Not Another One

Has UK politics become too tribal?

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 19:11:54 GMT

With elections looming in which a dramatically different set of electoral competitions will play out, the team debates whether we are in an age of uber partisanship. When does party loyalty tip into something destructive? And will Tim's rare foray into predictions work out?

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Will May's elections spell the end for the two main parties?

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 22:14:49 GMT

With the campaigns well under way for parliament and government in Scotland and Wales, plus local fights across much of England, the team debate how high the stakes might be for both Labour and the Conservatives. Could it prove a terminal catastrophe for Starmer and Badenoch? And will the electoral splintering to the right and left to Reform and the Greens be permanent? Spoiler: we do not agree.

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How will the UK handle the energy crisis?

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 16:48:42 GMT

With the international situation so fluid, the team debate government options for help with bills, and furious business complaints. Is it time to say no? Is it the 1970s all over again? Plus: we all confess to being fans of Alan Johnson, and of thrillers.

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Is the Iran war a disaster?

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 15:55:26 GMT

With the conflict in its third week, the team debates the consequences of the war and assesses where the British and American public are on the military action and the pressure on prices. Yes, the team also dares to debate energy policy and net zero polarisation. Plus: has Ed Davey gone too far?

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Is there a good outcome in Iran?

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 10:32:11 GMT

With President Trump improvising his way towards a possible exit strategy, the team debate the wisdom of positions taken by Starmer and by Britain’s opposition parties. Plus: the bleak economic effects and an attempt at highlighting some positive political developments.

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Will war in the Middle East drive the US and Britain apart?

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 19:40:15 GMT

With a regional conflict spreading beyond Iran and Israel, Prime Minister Keir Starmer is far from "shoulder to shoulder" with the US president. As Trump rains down disapproval on his head, the team hotly debate American strategy and ask whether the so-called special relationship is collateral damage. Plus: the fascinating political backdrop to the Chancellor’s deliberately dull spring statement.

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By-election special - will the Green earthquake break the party system?

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 15:33:35 GMT

For our weekend episode, the team analyse the aftermath of the extraordinary Gorton and Denton by-election result and the humiliation suffered by Labour and the other old parties. What does it mean for the Prime Minister? What is driving the rise of the Greens and the wider voter rebellion? And how will the split on the centre-right play out?

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The Mandelson Files - are we going to learn too much?

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 02:00:00 GMT

What will be the political consequences when the full Mandelson documents are published? Modern politicians are robotic enough, but if all their private exchanges risk becoming public will they dare to be human? Can we combine transparency with the need for ministers to have space to be human? Or do we have the right to full disclosure when power appears to have been abused? Plus, will the Education Secretary’s SEND reforms work? And the team assess the prospects ahead of this week’s crucial by-election.

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Is the Royal Family under threat?

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 18:55:08 GMT

The arrest of Andrew, formerly Prince Andrew, has been described as the worst crisis for the Royal Family in a century.

Is that hyperbole or will the scandal do serious damage to the standing of the institution? Our team discuss the implications and the media’s role. Plus, the fallout from the Munich Security Conference.

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Will Farage’s top team boost or reduce his chances of reaching Number 10?

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 11:40:03 GMT

Nigel Farage has given Robert Jenrick responsibility for Reform economic policy, while making Richard Tice his formal deputy. Suella Braverman has the education portfolio. Will such appointments boost Reform’s credibility as an alternative government? Or is there big trouble to come as Nigel Farage becomes a leader of a team rather than a one man show?

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Is chaos permanent at the top of UK politics?

Sat, 14 Feb 2026 09:12:17 GMT

At the end of a week featuring a failed gambit to oust the PM, plus the expulsion of the country's most senior civil servant, Miranda and Tim debate the lost promise of a "dullness dividend". Stability seems elusive, especially given the threat to shake up government even further if Reform prevails. Is that necessary?

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Can Keir Starmer change?

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 08:44:25 GMT

There have been countless resets and changes of personnel in Number 10 but so far little has changed in terms of Keir Starmer’s style of leadership. With the departure of Morgan McSweeney what should Starmer do to show he has learnt the lessons of his stormy premiership, or is it too late?

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Can Keir Starmer survive?

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 14:52:15 GMT

With Westminster in a febrile state because of the Epstein-Mandelson scandal, pressure is growing on the Prime Minister. Is Britain really going to change leaders yet again? This would be the seventh PM in ten years. What is wrong with our system that this keeps happening? Plus, who is winning in local government between Reform and the Lib Dems?

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What does the Mandelson downfall mean?

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 02:00:00 GMT

For such a powerful politician, a key lieutenant to three Labour prime ministers, to be so dramatically disgraced is a seismic moment. As Downing St reels from the latest revelations, our team debates whether the end of Peter Mandelson's unique career marks the close of an entire generation's chapter - and what kind of Labour politics might now follow.

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Will Reform destroy the Tories?

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 02:00:00 GMT

As another senior defector moves from the Conservative party to Reform, our team asks if the battle on the right is going to lead to Reform replacing the Conservatives? Plus… if Labour loses the forthcoming by-election what happens to Keir Starmer? And where does the Burnham saga leave the party?

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Does Labour's leadership kerfuffle ignore global challenges?

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 15:00:10 GMT

In our weekend episode, Miranda, Tim and Iain chew over the international tensions laid bare this week, and ask whether Andy Burnham or other potential rivals to Starmer have answers to the wider questiions of the age. Warning: contains pyjamas.

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How should Britain deal with Trump?

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 02:00:00 GMT

As the threats on Greenland and tariffs from the president ramp up, our team debates the substance and the impact on US allies. For the UK, is it all about defence strategy and spending? Or is there even more at stake? Argy-bargy ensues about Starmer's foreign policy and the stance of opposition parties.

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Jenrick defection: what does the split on the Right mean?

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 18:35:20 GMT

Is the British Right going deeper into crisis or is it mending? The Not Another One team examine the implications of Robert Jenrick's defection to Reform. And Steve quizzes Tim about the role he played in the now former Tory MP's move.

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What is Wes Streeting Up To?

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 08:53:45 GMT

The team discuss the importance of character in politics via Peter Mandelson, Nadhim Zahawi, Donald Trump and Wes Streeting. The health secretary appeared to criticise allies of Keir Starmer in his latest punchy intervention. What is Streeting’s plan?

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What happens if the Iranian regime is toppled?

Sat, 10 Jan 2026 12:24:02 GMT

In this weekend edition, Tim Montgomerie and Iain Martin discuss the unfolding counter-revolution as brave protestors take on the regime. What are the implications if the uprising is successful? And why was the media here so slow to give these events the coverage they merit? Plus - Brexit is back, with Labour pushing hard for a much closer relationship with the EU and Nigel Farage pledging to resist the reset.

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What on earth just happened?

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 08:34:53 GMT

Our team returns for the New Year episode to debate President Trump's extraordinary foreign policy. Are Greenland and Iran next after Venezuela, and how is the landscape of global threats (and alliances) shifting. How should the UK and the rest of NATO react?

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Politics in 2026: what lies ahead?

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 11:13:29 GMT

As 2025 turns into 2026, the NAO team look at the critical May elections and beyond. What will the impact be if Labour gets wiped out in Scotland, Wales and local government? And will the fragmentation of the party system lead to parties on the left and ri

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A festive special: listeners' questions.

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 13:30:00 GMT

At the end of an eventful year in politics, the team takes on questions from our NAO listeners. Everything from who would make the best 'once and future' PM to whether we are burying the mistakes born of recent turbulent times. Plus: do we get really cross with each other?

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Can no government reform Whitehall?

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 10:29:45 GMT

This week Reform’s Danny Kruger set out his plans to modernise the civil service while the current government is supposed to be carrying out its own reforms. But nothing is happening. Virtually every government identifies a need to improve the civil service and then backs away from significant change. Why? Plus, are Wes Streeting and Andy Burnham getting ready to challenge Keir Starmer next year?

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Not Another One Live

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 10:34:37 GMT

In the first of our festive specials Not Another One is live at the Centre for Social Justice for a review of the year. Why is Sir Keir Starmer vulnerable already? Will Reform or the Tories be the main alternative to Labour at the election? Is this the end of two party politics? Plus brilliant questions from the audience.

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Are big donors a boon or a burden to political parties?

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 18:12:30 GMT

With news of Reform UK's record £9m donation, our weekend episode finds the team reunited to explore whether money from individuals or organisations implies something in return. Should Britain opt for state funding of political parties? Or is going back to mass membership a better approach and a predictor of success?

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Post-Budget storm: A media frenzy or fatal for Starmer and Reeves?

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 02:15:16 GMT

Since the Budget the main question in the media and from some of the government’s political opponents has been did Rachel Reeves deliberately mislead? But is the Chancellor’s integrity the right target for her many opponents? Is the substance of the Budget getting less attention than it deserves from supporters and opponents? Plus, is this the end of juries and Your Party?

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Have Reeves and Starmer saved themselves with their Budget?

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 08:26:29 GMT

After all that drama, did the government get away with the Budget? Was Kemi Badenoch’s attack on the Chancellor a criticism too far or a justified direct hit? The NAO team agree that the UK’s lack of growth is the cause of disillusionment with mainstream parties, but how should we secure higher growth? Has the Budget made that even harder? And which party benefits from the emergence of the old dividing line - investment in public services against tax cuts?

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What can Rachel Reeves learn from recent Chancellors?

Sat, 22 Nov 2025 13:25:57 GMT

As Rachel Reeves prepares for the most talked about budget in decades we discuss a galaxy of previous chancellors often facing epic challenges. Standby for portraits of Healey, Howe, Lamont, Brown and Osborne, and of course the team’s latest reflections of Reeves as she prepares for this Wednesday.

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Does Shabana Mahmood have the right answers on asylum?

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 13:29:36 GMT

Via a brief pre-Budget detour, the team debates the Home Secretary's major new policy. Will it work? Is it hardline for one set of critics and not tough enough for the rest? Stop the boats was a slogan that sunk the previous government. Will the substance or the positioning be more dangerous to this one?

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Where has Labour's chaotic week left the PM?

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 17:51:36 GMT

High drama has dominated as the Chancellor signals a huge u-turn on Budget tax plans, while briefings designed to shore up Keir Starmer backfired on Number 10 in spectacular fashion. In this weekend's episode the team focus on dysfunction, paranoia and rivalry at the very top. How much trouble is the government in?

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Is this the end for the BBC?

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 02:00:00 GMT

With the Director General and BBC head of news fired in the wake of a scandal over President Trump and bias, our team ask whether the Beeb is doomed. Or is this yet another confected media row? And how is journalism changing? Plus - what is the latest on Starmer and the looming Budget?

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Can either Labour or Reform afford to break their tax promises?

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 02:00:00 GMT

An early morning speech from the chancellor to pledge fiscal stability and flag tax rises, while the main challenger for Downing Street overturns his party's fiscal platform. The team discuss the fix Rachel Reeves is in and whether Nigel Farage is now choosing to play by the rules of mainstream politics. Plus: Dick Cheney's role as Veep.

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What makes a very British scandal?

Sat, 01 Nov 2025 02:00:00 GMT

In such different ways, the story of Andrew Windsor's downfall and the chancellor's local rental embarrassment reveal how we regard and treat crimes and misdemeanours by the British establishment. In this weekend episode, the team find they have a clash of interpretations on both stories - and on the role of the media.

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Is Whitehall broken and how might it be repaired?

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 02:00:00 GMT

In the latest episode our team discuss three pressing issues, including the state of the civil service and government concern that the machine is not fit for purpose. Plus, the OBR. Has the government put too much faith in the pronouncements of the Office for Budget Responsibility? Is this approach crippling British policymaking? And Tim, Steve and Iain assess the quality of today’s MPs. Has there been a decline and if so why?

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Caerphilly by-election: Is this the death of the Labour Party?

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 16:26:16 GMT

Labour and the Conservatives together secured only 13 per cent of the vote in the Caerphilly by-election. In what had been a Labour stronghold for a century the governing party was crushed. Does the Plaid Cymru win, with Reform in second place, point to a wider political earthquake?

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Red alerts! Prince Andrew, government borrowing and UK-China ties

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 01:00:00 GMT

The Not Another One team discuss the challenges facing the royal family, the Rachel Reeves situation and Britain's troubled relationship with the world's second biggest economy - China.

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What can we learn from the rise of the Greens?

Sat, 18 Oct 2025 01:00:00 GMT

With the two main parties shedding support can "ecopopulism" on the left mimic Reform's surge on the right? Our team are all here for this weekend edition pondering Zack Polanski's leadership and the potential threat to other parties.

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Will President Trump’s Gaza peace plan work?

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 10:07:05 GMT

After the extraordinary events in the Middle East, our team discuss the prospects for an enduring peace. Are there too many contradictions in the President’s plan? Or might reconstruction make enough of a difference to guarantee a long term peaceful resolution? Plus our team consider the role of Tony Blair.

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Are Badenoch and Starmer safe for now from leadership challenges?

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 02:56:55 GMT

At the end of the party conference season, our team ask why the Tory and Labour leaders have emerged stronger from the last few weeks. And across the parties what are the wider lessons to draw from the conference season? Plus, the team discuss the looming budget.

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Can Kemi Badenoch survive her make or break conference?

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 15:14:46 GMT

With Tim joining from Conservative Party conference in Manchester, Iain and Miranda discuss some of his surprising insights from milling around with former Tory colleagues. Plus, disappointment for one of Reform's flagship new councils.

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Are the country’s real challenges being ignored in party conference season?

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 17:51:28 GMT

As the Tory party gathers in Manchester for its party conference the team debates whether the economic dilemmas in the run up to the Budget have been airbrushed out of the discussion. Plus: the risks of Starmer using the "r" word and the extent to which the Tory party is doomed.

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Has Keir Starmer found his voice?

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 18:46:53 GMT

After Keir Starmer’s speech to the Labour conference the team discuss whether he is right in his framing of the battle with Reform. And the degree to which he has secured his leadership and for how long. Plus, why was there no mention of digital ID cards and hardly any reference to the Conservative party. Will any of it matter when taxes are raised in the budget?

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Is Reform getting enough scrutiny?

Sat, 27 Sep 2025 01:00:00 GMT

In this latest weekend edition the team answer questions from listeners on Reform, Tory defections and whether or not we the public are too insulting to politicians. Plus, what is the government? Is anyone really in charge?

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How do the Liberal Democrats become more relevant in a landslide parliament?

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 01:00:00 GMT

As the Liberal Democrats conference ends in Bournemouth, Miranda has returned with a five point plan to move the party on to the next phase (or phase two as Keir Starmer might put it). But does she convince the rest of the Not Another One team? Plus Iain is back from his holiday with some book recommendations and a wine that is both “simple and complex”.

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To what extent do defections to Reform deepen the crisis facing Kemi Badenoch?

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 01:00:00 GMT

A senior Tory frontbencher, Danny Kruger, has defected to Reform. Others might follow. How can a Tory leader flourish when the momentum is with Nigel Farage and Reform?

Steve Richards presents Rock N Roll Politics live at the main concert hall, Kings Place on Thursday 25th September. Tickets available here.

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Who would succeed Keir Starmer?

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 01:00:00 GMT

There is much speculation about whether Keir Starmer will be Prime Minister…but who would replace him? What are the chances for Andy Burnham? Would the winner of the deputy leadership contest have a chance? Tim and Steve explore the implications of the crises whirling around Keir Starmer after the departures of Angela Rayner and Peter Mandelson.

Steve Richards presents Rock N Roll Politics live at the main concert hall, Kings Place on Thursday. Tickets are available here.

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Will Farage take Tim's advice on reforming Reform?

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 01:00:00 GMT

Fresh from the party's conference in Birmingham, Tim Montgomerie suggests a five-point plan of the steps necessary to take Reform from its current high but limited support base to the next level. Some of his advice is about policy but some about tackling unsavoury elements - will Nigel Farage, Reform party leader, listen? Steve Richards and Miranda Green have no choice as Tim takes the chair for this weekend episode.

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A reshuffle and a vacancy: A new start or big trouble ahead?

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 01:00:00 GMT

Angela Rayner’s departure has triggered a deputy leadership contest and an extensive reshuffle… some restive Labour MPs stir…fearing new levels of control freakery and incompetence …others wonder whether this reset might lead to a more effective government…Who is right?

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Who is wrapping themselves in the flag and why?

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 01:00:00 GMT

The team considers whether draping and painting the Union flag or the cross of St George over public spaces is patriotic or aggressive. Do we have a uniquely reluctant attitude to the UK flag or is a commendably undemonstrative national mindset now under threat from a sinister and exclusive nationalism? Warning: contains frank disagreement.

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Is Keir Starmer’s reset a threat to Rachel Reeves?

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 01:00:00 GMT

The Prime Minister has attempted to boost his team in Number 10, not least by appointing an adviser on economic policy and moving Darren Jones from the Treasury to oversee policy from Number 10. Some interpret the change as an attempt to challenge Reeves, who had total control over economic policy in opposition and the government’s opening months, but how undermining are the changes? Our team asks how they will change the political mood. How many more resets will Starmer make to a team in a state of near constant churn?

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Has Farage got a credible plan to stop the boats?

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 01:00:00 GMT

Nigel Farage has announced his plan that he claims would stop all illegal immigration. It includes leaving the ECHR and sending asylum seekers back to countries even if they face the threat of torture or death. Will it work politically in the short term for Reform and practically if Farage becomes Prime Minister. And how should a Labour government - preoccupied by Reform - respond, not least when voters also have the choice of parties to the left of Keir Starmer? Plus the latest from Steve’s shows at the Edinburgh festival and music choices for the last weeks of summer.

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What would you do if you became Prime Minister?

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 14:08:03 GMT

In our latest weekend magazine edition, the team are asked to imagine what they would do if “the ball came loose from the back of the scrum” and they won power. Which policies would they prioritise? From boosting housing, to tackling anti-social behaviour, expanding continuous vocational education and training, banning cycling on pavements and mandating the pint-sized bottle of champagne, Tim, Miranda and Iain design their manifestos. Plus, the coming constitutional crisis if Reform does win the election and has no seats in the House of Lords.

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Why is Starmer's government so unpopular?

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 01:00:00 GMT

Is it just "the economy stupid" or is there a deeper malaise stoking impatience with Starmer this summer, so soon after his 2024 win? Our team ponders the context wonders and whether or not the failures are all Labour's responsibility.

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Question Time: the rematch

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 11:16:50 GMT

With the others away, Tim and Miranda tackle some of the posers for the team that got left out of last week's episode. Keep your questions coming in!

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What does Lammy's friendship with JD Vance tell us?

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 08:46:59 GMT

The Veep seems an unlikely holidaymaker in the UK but the foreign secretary has been wooing him for a long time. Our team discuss political friendships across the divide, including our own. Plus: Badenoch and Britishness.

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Question time: Is there too much doom and gloom?

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 08:23:15 GMT

In this listeners’ question time episode, the team tackle a wide range of subjects. Is there too much doom and gloom? Is it time for ID cards? Could any government raise income tax? Why has the country forgotten Covid? And a listener asks: who are we? A good question.

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Has any party got a policy to stop the boats?

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 08:02:37 GMT

An intense political battle is being fought over August, normally quiet in Westminster. It centres on the small boats and wider migration issues. But amidst the conflicting claims and policy ideas the boats keep on coming. The movement of people is a global crisis at least as challenging as the crash of 2008. Are leaders in Britain and elsewhere even close to meeting it?

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What is the role of uncertainty in politics?

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 10:49:56 GMT

Is UK politics obsessed with certainty in an uncertain age? The terms of debate often demand that politicians and even the media adopt a fixed position and argue from strong convictions. This weekend's episode explores the virtues of doubt and pragmatism during a period of tumult.

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How will Starmer navigate his difficult summer?

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 00:00:00 GMT

With numerous crises to contend with on both the domestic and diplomatic front, Downing Street is hunkered down, looking towards an autumn Budget and a party conference speech from the PM that minimises or moves past this difficult phase in the life of the government. What might work? Unsolicited advice from the team as we ennumerate all his challanges.

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Who are the winners and losers at the end of the parliamentary year?

Sat, 26 Jul 2025 17:48:02 GMT

How did Labour’s first twelve months in power go? Will the recent rebellions fade away or grow? Our team consider where it all stands as Parliament goes into recess for the summer. We also ask whether the Tories can turn it around and assess the fortunes of the numerous other parties.

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Do reshuffles make any difference?

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 07:41:57 GMT

As Kemi Badenoch conducts her first extensive reshuffle we explore the degree to which her moves will improve the Tories’ fortunes, or make them worse, with a focus on the role of Robert Jenrick. Plus, is Keir Starmer right not to conduct a cabinet reshuffle after his first year in power? Much agreeable disagreement.

Steve is presenting his RocknRoll Politics show at the Edinburgh Festival. Tickets here:

https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-and-roll-politics

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Is Donald Trump's policy agenda winning?

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 11:20:09 GMT

The US President has shifted on Ukraine - criticising Putin and facilitating more weapons for Kyiv. Has the Russian leader miscalculated? On Iran, the US has managed to isolate the regime. Domestically, Trump’s opponents are still in disarray. Six months in to his second term, is Donald Trump proving his critics wrong? Or is America heading in a sinister direction?

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Is UK politics moving left?

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 08:54:52 GMT

With a new Corbynite party mooted and Reform adopting policies traditionally seen as being on the other side of the divide, we ask whether the real shift of recent years has been towards a big state. And where does this shape-shifting populist threat leave Starmer and Reeves in their hunt for growth to pay for it all?

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How much trouble is this government really in?

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 00:00:00 GMT

After a bruising succession of setbacks and confrontations, and a dramatic disavowal from the PM, our team debate Starmer's chances of recovering. With lessons from 20th century history. Plus: a new Corbynite party and memories of Norman Tebbitt.

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How are Britain’s opposition parties doing?

Fri, 04 Jul 2025 12:29:48 GMT

A year since Sir Keir Starmer and Labour won a landslide election victory, the team assess the performance and prospects of the other parties. In our weekend edition we ask whether Kemi Badenoch is struggling or turning a corner. More broadly, have the Tories failed to have a proper reckoning with their failures in office? Is Reform getting ready for power? What of the Lib Dems and Greens? And we explore the situation in Scotland and Wales ahead of next year’s devolved elections.

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A year after Labour’s landslide - what have we learnt?

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 22:03:04 GMT

Do we know more about Keir Starmer now he has been prime minister for twelve months or even less? Why has a landslide government struggled to make headway on many key issues? Is a reset the answer and if so what form will it take? So many questions a year on from the election… and our team disagree (calmly) on all of them.

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Is Starmer squandering his landslide?

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 15:14:43 GMT

In our weekend edition, the team discuss the advantages and perils of a large Commons majority. The context is the parliamentary crisis facing the Prime Minister. The conflict with a large number of Labour MPs over the welfare bill raises questions. We ponder why a huge majority can prove so hard to manage. With lessons from tight votes that challenged the authority of previous beleaguered leaders.

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Is Trump right on Iran?

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 09:55:40 GMT

Trump’s ceasefire between didn’t last very long. He responded with an astonishing public verbal onslaught against Nethanyahu. Who is weakened by the latest developments and what might happen next? We discuss the many layers of this complex story, disagreeing and occasionally agreeing about Trump, Nethanyahu, the situation in Iran and whether Starmer’s ambiguity is sustainable for much longer.

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Is Reform UK on course for a breakthrough in all the nations?

Sat, 21 Jun 2025 10:19:50 GMT

For the weekend edition, we share tips for surviving or avoiding SW1's summer party circuit. Then soberly turn to whether Reform's rise might help the SNP hang on to power in Scotland for even longer. And if Labour ever could be vulnerable in Wales, might new changes to voting next year deliver an upheaval?

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What's at the root of the grooming gangs scandal?

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 00:00:00 GMT

With Louise Casey's report prompting promises of a national inquiry, the team discuss why it took so long - and whether throwing political blame is distasteful or necessary. Plus: is Israel right to attack Iran and has Israel's attack on Iran wrong-footed Donald Trump?

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Question Time special - have we got what we voted for?

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 18:11:30 GMT

The Not Another One team answer questions from listeners in this special edition of the political podcast. Have we got what we voted for? How does Farage get away with presenting himself as a “man of the people”? What would an AI version of Not Another One sound like? Is there too much focus on the theatre of politics? By rearming are we making the same mistakes leaders made in the run-up to war in 1914? Our team tackle these questions and more.

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Is Rachel Reeves spending too little or too much?

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 00:00:00 GMT

After a bumpy first year can the comprehensive spending review give the government a clearer sense of direction? There’s the winter fuel payment u-turn, more cash for free school meals, defence, NHS and a pledge to increase capital spending. But some departments face real terms cuts and the economy remains fragile. How is Rachel Reeves going to pay for her plans and will she have to find more money by the autumn? Plus, what’s been happening behind the scenes in Reform and do Sarah Vine’s reflections on the Cameron era have wider lessons?

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What should be on Downing Street's disaster list one year on?

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 10:22:52 GMT

Bracing for an election victory last summer, Keir Starmer and his team were given a memo by Sue Gray, then chief of staff. Dubbed "Sue's s*** list" it warned of six domestic policy disasters waiting to happen. We review and add to it as Labour's challenges grow in office. Plus: our team can’t stop wrangling about the Strategic Defence Review.

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Will Labour prioritise defence at the expense of public services and welfare?

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 07:55:49 GMT

The Strategic Defence Review implies significant increases in spending and Sir Keir Starmer has insisted the money will be found but without explaining how. Will any new money for defence be well spent and how will Starmer and Rachel Reeves fund the increases? Is defence a more urgent priority than other needs such as social care and the NHS? What will be the political consequences? And is the UK heading for war or investing to avoid one? We attempt to answer these epic questions and disagree in a constructive spirit.

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What if Remain had won the Brexit referendum?

Fri, 30 May 2025 10:35:46 GMT

To celebrate the first birthday of the Not Another One podcast, the team discuss whether divisions over the vote would have split the Tory party, whether Labour would have stuck with Corbyn and how policy might be different. With added froth this week as we toast a year of these debates. Thanks to all our listeners. Cheers!

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Is Rachel Reeves losing her control over the government?

Wed, 28 May 2025 00:00:00 GMT

After the election the chancellor was the dominant figure in the government. Whatever she wished to announce or implement was announced and implemented. Keir Starmer raised no objections. Now, her winter fuel payment cut is being reversed and Starmer has indicated he supports scrapping the two child benefit cap. Ministers are stirring over cuts being imposed in the public spending round. Is her authority being challenged and what will be the consequences? Plus the team assess Reform’s economic policies and the Tory leadership’s strategic dilemma.

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Is Labour and Tory rebellion stirring?

Fri, 23 May 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Keir Starmer announced a u-turn on winter fuel payments in the face of growing backbench discontent this week. There’s also speculation more than 100 Labour MPs will rebel against benefit cuts. Meanwhile, there’s already speculation that Tory MPs might move against Kemi Badenoch. Are MPs more disloyal than they used to be or do they have more cause for insurrection against incompetent party leaderships?

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Is Boris Johnson planning a comeback?

Wed, 21 May 2025 11:05:52 GMT

As Keir Starmer and the government seek to improve Britain’s Brexit deal our team ask whether its original architect will soon be returning to lead the Tories? The team explore Starmer’s reset with the EU along with the potentially significant practical and political consequences.

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Why Do Leaders’ Soundbites Come To Define Them?

Fri, 16 May 2025 07:42:54 GMT

Keir Starmer warns of an “island of strangers” in an attempt to counter the rise of Nigel Farage. What do the PM’s words tell us about him and the policies he was announcing? In this weekend edition our team explore the language of politics. Leaders tend to be identified by a few words- “the lady’s not for turning”, “tough on crime, tough on the causes of crime” etc. Yet the words are often far removed from the policies they describe and in some cases the character of the leader. Why are soundbites and key phrases so central to politics and leadership?

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Has Starmer got it right on immigration?

Wed, 14 May 2025 00:00:00 GMT

The Prime Minister caused controversy this week when he spoke of the dangers of a lack of integration, saying Britain risked becoming an island of strangers. Has Starmer miscalculated by using the language of Farage? Or is he right? Does he need to be on this terrain using this kind of rhetoric? Our team also ask whether there is any way to fix the UK’s immigration policy.

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Will Reform destroy the Conservative party?

Sun, 11 May 2025 11:31:48 GMT

Often dubbed political history's masters of adapting to survive, the Tories currently face a threat that could be existential. Examining the fallout of the local and mayoral elections we look at what could save them from Farage and offer a bit of advice to Kemi Badenoch.

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Can Labour Recover?

Wed, 07 May 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Labour suffered a by-election defeat and serious losses in the local elections with previous supporters backing parties on the left and Reform. Do Starmer, McSweeneh and Reeves carry on as before or change tack? Are they capable of recognising the scale of the challenge and navigating a way through to a second term? Later in the week we’ll discuss whether the Tories are doomed.

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Listener question time special edition

Fri, 02 May 2025 22:12:46 GMT

Our team take questions from regular listeners in this weekend special edition. Tim, how can you defend Trump? Steve, was there anything Liz Truss got right? Miranda, why are you hanging around with these people? Iain, do you regret Brexit? When was the last time any of you changed your mind? These questions and many more are answered by the team.

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Is Nigel Farage on the edge of a historic breakthrough?

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 07:05:07 GMT

Reform is expected to make sweeping gains in the local elections and to win the Runcorn by-election in a previously safe Labour seat. Will this signal a seismic and permanent change in the political landscape or are these elections a fleeting protest against the government and the Conservatives? Why is this happening and what will be the consequences? Plus, what Canada’s election results and the victory of Mark Carney mean.

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Do religion and politics mix?

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 12:42:50 GMT

The death of Pope Francis prompts a host of questions for our team about what separates faith leaders from political leaders. Should politicians "do God" and where does morality come in to the equation? In our weekend magazine edition, the team wrestle with the relationship between religion and temporal affairs.

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What is the biggest challenge facing Starmer's government?

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 00:00:00 GMT

With MPs back at Westminster this week, we ask which bit of the government in tray looks more scary: the domestic fiscal squeeze and search for growth or the epoch making shifts in geopolitics? And our team ask whether voters will make any allowances for the international backdrop if things don't get better on the home front. Plus, a regular listener has sent us a cake and a note which sparks an important, serious discussion.

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How is the political year going so far?

Sat, 19 Apr 2025 00:00:00 GMT

In an Easter special, our team assess the fortunes of the government and opposition parties since the start of 2025. How is Keir Starmer adapting to power and dealing with Donald Trump? Can Reform build on its strong showing in the polls? What are the pitfalls for Nigel Farage? How bad is the situation for the Tories? And what of Ed Davey and the Lib Dems and the SNP in Scotland?

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Is the UK government right to take control of British Steel?

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 18:33:24 GMT

All the main parties backed some form of state intervention to save the Scunthorpe steel plant. Does this rare consensus mark a new era of the active state? Plus, the wider implications of the refuse strike in Birmingham. And which of us refers most to Mrs Thatcher in the podcast? A listener has monitored every podcast to provide the answer.

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What’s at stake in the May local elections?

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 10:21:31 GMT

Opinion polls often determine the political mood but now party leaders face the first set of elections since the general election, and a by-election. If the polls are right, Reform is set to make a significant breakthrough in local government and the Conservatives face another electoral hammering. How significant is this campaign at a local and national level?

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How will Trump tariffs and market chaos change the US and the world?

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 15:59:08 GMT

The market impact of President Trump’s “Liberation Day” tariff war has been dramatic and disastrous already. The team asks whether Trump's political and corporate backers, and American voters, will stick with him or peel off as the ride becomes scary. Will he back down? Plus, how can and should the UK respond to Trump "unleashed"?

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Does any party care for the poor?

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 10:16:33 GMT

With Labour targeting “working people” and implementing benefit cuts, and their opponents seeking to woo the better off who vote reliably, are the poor being left behind? Plus, a related issue, as supermarkets close their cafes and fracturing social media flourishes where are the institutions that bind communities together?

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Has Starmer mishandled Trump?

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 07:50:06 GMT

With Trump on the verge of announcing tarrifs and negotiating sympathetically with Putin where does this leaves Starmer’s polite diplomacy? Are other leaders more effective in taking an aggressive stance? Plus our take on Ed Davey riding a toy horse to launch his party’s local election campaign and Le Pen’s route to the presidency being blocked dramatically.

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Trump’s never ending running commentary- genius communication or dangerously reckless?

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 10:04:09 GMT

Trump is unique for many reasons. One of them is his public projection, his near permanent presence on the TV screen commentating on his own presidency, updating on sensitive negotiations and announcing new ideas that are far from concrete policies. Compare him with other presidents who restrict their appearances to the point they can be close to silent or invisible for relatively long periods of time. What will be the consequences of Trump’s freakish ubiquity and are there lessons for more reticent leaders sticking to the old ways when they convey their messages?

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What would we do if we were Rachel Reeves?

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 01:00:00 GMT

In another pivotal week for the Labour Chancellor our team discuss the degree to which Reeves is trapped and explore the options available. Our suggestions range widely and there is no consensus in the podcast around any of them, other than agreement that the Chancellor is in trouble. Our team ask: how long will Reeves be Chancellor?

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How should leaders manage divided parties?

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 01:00:00 GMT

In our weekend magazine edition the team delve deep on the question of divided parties. The British system, with first past the post and traditionally dominant large parties, rests on leaders being effective party managers. Does Keir Starmer have a strategy for managing tensions and splits in Labour? Can Kemi Badenoch hold the Tories together? And can Nigel Farage manage the growing pains of Reform?

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Starmer’s Welfare reform - bold radicalism or chaotic and shallow?

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 01:00:00 GMT

Liz Kendall has announced £5 billion of benefit cut but are her proposals an historic reform of welfare or driven speedily by Rachel Reeves’ need to meet her fiscal rules and Number Ten’s desire to please voters who support cuts in benefits ? What are the wider political implications? Starmer has a landslide Commons majority and largely pliant ministers but on this parts of his party are stirring.

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Will Trump make the UK fall out of love with America?

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 15:51:50 GMT

Are the policies of the new administration causing an anti-American backlash? And how will European governments respond? The Brits may need to recalibrate in spite of decades spend standing "shoulder to shoulder" with the US. Post-Brexit, is this geography re-asserting itself or a blip? Includes our top American cultural influences from movies to music.

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Is it all over for Reform?

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 08:45:04 GMT

Nigel’s Farage’s insurgent party is mired in infighting with Rupert Lowe MP having had the whip withdrawn. Is this row a minor spat or does it point to a bigger battle over the future direction of the party? Is Reform going to struggle to broaden its support heading towards the next election? Or are the old parties so disliked by the electorate that British politics is in for even more upheaval from Reform and other insurgent forces? Our team discuss all this and more in the latest episode.

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Can political journalism keep up with events?

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 01:00:00 GMT

In the middle of a blizzard of news, the team debate the best sources of analysis, perspective and context to help make sense of the current acceleration of history. With listening and reading recommendations (and a glass of wine for Steve).

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Trump crisis: Is Keir Starmer playing a blinder?

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 01:00:00 GMT

With events moving fast and the US President suspending military aid to Ukraine, Britain’s Prime Minister has been widely praised. Our team discuss his handling of the crisis and the British diplomatic effort to keep the US in Europe. What are the risks for Starmer? And why have the opposition parties taken such contrasting approaches to JD Vance’s controversial comments?

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Is Trumpism contagious?

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 10:21:56 GMT

With Germany's election results highlighting the rise of populist parties across western democracies, the team take a broad look at the roots of the malaise feeding outsider parties of both left and right, including Reform UK. Is there common ground on how to address it? Or do new divides on issues such as net zero mean we are headed for even more polarisation?

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Is Trump running Starmer’s defence policy?

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 01:00:00 GMT

Keir Starmer has announced an increase in defence spending ahead of his trip to Washington this week. The announcement would not have been made now if he was not meeting President Trump. Many questions arise from this. Is Starmer right to make the move before the publication of the strategic defence review in an attempt to please Trump? Is he right to cut spending on aid to pay for it? Is the increase enough? Where does the international crisis leave the “special relationship”?

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What are the domestic consequences of the international crisis?

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 09:30:19 GMT

With the world changing fast and America’s security guarantee of Europe’s security in doubt, or over, our team ask what will it mean for Keir Starmer and Britain’s political parties. If defence spending has to rise where will the money come from? Will it mean more borrowing or cuts to welfare? Or a combination of both? How will voters respond? And will the insurgent Reform become the anti-war and anti-rearmament party?

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Trump’s initiative: Peace in Ukraine or war in Europe?

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 15:13:49 GMT

Trump has made his opening moves to end the war in Ukraine by starting a dialogue with Putin. Zelensky and European leaders look on fearfully. The team discuss whether Starmer has responded smartly or recklessly by saying UK forces could form part of a peacekeeping force? Will defence spending soar in the UK and beyond ? Above all will Trump secure peace or trigger a wider war?

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Is Morgan McSweeney too powerful?

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 01:00:00 GMT

A new book has caused waves by suggesting Morgan McSweeney wields more power than Keir Starmer. Is he freakishly influential as a behind the scenes figure? If so what does this tell us about Starmer? Or do all prime ministers depend on their chosen allies, advisers and gurus from Marcia Williams to Dominic Cummings?

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Are politicians catastrophically at odds with voters?

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 01:00:00 GMT

With President Trump casting aside political norms and Labour promising "disruption" this week's episode considers the roots of disaffection and whether a radical upheaval is on the way. The team start out assessing recent resignations but it quickly becomes a discussion about political revolutions. They get so carried away that they never get to the promised section on Kemi Badenoch’s troubled first 100 days as Tory leader. It will have to wait for another time.

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Fifty Years of Thatcher: What is her legacy?

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 17:07:50 GMT

We begin episode three with the fall of Margaret Thatcher approaching. What triggered her removal in November 1990? Had she lost the plot? Or was it really about Tory tensions over European policy? After explaining the fall, our team discuss Thatcher’s extraordinary and enduring impact on politics ever since. Why do leaders of left and right still invoke her memory and image? Was she one of the great national leaders as her supporters claim, or a malign influence as her detractors would have it? Or is the truth more complicated and the picture nuanced? In episode one in this three part series we charted the rise of Thatcher and in episode two the Not Another One team assessed her record in power.

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Fifty years of Thatcher: What did she do with power?

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 16:02:33 GMT

We begin episode two after the 1979 election when Margaret Thatcher became prime minister. Was she a radical with a pragmatic streak? What was the nature of the sweeping changes that she brought about? We focus on early monetarism and its consequences, the lifting of exchange controls, the sale of council homes, privatisation, the miners’ strike, the poll tax, and much more. Episode one began with her election as leader 50 years ago this month. The final episode will analyse her fall, the legacy and the continuing impact of her time in office.

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Can Starmer get close to Trump and the EU?

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 01:00:00 GMT

Are Starmer’s attempts to ‘reset’ the UK’s Brexit deal compatible with his desire to form close relations with Trump? If not which of the two will he choose? And what is Trump up to in imposing or threatening tarrifs?

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Fifty years of Thatcher: how did she win?

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 10:13:52 GMT

On 11 February 1975 Margaret Thatcher became Conservative leader. No one knew then how dominant she would become, to the point that even Keir Starmer was citing her this week as a model change maker. In the first of a three part special we examine - from our different perspectives - the impact of Thatcher on the country and her party. We explore Thatcher as leader of the opposition. Was she a radical on the right from the beginning? How did she manage her party and develop policies? How did she present herself? Was her victory inevitable in 1979?

Parts 2 and 3 to follow over the next week.

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Can Rachel Reeves boost economic growth?

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 01:00:00 GMT

The Chancellor is giving the go ahead to airport expansion, promising lighter regulation and making other announcements in an attempt to revive the economy. Will her proposals make a significant difference and how long before they take effect, if she can navigate the political and legal hurdles? And is her message credible after all the doom and gloom since the general election?

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Is Kemi Badenoch failing as leader of the opposition?

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 01:00:00 GMT

The new leader of the Conservative party has faced considerable criticism at Westminster and beyond. Is she going to be able to weather the storm? Will Nigel Farage’s Reform destroy her leadership on the launch pad or should the Tories be patient and give her time? Our team discuss Badenoch’s prospects and the implications for British politics.

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What did Trump's inauguration tell us?

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 12:45:15 GMT

The new US President will set the tone well beyond America and there are early clues on what it means for British politics. Plus: how well is Starmer handling this new challenge as the aftermath of the Southport tragedy plays out?

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How do we survive Trump?

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 09:59:17 GMT

Ahead of the inauguration, our team discusses the challenges facing Keir Starmer and Britain in dealing with the incoming President of the United States. Is it possible for the UK to have its cake and eat it, getting closer to the EU while also keeping in with Trump somehow? How will ministers navigate the difficult four years ahead?

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Is UK politics fragmenting?

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 01:00:00 GMT

A new poll places Reform one point behind Labour, and with the Tories in third place. The Greens and Independent MPs stir to the left of Labour, while the Lib Dems command 72 seats in the Commons. Is this fragmentation here to stay and with what consequences for Labour and the Tories?

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Is Elon Musk destroying our politics?

Sat, 11 Jan 2025 01:00:00 GMT

In part two this week from the team, we look at Elon Musk’s recent intervention in Britain on the grooming scandal. What is the impact on media and government and what does it mean for the fortunes of Keir Starmer, Kemi Badenoch and Nigel Farage? And as this all plays out, will the fragmentation of our system continue?

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Will Rachel Reeves still be Chancellor at the next election?

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 01:00:00 GMT

In the first of a two part special we start 2025 by discussing from different perspectives the state of Britain. Can the country be fixed? We discuss the economy and the fate of Rachel Reeves, public services and Musk’s wild tweets that have set the agenda dangerously. At the start of a pivotal year is Britain close to being beyond repair?

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Episode 3 Question Time Special

Fri, 03 Jan 2025 01:00:42 GMT

To start the new year we host our first question time for listeners, from u-turns to Scotland to the ideal political lunch. Brilliant questions from listeners and answers from very different perspectives.

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What To Look Out For in 2025

Fri, 27 Dec 2024 01:00:46 GMT

We look ahead to what will be another epic year with help of Ed Davey and Nigel Farage. Trump will be back in the White House and there will be big tests for Keir Starmer and his opponents.

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Our Review of 2024

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 01:00:58 GMT

The team take differing views on the epic politics of 2024, with the help of Jess Phillips and Mel Stride. Plus festive wine tips from Iain and leading critic Will Lyons.

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Can Keir Starmer secure ‘a better Brexit’?

Sat, 14 Dec 2024 01:00:31 GMT

Keir Starmer has spent much time meeting EU leaders …but will better relations lead to a better Brexit deal? Should Starmer be more ambitious and rejoin the customs union and the single market? What would happen if he tried?

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Does Rachel Reeves have a coherent economic policy ?

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 01:00:29 GMT

In her budget Rachel Reeves argued that investment leads to growth… but this week she demanded big savings from each department..is she a big public spender or a miserly chancellor? Does she know who she is as a chancellor seeking economic growth?

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Do Prime Ministerial resets and relaunches work?

Sat, 07 Dec 2024 01:00:00 GMT

Keir Starmer attempted to reset the government this week after a bumpy start to his spell in power. But do these exercises - a relaunch speech with a list of goals - make any difference? Our team discuss the history of the reset and look back at what happened when parties went further and changed leader.

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Can Reform smash the old parties and win?

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 01:00:00 GMT

Tim Montgomerie explains why he has defected from the Conservative party to Reform. Will the Farage surge continue and sweep him into power or will it fade away? Our team discuss the Reform leader and how the other parties will respond.

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How long will the age of the populist outsider last?

Sat, 30 Nov 2024 01:00:46 GMT

For more than a decade politics has been defined by the rise of the outsider, in the US with Trump and his supporters and in the UK with Brexit and much more. Our team ask whether this trend has peaked. Or is there more to come? What is behind voter alienation? Is it all about migration or is there more going on? What’s the role of technology?

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What will be the impact of record migration figures?

Fri, 29 Nov 2024 01:00:10 GMT

Labour and Reform have attacked the previous government for introducing an “open borders” immigration policy. Net migration in the year up to the summer of 2023 was more than 900k. What is the likely political impact? And who is right?

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What’s the point of a Deputy Prime Minister?

Sat, 23 Nov 2024 02:00:00 GMT

In the light of John Prescott’s death and the outpouring of tributes across the political spectrum we explore the role of the deputy in politics, from Clement Attlee to Willie Whitelaw to Michael Heseltine to Nick Clegg to Angela Rayner.

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Assisted Dying Bill - Yes or No?

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 02:00:58 GMT

Fleetingly we become MPs and declare how we would vote in next week’s potentially historic debate, while reflecting on the unusual politics around the Bill. Plus, is the economy heading for another deep crisis?

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Trump the sequel: what will he do?

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 01:00:09 GMT

Captured at a live recording in Glasgow the team delve deep. What are we to make of the new president’s appointments? And how wobbly is Keir Starmer’s administration?

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Will Kemi Badenoch make a good Tory leader?

Sat, 09 Nov 2024 00:28:55 GMT

After barely a week in the job, and her first PMQs squaring up to Starmer, does the party's new leader have the skills and judgment to rebuild after defeat? The team tussle over her strengths, weaknesses and strategic challenges.

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Is Trump as Right-wing as he appears to be?

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 12:18:24 GMT

Seen as a fascist by some and a hero by many who voted for him Trump is so ubiquitous everyone thinks they know him. But do they? Where is he really on the political spectrum? What is his policy agenda likely to be and how should Keir Starmer respond?

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Who are our favourite American presidents?

Sat, 02 Nov 2024 01:00:58 GMT

On the verge of election day, we give our final assessments of the campaign and the potential outcome. Plus we assess great American presidents, pick our favourites and discuss Teddy Roosevelt, Harry Truman, JFK, LBJ, Richard Nixon and Ronald Reagan.

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An historic budget - for good or bad?

Fri, 01 Nov 2024 01:00:52 GMT

As the scale of Rachel Reeves’ budget sinks in we discuss its historic significance and debate whether the leap to a bigger state is the right course to take or a fatal error

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Who are the stars of this new parliament?

Sat, 26 Oct 2024 00:00:33 GMT

In a pre budget weekend special we reflect on those that are seemingly flourishing in the new post-election landscape, thereby giving our choices the kiss of death. Who has made their mark? Some surprising nominations…

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How should Starmer respond to a Trump victory?

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 00:00:31 GMT

Keir Starmer’s foreign policy is still taking shape and will be tested if Trump wins, especially after this week’s row with the Republicans. Should he seek to establish a more independent British foreign policy or has he no choice but to hug Trump close?

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Is Kamala Harris losing?

Sat, 19 Oct 2024 00:00:44 GMT

With election day in the US looming and early voting underway the momentum appears to be with Donald Trump. Why is his Democrat opponent struggling? And what does it mean for Europe if Trump returns to power?

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Will the budget boost the government or cause more crises?

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 21:29:27 GMT

No budget is modern times has been more anticipated than the one Rachel Reeves will deliver on 30 October. But with cabinet ministers stirring and some contradictory messages will the Chancellor give her government clear purpose or trigger further problems?

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Does the Tory leadership contest benefit Keir Starmer?

Sat, 12 Oct 2024 01:00:08 GMT

Labour has its troubles but the Conservatives are in the middle of a difficult leadership contest. What does it mean for the Prime Minister? And will Starmer’s own reset and reorganisation of Number 10 work? Plus our team discuss why and how they got into politics and politics journalism.

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Have the Tories totally lost the plot?

Fri, 11 Oct 2024 01:00:00 GMT

With James Cleverly knocked out of the Tory leadership race - and incidentally how did that happen? - our team assess the prospects, strengths and weaknesses of the two remaining candidates. Does the Tory party comprehend how much trouble it is in with the electorate? And is Kemi Badenoch or Robert Jenrick best placed to revive the party’s fortunes?

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Is Keir Starmer Making the Right Calls on Israel?

Sat, 05 Oct 2024 01:00:27 GMT

Starmer appears to have offered unqualified support for Israel in relation to Lebanon and Iran. Is the PM right to do so? How is he managing the tensions in the cabinet and beyond? Our team also discuss his approach to the EU and paying back some of the freebie money.

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Who will win the Tory leadership?

Fri, 04 Oct 2024 01:00:16 GMT

Our team predict who will win the contest and reflect on why - in the aftermath of calamitous defeat - the Conservatives are failing to address the main challenges of our times.

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Will the Tories pick the right leader?

Sat, 28 Sep 2024 08:15:00 GMT

As the Conservative annual gathering opens, we ponder which strategic direction and which of the candidates might meet the challenge of rebuilding from defeat.

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Has Keir Starmer turned it around?

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 01:00:26 GMT

During a peculiar Labour conference, the PM and chancellor tried to set the course for the government but they remain dogged by 'freebiegate' and internal discontent. The team discuss whether their speeches delivered the goods.

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Is Labour's victory going sour?

Fri, 20 Sep 2024 01:00:22 GMT

As Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves prepare to address their party conference, how can they steady the ship and why is it listing? Plus, jostling for position among the opposition parties.

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Can Labour fix the NHS?

Fri, 13 Sep 2024 01:00:38 GMT

The Prime Minister this week pledged to transform the UK’s health system. Is the talk of reform real or bogus? Will Starmer and his colleagues succeed in tackling the deep problems in the UK’s health system? Our team delve deep on this and scrutinise the promises of radical change made a few months ago. Plus, after the debate who is winning the US presidential race? For now.

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Is Britain really broken?

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 23:00:00 GMT

As the nation digests the damning report into the Grenfell Tower disaster, the team discuss where the buck stops in the list of recent shocking scandals. Plus: the latest twists in the Tory leadership race.

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Does Keir Starmer need a reset already?

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 01:00:27 GMT

This week Sir Keir Starmer has suggested in a keynote speech that "things will get worse" before they get better, but what does he mean by better and how does he plan to lead Britain towards a sunnier future? Plus Europe and the latest on the Tory leadership campaign. And Miranda's take on Labour Suffolk from the perspective of a beach.

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Is there a Prime Minister in waiting among the Tory leadership candidates?

Fri, 23 Aug 2024 01:00:52 GMT

How seriously should we take the Tory leadership race? Is there a credible leader among the contenders. Plus, the team discuss Kamala Harris and the Democrat convention. And recommended summer reads.

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Has the media changed for the better?

Fri, 16 Aug 2024 01:00:58 GMT

Is it good that the major newspapers have less power? Is social media more powerful than old media? What is the future for local media and on the ground reporting? The team takes a bird's eye view of the media landscape.

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Will this summer's riots change the UK?

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 23:01:00 GMT

Whether the wave of violence abates quickly or not, the riots pose a challenge for Sir Keir Starmer, for the Tory leadership candidates, and a dilemma even for Nigel Farage. We delve deep into the possible consequences.

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Has Rachel Reeves Made A Big Mistake?

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 23:00:56 GMT

Rachel Reeves has played her opening cards…seeking to blame the last government for the tax rises to come..while awarding above inflation public sector pay rises and imposing spending cuts. Did she pull it off? We disagree agreeably..as we do about the lessons of riots in some English towns…plus the latest on the Tory leadership contest.

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Are We Too Obsessed with the US?

Thu, 25 Jul 2024 23:00:33 GMT

It has been another week dominated by news from the US…but do we pay too much attention to every twist and turn while neglecting events in Europe and elsewhere? We then contradict our concerns about this by discussing at length whether the Biden withdrawal is an epic game changer…Plus was Starmer right to withdraw the whip from Labour rebels…and who is going to win the Tory leadership?

Credits:

Producer - David Kurzer

Exec Producer - Jack Suddaby

Video & Audio Edit - Beautiful Strangers Limited

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What’s missing in Keir Starmer’s government of ‘service?’

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 23:00:48 GMT

Keir Starmer has unveiled his first King’s Speech crammed with new bills..some of which signal radical change in the way the country is governed.. but quite a few of the thorniest policy areas are subject to reviews and we await the first budget…Is the pace too cautious??

Credits:

Producer - David Kurzer

Exec Producer - Jack Suddaby

Video & Audio Edit - Theo D'Cruz / Beautiful Strangers Limited

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How good was Starmer’s first week as PM?

Thu, 11 Jul 2024 23:00:07 GMT

In the first full week of the Labour government we discuss what has gone right for Keir Starmer…and what could go wrong…plus Joe Biden and why leaders often cling to power when they appear to be doomed.

Credits:

Producer - David Kurzer

Exec Producer - Jack Suddaby

Video & Audio Edit - Beautiful Strangers Limited

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Is Labour's victory secure for a decade?

Sat, 06 Jul 2024 12:39:22 GMT

An extra length bonus episode discussion of the Labour landslide, Tory rout, and how Keir Starner could exploit the complex new dynamics in the Commons.

Credits:

Producer - David Kurzer

Exec Producer - Jack Suddaby

Video & Audio Edit - Beautiful Strangers Limited

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What did we learn from the 2024 campaign?

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 14:20:05 GMT

As the contest enters its final hours, the team picks out the themes that emerged, and asks how Starmer - and the country - might react to a big win. PLUS don't miss Saturday's bonus special digesting the results in full.

Credits:

Producer - Jack Suddaby: @jack.suddaby

Video & Audio Edit - Beautiful Strangers Limited

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Can voters handle the truth?

Thu, 27 Jun 2024 23:00:24 GMT

Would parties lose votes if they were candid with voters? If so who is to blame for a political culture where voters are told repeatedly they can have US levels of taxation and European standards for public services? And what does it tell us about the BBC that it gave the star turn during its leaders’ debate to a voter who wanted both Sunak and Starmer to admit they were useless?

Credits:

Producer - Jack Suddaby

Video & Audio Edit - Beautiful Strangers Limited

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Is Britain a right-wing country electing a left-wing government?

Thu, 20 Jun 2024 23:00:35 GMT

With the election dominated by fiscal rules, promises not to increase tax, tough migration targets is Great Britain moving right as Labour heads for a landslide victory? Plus... Is there anything Rishi Sunak can do to boost his dire campaign in its final days?

Credits:

Producer - Jack Suddaby

Video & Audio Edit - Beautiful Strangers Limited

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Is the UK on the edge of a revolution?

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 23:00:42 GMT

If the polls are right the political landscape is about to be transformed with a dominant Labour party and the Conservatives moving from government to a small and divided opposition party…but does an historic election result bring about seismic change or will Labour’s pre-election caution continue in power?

Credits:

Producer - Jack Suddaby

Video & Audio Edit - Beautiful Strangers Limited

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Can the Conservative party survive?

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 23:00:31 GMT

With polling day only 4 weeks away, Rishi Sunak appears to be leading his party to a historic defeat. Nigel Farage, newly installed at the head of Reform UK, is snapping at his heels.

What is the future for the Tories as they adapt to survive - to follow Farage and unite voters on the right? Or is he the Tony Benn of our age, leading them far away from mainstream voters?

Credits:

Producer - Jack Suddaby

Video & Audio Edit - Beautiful Strangers Limited

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How good is Keir Starmer?

Fri, 31 May 2024 13:13:14 GMT

Keir Starmer has led Labour from election slaughter in Dec 2019 to an overwhelming poll lead now.

But coming to politics late he is the least well known of the Labour leaders who have contested elections from opposition and even in the campaign questions are asked about his handling of the Diane Abbott saga. Who is he? What will he be like as Prime Minister?

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Credits:

Producer is Jack Suddaby

Video & Audio Edit: Beautiful Strangers Limited

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.