we will now see what signal him losing it creates.

Kate Andrews hosts Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth to talk through sanctions, peace talks and Eurovision.
Thu, 10 Mar 2022 17:04:33 +0000
What’s behind the Tory revolt on refugee relief?
While Europe opens its arms up to the Ukrainians fleeing war, the UK is taking a much slower approach. While people are allowed to come in relatively quickly if they have family here, that definition of family is extremely limited. Our response is causing confusion with the public but seemingly also within the Conservative party.

Katy Balls and James Forsyth are joined by Kate Andrews from Calais who has been spending the last two days talking to refugees on the ground looking to seek refuge in Britain.
Wed, 09 Mar 2022 16:42:26 +0000
Will Zelensky's intervention change the mood among MPs?
Former Speaker of the House, John Bercow has been banned from the Commons after the publishing of a review that reveals the extent of his bullying behaviour towards members of his staff. How will Labour react to this after welcoming him in with open arms?
Also, Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky will today address a number of UK MPs and is expected to ask for more aid on all fronts: sanctions, humanitarian and military. But just how much more can the UK offer without causing an escalation in Putin's brutality?
And finally, one look at the Spectator's Data Hub will show a shocking rise in the price of gas in the UK in reaction to the war in Ukraine, but has Boris Johnson prepared the public enough for this shocking rise in cost?
Sam Holmes talks with James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Book tickets for Coffee House Shots Live: The Spring Statement
Tue, 08 Mar 2022 12:42:13 +0000
Ukraine: how bad will UK energy prices get?
As the Russian invasion enters its twelfth day, fuel prices hit new records in the UK. Global leaders are preparing for the worst, is the UK braced for this too?

Also on the podcast, what's behind Boris Johnson's six-point plan?

'I would far rather Boris Johnson wasn't turning away Ukrainian refugees at the border in Calais than coming up with the six-point plan' - Fraser Nelson.

All to be discussed as Kay Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.

For more information on the Russian nation, The Spectator is covering the economic impacts of the Ukraine-Russia war on our Datahub.


Mon, 07 Mar 2022 13:15:04 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 06/03/22
Isabel Hardman rounds up the highlights from Sunday's political shows, which today featured Dominic Raab, Sir Keir Starmer, Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, Ruth Smeeth and Tony Blair.
Sun, 06 Mar 2022 16:40:17 +0000
Will Europe remain united against Putin?
Kate Andrews talks to James Forsyth and the historian Orlando Figes about whether Europe's united response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine will hold, and the effect of sanctions on Russia's economy and its oligarchs.
Sat, 05 Mar 2022 10:00:00 +0000
Russia's invasion: One week on
It's been just over a week since Vladimir Putin began his invasion of Ukraine and in that time we have seen some truly unprecedented events: A former comedian leading an extremely effective homeland resistance against one of the world's largest armies, an estimated million people fleeing over the borders and a more unified Western response than we have seen in decades.

Kate Andrews talks with The Spectator's Editor Fraser Nelson and its Deputy Editor Freddy Gray to assess the shocking events we have seen this week.
Fri, 04 Mar 2022 17:36:13 +0000
Why is the UK so slow in sanctioning oligarchs?
Though Britain has been sending weapons to Ukraine, and led Europe's push to get Russia taken out of the Swift banking system, the government has been criticised for being slow in sanctioning Russian oligarchs. What more should we be doing?

Max Jeffery talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Thu, 03 Mar 2022 18:02:10 +0000
What cards does the West have left to play?
PMQs began with a rather unorthodox but touching round of applause to welcome the Ukrainian ambassador to the chamber. While the Commons was united in its support of Ukraine and condemnation of Putin's actions, Labour leader Keir Starmer confronted Boris Johnson about certain Russian individuals who have been sanctioned by our allies but not by the UK.

But why is Boris Johnson holding back? Though many talk about the close relationship between the Tories and Russian money, the bitter truth of the matter may be that we are running out of non-military options for opposing Putin.

Katy Balls breaks down the session with James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman from the roof of Parliament.
Wed, 02 Mar 2022 13:51:40 +0000
Why is a no-fly zone a no go?
During a press conference in Poland today, Prime Minister Boris Johnson was confronted by Ukrainian journalist and campaigner Daria Kaleniuk, who took issue with the excuse for not imposing a no-fly zone because it may start World War Three, saying it had already begun.

While it is completely understandable that on the streets of Ukrainian cities that is how it must feel, the UK and the West are committed to not involving themselves with direct military action against Russia. Though the sanctions that have been imposed on Putin's regime are unprecedented, can they work quickly enough to pause the conflict before things get even bloodier?

Katy Balls talks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth about how the Prime Minister has been handling this situation so far.
Tue, 01 Mar 2022 16:37:11 +0000
Has Putin underestimated the West?
Over the weekend, the West unveiled further measures to punish Russia for invading Ukraine. The European Union said it would put limits on the Russian central bank's ability to access its reserve of foreign currency, Finland blocked Russia from its airspace, and Germany pledged that it would increase its defence spending to 2 per cent. Has Putin underestimated western resolve?

Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson, James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Mon, 28 Feb 2022 13:05:06 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 27/02/22
Isabel Hardman rounds up the highlights from today's political shows, featuring Liz Truss, David Lammy and Sir Chris Deverell.
Sun, 27 Feb 2022 15:54:53 +0000
What is Sunak's economic vision?
Katy Balls speaks to Kate Andrews and Tony Danker, the director general of the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), about the Chancellor's Mais lecture on Thursday, where he reaffirmed his belief in 'sustainably' cutting taxes.
Sat, 26 Feb 2022 10:00:00 +0000
Are Russia's oligarchs the key to stopping Putin?
Russian forces are attempting to take Kiev, the capital of Ukraine. Ben Wallace, the defence secretary, said he would be spending the day trying to convince European allies like Germany and Italy, who are reluctant to put too harsh sanctions on Russia, to ban them from the Swift payments system. How else can the West put Putin under pressure?

Max Jeffery speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Fri, 25 Feb 2022 13:47:25 +0000
Ukraine under siege - what now?
Vladimir Putin has launched an attack on multiple fronts across Ukraine. In a televised speech, the Russian leader announced a 'military operation' in Ukraine's Donbas region.

Today, Boris Johnson has vowed to hit Russia with a 'massive' package of sanctions. But who will really suffer from these sanctions? And will it be enough to deter stop Putin in his tracks?

All to be discussed as Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Owen Matthews, The Spectator's Russia correspondent.
Thu, 24 Feb 2022 14:32:42 +0000
Are UK sanctions all bark no bite?
For the last few weeks, the UK has condemned Putin and promised a strong response in the face of more Russian aggression. But when Boris Johnson announced his sanctions, for many, including those within his own party, they felt a little small. Particularly when compared to Germany cancelling the Nord Stream 2 pipeline.

Isabel Hardman talks with James Forsyth and Katy Balls about the UK's response to the Russian invasion.
Wed, 23 Feb 2022 15:53:27 +0000
Russia invades: what comes next?
Last night Vladimir Putin gave an hour-long television address to the Russian people over his decision to move troops into Ukraine. Amid international condemnation, Boris Johnson held a Cobra meeting this morning to discuss the UK's next moves. Meanwhile, Germany has put the brakes on Nord Stream 2.

‘The ball is now back in Vladimir Putin’s court. This is at the maximal end of responses that were expected' - James Forsyth.

Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Tue, 22 Feb 2022 12:28:45 +0000
Will Brits with Covid still self-isolate?
With Boris Johnson set to announce the end of legal Covid restrictions later today, how will people respond? Will they continue to isolate, or choose to go about their life even if they have the virus?

Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth, Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson about the change, as well as the continuing crisis in Ukraine.
Mon, 21 Feb 2022 12:30:30 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 20/02/22
Isabel Hardman rounds up the highlights from Sunday's political shows, with today's guest stars including Boris Johnson, Wes Streeting and Michelle O'Neill.
Sun, 20 Feb 2022 16:12:15 +0000
Could Nick Clegg end up as the most powerful man in Britain?
The government's Online Safety Bill could be about to hand social media giants even more powers over journalism and free speech. Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and Damian Collins, who chairs Parliament's joint committee on the bill.

Sat, 19 Feb 2022 10:00:00 +0000
Should Boris scrap free Covid tests?
Next week is the end of recess and Boris Johnson is expected to scrap universal access to free covid tests. What will be the reaction to this?

'You do have to wonder if tests are the best use of taxpayer's money given the pressure on the NHS' - Fraser Nelson

Also on the podcast, the Met Office has told millions to stay at home as Storm Eunice battles across the UK. Could this be another sign of the times?

Cindy Yu is joined by Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls
Fri, 18 Feb 2022 13:00:23 +0000
Is Rayner in trouble with Labour?
Angela Rayner received an outburst of criticism today after her views on shooting terrorists went viral. The deputy Labour leader is known for her colourful language, but how much is this damaging Labour's branding?
In her column this week, Katy Balls takes a look at the Labour Party’s strategy around Boris:
‘I think Boris Johnson staying on is now good for them because he’s mortally wounded’ - Katy Balls.
Also on the podcast, what is the latest British intelligence on Russia and Ukraine?
All to be discussed as Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Thu, 17 Feb 2022 17:04:20 +0000
What will be the cost of sanctions against Russia?
Joe Biden has set out his intentions to impose sanctions against Russia should Putin decide to launch an invasion against Ukraine. Are European countries that economically rely on Russia for their energy prepared for the inevitable costs that will come with these sanctions?

'There is no way you could have a set of sanctions on Russia without thinking there will be some cost to the West for imposing them' - James Forsyth
Also on the podcast, what's the latest with the Partygate police probe?

All to be discussed as Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Wed, 16 Feb 2022 18:14:19 +0000
Can the government solve the cost of living crisis?
Two issues dominate the news this week. While Putin is recalling some troops back to their barracks, the situation in Ukraine is far from over. Meanwhile at home, we are in a cost of living crisis that could continue for years to come. What will the government do to resolve this crisis?

All to be discussed with Katy Balls and James Forsyth on today's Coffee House Shots.
Tue, 15 Feb 2022 14:22:44 +0000
Why do the Americans think war is imminent?
Over the weekend things between Ukraine and Russia seem to have gone from bad to worse. After a call between Biden and Putin failed to yield any meaningful results, the US warned that a Russian invasion of Ukraine could being as soon as Wednesday.

Cindy Yu sits down with Katy Balls and James Forsyth to discuss whether war is truly just days away.
Mon, 14 Feb 2022 13:33:57 +0000
Cindy Yu's Sunday Roundup - 13/02/22
Cindy Yu rounds up the highlights from Sunday's interview shows, with Brandon Lewis, Yvette Cooper, Derek Chollet and Zoë Billingham.
Sun, 13 Feb 2022 17:11:29 +0000
Does Europe need to get used to dealing with Russia?
During the Cold War, the US saw Russia as global threat number one. But with China looming large on the world stage its focus is shifting. This leaves Europe to take the lead in dealing with Putin's desires on Ukraine.

Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Sophia Gaston the director of the British Foreign Policy Group about the growing tensions on the continent.

Sat, 12 Feb 2022 10:00:00 +0000
Who will replace Cressida Dick?
Cressida Dick announced yesterday evening that she is stepping down as head of the Metropolitan Police. In a statement, Dick said she had been left with 'no choice' but to resign, after it was made clear to her that London mayor Sadiq Khan did not have confidence in her leadership.

Who will replace her? And what does her resignation mean for the investigation into parties in No. 10?

Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth.
Fri, 11 Feb 2022 10:55:30 +0000
Should Liz Truss have gone to Russia?
The Foreign Secretary's trip to Moscow today ended with Russian Foreign Minister, Sergey Lavrov, walking out of their joint press conference. Did the trip achieve anything – and was it a mistake from the start? Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth on this episode. For James, '[Lavrov's] rudeness is a sign that Liz Truss held the line in their meeting'.
Thu, 10 Feb 2022 17:32:41 +0000
Will there ever be a break in the partygate scandal?
The Prime Minister tried to start today's PMQs with an announcement to fire up the right of his base, an early end to all Covid restrictions. But the partygate scandal is the gift that keeps on giving when during the Commons session a new photo leaked of Boris Johnson at a Christmas quiz with a bottle of Prosecco and a colleague draped in tinsel.

Isabel Hardman is joined by James Forsyth and Katy Balls to break down today's events in Westminster.
Wed, 09 Feb 2022 17:32:12 +0000
What to make of the mini reshuffle?
A mini reshuffle has happened, but this time nobody has been fired. Is this an advertisement of Boris Johnson being strategic? Or is it more an advertisement of the little room he has to manoeuvre?
Also on the podcast, James and Isabel discuss the NHS backlog. Today the Health Secretary was forced to admit to MPs that the NHS waiting list in England, which already stands at a record 6 million, will keep on growing for another two years.

What are the holes in his new plan? All to be discussed as Isabel Hardman speaks to James Forsyth.
Tue, 08 Feb 2022 17:19:03 +0000
Will Boris's new appointments win over backbenchers?
On Saturday night, No. 10 announced two new appointments: Steve Barclay would become chief of staff, and Guto Harri would become director of communications. Will Downing Street's reshuffle improve the mood of Tory MPs? And what else does Boris Johnson have to do?

Katy Balls talks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth about the new faces inside No. 10.
Mon, 07 Feb 2022 13:27:26 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 06/02/22
Isabel Hardman hosts the highlights from Sunday's political shows. Featured today are Kwasi Kwarteng, Iain Duncan Smith, David Lammy, Sir Jeffrey Donaldson, and Gavin Barwell.
Sun, 06 Feb 2022 16:53:06 +0000
What happens in a vote of no confidence?
Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson about what happens if and when Graham Brady receives 54 letters of no confidence in Boris Johnson's leadership.
Sat, 05 Feb 2022 10:00:00 +0000
Who will fill the vacuum in No. 10?
Five members of Boris Johnson's team have now resigned from No. 10. This led Downing Street to bring forward changes to Johnson's top team – announcing the resignations of chief of staff Dan Rosenfield, director of communications Jack Doyle and Martin Reynolds, his principal private secretary (who sent the now notorious BYOB email). How will the PM fill the vacuum they leave in No. 10? Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Fri, 04 Feb 2022 13:31:39 +0000
What does the latest No. 10 resignation mean?
Munira Mirza, Downing Street's head of policy, has resigned over Boris Johnson’s Jimmy Savile attack on Keir Starmer.

Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson about how the defection of one of Johnson's oldest allies will affect an already turbulent No. 10.

'This does look terminal.' – Fraser Nelson
Thu, 03 Feb 2022 17:20:53 +0000
Was the levelling up white paper worth the wait?
While Westminster politicians and journalists alike continue to predict exactly how many letters of no confidence in Boris Johnson have been officially filed. Michael Gove's levelling up white paper has finally arrived. A bizarre document that references many ancient cites and how they 'levelled up', but does it propose any tangible solutions on how to achieve its goal in present-day Britain?

Isabel Hardman is joined by James Forsyth and Katy Balls to dissect the document.
Wed, 02 Feb 2022 17:45:48 +0000
Have Tory MPs forgiven Boris?
While Boris Johnson's performance in the Common's yesterday was seen broadly as tone deaf – thanks to comments about Jimmy Savile and drug-taking on the Labour front bench – he was given a chance to redeem himself at a private meeting with his party yesterday evening.

'One of my favourite questions was when one 2019 MP asked if they could reschedule the Parliamentary away day. This received a number of groans from politicians.' – Katy Balls.

Today, the Prime Minister leaves the Westminster drama behind him as he embarks on a diplomatic trip to Ukraine.

Isabel Hardman speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth about the mood in the Tory party.
Tue, 01 Feb 2022 13:54:09 +0000
What does the Gray report mean for Boris?
The long anticipated Sue Gray report was finally published today albeit lacking significant chucks of details. Following the report Boris Johnson made a statement in the Commons addressing Partygate.

Though he apologised at the beginning, his tone did not seem particularly apologetic which clearly riled a number of MPs across party lines.

'The discomfort among the Tory benches today was striking'- James Forsyth

But what will be the aftermath of the debate? And can Boris Johnson still come back from this?

Listen to the full discussion on Sue Gray's report as Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.
Mon, 31 Jan 2022 18:23:52 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 30/01/22
Isabel Hardman showcases the best bits from Sunday's interview shows. In the spotlight today are Liz Truss, Lisa Nandy and Sir Ed Davey.
Sun, 30 Jan 2022 17:34:48 +0000
Can Boris save his premiership?
Boris Johnson has come out fighting, but that doesn't mean he's in the clear. Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls about the Prime Minister's efforts to keep himself inside No. 10.
Sat, 29 Jan 2022 10:00:00 +0000
Will Sue Gray's report be a whitewash?
Today the Met Police requested that Sue Gray's report makes 'minimal reference' to the events in her inquiry, whilst there is an ongoing police investigation.
'I think it puts the government in a difficult position. If you publish the report with minimal reference to the alleged parties being investigated by the police you’ll be accused of a whitewash report' - Katy Balls.
As a consequence of the police investigation, there are also rumours that others in Whitehall might be fined over parties in the coming weeks. What will be the outcome of this? Will the culprits, who are likely to be junior staffers at No.10 dispute the fines?

All to be discussed as Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Fri, 28 Jan 2022 11:08:04 +0000
Who authorised Pen Farthing's animal rescue operation?
Whilst everyone waits for the Sue Gray report, all eyes turn to the next scandal: Pen Farthing's animal rescue operation out of Afghanistan. It has been revealed that Boris Johnson's parliamentary private secretary, Trudy Harrison contacted a jet hire company in an attempt to secure a plane to evacuate the pets. The PM has responded to these allegations saying they are 'total rhubarb' - but what does that mean?
'You don’t seem to get the impression that Downing Street feels as if they are under pressure about this' - Katy Balls

Also on the podcast, is Boris Johnson planning a shake-up of his staff at No.10? And if so, who might go? Martin Reynolds? Dan Rosenfield?
All to be discussed as Isabel Hardman speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Thu, 27 Jan 2022 18:03:59 +0000
How much longer to wait for Gray?
The view on the Tory benches at the moment seems to be consistently ‘wait for Gray’ before they decide whether or not they will send a letter of no confidence. The 54 letters required is now more likely since the announcement of the police probe into Downing Street parties, but it is still by no means a certainty.

Boris Johnson gathered a surprising amount of support at PMQs today. Helped in part. by opposition MPs calling on him to resign:

'Richard Burgon, a former member of Jeremy Corbyn's shadow cabinet making a grand statement of how the PM should resign is naturally going to bring the Tory MPs together on Boris Johnson’s side' - Katy Balls.

Also on the podcast, Pen Farthing and his Afghan animal rescue operation has just resurfaced. Emails have been leaked suggesting that Boris Johnson did in fact authorise a rescue operation having publically denied allegations.

All to be discussed as James Forsyth speaks to Katy Balls from a breezy rooftop in the House of Commons.
Wed, 26 Jan 2022 15:26:34 +0000
What does the police probe mean for Boris?
The latest in the scandal of Downing Street parties points to the Prime Minister’s own birthday, where a gathering took place in the Cabinet Office. Whilst this has been played off by a Downing Street spokesperson as being on ‘the edges of a work event’. Cressida Dick announced this morning that events at No.10 during lockdown have now been deemed serious enough to deserve a police investigation.

How long does this now go on for? It could make the May election results terrible for the Tories, prompting more MPs to write a letter of no confidence.
'Someone close to Boris Johnson said to me that this idea to 'delay to Gray' is wrong. He’s going to need it to come out so that he can apologise and move on so that people’s opinions of him don’t calcify' - James Forsyth

All to be discussed on today's podcast as Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.
Tue, 25 Jan 2022 13:50:24 +0000
How damaging are Nusrat Ghani's claims?
Over the weekend the MP Nusrat Ghani accused the government of sacking her because allegedly her Muslim faith was an issue, and they thought she didn't defend the Conservative party's charges of Islamophobia more. In the week of the release of the infamous Sue Gray report into Partygate how are the Tories dealing with these two scandals?

'The whip's office is caught between Sandhurst and a HR department.' - James Forsyth

Cindy Yu is joined by James Forsyth and Katy Balls to unpack the weekend's revelations.

And if you are interested in learning more about Nasrat Ghani's Journey to become an MP do listen to Katy's interview with her from last year's Women with Balls podcast here: https://www.spectator.co.uk/podcast/the-nus-ghani-edition
Mon, 24 Jan 2022 11:25:06 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 23/01/22
Isabel Hardman rounds up the highlights from Sunday's political shows, with Dominic Raab, Emily Thornberry, Nicola Sturgeon and Vadym Prystaiko.

Sun, 23 Jan 2022 17:14:08 +0000
What is Vladimir Putin up to?
Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and the Spectator's Russia correspondent Owen Matthews about the buildup of forces on the border with Ukraine.
Sat, 22 Jan 2022 10:00:00 +0000
Did Boris's whips go too far?
After Christian Wakeford's defection to Labour, Boris Johnson looks to be in the clear – for now. The Prime Minister's backbenchers, though, are still frustrated by the aggressive tactics used by his whips to ensure their support. Is blackmail normal in the Commons, and are their complaints a result of Parliament's generational divide? Cindy Yu speaks to James Forsyth.

'If you had turned up in Westminster in the 1970s, you would find whips pushing people up against the wall. I don't think that goes on today.' – James Forsyth
Fri, 21 Jan 2022 17:45:23 +0000
Did Tory whips blackmail Red Wall MPs?
As the Prime Minister has a stay of execution after the pork pie plot came to nothing, today allegations are flying that Tory whips have been using unsavoury methods to threaten wavering MPs into line. Christian Wakeford, the newly defected Labour MP to Bury South, says that whips threatened to withdraw funding from a local school; while William Wragg claims that MPs have been blackmailed with information about their private lives. But how much of this is true, and how much, as some in SW1 are saying today, is this just a part of being a whip?

On the podcast, James Forsyth points out how some of this comes down to 'the fact that some of the new intake of Tory MPs have been quite shocked at how aggressive the "flush-out" tactics have been', when it comes to using newspaper headlines to publicly name rebels (for example the pork pie-ers earlier this week). Meanwhile, Katy Balls tells Isabel Hardman that this will be a troubling development if more revelations come up: 'Any piece of news that can fit into the general narrative of Boris under pressure on party-gate and... give it a fresh lease of life, is a problem'.
Thu, 20 Jan 2022 17:16:36 +0000
Is Boris safe for now?
Last night rumours were flying around Westminster that letters of no confidence from Tory MPs were pouring in and Boris might be leaving sooner rather than later. But with the surprising crossing of the aisle by MP for Bury South, Christian Wakeford, it appears that old party tribalism may have stayed some hands.
'While a coup against a leader is one thing defecting is quite another.' - James Forsyth
Katy Balls talks with James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman about all of today's political drama, from Keir Starmer's 'very good' jokes to David Davis's public call for Johnson to 'in the name of God go!'

Subscribe to The Spectator's Evening Blend email, from Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls, for analysis of the day's political news and a summary of the best pieces from our website. Go to www.spectator.co.uk/blend to sign up.
Wed, 19 Jan 2022 17:32:00 +0000
Will Red Wall MPs turn on Boris?
To keep Partygate alive, Dominic Cummings has released fresh accusations on his blog about Boris Johnson, who he claims knew about the parties taking place. The former chief advisor to the Prime Minister is prepared to swear under oath on this. As divisions in the Tory party are starting to show, a no confidence motion could be expected in days.

'There is a cat and mouse game where those loyal to the leader are trying smoke out potential rebels' - James Forsyth

All eyes are on Keir Starmer for PMQs tomorrow.

Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth.
Tue, 18 Jan 2022 19:00:58 +0000
Will Operation Red Meat work?
Tory MPs have just returned from their constituencies after a weekend of persuading voters to support their party in the May local elections. It’s not just the public that is angry, the local associations are equally outraged at the scandals that have marred the first month of 2022.
Those around Boris Johnson are planning 'Operation Red Meat' which is a policy tactic to save the Prime Minister's premiership. Nadine Dorries has announced her plans to cut the budget of the BBC. It has also been announced that the military is stepping in to try to stop migrants crossing the English Channel. But is it a little too late?

‘They’ve been telling us they are going to sort this [migrant crisis] out but for two years the problem has got worse' - James Forsyth.

Even by the government’s own admission, the solution rests on finding somewhere to host an offshore processing centre. But most of the countries the government is looking towards are unlikely to be suitable partners.

All of this on the podcast as Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.
Mon, 17 Jan 2022 11:19:51 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 16/01/22
Isabel Hardman hosts the highlights from Sunday's political shows, with interviewees Sir Keir Starmer, Oliver Dowden, and Iain Duncan Smith and Kurt Volker.
Sun, 16 Jan 2022 17:01:22 +0000
After Boris, who?
Katy Balls, James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson discuss what happens if Boris Johnson's premiership is overwhelmed by the sheer volume of Downing Street parties he may or may not have attended.

"I will eat this microphone if Steve Baker or Kemi Badenoch stand." – Fraser Nelson
Sat, 15 Jan 2022 10:00:00 +0000
Is Boris to blame for No. 10’s party culture?
It's been revealed that two more parties took place in No. 10 during the pandemic. This time, on the eve of Prince Philip's funeral. While the Prime Minister was not at this event, is No. 10's party culture coming straight from the top?

Max Jeffery is joined by Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Fri, 14 Jan 2022 17:34:12 +0000
Is the cabinet really behind Boris?
After a hard PMQs for Boris Johnson which included multiple MPs calling for his resignation, the cabinet took to the media to show support for their embattled leader... though some took a bit longer than others.
'Notably, Rishi Sunak and Liz Truss took quite some time. I think they both got round to it by the early evening.' - Katy Balls
Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls about how deep the senior Tories' loyalties lie.
Thu, 13 Jan 2022 12:18:00 +0000
Have Tory MPs finally had enough?
Boris Johnson has finally commented on the accusations of a Downing Street garden party held in the first lockdown. Yet his defence – 'I believed implicitly that this was a work event' – has satisfied nobody.

On the episode, James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman give their verdict. 'When I started my career I spent a lot of time in magistrates courts and I have to say, I've heard better ones from people who were drunk who were defending themselves in Portsmouth Magistrates Court', Isabel says. And for James, the problem was Boris Johnson's own party – 'The Tory benches were almost totally silent'. Can these MPs really defend Boris Johnson to their constituents, and what happens to this Prime Minister if they can't?
Wed, 12 Jan 2022 16:42:35 +0000
Can Boris survive another Partygate scandal?
Another day, another party scandal at No.10. ‘Bring your own booze’ said Martin Reynolds, the Prime Minster's private secretary in a leaked email to 100 staff in May 2020 inviting them to a picnic at 10 Downing Street. At the same time, the rest of the country was limited to socialising within household bubbles or one other person.
'This is the most serious party allegation yet when it comes to Boris Johnson specifically' - Katy Balls

No.10 have refused to respond to the leaked email whilst Sue Gray's investigation into other Downing Street parties are ongoing. Can this line of response last through to PMQ’s tomorrow? Boris Johnson can expect challenging questions from Keir Starmer on this scandal.
Meanwhile, Michael Gove is keeping busy with his newly announced policy on cladding. The new housing minister has gone against his predecessor, Robert Jenrick’s policy, making developers pay for dangerous cladding.
Max Jeffery is joined by Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Tue, 11 Jan 2022 11:46:38 +0000
How soon will Plan B restrictions lift?
With some early signs that the Omicron threat is waning, talk has begun around Westminster as to when we can get rid of the remaining Covid restrictions. To help Katy Balls, James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman make sense of the latest figures, they are joined by Editor, Fraser Nelson with an update from The Spectator's data hub.
'When you look at the number of admissions to hospitals, that actually hit a peak of 2,370 on December the 29th. It hasn't been back at that.' - Fraser Nelson
Katy, Isabel and James also assess Michael Gove's plan to address new-build cladding in the wake of Grenfell.
Mon, 10 Jan 2022 13:45:00 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 09/01/22
Isabel Hardman presents the first Sunday interviews roundup of the year. Highlights from today feature Nadhim Zahawi, Rachel Reeves and Dr Clive Kay.
Sun, 09 Jan 2022 17:53:26 +0000
Could the Cabinet save Boris's premiership?
Despite a torrid time for the Prime Minister's popularity over the last few months, there may be a political revival on the horizon. His decision not to lockdown over the Omicron variant seems to have paid off and won back some of the support from his party. But will the Johnson project end up a failure?
A lot of the Prime Minister’s future rests on the people who work closest him. On the podcast, Fraser Nelson points to the high turnover of staff at No.10 that has been destabilising, especially for someone who usually builds a strong support system around him.
‘This is a sign, the high turnover of staff suggests a dysfunctional No.10 which isn’t capable of making decent high-quality decisions' - Fraser Nelson
Also on the podcast, can the success of the booster campaign help Boris Johnson try to win back some of the government's lost reputation for competence?
All to be discussed as Cindy Yu speaks to James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson.
Sat, 08 Jan 2022 10:00:00 +0000
Have Boris's 'lost' texts fuelled the sleaze scandal?
The ‘lost’ texts sent by Boris Johnson to Lord Brownlow over his Downing Street flat refurbishment continues to dominate the headlines today. As the story unravels, it's a sign that the Tory sleaze issues hitting Boris at the end of 2021 will continue way into the new year.

'It’s not going to go down well when people are seriously thinking about the cost of their energy bills over the next few months: how much it costs to buy food, what supplies are in shortage, to be reminded that the Prime Minister was trying to put extremely expensive wallpaper up in his flat' - Kate Andrews

Also on the podcast, various problems are snowballing towards a cost of living crisis. The energy price cap is expected to rise just as household contributions are due to increase from the National Insurance hike. Can the government retain support as households struggle to cope with costs this winter?

‘It is politically imperative for the Tories that they can cut taxes before the next election’ - James Forsyth

Cindy Yu speaks to Kate Andrews and James Forsyth.
Fri, 07 Jan 2022 13:52:34 +0000
Who let the Mogg out?
In yesterday's Cabinet debate, Jacob Rees-Mogg called on Boris Johnson to abandon the planned hike in national insurance, amid warnings of a looming cost of living crisis. This is not the first time the leader of the Commons has criticised the government following his opposition to tougher Covid restrictions. Might this be a sign that Rees-Mogg is going to jump before he is pushed?

‘After the Patterson affair, there is now a clear distance between No.10 and the whips office. As we both know Isabel, when that is the case, that is when Parliament begins to unravel quite quickly' James Forsyth

Also on the podcast, the decorations to the Downing Street flat debacle has resurfaced and the Colston four trial, which has been dominating the headlines over the last couple of days is discussed.

Isabel Hardman speaks to James Forsyth.

Subscribe to The Spectator's Evening Blend email, from Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls, for analysis of the day's political news and a summary of the best pieces from our website. Go to www.spectator.co.uk/blend to sign up.
Thu, 06 Jan 2022 15:34:18 +0000
Did Rayner get the better of Boris?
The first PMQs of 2022 was a little different. It was Angela Rayner’s turn to step up to the dispatch box whilst Keir Starmer is isolating having tested positive for Covid.

Rayner went after Boris Johnson on inflation and the cost of living crisis looming in Britain, criticising the government for refusing to cut VAT on energy bills. Another topic that came up was the pressure on the NHS as a result of the pandemic. NHS Trusts are declaring critical incidents saying they’re not going to be able to perform certain treatments due to high staff absences.

'The crisis in the healthcare sector is not that anybody is being overwhelmed. The crisis is coming from government policy which is requiring people to isolate when they don’t strictly speaking need to' Fraser Nelson
For daily Covid data updates, follow The Spectator Data Hub.

Isabel Hardman speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.

Subscribe to The Spectator's Evening Blend email, from Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls, for analysis of the day's political news and a summary of the best pieces from our website. Go to www.spectator.co.uk/blend to sign up.
Wed, 05 Jan 2022 18:08:54 +0000
New year new Keir?
Keir Starmer arrived in Birmingham today to deliver his agenda-setting speech, outlining Labour's vision for the future. The opposition leader had to tread the delicate path between offering a substantial, policy-based agenda whilst holding his cards close to his chest.

'One of the challenges of opposition in the midterm is, they come up with new policy and then the government pinches it' - James Forsyth.

Also on the podcast, James and Isabel discuss the reaction to the news that Tony Blair is to be awarded a knighthood. The former prime minister is a controversial choice for some, raking up to 500,000 signatures on a petition demanding to reverse the decision. For others, the question is: why has it taken this long?

Cindy Yu is joined by Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.
Tue, 04 Jan 2022 13:09:54 +0000
Has England dodged lockdown?
The government has delayed making any announcements about further Covid restrictions in the face of Omicron for weeks. But with more data coming in every day about this new variant, seemingly showing it leads to a lot less hospitalisations than previous waves, will there even be any new measures at all?
'The science and the vaccines have created the situation where Britain doesn't have to lockdown.' - Fraser Nelson
Cindy Yu talks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth about the UK's response to Covid at the beginning of 2022.
Subscribe to The Spectator's Evening Blend email, from Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls, for analysis of the day's political news and a summary of the best pieces from our website. Go to www.spectator.co.uk/blend to sign up.
Mon, 03 Jan 2022 15:10:00 +0000
What happened at Boris's Covid Cabinet meeting?
Boris Johnson chaired a Cabinet meeting yesterday to discuss the imposition of new Covid restrictions over Christmas. After three hours, the Prime Minister emerged to announce that no new restrictions had been decided on.

These meetings are usually called for the Cabinet to rubber-stamp a decision made by Boris and his advisers, so what's changed?

Reports today suggest that the Prime Minister was actively encouraging opposing voices, and that a majority of the Cabinet was against bringing in new rules. After the resignation of David Frost, has Boris been forced to accept a new way of decision-making? Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and Kate Andrews.

On the podcast, Fraser says: 'This was the first taste of the new Cabinet. The Prime Minister is being boxed in now by what his Cabinet will go with. He's now got to win them around. That's a very different process.'
Tue, 21 Dec 2021 14:16:00 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 19/12/21
Isabel Hardman presents the highlights from the final Sunday interview shows of the year. Today's podcast features Sajid Javid, Andrew Bridgen, Wes Streeting, Sir Ed Davey and Andrew Marr.
Sun, 19 Dec 2021 15:34:42 +0000
Why David Frost resigned
Boris Johnson once boasted that you couldn't hold a cigarette paper between him and David Frost, the man he brought on to take Brexit over the line. Yet this key ally has resigned when the Prime Minister is at his most vulnerable. In his resignation letter, Lord Frost cites his concerns on whether the country is making the most of Brexit to cut taxes and red tape, and the direction of travel when it comes to dealing with the pandemic. On the podcast, Katy Balls talks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth about the significance of this moment – which Fraser says is 'a bigger blow to the Prime Minister than the by-election'. Taking a look at his reasons for departure, James says 'All the reasons he is citing – high taxes, Covid passes, net zero – punch every vulnerability that Boris Johnson has with the Tory activist base'.
Sun, 19 Dec 2021 11:38:16 +0000
Can Boris make it to the next election?
Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and James Johnson, the co-founder of the J. L. Partners polling company, about what the Conservative defeat in North Shropshire means for the Prime Minister's future.
Sat, 18 Dec 2021 10:00:00 +0000
How did the Tories lose North Shropshire?
The Conservative majority of 23,000 was wiped out overnight in North Shropshire, with Liberal Democrat Helen Morgan winning the by-election by nearly 6,000 votes. Tory MPs are already making their frustrations known, with Roger Gale saying Boris Johnson has 'one more strike and he's out', and John Redwood saying it's 'Time to listen to Conservatives.' Is Boris Johnson's leadership in danger? Isabel Hardman speaks to Fraser Nelson and Katy Balls.

On the podcast, Isabel asks: 'You can change your staff, you can change your policies, but if the common denominator in all of these crises is Boris Johnson, what are you going to do?'
Fri, 17 Dec 2021 09:26:09 +0000
Is this lockdown by stealth?
Today saw record numbers of Covid cases with infections higher than the January 2021 lockdown. In reaction to soaring cases, Boris Johnson held a press conference yesterday. Although nothing new was announced, he pushed further on the booster program and encouraged the public to rethink their socialising ahead of Christmas.
Many people believe the PM is encouraging a lockdown by stealth, with hospitality venues struggling to cope under staff shortages coupled with vast cancellations. But should financial support be put in place for them throughout this tricky time?
Also today, the Bank of England has increased interest rates to 0.25% in reaction to inflationary pressures.
‘We have to consider, does changing interest rates help [inflation]? Given that some of it is caused by supply chains that haven’t gone back to normal post the pandemic' - James Forsyth

Cindy Yu is joined by Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Thu, 16 Dec 2021 18:11:53 +0000
Can Boris take back control?
Last night Boris Johnson suffered the biggest rebellion of his Tory premiership. But, unlike his predecessor, he still managed to get his vote through with Labour's support. Nearly 100 Conservative MPs voted against the government's plans for vaccine passports.

Their reasons for rebelling varied. For some, they want to send a message to the PM that he cannot take his majority for granted. For others, it is about the principle of vaccine passports.

'Boris Johnson is proving to be a deeply illiberal Prime Minister. He’s turning into the sort of Prime Minister he used to warn us against when he was writing’ - Fraser Nelson

Katy Balls is joined by Isabel Hardman, Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth to discuss last night's rebellion and the booster vaccine program.
Wed, 15 Dec 2021 12:30:04 +0000
What does a large rebellion mean for Boris?
Christopher Whitty has told the public he expects a 'significant increase' in Omicron hospitalisations over the next few weeks. The chief medical officer is concerned about the pressures this new variant will put on the NHS. Could he be overreacting? In contrast, there are encouraging signs coming from South Africa that continue to show that Omicron is less severe than Delta.
The Commons vote on vaccine passports is looming where Boris Johnson could face a rebellion larger than his majority. The vote this evening is currently predicted to have over 80 rebels that want to send a message to the Prime Minister:
'The worry is that the vaccine program, something that Boris Johnson has taken huge political capital from, is starting to fade as a success story for a lot of voters' - Isabel Hardman.
To discuss this and the North Shropshire by-election, Katy Balls is joined by Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.

Subscribe to The Spectator's Evening Blend email, from Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls, for analysis of the day's political news and a summary of the best pieces from our website. Go to www.spectator.co.uk/blend to sign up.
Tue, 14 Dec 2021 14:04:49 +0000
How big could tomorrow's Tory rebellion be?
Cindy Yu talks to Katy Balls, James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson about the contents of - and the potential fallout from - Boris Johnson's address to the nation last night.
Mon, 13 Dec 2021 19:13:07 +0000
Cindy Yu's Sunday Roundup - 12/12/21
Cindy Yu hosts the highlights from Sunday's political shows, with today's guests including Sir Keir Starmer, Nadhim Zahawi, Steve Baker and Dr Susan Hopkins.
Sun, 12 Dec 2021 16:47:37 +0000
Should Boris be worried about North Shropshire?
Isabel Hardman talks to Katy Balls and the New Statesman's Stephen Bush about the possibility of an upset next Thursday in the seat recently vacated by Owen Paterson.
Sat, 11 Dec 2021 12:00:00 +0000
Is Boris in for a Christmas rebellion?
Boris Johnson's problems are not going away anytime soon and he is facing extreme pressure on several fronts going into the weekend. Hypocrisy charges from the media and the Labour Party, more scandal regarding the No. 10 flat refurbishment, and a massive Tory rebellion regarding his Plan B measures. Not to mention his recent announcement that it is time to have a serious conversation about vaccine mandates.
'This anger is diffuse across the parliamentary party. It isn't just one ideological faction that are upset with him.' - James Forsyth
Katy Balls breaks down the Prime Minister's many woes with James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Subscribe to The Spectator's Evening Blend email, from Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls, for analysis of the day's political news and a summary of the best pieces from our website. Go to www.spectator.co.uk/blend to sign up.
Fri, 10 Dec 2021 13:53:00 +0000
How much trouble is Boris in over his Downing Street flat?
Cindy Yu speaks to Isabel Hardman and Kate Andrews about the level of Conservative support for the Prime Minister after his latest Covid restrictions, and the Electoral Commission's findings about the refurbishment of the flat above No. 11.
Thu, 09 Dec 2021 18:46:19 +0000
What's Boris's new Covid plan?
Cindy Yu talks to Kate Andrews, Katy Balls and Fraser Nelson about the contents of the Prime Minster's latest Covid press conference.
Wed, 08 Dec 2021 20:27:37 +0000
Partygate: how much trouble is Boris in?
It is all kicking off in Westminster.

A leaked video has emerged where the former Prime Minister's spokesperson is seen laughing when questioned about a Christmas party at 10 Downing Street last year. In yet another blow, many Conservatives shared their dismay at the leaked footage. At PMQs, Boris Johnson said that he is furious about the video but remains adamant that no lockdown rules were broken last Christmas.
Also on the podcast, more talk of vaccine passports are spreading through Westminster with a press conference expected later today. Should Boris be pushed into boosting restrictions, could he face another rebellion in the Commons? Possibly not, whilst Keir Stamer is around.
‘Boris is very lucky, his single greatest asset is Keir Starmer and when things get tough he can always send for his useful idiots on Labour’s front bench who will come and vote with him’ - Fraser Nelson
Katy Balls is joined by Fraser Nelson and Isabel Hardman.
Subscribe to The Spectator's Evening Blend email, from Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls, for analysis of the day's political news and a summary of the best pieces from our website. Go to www.spectator.co.uk/blend to sign up.
Wed, 08 Dec 2021 15:50:16 +0000
How damning is the whistleblower's Afghanistan report?
A new 40-page document written by Raphael Marshall, a former desk officer at the Foreign Office, depicts a disorganised mess in the handling of this year's Afghanistan withdrawal.
'I think the picture that is painted of chaos... it raises a whole slew of questions.' - James Forsyth
Katy Balls and James Forsyth dissect some of the key accusations in this report and give us an update on tensions between the US and Russia over Ukraine and the spread of the Omicron variant.
Subscribe to The Spectator's Evening Blend email, from Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls, for analysis of the day's political news and a summary of the best pieces from our website. Go to www.spectator.co.uk/blend to sign up.
Tue, 07 Dec 2021 16:42:00 +0000
Will Boris's crime crackdown backfire?
Boris Johnson is launching a week of crime-related government announcements. Tackling middle-class drug use tops the agenda today, and the Prime Minister watched police raid a home in Liverpool this morning as part of 'Operation Toxic' to infiltrate county lines drug dealing.

But with a report from the Sunday Times revealing that traces of cocaine were found in several of Parliament's lavatories, and some Cabinet ministers having previously been asked about their own drug use before entering politics, could the plan backfire? Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.

On the podcast, James says: 'It is inevitably going to turn into every Cabinet minister and minister who does interviews on this being asked about their own personal drug use.'
Mon, 06 Dec 2021 11:28:40 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 05/12/21
Isabel Hardman rounds up the highlights from Sunday's political shows. Today's best bits come from Dominic Raab, Dame Rachel de Souza and Jim McMahon.
Sun, 05 Dec 2021 14:28:59 +0000
Should you snog a stranger?
With the Omicron variant putting everyone on edge, there has been quite a bit of mixed messaging from the government about how we should all be conducting ourselves this festive period. With a bizarre emphasis placed on snogging - some preaching caution, others saying snog away.
'I don't think I've ever heard people say the word snogging this much in my entire life.' - Isabel Hardman
Katy Balls talks to Fraser Nelson, Isabel Hardman, and James Forsyth about the cabinet's conflicting advice and the politics of public displays of affection.
Subscribe to The Spectator's Evening Blend email, from Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls, for analysis of the day's political news and a summary of the best pieces from our website. Go to www.spectator.co.uk/blend to sign up.
Sat, 04 Dec 2021 10:00:00 +0000
What's behind the reduced majority in Old Bexley and Sidcup?
The by-election last night was a result for the Tories. However, their majority for this seat fell dramatically. Labour tried to badge it as good news for them, claiming that they are 'back in business'. But the poor voter turnout was more likely the reason for the fall in Tory votes rather than a swing in Labour's direction.
With this win, will the Conservatives move on from the difficult month they’ve had? Perhaps not with more scandals appearing. Tory peer, Michelle Mone has just been accused of racism after some leaked WhatsApp messages show that she told a man of Indian heritage that he was a ‘waste of a man’s white skin’.
Also on the podcast, the report on the 2020 Euros has concluded that there was ‘collective failure’ in the planning of the match which saw 2000 people break into the stadium illegally.
‘I think this touches again on how well-led the Metropolitan police is’ - James Forsyth
Can Cressida Dick cling onto her job this time?

Isabel Hardman is joined by Katy Balls and James Forsyth.

Subscribe to The Spectator's Evening Blend email, from Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls, for analysis of the day's political news and a summary of the best pieces from our website. Go to www.spectator.co.uk/blend to sign up.
Fri, 03 Dec 2021 13:53:24 +0000
Will the UK copy Europe with new Covid restrictions?
A lot of news coming out of Europe this week. From French President Emmanuel Macron calling Boris Johnson a clown, to more extreme Covid prevention methods rolling out in Germany. Will Anglo-French tensions cool, boil or simmer? Are we going to see the return of talks about Covid passports and vaccine mandates?

Isabel Hardman looks for answers to these questions with James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Subscribe to The Spectator's Evening Blend email, from Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls, for analysis of the day's political news and a summary of the best pieces from our website. Go to www.spectator.co.uk/blend to sign up.
Thu, 02 Dec 2021 15:58:00 +0000
Is Boris in trouble over No.10's Christmas party?
Keir Starmer went on the attack today at PMQs. The controversy over last years Christmas party resurfaced, with accusations that No.10 breached lockdown rules. He then went on to criticise the government's new hospitals program.

Boris was dealt another blow, this time from his own side. Tory MPs are in uproar about the threats of growing restrictions. Yesterday, two votes in the commons over the new Covid rules led to another rebellion.

'40 is considered the problematic number for a rebellion. That second vote was very close to that' - Isabel Hardman.

A lot of MPs are worried the UK will just bounce in and out of these restrictions endlessly. But when the government is juggling both the Delta and the Omicron variant, can they hold off from a lockdown forever?
Wed, 01 Dec 2021 17:27:02 +0000
What's the aim of Labour's second reshuffle?
Yesterday Keir Starmer's Labour Party announced a new reshuffle of its shadow cabinet. It just coincidentally happened on the same day Angela Rayner gave a big speech on Tory sleaze, leading some to speculate on friction within the party.
'What you can't avoid is that they ultimately decided to do the reshuffle on a day where Angela Rayner, the deputy leader was trying to make a big statement that would lead the news.' - Katy Balls
Isabel Hardman talks with Katy Balls and James Forsyth about Labour's key moves, as well as the latest updates on the new Omicron variant and the plans to thwart it.
Subscribe to The Spectator's Evening Blend email, from Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls, for analysis of the day's political news and a summary of the best pieces from our website. Go to www.spectator.co.uk/blend to sign up.
Tue, 30 Nov 2021 13:02:00 +0000
How is the government handling Omicron?
We are slowly learning more and more about this new Covid variant, but it could be weeks before we know just how contagious and harmful it could be. Wasting no time, over the weekend the government has banned travel from certain countries and tightened domestic Covid measures.

'It's fair to say that ministers are anxious enough to bring back things that they have developed a personal resistance too.' - Isabel Hardman

To discuss the ramifications of Omicron Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.

Subscribe to The Spectator's Evening Blend email, from Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls, for analysis of the day's political news and a summary of the best pieces from our website. Go to www.spectator.co.uk/blend to sign up.
Mon, 29 Nov 2021 12:18:00 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 28/11/21
Isabel Hardman hosts the highlights from Sunday's political shows. Guests today include Sajid Javid, Nicola Sturgeon and Lisa Nandy.
Sun, 28 Nov 2021 18:35:30 +0000
Is Macron weaponising the migrant crisis?
The migrants that tragically lost their lives in the English Channel has caused Anglo- French relations to further deteriorate. There is a theory however, that it suits Macron’s purpose to be in a perpetual war with the Brits. Could this be the case when migrants are still in the hands of the traffickers?

'These people-smuggling gangs are becoming more sophisticated in their operations' - James Forsyth

Meanwhile, sports shops such as Decathlon on the French coast have stopped selling dinghy boats in an attempt to try and curb the number of people crossing.
Also on the podcast, is the term ‘migrant’ offensive? According to Priti Patel it is.
All to be discussed as Isabel Hardman is joined by Jonathan Miller, a Spectator contributor and James Forsyth.

Subscribe to The Spectator's Evening Blend email, from Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls, for analysis of the day's political news and a summary of the best pieces from our website. Go to www.spectator.co.uk/blend to sign up.
Sat, 27 Nov 2021 10:00:00 +0000
What is the Nu variant?
A new Covid variant dubbed 'Nu' has been discovered in South Africa and the UK has already put travel restrictions in place. Though early tests have shown that Nu is more transmissible, we don't know conclusively if it is any more deadly or can evade vaccines.
'We don't know yet, whether this variant is more severe or not.' - James Forsyth
With people already worrying if this, if handled poorly, could lead to another Christmas lockdown, Isabel Hardman talks with Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth about their Nu perspectives.
Subscribe to The Spectator's Evening Blend email, from Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls, for analysis of the day's political news and a summary of the best pieces from our website. Go to www.spectator.co.uk/blend to sign up.
Fri, 26 Nov 2021 13:20:00 +0000
Can Priti solve the migrant crisis?
The 27 migrants that tragically lost their lives whilst trying to cross the English Channel have sparked urgent appeals for Priti to resolve the migrant crisis. However, there is still no stopping some migrants attempting to flee their homes.
‘By 8.30 this morning, three more boats had arrived on the coast, even after the news had broken’ - James Forsyth
How can this problem be solved within the confines of international law? And what are the migrants’ motivations for leaving their homes? Is it economic? Fear of persecution?
Also on the podcast, Katy and James reflect on The Spectator’s Parliamentarian Awards last night. Read more about the event and hear all of the acceptance speeches by MPs here.
To discuss this and more, Cindy Yu is joined by James Forsyth and Katy Balls.

Subscribe to The Spectator's Evening Blend email, from Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls, for analysis of the day's political news and a summary of the best pieces from our website. Go to www.spectator.co.uk/blend to sign up.
Thu, 25 Nov 2021 18:45:13 +0000
Did Starmer beat Boris?
With multiple weeks of bad publicity and rumours of some Conservative MPs sending in letters of no confidence, today’s PMQs witnessed much more noise than last week’s. However, is the Prime Minster hitting back at critics, including a more confident Keir Starmer, effectively?
‘Today I thought Keir Starmer looked like he was actually really enjoying himself, and that is a sign of a shifted political mood.’ - James Forsyth
Katy Balls discusses these topics with James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.

Subscribe to The Spectator's Evening Blend email, from Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls, for analysis of the day's political news and a summary of the best pieces from our website. Go to www.spectator.co.uk/blend to sign up.
Wed, 24 Nov 2021 16:13:00 +0000
What's behind the social care rebellion?
It has been a challenging week for Boris. Following the Peppa Pig speech, immediately after the Owen Paterson u-turn, the party may be starting to lose patience. This could have implications for the government's future, shown most recently by the rebellion on the social care bill. Many MPs did a ‘no show’ and the government’s majority fell from 77 to 26.
'When the majority looks under threat, the personal loyalty disappears quite quickly' - Isabel Hardman
Is the rebellion a reflection of Boris losing support from his party? Or were there other issues to consider?
Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth

Subscribe to The Spectator's Evening Blend email, from Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls, for analysis of the day's political news and a summary of the best pieces from our website. Go to www.spectator.co.uk/blend to sign up.
Tue, 23 Nov 2021 14:25:40 +0000
Is the Prime Minister's shtick wearing thin?
During the last general election campaign, Boris Johnson's persona as the improvisational, brash, comedian was endearing to many voters and those in his party. But with multiple weeks of own goals and bad press is this attitude beginning to look careless rather than amusing?
'People are now looking out for the next banana skin' - James Forsyth
Isabel Hardman talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls about the PM's position in the wake Owen Paterson affair and the current migrant crossings in the channel.
Subscribe to The Spectator's Evening Blend email, from Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls, for analysis of the day's political news and a summary of the best pieces from our website. Go to www.spectator.co.uk/blend to sign up.
Mon, 22 Nov 2021 13:56:00 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 21/11/21
Isabel Hardman presents the highlights from Sunday's political shows, with today's podcast featuring Sajid Javid, Nick Thomas-Symonds, Maroš Šefčovič and Professor Sir Andrew Pollard.
Sun, 21 Nov 2021 16:34:25 +0000
Is the UK facing a lockdown like Austria's?
Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson about the latest lockdown in Austria, the prospect of Germany following suit, and Austria's plans for mandatory vaccination.
Sat, 20 Nov 2021 10:00:00 +0000
How can Priti Patel stop migrant crossings?
Priti Patel has blamed the European Union's freedom of movement for the 'mass migration crisis' that Britain is facing. In a visit to Washington, the Home Secretary said: 'the real problem on illegal migration flows is the EU has no border protections whatsoever — Schengen open borders'. Tories MPs are reportedly frustrated at the government's failure to stop the flow of migrants getting boats across the channel, so what should Priti Patel do? Cindy Yu speaks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.

'I think this is a little bit like a sailor complaining about the sea. It is more diplomatic than blaming the French. So in some ways it's an improvement. But it's very hard to think that the UK is in control of its borders when every night on the news you're seeing pictures of people climbing out of dinghies on the south coast.' – James Forsyth

Subscribe to The Spectator's Evening Blend email, from Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls, for analysis of the day's political news and a summary of the best pieces from our website. Go to www.spectator.co.uk/blend to sign up.
Fri, 19 Nov 2021 14:06:00 +0000
Are Conservatives disembarking the Boris train?
The announcement of the Integrated Rail Plan has left many, including a number of Conservative MPs, disappointed due to the proposed new routes and notable omissions. This comes at a bad time for Boris Johnson who is already in the dog house over his handling of the Owen Paterson affair.
'Boris Johnson is not in a good place with his party and it's not just over second jobs, it's over a number of things.' - Isabel Hardman
Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Isabel Harman about the Prime Minister's popularity going off the rails.
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Thu, 18 Nov 2021 17:06:00 +0000
How long will the 'Tory Sleaze' scandal run?
Now entering its second week, the foray around members of parliament holding second jobs shows no sign of dying down. And, unfortunately, it seems whatever Boris Johnson tries to do to get himself out of this situation, he appears to just be digging himself and his party a deeper and deeper hole.
'Boris Johnson hadn't thought these proposals through, which has really upset Conservative MPs on both sides of this divide.' - Isabel Hardman
Cindy Yu talks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth about just how long this political hurricane will blow.

Subscribe to The Spectator today and get a £20 Amazon gift voucher: www.spectator.co.uk/voucher
And stay on top of all the day's news with our Evening Blend Newsletter: www.spectator.co.uk/blend
Wed, 17 Nov 2021 17:20:00 +0000
What do the new lobbying rules mean for MPs?
The Prime Minister has written to the Commons Speaker to propose new lobbying rules for MPs. While some may welcome the measure, like former PM Theresa May, who gave a blistering critique of the way the Owen Paterson affair was handled, others in his party might not be so happy.

‘The challenge for him is that it is going to worsen relations with a bit of the Parliamentary party that he already finds it difficult to deal with.’ – James Forsyth

Max Jeffery sits down with James Forsyth and Katy Balls to discuss these possible changes and what they could mean for parliament. As well as looking at the issues of racism in cricket and the suspension of the Nord Stream 2 pipeline.

Subscribe to The Spectator today and get a £20 Amazon gift voucher: www.spectator.co.uk/voucher
And stay on top of all the day's news with our Evening Blend Newsletter: www.spectator.co.uk/blend
Tue, 16 Nov 2021 18:02:00 +0000
Was COP a flop?
COP26 is now over, but was it a flop? Even Alok Sharma, the President of COP26, apologised on the last day for 'the way this process has unfolded', as he teared up when announcing the final agreement to phase down, rather than phase out, coal. On this episode, Cindy Yu talks to Fraser Nelson and Isabel Hardman about the lasting legacy of COP26.

For Fraser, the summit was a mixed bag: 'I don't think that anybody is going to talk, in future years, about the "Glasgow declaration". But there are... some moves forward'. And Isabel points out the disappointment to Boris Johnson, for his own personal legacy: 'He then got to the end of the summit saying, well we've made a start, which is not something you're going to have on your legacy. The authorised biography of Boris Johnson is not going to [say] "well, we've made a start".'
Mon, 15 Nov 2021 14:24:55 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 14/11/21
Isabel Hardman brings you the highlights from Sunday's political shows. Clips today come from Alok Sharma, Ed Miliband, Angela Rayner and General Sir Nick Carter.
Sun, 14 Nov 2021 16:13:29 +0000
Will levelling up split the Tories?
Since the cabinet met on Thursday to map out their levelling up agenda, we take another look at what this ambiguous slogan really means and how important it is for a Tory majority in the next election. Can we compare the UK levelling up to other places? Gove recently referenced 15th century Florence. But what about German reunification?

As James Forsyth says in the episode ’I think on levelling up and on reducing regional inequality, it is very hard to find a successful playbook to go after’.

Max Jeffery talks to James Forsyth and Andrew Carter, the CEO of Centre for Cities.

Sat, 13 Nov 2021 10:00:00 +0000
Can British troops fix Poland's migrant crisis?
British troops have been deployed to the Polish border as part of a ‘reconnaissance’ mission, as Poland tries to stop migrants crossing from Belarus. Belarus’s president, Alexander Lukashenko, backed by Russia, is flying Syrian, Iraqi and Yemeni citizens into his country and encouraging them to cross the border into Poland. As the United States turns away from Europe and the Middle East and towards Asia, does Britain think it can to take its place?

Meanwhile, Britain is having its own migrant crisis, with 1,185 people crossing the English Channel by boat yesterday – a record number. It brings the number of people crossing the Channel this year to more than 23,000, three times higher than the total last year. Why can’t the government get a grip on this? Max Jeffery speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Fri, 12 Nov 2021 18:25:48 +0000
Why won't Boris apologise?
After the government abandoned plans to overhaul the Commons standards rules, Rishi Sunak has said the government needs to 'do better'. Will the PM show some contrition soon? Max Jeffery talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
On the podcast, James Forsyth says: 'He really doesn't like apologies, never has done. So when he doesn't apologise he gives the story legs.'
Subscribe to The Spectator today and get a £20 Amazon gift voucher: www.spectator.co.uk/voucher
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Thu, 11 Nov 2021 17:48:00 +0000
Is Britain a corrupt country?
Boris Johnson today has said that Britain is not a corrupt country, but what does it mean that he felt the need to say that? On today's Coffee House Shots, Fraser Nelson points out that there is no clear firebreak to the present string of sleaze stories; and James Forsyth estimates that around a quarter of MPs have some kind of external earnings. So what more will come out of the woodworks? Cindy Yu talks to Fraser, James and Katy Balls.
Wed, 10 Nov 2021 18:40:35 +0000
Should MPs have second jobs?
The Owen Paterson affair has is shining a light on the extra cash MPs earn on top of their £80,000 salary. One MP, Geoffrey Cox, earned nearly £1 million from outside legal work. But is there an argument to be made for allowing elected officials to receive a second income? Max Jeffery is joined by Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
On the podcast, James says: 'On principle, I think MPs continuing to earn money from their former professions or former trades is acceptable. They're not trading on the fact that they are an MP.'
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Tue, 09 Nov 2021 11:49:00 +0000
What are the plans to reform Commons rules?
Over the weekend most media tore into the Owen Paterson affair, with a lot of talk about MPs' second jobs like those of Geoffrey Cox...

‘I think if you go down this route of essentially banning all these outside interests, we’re going to end up with far more people of inherited wealth in the House of Commons, who don’t need to earn any other money, and I think you will lose some knowledge and expertise.’ - James Forsyth

...How Conservatives pick their peers, and even Lords reform. But how did it come to this? Who should have told Boris that last week's actions and reactions were bad politics?
'I know some MPs who think the way that they voted last week will be held against them at the next election. They can imagine Labour running an anti-sleaze ticket.' - Fraser Nelson
Katy Balls gets into all the Westminster details with Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.

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Mon, 08 Nov 2021 13:27:00 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 07/11/21
Isabel Hardman takes you through the highlights from Sunday's interview shows, with Sir Keir Starmer, Thangam Debbonaire, George Eustice and Dr Susan Hopkins.
Sun, 07 Nov 2021 17:51:05 +0000
What should be done about MPs and lobbying?
Fraser Nelson talks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman about how MPs should clean up their act in the wake of Parliament's latest lobbying scandal.
Sat, 06 Nov 2021 10:00:00 +0000
How did Boris misjudge the Paterson backlash?
Owen Paterson has resigned as an MP after being embroiled in a lobbying row. Allies of the Prime Minister have blamed the Chief Whip, Mark Spencer, for the fiasco, while other Tory MPs are fuming at the Prime Minister's miscalculation. How did Boris not realise the potential backlash? Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.

On the podcast, James says: 'It was really obvious how the press, the public, the opposition, were going to react to the Tory party trying to upend the standards rules and stay a guilty verdict against one of their own MPs. This is not an unexpected reaction to that kind of action.'

The team also talk about the resignation of Yorkshire Cricket Club Chairman Roger Hutton, who quit after the club's board refused to accept racism allegations from former player Azeem Rafiq. Isabel says: 'There's a cut-through between politics and cricket here. You have these cultures of people who are not prepared to have their behaviour questioned, who are not prepared to have their institution questioned.'

If you enjoy the episode, and want more political analysis from The Spectator, subscribe to Isabel Hardman's Evening Blend newsletter: https://www.spectator.co.uk/blend
Fri, 05 Nov 2021 14:41:17 +0000
How damaging is the Owen Paterson fiasco to the Tories' reputation?
The Owen Paterson story continues today with the government u-turning quicker than expected. This came after realising that allowing Tory MPs to mark their own homework by scrapping the standards committee might cause more outrage than they first thought. Leaving them now in a situation described by James Forsyth as, 'an infinitely worse position for absolutely everyone involved.'
James is joined by Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls to discuss this, self-inflicted, political nightmare.
Subscribe to The Spectator today and get a £20 Amazon gift voucher: www.spectator.co.uk/voucher
Ready Katy's blogs on the Paterson affair here: https://www.spectator.co.uk/coffee-house
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Thu, 04 Nov 2021 12:46:00 +0000
Has the government misstepped on the Paterson defence?
The row over Owen Paterson has come to a head today as the amendment to lift his suspension - tabled by fellow Conservative MP Andrea Leadsom and backed by the government - has upset many sides. Labour and the SNP are going in hard on accusations of Tory sleaze, with a real possibility of this spreading further than the Westminster bubble; while some Tory MPs who were whipped to vote in favour of the amendment are disgruntled at the position the government put them in. So what will be the impact of today's vote? Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.

Sign up to the Evening Blend email - a free daily round up of analysis and news from Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls - at www.spectator.co.uk/blend.
Wed, 03 Nov 2021 17:38:44 +0000
Will MPs save Owen Paterson?
With the fishing war between the UK and France not necessarily over but at least at a ceasefire, today's Shots focuses on the Commons. Conservative MP Owen Paterson was found to have committed an 'egregious' breach of lobbying rules, but some in his party, including Jacob Rees-Mogg, have raised concerns about the investigation.
On the podcast, Isabel Hardman says: 'I think a lot of MPs on both sides of this, regardless of their views of Owen Paterson's activities, allegedly on behalf of these companies, feel very uncomfortable about the whole thing.'
Also, Rob Roberts, who was suspended for repeated and unwanted sexual advances against a member of staff, is back in the Commons. But how is his return being taken by the Tory MPs he still shares the benches with?
Katy Balls is joined by James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman to discuss.

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And stay on top of all the day's news with our Evening Blend Newsletter:
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Tue, 02 Nov 2021 17:50:00 +0000
How can we define COP26 success?
COP26 is officially underway with world leaders meeting this morning. But what can these presidents and prime ministers promise given their domestic political challenges and the seeming disinterest of other nations like China? Katy Balls is joined by Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth to discuss the opening of COP26 and the continuing rise in Anglo-French tensions.
Mon, 01 Nov 2021 12:54:00 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 31/10/21
Isabel Hardman brings you the best of Sunday's political interviews, with Alok Sharma, Ed Miliband, Tina Stege, Owen Paterson and Kemi Badenoch.
Sun, 31 Oct 2021 15:01:17 +0000
Why have the fishing wars reignited?
Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and the Paris-based journalist John Lichfield about the nature of the dispute between France and the UK over fishing rights.
Sat, 30 Oct 2021 07:30:00 +0000
Should the NHS be prescribing e-cigarettes?
The new year is fast approaching and if your resolution is to quit smoking, the taxpayer will now cover the cost for your new vape. Opinions differ on the podcast as to whether this is a good idea. Cindy Yu talks with Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth about this new scheme as well as looking at Labour's reaction to the Budget and our growing tensions with France.
Fri, 29 Oct 2021 12:46:00 +0000
How was the Budget received?
The Budget was revealed yesterday, but what do Rishi Sunak's conservative colleagues make of it? To discuss this, another row with the French about fish, and the end of the Covid travel red list, Isabel Hardman is joined by James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Thu, 28 Oct 2021 16:16:00 +0000
Verdict: Rishi Sunak's Budget
Rishi Sunak's Budget, as much as it was trailed ahead of time, still had a couple of surprises - including a return of the 0.7 per cent aid budget and a cut to the universal credit taper rate. Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Kate Andrews about the high and lowlights from today's Budget.
Wed, 27 Oct 2021 16:52:21 +0000
Why is the Speaker so cross?
Budget week rolls on. But today in the house the Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle voiced his displeasure at how much had been told to the press before tomorrow's unveiling in the Commons. Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman about this tension, the budget, and the sewage situation.
Tue, 26 Oct 2021 15:20:00 +0000
What can we expect from Budget Week?
It's Budget Week and Rishi Sunak has already telegraphed a lot of what we can expect from it, branding it as a good news affair including NHS spending and minimum wage reform...but who stands to feel the pinch? Katy Balls sits down with James Forsyth and Kate Andrews to discuss the Budget as well as the rising Covid numbers and the chances of the implementation of the government's Plan B.
Mon, 25 Oct 2021 11:26:00 +0000
Cindy Yu's Sunday Roundup - 24/10/21
Cindy Yu presents the highlights from Sunday's politics shows, with Rishi Sunak, Rachel Reeves and Dr Katherine Henderson.
Sun, 24 Oct 2021 15:18:38 +0000
Is the inflationary tiger about to bite?
Katy Balls talks to Kate Andrews and James Forsyth about the prediction from the Bank of England's chief economist that the UK's inflation rate could hit 5%.
Sat, 23 Oct 2021 09:00:00 +0000
What will Sunak reveal in next week's Budget?
The Chancellor is making final preparations to his Budget, announced next Wednesday. On the podcast, Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls about the major themes coming up, and whether this is the moment when Rishi Sunak sees a turn in his popularity.
Fri, 22 Oct 2021 12:31:01 +0000
Who's to blame for the booster delay?
Compared to our extremely strong vaccine rollout, the booster numbers are not doing so well. But what is causing the slow take-up? Cindy Yu is joined by James Forsyth and Katy Balls to discuss this as well as the ever-rising covid figures, partisan mask wars, and a potential new trade deal with New Zealand.
Thu, 21 Oct 2021 17:04:00 +0000
Did Starmer win PMQs?
There was a sombre tone as Boris Johnson faced Keir Starmer at the despatch box for PMQs. This was seen as one of the Labour leader's most successful outings as he emphasised finding common ground on tackling certain issues like online abuse, extremism and terrorism

Cindy Yu is joined by Katy Balls and James Forsyth
Wed, 20 Oct 2021 17:00:00 +0000
What is the Heat and Buildings Strategy?
With COP26 fast approaching, the Heat and Buildings Strategy has been published today along with the Net Zero Strategy. But what do these papers mean for the environment, you, and your boiler? Isabel Hardman is joined by James Forsyth and Katy Balls to dissect these plans as well as looking at why the NHS is still so low-tech?
Tue, 19 Oct 2021 12:46:00 +0000
What have we learnt since Friday's attack?
Parliament meets today to pay tribute to David Amess MP who was stabbed to death at his constituency surgery last week. But what have we learnt about the suspect currently still in police custody? And going forward what can be done to keep our representatives safe? Katy Balls is joined by Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth to discuss these questions as well as the sharp rise in Covid cases.
Mon, 18 Oct 2021 12:26:00 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 17/10/21
Isabel Hardman rounds up the highlights from Sunday's political shows, with clips from Priti Patel, Lisa Nandy, Gordon Brown, and Lindsay Hoyle.
Sun, 17 Oct 2021 13:59:23 +0000
Will the energy crisis ruin Christmas?
As the temperature starts to fall, the question for the global economy is: how long will energy prices remain high? Industrial production has already started to feel the energy-related price pressures. Many more suppliers are unlikely to make it through the winter. But with the governement divided over bailing out businesses, who should be absorbing all of the costs?

James Forsyth is joined by Fraser Nelson and Javier Blas, chief energy correspondent at Bloomberg News as they discuss how this is just the beginning of the energy crisis.
Sat, 16 Oct 2021 09:00:00 +0000
Tory MP David Amess dies after constituency attack
David Amess, the MP for Southend West, has died after being stabbed at his constituency surgery. Essex Police say that a 25-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder. Amess had been an MP since 1983, and represented Southend West since 1997. Fraser Nelson speaks James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Fri, 15 Oct 2021 16:58:55 +0000
How concerned should we be about the rising Covid numbers?
With the R-number being higher than 1.0 for some days now, could we be seeing some of the least invasive covid restrictions being put back into place as winter approaches? Isabel Hardman is joined by Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth to discuss the figures, as well as the continuing labour shortages.
Fri, 15 Oct 2021 13:39:00 +0000
Why is Sajid Javid picking a fight with doctors?
GPs have been promised £250 million to improve their services, but only if they increase face-to-face appointments. The Health Secretary must meet the demands of patients that want more face-to-face meetings. But he got a hostile reaction from doctors after a difficult two years for the healthcare service. Meanwhile, the Brexit row is still bubbling away. Lord Frost received an olive branch from the EU towards a ‘new’ Northern Ireland Protocol. But will the British government even entertain these proposals?
Thu, 14 Oct 2021 13:16:47 +0000
Can Frost renegotiate the protocol?
In an attempt to save the Northern Ireland Protocol, the EU has promised ‘very far reaching’ changes which are due to be revealed tomorrow. Dominic Cummings has also piled into the debate, suggesting that Boris ‘never had a scoobydoo what the deal he signed meant’. He also claimed that it was ‘always the plan’ to tear up the Brexit deal, which has grown tensions with Ireland. Meanwhile, Matt Hancock has a new job. But will he be invited back into the cabinet soon?

To discuss this, Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth.
Wed, 13 Oct 2021 14:05:00 +0000
What did we learn from the Covid report?
Katy Balls and James Forsyth dissect the Covid report to see if anyone came out smelling like roses. They also look at the ongoing gas crisis and how the government is planning to proceed.
Tue, 12 Oct 2021 14:45:00 +0000
Will manufacturing shut down due to the energy crisis?
With the energy crisis showing no signs of improving, many industries warned over the weekend that they may have to shut down some manufacturing points due to the rising costs. This has lead to tensions between the Treasury and the Business Secretary, Kwasi Kwarteng about how to proceed.

Isabel Hardman is joined by Katy Balls and James Forsyth to discuss.
Mon, 11 Oct 2021 12:02:00 +0000
Isabel Hardman's Sunday Roundup - 10/10/21
Isabel Hardman presents the highlights from Sunday's political shows, with Kwasi Kwarteng, Jonathan Reynolds, Lord Heseltine and Dr Jenny Harries.
Sun, 10 Oct 2021 15:57:34 +0000
How did Liz Truss become the star of Tory conference?
Katy Balls talks to James Forsyth and Fraser Nelson about the rise of 'Trussmania' that seemed to be sweeping the Conservative party conference in Manchester.
Sat, 09 Oct 2021 09:00:00 +0000
Will the housing U-turn hurt the Tories?
The former housing secretary, Robert Jenrick delivered a warning to his former colleagues in government yesterday that a failure to build new homes will cost the Conservatives down the line. Cindy Yu is joined by James Forsyth and Katy Balls to discuss this, as well as the update to Covid holiday restrictions and the sad passing of James Brokenshire.
Fri, 08 Oct 2021 12:22:00 +0000
Is Boris back in business?
Although Boris won over the audience during his conference speech, the opinion polls might say otherwise. Starmer's voice of reason could be starting to resonate with the public as the cost of living continues to rise. Underlying tensions with businesses are also still bubbling. Are they really to blame for labour shortages? And what now is the biggest threat facing the Tories?

Cindy Yu speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Thu, 07 Oct 2021 17:00:00 +0000
What was the point of Boris’s speech?
Marking the end of the conference, Boris Johnson gave what James Forsyth describes as ‘the most Boris speech possible’. The Prime Minister set out his ambition for ‘radical and optimistic conservativism' and won over the crowd with his characteristic jokes. The Conservatives are in a strong position, but was the speech enough to retain support across the country amid a fuel crisis and labour shortages? And was the lack of concrete policies a problem?

Isabel Hardman speaks to Katy Balls and James Forsyth.
Wed, 06 Oct 2021 16:15:00 +0000
Tories tussle over working from home
It is day three at the Conservative party conference and, as Isabel says on the podcast, Boris Johnson started the day a ‘little tetchy’ on his morning media round-up. After being told by Nick Robinson to ‘stop talking’ on Radio 4, the Prime Minister clashed with the host when asked about rising wages and inflation. Where the Tories stand on working from home has also been up for debate throughout the conference. With some ministers eager to get Britons back to their desks, there are whispers that backbenchers don't agree.

Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.
Tue, 05 Oct 2021 18:00:00 +0000
LIVE at Conservative Party Conference
Katy Balls, James Forsyth, Isabel Hardman and Fraser Nelson are joined by special guest, the American pollster Frank Luntz, in this episode of Coffee House Shots, recorded in front of a live audience at Conservative Party Conference. They discuss what it means to be a Conservative these days, whether 'levelling up' means anything and who should be the next Tory party leader.
Mon, 04 Oct 2021 15:44:31 +0000
What's the mood at Tory conference?
The Conservative party conference is underway, and Boris Johnson appeared on The Marr Show this morning to talk about the petrol crisis, the shortage of HGV drivers, and Wayne Couzens. James Forsyth and Katy Balls discuss the weekend's events.
Sun, 03 Oct 2021 16:42:00 +0000
What's this EFFing crisis about?
Ministers are bracing for the ‘EFFing crisis’ - that’s energy, fuel and food. As shortages are set to continue for months ahead, the knock-on effects of the EFFing crisis have started to snowball. Will families have a turkey for Christmas? Will inflation cause the costs of living to spiral out of control? Can businesses cope with labour shortages?

Katy Balls is joined by James Forsyth and Kate Andrews to discuss.
Sat, 02 Oct 2021 09:00:00 +0000
Is the petrol crisis good for the government?
A shortage of HGV drivers has led to empty petrol pumps and talk that supermarket shelves could be empty come Christmas. Delivery firms want the government to ease immigration rules to fill the gap, but, aside from allowing a small number of emergency visas, they have refused to step in. Why? Katy Balls speaks to Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth.
Fri, 01 Oct 2021 15:28:43 +0000
Should Cressida Dick go?
As Wayne Couzens receives his sentence today, Harriet Harman has called for Cressida Dick to resign over the Met's handling of the death of Sarah Everard. It's not the first time Dick has faced pressure to resign (not even this year), but her tenure as police chief was renewed only earlier this month. So will she - should she - go? Cindy Yu talks to James Forsyth and Katy Balls.
Thu, 30 Sep 2021 17:13:09 +0000
Did Starmer’s speech save Labour conference?
After a rocky few days, Sir Keir Starmer has delivered his first in person speech as Labour leader to conclude the 2021 Labour Party Conference. The 90-minute speech featured hecklers, multiple references to ‘tools’ and 17 standing ovations. But was it enough to win over the country or even his party? Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and James Forsyth.
Wed, 29 Sep 2021 16:15:00 +0000
Why is Labour ignoring the fuel crisis?
With petrol and gas supply issues still continuing Labour doesn't seem to be focusing on this important issue gripping the nation. Instead, though Starmer had a victory in pushing through his changes in regards to Labour leadership voting, his parade was rained on by the resignation of Andy McDonald over disputes about the minimum wage.

Isabel Hardman and Katy Balls join us from the conference in Brighton along with James Forsyth in London.
Tue, 28 Sep 2021 17:51:00 +0000
Does Labour have a message?
With images of long queues at the petrol station dominating social media this weekend, not due to lack of petrol but lack of drivers, the Labour party conference continues in Brighton. Shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves made more of an impact with her speech than some others, but Labour's real problem at this conference seems to be finding a distinct message to rally the party loyal. Katy Balls speaks to James Forsyth and Isabel Hardman.
Mon, 27 Sep 2021 15:57:00 +0000
Starmer distances himself from Rayner
Angela Rayner said the government were 'homophobic, racist, misogynistic... scum' at a Labour party conference event this weekend. Responding to the remarks on the Andrew Marr Show, Keir Starmer said he and Angela 'take different approaches', and that it is 'not language that I would use'. How serious is the fracture in Labour's leadership? Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and the New Statesman's Stephen Bush.
Sun, 26 Sep 2021 14:23:20 +0000
Will the energy crisis leave Britons cold?
For this week's Saturday Coffee House Shots, Katy Balls, Fraser Nelson and James Forsyth sit down with John Kemp, senior energy analyst at Reuters to discuss the energy crisis. How long will this continue? How high will prices go? What will the government do in response? And is there a possibility of blackouts during the winter months?
Sat, 25 Sep 2021 09:00:00 +0000
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