Rock & Roll Politics with Steve Richards

The fall of Orban - How vulnerable is the populist right?

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 03:00:00 GMT

In Hungary’s general election the seemingly invincible Viktor Orban has suffered a heavy defeat. But are there any significant lessons for exposing the weaknesses of Reform and other right wing parties in Europe?

The next Rock & Roll Politics live show will be at the Cambridge Literary Festival on Saturday April 25th.

And you can get your tickets for Rock & Roll Politics -The Election Special at Kings Place in London on Monday May 11th here.

Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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

Are we seeing the return of Cabinet Government?

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 03:00:00 GMT

This month marks the fiftieth anniversary since James Callaghan became prime minister. There were many dramas punctuating his short rule in Number 10, but throughout the storms Callaghan showed skilfully how to manage his cabinets.

Arguably his leadership marked the final phase of ‘Cabinet Government’, but is it now returning under Keir Starmer?

To join the never ending debate, send your emails to steveric14@icloud.com

The next Rock & Roll Politics live show will be at the Cambridge Literary Festival on Saturday April 25th.

And you can get your tickets for Rock & Roll Politics -The Election Special at Kings Place in London on Monday May 11th here.

Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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

What next for the BBC?

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 16:00:00 GMT

The BBC has a new director general, but is he or his army of senior managers - conveniently detached from direct responsibility for the output - capable of answering a key question: What is the role of a publicly-funded broadcaster in the modern era?

Plus, brilliant questions on GB News, the energy crisis and the government’s economic policy - is there a hidden agenda?

The next Rock & Roll Politics live show will be at the Cambridge Literary Festival on Saturday April 25th.

And you can get your tickets for Rock & Roll Politics -The Election Special at Kings Place in London on Monday May 11th here.

Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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

Alan Johnson on Wilson, Blair and Starmer

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 03:00:00 GMT

Recorded live at the York Literary Festival, host Steve Richards is joined by the former cabinet minister Alan Johnson to discuss three Labour Prime Ministers that have all won landslide election victories. But do they have much else in common? Listen now for a deep dive on Harold Wilson, Tony Blair and Keir Starmer.

The next Rock & Roll Politics live show will be at the Cambridge Literary Festival on Saturday April 25th.

And you can get your tickets for Rock & Roll Politics -The Election Special at Kings Place in London on Monday May 11th here.

Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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

The never-ending debate special

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

The emails from the co-operative have been flying - so this podcast concentrates solely on the brilliant, illuminating never-ending debate. Today, a focus on the energy crisis, the media, Iran, and the continuing mysteries of Harold Wilson.

Join the never-ending debate - send your emails to steveric14@icloud.com

Rock & Roll Politics is at the Cambridge Literary Festival on Saturday April 25th.

And you can get your tickets for Rock & Roll Politics -The Election Special, at Kings Place on Monday May 11th here.

Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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

What is the ‘centre ground’?

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

The Observer columnist Philip Collins argues that the future lies on the “centre ground” which he defines as spanning the Cameron government to Blairite Labour. But at a time when voters are impatient for sweeping change, is that outdated, misleading definition a guide for any party or leader/potential leader? And why does a more precise topical definition matter? Plus your thoughts on Michael Gove and Ed Milliband… and of course Iran.

To join the never ending debate in the RocknRoll Politics podcast email steveric14@icloud.com

Get tickets here for the York Book Festival with Steve Richards and Alan Johnson on Tuesday Mar 26th.

Rock & Roll Politics is at the Cambridge Literary Festival on Saturday April 25th.

And you can get your tickets for Rock & Roll Politics: The Election Special, at Kings Place on Monday May 11th here.

Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Why are the right obsessed with Ed Miliband?

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

With the departure of Morgan McSweeney, the right in the media and well beyond detect that Ed Miliband has become the unofficial prime minister.

The Spectator editor Michael Gove has written an article on this theme, and is by no means alone. Apparently some of those making the same point used to work for Keir Starmer. But do Gove’s arguments make much sense? Time again to forensically examine a single article.

Get tickets here for the York Book Festival with Steve Richards and Alan Johnson on Tuesday March 24th.

Rock & Roll Politics is at the Cambridge Literary Festival on Saturday April 25th.

And you can get your tickets for Rock & Roll Politics -The Election Special, at Kings Place on Monday May 11th here.

Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Why is the ‘cost of living’ almost impossible for the government to control?

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Energy prices soar and the British government watches on helplessly. If it were not energy costs, it might have been some other sector causing mayhem outside a single government’s control. Which is why prime ministers and chancellors are being too clunky when promising to address the cost of living, even if - understandably - it tops the list of voters’ concerns.

Get tickets here for the York Book Festival with Steve Richards and Alan Johnson on Tuesday Mar 26th.

Rock & Roll Politics is at the Cambridge Literary Festival on Saturday April 25th.

And you can get your tickets for Rock & Roll Politics -The Election Special, at Kings Place on Monday May 11th here.

Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Why did Starmer ignore the evidence against Mandelson?

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

The release of the Mandelson documents shows the degree to which his appointment was a huge risk. Why did the lawyerly, cautious Starmer overrule the warnings and press ahead despite all the consequences?

• Please join the co-operative’s never ending debate: steveric14@icloud.com

• Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on May 11th in the aftermath of the dramatic elections.

• Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Cambridge Literary Festival on Saturday April 25th.

• Subscribe to Patreon here for the main podcast a day early and ad free, plus bonus podcasts and exclusive live events.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Is Britain trapped by the "special relationship"?

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Leaks from a national security council meeting suggest cabinet ministers challenged the assumption that Trump should have the automatic right to access British military bases. The grown up discussion was portrayed by some newspapers as a sign of weakness, which says more about those newspapers than Starmer and his ministers. Isn’t the Iran crisis showing that the ‘special relationship’ is largely a humiliating one for Britain and needs to be challenged more fundamentally once the current crisis is in some way resolved? If resolution is possible…

To join the never-ending debate in the Rock & Roll Politics co-operative email steveric14@icloud.com.

Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Cambridge Literary Festival on Saturday April 25th.

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on May 11 for post election special.

Subscribe to Patreon to support the podcast and join the co-operative’s elite wing.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Why we should welcome Stamer’s caution on Iran

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Keir Starmer has dared to question the Trump/Netanyahu attack on Iran, implying it is unlawful and without clear objective. An elected UK prime minister has chosen to think for himself rather than follow the US subserviently - and the right wing media and its parties cannot cope. Why?

To join the never ending debate in the Rock & Roll Politics co-operative email steveric14@icloud.com

Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Cambridge Literary Festival on Saturday April 25th. You can get tickets here.

And live at Kings Place on May 11th, days after the May elections: tickets here.

Subscribe to Patreon for an elite co-operative and bonuses galore.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Trump and Iran – Has Britain learned the lessons of Iraq?

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Keir Starmer has said the “mistakes” of Iraq have been learnt and he has published the legal advice that justifies allowing the US to use British military bases in its attacks on Iran. But there were plenty of other “mistakes” in relation to Iraq – are they being repeated now?

To join our never-ending debate email your latest thoughts to steveric14@icloud.com

• Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Cambridge Literary Festival on Saturday April 25th. You can get tickets here.

• And live at Kings Place on May 11th, days after the May elections: tickets here.

Support the podcast on Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

The Greens win - What will be the consequences?

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 12:32:00 GMT

In the end the Greens won the Gorton and Denton by-election with ease. Labour were third in one of their safest seats. Reform is no longer the only insurgent party of ‘change’. Given the restive mood of voters since the 2008 crash, should any of us be surprised by this - except for the Labour leadership following an outdated, shallow and confused strategy?

Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Cambridge Literary Festival on Saturday April 25th. You can get tickets here.

And live at Kings Place on May 11th, days after the May elections: tickets here.

Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

What will we learn from the Gorton and Denton by-election?

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 04:00:00 GMT

This week's by-election has become a big test for Labour, Reform and the Greens. The result is likely to have many consequences, but will it be much of a guide to what will happen in a general election?

Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Cambridge Literary Festival on Saturday April 25th. You can get tickets here.

And live at Kings Place on May 11th, days after the May elections: tickets here.

Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Will the arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor undermine the Royal family?

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Already there is talk of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s arrest triggering the biggest crisis for the royal family since the abdication. But is there much desire amongst most people to no longer be spellbound by what has always been a deeply flawed institution?

The next live show at Kings Place is on May 11th, days after the elections. You can get tickets here.

Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad-free.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Can the media cope with a government moving slightly to the left?

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Right wing commentators and newspapers suggest that with the fall of Morgan McSweeney and Keir Starmer fighting for survival, Labour will move to the left. Would that be the disaster they suggest it would be?

Rock & Roll Politics is live on the 11th of May at Kings Place, just days after the May elections. It will be an epic night...Tickets are available here.

Subscribe to Patreon here for the main podcast a day early and ad free, plus bonus podcasts and exclusive live events.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Rock & Roll Politics Live - How long will Starmer rule?

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 04:00:00 GMT

In the first live show of 2026 we delve deep with the audience in the hall and on the live stream. We go back decades for much needed context and dare to look ahead, and White Van Man Andy makes a guest appearance.

The next live show at Kings Place is on May 11th, days after the elections, and will be even more epic than this show. You can get tickets here.

Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

How will the government change in the post-McSweeney era?

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 14:35:00 GMT

Morgan McSweeney and - we now discover - Peter Mandelson shaped the Starmer leadership in the run up to the election and beyond. Now they are both gone. Inevitably this will lead to change and the first meaningful ‘reset’ in a government of resets. But will it be under Starmer or his successor?

Rock & Roll Politics is live and streaming this Wednesday, February 11th at the main concert hall in Kings Place. There are a few tickets left in the hall or to stream it online, and more to make sense of than ever. Get tickets here.

Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Why did Mandelson wield so much influence over Starmer’s leadership?

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Keir Starmer was not even an MP when Peter Mandelson was part of the New Labour project - a relatively small part. Yet he seems to have had considerable influence over the leadership of Starmer and Morgan McSweeney. Now it is Starmer who is in deep trouble over Mandelson, a figure who was last in government in 2010. How has this happened?

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place next Wednesday. There are a few tickets left, and it will be quite a night in light of fast moving events. Tickets here.

Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Will tactical voting block Reform?

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 04:00:00 GMT

In the Gorton and Denton by-election Reform dares to hope it will win. Which party should opponents of Reform back to prevent such an outcome, and what are the wider lessons of the dilemmas for tactical voters?

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on Wednesday February 11th. It’s the first show of 2026, and a lot has happened since the last one. Tickets here.

Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Has Kemi Badenoch taken a fatal wrong turn?

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 04:00:00 GMT

A new group has been launched within the Conservative Party aimed at reviving the much diminished ‘One Nation’ wing. Kemi Badenoch has been dismissive. Has she made a fatal strategic miscalculation?

The first Rock & Roll Politics live show of the year is on February 11th at Kings Place…. there’s a lot to make sense of that night. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-8/

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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

Burnham is blocked - What are the consequences?

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Predictably Keir Starmer has blocked Andy Burnham from standing in the forthcoming by-election. Has Labour had enough of this unique style of party management where those seen as to the left of Starmer and Morgan McSweeney, or a leadership ’threat’, are crushed, briefed against, expelled, suspended or blocked? Or was this Starmer’s only available route?

Rock & Roll Politics is live at the main hall in Kings Place on February 11th, where we will have the chance to delve even deeper - and have some laughs as well…hopefully. Tickets here.

Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Where does the never-ending Trump show leave Britain and its ‘special relationship’?

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Trump has pulled back from the brink, but not before he publicly attacked European leaders, including Keir Starmer. The British prime minister also expressed publicly his opposition to Trump’s plans to ‘control’ Greenland and threaten tariffs.

Outside the EU and with a US President launching threats and public onslaughts, where is Britain’s place in the world? Plus, brilliant questions on the split between Reform and the Conservatives.

Rock & Roll Politics is live on February 11th with a brand new show. Tickets here.

Join in the never ending debate by e-mailing steveric14@icloud.com

Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

What are the differences between Reform and the Tories?

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Robert Jenrick’s defection highlighted the schism on the right, two parties battling it out as Labour and the SDP did in the 1980s.

But there are significant contrasts between the schism on the left then and the divide on the right now. One of them is surreal - both Reform and the Tories are parties of the populist radical right, so what are they fighting over?

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on February 11th. Tickets here.

Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

How big is the schism on the right?

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 04:00:00 GMT

I was not planning another podcast on the theme of U-turn, not least when the schism on the right has been highlighted by the sacking of Robert Jenrick. But I sense there are huge lessons from the sequence that led to the U-turn, and they must be learnt urgently.

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on February 11th. Tickets here.

Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

What do U-turns tell us about a government?

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Since our last podcast on the risks of an unsubtle focus on the cost of living, the Government has carried out another U-turn to protect pubs from increases in business rates. Number 10 says this is a sign of an increasingly nimble government responding quickly to potential problems – but why do the problems arise in the first place? And will there be more U-turns now that Keir Starmer has pledged to put more money in people’s pockets?

• It’s time for the first live show of 2026 at Kings Place, and there's a lot to make sense of! Tickets here.

Back the podcast on Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts and to get the regular podcast a day early – and ad free.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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

Is Starmer’s focus on the cost of living more risky than it seems?

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Keir Starmer has proclaimed the government’s entire focus is on the cost of living. But to what degree can he control price rises, and will voters feel better off in the coming months? Should governments intervene to control prices? Plus, brilliant questions on leadership, Britain and the EU and much more.

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on February 11th. Tickets here.

Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

How long can Starmer claim he has no view on Trump and Venezuela?

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Trump has carried out a coup in Venezuela - how long will he seek to rule over it, and then what? He is not the first US President who has acted unilaterally without telling the UK, and he is not the first who has removed a leader without a follow up plan. And why did Starmer’s long BBC 1 interview work for him, the interviewer and the viewers?

Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

The Defectors Part 3: A Festive Series - Carswell and Reckless (Tory to UKIP)

Thu, 01 Jan 2026 04:00:00 GMT

David Cameron had promised a Brexit referendum, and to renegotiate Britain’s EU membership. In a sign of what was to follow, it was not enough for two Tory MPs…

• The first show of 2026 is in the main concert hall at Kings Place on the 11th of February. Tickets are available here.

• Subscribe to Patreon here for the main podcast a day early and ad free, bonus podcasts and exclusive live events.

• My biography of Tony Blair is out now, available here. https://amzn.eu/d/4sJJpah

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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The Defectors Part 2: A Festive Series - Shaun Woodward (Tories to Labour)

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Shaun Woodward was one of the masterminds behind the Conservatives 1992 election victory and subsequently he became a Tory MP. Soon after Labour’s 1997 landslide he changed sides, and ultimately became a Labour cabinet minister.

• The first show of 2026 is in the main concert hall at Kings Place on the 11th of February. Tickets are available here.

• Subscribe to Patreon here for the main podcast a day early and ad free, bonus podcasts and exclusive live events.

• My biography of Tony Blair is out now, available here.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

The Defectors Part 1: A Festive Series - Reg Prentice (Labour to Tories)

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Reg Prentice was a Labour cabinet minister after the 1974 elections, but was threatened with deselection by his local Labour party for being on the right. There were rowdy meetings as Prentice’s cabinet allies spoke in his defence and by the time of the 1979 election Prentice had defected to Margaret Thatcher’s Conservative party.

• The first show of 2026 is in the main concert hall at Kings Place on the 11th of February. Tickets are available here.

• Subscribe to Patreon here for the main podcast a day early and ad free, bonus podcasts and exclusive live events.

• My biography of Tony Blair is out now, available here.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

What have we learnt at the end of 2025?

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 04:00:00 GMT

We know more than we think we know … Sometimes what is in front of our eyes is more interesting than speculating about a hazy future. Here is what we know now about Keir Starmer’s fragility and the even more precarious international crisis.

• Tickets for my next live show on the 11th of February are available now! Get them here.

• My biography of Tony Blair is out now, get it here.

• A subscription to Patreon for the main podcast a day early and ad free, bonus podcasts and exclusive live events. https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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Why does a 'narrative' matter so much?

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Keir Starmer has endured a rough opening 18 months, but so did Tony Blair in quite similar ways. So why was Blair miles ahead in the polls in his early phase in power? And why is Starmer breaking all records for low ratings?

The first show of 2026 is in the main concert hall at Kings Place on the 11th of February. Tickets are the perfect Christmas present! Get them here.

Subscribe to Patreon here. The next series of bonus podcasts will be: When prime ministers fall.

My biography of Tony Blair is out now! Get it here.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Rock & Roll Politics Live - How fragile is Keir Starmer?

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Here’s the last live show of the year, recorded in the main concert hall at Kings Place. There’s a dramatic answer to the question, will Keir Starmer be prime minister this time next year? Plus, making sense of Nigel Farage, Zack Polanski, Jeremy Corbyn and much more…

Dream Christmas presents...

• Tickets for my next live show on the 11th of February are available now. Get them here.

• My biography of Tony Blair is out now, available here.

• A subscription to Patreon for the main podcast a day early and ad free, bonus podcasts and exclusive live events.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

What next as Trump turns away from Europe?

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Trump’s National Security Strategy is scathing about Europe, and in interviews he intensified his attack on the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan. Where does this leave Britain’s place in the world? Out of the EU and no longer able to claim there’s a reliable ally in the White House, even if that claim was always partly delusional...

Plus, what chance of a Labour/Lib Dem government after the next general election?

Subscribe to Patreon for bonus podcasts, exclusive live events and the main podcasts ad free and a day early.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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

Brexit- is this the beginning of the end?

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves have started to become more critical of the ‘Brexit Deal’. David Lammy highlights the benefits of a customs union. The Brexit minister, Nick Thomas-Symonds, is promoted. But does this mean a cautious government is moving towards the customs union, and when would it make such a move?

Looking for the ideal Christmas present? My new biography of Tony Blair can be read over a few festive drinks, and you can buy it here.

Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Why are newspapers still powerful?

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Few buy newspapers and not many read them. So why do they shape the political agenda, not least in determining how the current government is perceived?

Rock & Roll Politics -The Xmas Special is live at Kings Place on Dec 8th.. Get your tickets for Kings Place or the live-stream of the event here.

Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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

Could The Conservatives Recover?

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 04:00:00 GMT

The fickle media and Conservative MPs are hailing Kemi Badenoch’s recent performances, making her more secure in her role as leader. The Tories are still dominant in the media, so could they - not Reform - emerge as the main alternative at the next election?

Plus the furore over Rachel Reeves and the OBR, and why is it shocking for a Labour government to deliver a ‘Labour budget”?

To find out more about the Common Ground Justice Project click the link here.

Rock & Roll Politics -The Xmas Special is live at Kings Place on Dec 8th. Get your tickets here.

Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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

Has Rachel Reeves calmed the mood of restive Labour MPs… and disillusioned voters?

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 19:09:00 GMT

After a thousand leaks, speeches and u-turns, Rachel Reeves has delivered her budget. As predicted there were a range of tax rises and some significant spending increases, not least on welfare. For all the feverish coverage, how much does the budget really change?

Rock & Roll Politics - The Christmas Special is live at Kings Place on the 8th of December for the last show of the year. Tickets are available now at the Kings Place website here.

Subscribe to Patreon to take part in my exclusive live event on the 20th November, plus ad-free podcasts arriving in your feed a day early and bonus podcasts and live events.

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Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Rachel Reeves - and consequences

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 04:00:00 GMT

In spite of the bleak financial inheritance, Rachel Reeves should have some space with a landslide Commons for radical reforms in her budget. Did she partly choose to be trapped, without thinking through the consequences?

Plus brilliant questions on how Britain is governed in relation to Covid Inquiry and Shabana Mahmood’s plans for asylum seekers.

Rock & Roll Politics -The Xmas Special is live at Kings Place on Dec 8th, days after the budget. Get your tickets here.

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Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Nick Thomas-Symonds on Labour prime ministers, leadership threats and Europe

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 04:00:00 GMT

The Cabinet Office Minister, Nick Thomas-Symonds, has written several political biographies. The most recent was on Harold Wilson. What are the differences between being in power now compared with previous Labour governments? How did Wilson deal with leadership threats of the type Keir Starmer faces now? He’s also responsible for the Brexit ’reset’, so does he want to move closer to the EU? And what about the single market?

Rock & Roll Politics - The Christmas Special is live at Kings Place on the 8th of December, just days after the budget. Tickets are available now at the Kings Place website here.

Subscribe to Patreon to take part in my exclusive live event on the 20th November, plus ad-free podcasts arriving in your feed a day early and bonus podcasts and live events.

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Will Mahmood’s asylum policies stop the boats… and the rise of Reform?

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Within weeks of becoming Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood has announced a set of wide-ranging policies aimed at deterring illegal asylum seekers. Will they work practically and politically? Plus, has Rachel Reeves got a coherent vision for the economy? How to define the soft left? And are there too many political journalists?

Rock & Roll Politics - The Christmas Special is live at Kings Place on the 8th of December, just days after the budget. Tickets are available now at the Kings Place website here.

Subscribe to Patreon to take part in my exclusive live event on the 20th November, plus ad-free podcasts arriving in your feed a day early and bonus podcasts and live events.

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Written and presented by Steve

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Is Starmer the biggest victim of the 'toxic culture'?

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 14:28:00 GMT

There's universal consensus that the briefings from Number 10, warning of a leadership challenge from Wes Streeting and the conduct of "feral" Labour MPs, have rebounded badly on Starmer and those involved. Yet the briefings against key Labour figures are part of a pattern under Keir Starmer's leadership… even if he is the biggest victim of these operations and is now in greater danger. Plus brilliant questions on the BBC and much more.

Rock & Roll Politics - The Christmas Special is live at Kings Place on the 8th of December. Tickets are available now at the Kings Place website here.

Subscribe to Patreon to take part in my exclusive live event on the 20th November, plus ad-free podcasts arriving in your feed a day early and bonus podcasts and live events.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Why is the BBC so scared of the right wing media?

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Tim Davie, Deborah Turness and other senior BBC managers have gone out of their way to please the right, from the treatment of Gary Linker to the selection of political panels where there is often an imbalance that favours the right. Ironically and predictably the right wing newspapers have shown yet again their bullying muscularity by triggering the removal of Turness and Davie. Why has the BBC lost its way and is there any route that leads to the BBC's survival?

Rock & Roll Politics -The Xmas Special is live at Kings Place on Dec 8th, days after the budget. Get your tickets here.

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Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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What do Labour's 'soft left' want?

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Labour's so-called 'soft left' is becoming more muscular and vocal, but what binds this part of the party and how does it want this government to change? Plus, can Rachel Reeves make voters recognise the connection between higher taxes and better public services? A key rule for governments: "Make the connections".

Rock & Roll Politics - The Christmas Special is live at Kings Place on the 8th of December. Tickets are available now at the Kings Place website here.

Subscribe to Patreon to take part in my exclusive live event on the 20th November, plus ad-free podcasts arriving in your feed a day early and bonus podcasts and live events.

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Does Nigel Farage have a credible economic policy?

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Nigel Farage has torn up Reform's 2024 manifesto, pledging big spending cuts and promising tax cuts. Whether on the right or left, has he framed a distinct and credible argument about the economy? Also, is the Royal Family doomed in modern Britain? Plus brilliant questions and a range of notices for the Rock & Roll Politics co-operative.

Rock & Roll Politics - The Christmas Special is live at Kings Place on the 8th of December. Tickets are available now at the Kings Place website here.

Subscribe to Patreon to take part in my exclusive live event on the 20th November, plus ad-free podcasts arriving in your feed a day early and bonus podcasts and live events.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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What will happen if Rachel Reeves breaks a manifesto pledge on tax?

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Keir Starmer refused to rule out breaking pre-election tax commitments at Prime Minister's Questions, suggesting that he and Rachel Reeves are contemplating doing so. Can they get away with it? Or will it be the cause of their fall?

Rock & Roll Politics - The Christmas Special is live at Kings Place on the 8th of December. Tickets are available now at the Kings Place website here.

Subscribe to Patreon to take part in my exclusive live event on the 20th November, plus ad-free podcasts arriving in your feed a day early and bonus podcasts and live events.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Is the strange silence over Farage and Johnson's Brexit about to be broken?

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Finally, Rachel Reeves cites the Brexit deal as one reason why the economy is failing and why she will have to raise taxes in the budget. But is it too little, too late?

Rock & Roll Politics - The Christmas Special is live at Kings Place on the 8th of December. Tickets are available now at the Kings Place website here.

Subscribe to Patreon to take part in my exclusive live event on the 20th November, plus ad-free podcasts arriving in your feed a day early and bonus podcasts and live events.

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Should transport be a top priority for Starmer? – in conversation with Christian Wolmar

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 03:00:00 GMT

With the nationalisation of the railways, the need for economic growth, climate change and a focus on addressing regional inequalities, transport should be at the top of the government’s priorities. But is it? I’m joined by transport guru, author and podcaster, Christian Wolmar, to discuss why Transport is often overlooked by prime ministers and chancellors and how hopeful or gloomy he is now.

Rock & Roll Politics - The Christmas Special is live at Kings Place on the 8th of December. Tickets are available now at the Kings Place website here.

Subscribe to Patreon to take part in an exclusive live event on the 20th November, plus ad-free podcasts arriving in your feed a day early, bonus podcasts and live events.

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What does the Maccabi Tel Aviv football ban tell us about who runs Britain?

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 03:00:00 GMT

Most of the time the right-wing media scream that government should not interfere with the police. But when the police make a decision the media disapproves of, it screams the opposite. In doing so this tells us much about the blurred lines of responsibility and the confusion about the role of the state – that partly explains why 'nothing works' remains a powerful motif in British politics.

Rock & Roll Politics - The Christmas Special is live at Kings Place on the 8th of December. Tickets are available now at the Kings Place website here.

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Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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What would you do if you were Rachel Reeves?

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 03:00:00 GMT

In a recording of a recent Rock & Roll Politics live show, the audience became Rachel Reeves… and I became Emma Barnett interviewing some of them. There were many ideas for the real Chancellor in advance of next month’s budget and some mighty dilemmas explored. Here it is!

Rock &Roll Politics - The Christmas Special is live at Kings Place on the 8th of December. Tickets are available now at the Kings Place website here.

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Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Why is Labour's deputy leadership contest more significant than it seems?

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 03:00:00 GMT

The post of deputy leader is ill-defined at best. Yet delving deep, and going back to contests in the 1970s, shows they change the course of Labour's history. The current one will also make waves when the result is declared. Plus Donald Trump.. the peacemaker.

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Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Are the Conservatives doomed?

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 03:00:00 GMT

The Conservative Party conference gathers with the party way behind in third place and being hit by defections to Reform, a threat from the right they have never faced before. Can they survive?

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Can Starmer beat Farage?

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 03:00:00 GMT

The Labour Party conference is in a febrile mood – there's much talk of leadership, and also of Farage. Can Starmer bring together those horrified by a Reform government? Or is he too unpopular, not least with those on the left?

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Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Are the Liberal Democrats a centre-left party?

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 03:00:00 GMT

Who are the Liberal Democrats? The coalition years exposed a deep split between social democrats and free market liberals. Are those divisions healed? Is Ed Davey right to party play for laughs? Is he making the correct pitch in the current multi-party mayhem?

Tickets for Thursday's epic live show in the main concert hall at Kings Place are available here.

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Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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What are the lessons of the Mandelson saga?

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 03:00:00 GMT

Predictably, Peter Mandelson's return to the centre of the political stage has ended in crisis. Mandelson's influence on Keir Starmer grew after Labour lost the Hartlepool by-election in the early days of Starmer's leadership. The fashionable narrative is that Starmer changed his strategy for the better after Hartlepool, but is that when the seeds were sown that have led to the current crisis around his leadership?

• Rock & Roll Politics is live in the main concert hall at Kings Place on Thursday September 25th at the end of the Labour Party Conference week! Tickets available here.

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Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Will Keir Starmer's changes revive Labour?

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 03:00:00 GMT

Keir Starmer has kept more or less the same Cabinet but given most of them new jobs. Will it work as Reform UK soars in the polls?

Rock & Roll Politics is live in the main concert hall at Kings Place on Thursday September 25th at the end of the Labour Party Conference week! Tickets available here. https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-6/

My biography of Tony Blair is published this Thursday and is available here. https://www.waterstones.com/book/tony-blair/steve-richards/9781800754409

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Will Starmer's reset make a difference?

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 03:00:00 GMT

With Labour languishing in the polls, Keir Starmer has reshuffled his top team… yet again. His leadership has been punctuated by changes in senior personnel, so does that tell us more about him or them?

My book on Tony Blair is published next Thursday. You can pre-order it here.

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on Thursday September 25th at the end of the Labour Party Conference week!

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Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Rock & Roll Politics Live at the Edinburgh Festival

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 14:51:00 GMT

Here’s a recording of the final show at this year’s festival, where there was a different show every day. The final one looked ahead via four political figures, but many other themes and characters were explored over the fourteen shows. It was great seeing so many of the co-operative in Edinburgh!

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Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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What's been happening at the Edinburgh Festival?

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 03:00:00 GMT

The run of Rock & Roll Politics shows is in full swing, with host Steve Richards delivering a different show each day.

Here's an update for the co-operative on the various themes and the audience predictions, plus questions on the political drama being played out in Wales, and much more.

Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival right now, with a different show every day. Tickets here.

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For all the storms, is Labour heading for a second term?

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 03:00:00 GMT

The Labour government has endured a traumatic first year on many fronts, but its opponents are in different ways extremely vulnerable. If its opponents cannot win next time Labour will secure a second term, yet the mood music suggests a government in near fatal trouble...

Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival with a different show each day. Tickets available here.

Subscribe to Patreon for bonus podcasts, the main podcast a day early and ad free… plus special exclusive live events. https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Is Labour Delivering on Transport?

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 03:00:00 GMT

In a Question Time Special the Rock N Roll Politics co-operative reflects on the 'pause' of some rail electrification schemes, the degree to which the UK's independent nuclear deterrent is not independent, and what's wrong with digital ID cards?

RocknRoll Politics is live at the Edinburgh festival from this Sunday August 10th, with a different show every day. Tickets here.

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What does Britain get from 'The Special Relationship' with the US?

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 03:00:00 GMT

Keir Starmer drops everything to meet Trump on the President's golfing holiday, but to what end? Post-war Prime Ministers, with two exceptions, assume Britain has a special relationship with the US, only to discover that the US has different views... Some context (our favourite word) for the co-operative!

Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 10th. Time to make sense of it all. Tickets available here.

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Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Water Privatisation - why is Margaret Thatcher still deified?

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 03:00:00 GMT

The rushed water privatisation after the 1987 election was one of several calamitous policies launched by Margaret Thatcher –with the consequences still being played out today. Yet Tory leaders, potential leaders, and even their Labour counterparts still pay homage to Thatcher. Why?

RocknRoll Politics is live at the Edinburgh festival from Sunday August 10th, with a different show every day. Tickets here.

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Can the government find a more effective media strategy?

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 03:00:00 GMT

Number 10’s media strategy is fairly old-fashioned: the morning round for the broadcasters, interviews with the TV political editors and placing articles in right wing newspapers. Does any of this do them any good? And if not, what should they do instead? And this is partly an excuse to look at the wild media landscape!

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place this Thursday. There are only a few tickets left, and streaming tickets are available too. Get tickets here.

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Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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How deep a hole is Keir Starmer in?

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 03:00:00 GMT

Normally media frenzies exaggerate the scale of a government crisis - a distorting frenzy that feeds on itself. But this time, has it played down the significance of recent days?

Rock & Roll Politics - The End of the Political Year Special is live at Kings Place on July 17th. Tickets here.

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Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Can Keir Starmer learn the lessons from the welfare shambles?

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 03:00:00 GMT

Labour MPs flex their muscles, the government concedes, welfare reform is still in chaos and taxes will have to rise to pay for concessions. How has a landslide government landed on such rocky terrain just a year after its historic election victory?

Rock & Roll Politics - The End of the Political Year Special is live at Kings Place on July 17th. Tickets here.

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Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Trump strikes Iran – What will be the consequences?

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 03:00:00 GMT

Not for the first time, a US military intervention triggers greater instability and many questions about what follows. It’s time for the co-operative to delve deep into the context and consequences!

To join our exclusive live Patreon event on Thursday, and also get bonus podcasts and the main podcasts a day early and ad free, subscribe to Patreon here.

Rock & Roll Politics - The End of the Political Year Special is live at Kings Place on July 17th. Tickets here.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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How does a government communicate to disillusioned voters?

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 03:00:00 GMT

Rachel Reeves’ spending review was a mixed bag, with some impossibly tight spending settlements combined with significant investment. But will voters make the connections between decisions at Westminster and their own lives, especially when conveyed through a hostile media?

• Rock & Roll Politics - The End of the Political Year Special is live at Kings Place on July 17th. Tickets here.

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Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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What does Sarah Vine’s book tell us about the crisis in the Conservative Party?

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 03:00:00 GMT

Sarah Vine, the journalist and former wife of Michael Gove, has written a book that partly chronicles their lives in the court of David Cameron and the Notting Hill Conservatives. In doing so she is the latest insider chronicler to shine light on the shallowness of the Cameron project, with dark consequences for the Conservative party and the country.

Rachel Reeves has a chance this week to reframe the government’s confused narrative. Will she take it? Plus brilliant questions and latest news of Rock & Roll Politics live at the Edinburgh Festival.

Rock & Roll Politics - The End of the Political Year Special is live at Kings Place on July 17th. Tickets here.

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Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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What is the key ingredient that makes a leader stronger?

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 03:00:00 GMT

Keir Starmer is an evasive leader but on one point he is clear: he is a pragmatist, has no time for ideology and there will be no ‘Starmerism’. But without strong ideological convictions can a leader flourish? Plus, brilliant questions from the Rock & Roll Politics co-operative.

Rock & Roll Politics is live in the main concert hall at Kings Place on July 17th.. The End of the Political Year Special. Tickets here.

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Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Are there dark echoes from a distant Labour government?

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 03:00:00 GMT

While researching the 1929 Labour government for a new book I found myself thinking repeatedly “this reminds me of now”. The yearning to follow economic orthodoxies of the past, the desire to be agents of ‘change’ while being fearful of change etc… and then I came across a Tony Blair interview from the 2001 election. This week, we look at the many lessons for now from a distant and another more recent Labour government.

Rock & Roll Politics is live in the main concert hall at Kings Place on July 17th... The End of the Political Year Special. Tickets here.

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Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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In conversation with Michael Heseltine

Tue, 27 May 2025 03:00:00 GMT

I spoke to Michael Heseltine at the Cambridge Literary Festival about his remarkable career, how he would have changed the Tory party’s approach to Europe had he won the leadership contest in 1990, his reflections on Thatcher, his radical ideas if he were prime minister now… and much more.

The Cambridge Winter Festival is held on the 22nd and 23rd of November.

Rock & Roll Politics is live in the main concert hall at Kings Place on July 17th. Tickets here.

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Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Can The Tories survive?

Tue, 20 May 2025 03:00:00 GMT

The Labour government has signed a deal with the EU that brings significant improvements to the agreement negotiated by Johnson and Lord Frosty Frost… their deal being a reminder of the many calamitous developments in the wild fourteen years of misrule. Can the Tory Party recover from such a record or is it doomed to be replaced by Reform?

Rock & Roll Politics is live in the main concert hall at Kings Place on July 17th. Tickets here.

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Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Who will win the battle of the UK’s borders?

Tue, 13 May 2025 03:00:00 GMT

Keir Starmer and Yvette Cooper have played their migration cards, but will they be enough to counter Farage’s populist policies? Will they work in practical terms? And if they do, what will be the impact on growth and any hope for the urgently needed National Care Service? So many questions erupt when moving on to this thorny terrain…

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Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Do Starmer and co know what they mean by ‘change’ and ‘reform’?

Tue, 06 May 2025 12:43:00 GMT

Labour was elected to deliver ‘change’ but Starmer, Reeves and Morgan McSweeney have been cautious and vague about their ambition to move on from the recent past. Instead Labour communications use the term ‘reform’ as if it were a policy in itself.

Now Labour faces the Reform Party, the Greens, the SNP and Lib Dems, all pitching bolder versions of change. Yet in government Labour is trapped by fiscal rules, the power of the Office for Budget Responsibility and a lack of clarity and coherence at the top. Can Starmer become a clear-sighted political teacher?

• Rock’n’Roll Politics is live at Kings Place this Thursday, May 8th. Tickets available here.

• Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Is the Government moving closer to Europe?

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 03:00:00 GMT

There is a big UK/EU summit in May which ministers are confident will be a significant event – and not just a talking shop. Meanwhile Rachel Reeves has dared to state the obvious – that a deal with the EU is the biggest prize for the British government, as Trump oscillates wildly. Are these signs that a government so fearful of raising Brexit is beginning to turn towards Europe? And what would be the consequences?

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on May 8th and streaming live, just days after the local elections and the Runcorn by-election. A new landscape? Tickets available here.

Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Why are the right targeting Ed Miliband?

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 14:45:00 GMT

The right are obsessed with Miliband and his zeal for net zero policies, but is there any basis for the argument that his net zero policies threaten economic growth? And what is their alternative strategy?

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on May 8th… there’ll be a lot going on. Tickets available here.

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Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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With Farage backing steel nationalisation, is public ownership back in fashion?

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 03:00:00 GMT

For decades nationalisation was the great taboo in British politics, while privatisation was deemed the great triumph of Thatcherism. Blair and Brown were opposed to any attempt to renationalise – but now there is cross party support for the nationalisation of British Steel, the railways are being renationalised and there is huge support for the government to take over water companies. What’s happening… and why?

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on May 8th. Tickets available here.

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Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Will Brexit Britain flourish in the New World Order?

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 03:00:00 GMT

Is there a hint of British exceptionalism in the early days of the Trump-induced economic crisis? Apparently the UK got off lightly, while Keir Starmer can be a ‘bridgehead’ between Europe and the US. Let’s see…

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on the 8th of May, just days after local elections and the Runcorn by-election. Tickets available here.

Subscribe to Patreon here for live events, bonus podcasts and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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How long will Trump’s ‘love’ of tariffs last?

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 03:00:00 GMT

Trump has said ‘tariff’ is his favourite word, but will US consumers agree with him when prices rise? Plus - does the UK need a Department for Economic Growth?

Subscribe to Patreon here to join Thursday’s live discussion and get a vault of timeless bonus podcasts.

Rock & Roll Politics is live at the main concert hall in Kings Place on May 8th. Tickets here.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Is Rachel Reeves trapped by her fiscal rules?

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 04:00:00 GMT

This week Rachel Reeves announces more spending cuts in order to meet her fiscal rules, and the OBR’s verdict on her ‘fiscal headroom’. But what was the original purpose of ‘the fiscal rules’ and has Reeves learned the lessons from past Labour chancellors? Some context in a week that could doom a landslide government to being trapped rather than liberated by a chancellor’s ‘ironclad’ rules.

Rock & Roll Politics is live at the main concert hall in Kings Place on May 8th. Tickets here.

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Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Is Wes Streeting taking back control?

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 04:00:00 GMT

The decision to scrap NHS England is a rare example of clear thinking in relation to delivery of public services. Can such clarity be applied more widely or will chaotic lines of management from the BBC to the railways continue to prevail? Some context from the 1980s, the New Labour era and David Cameron’s shallow and confused thinking when he set up NHS England.

Rock & Roll Politics is live at the main concert hall in Kings Place on May 8th. Tickets here.

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Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Can Rachel Reeves slash welfare spending?

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Rachel Reeves is looking to save billions from the welfare budget. What are the lessons from New Labour’s attempts to cut welfare and what is the purpose of the latest focus on benefits? Will the government succeed in its hastily planned mission? Plus, brilliant questions on the international crisis and the internal turmoil in Reform.

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on May 8th. Tickets here.

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Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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What will it mean to have ‘boots on the ground’?

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Keir Starmer is enjoying his best media coverage since the election – but the UK commentariat always hails the appearance of ‘strong leadership’ during the early phase of an international crisis. Tough choices can still be avoided, but what happens when the consequences are played out and these vaguely defined choices must be made? The commentariat in the UK can turn speedily… and so can voters.

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Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Can Keir Starmer be the ‘bridge’ between Europe and Trump?

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 04:00:00 GMT

The moving parts in the international crisis continue to move. Macron and Starmer in Washington, a new government to form in Germany and Trump never far away from a TV screen. But to what end are all the diverse parts moving?

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Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Is Europe heading for war with Russia?

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Trump has instigated peace talks with Putin. The UK, France and Germany are alarmed, but what did they expect? And in their responses are they making a war with Russia more likely, and with what consequences? Plus more on ‘disrupters vs non-disrupters’ - the silliest and most shallow framing in the history of modern politics.

Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts including the current series ‘The Defectors’, and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Who are the ‘incumbent disrupters’ in Keir Starmer’s government?

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 04:00:00 GMT

The new fashionable term in politics is ‘disrupter’ or ‘insurgent’. Morgan McSweeney briefs that the government must be insurgents, but does he mean it? The cautious Number 10 operation seems wary of genuine change making ministers, so who are the insurgents? And can Starmer be one? Plus, brilliant questions from the Rock & Roll Politics co-operative.

Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts, and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Is Rachel Reeves an accidental risk taker?

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 04:00:00 GMT

The chancellor hails her fiscal rules and iron resolution, but in her search for stability is she taking routes that are riskier than they appear to be? Plus five years of Brexit, the real Walden/ Thatcher interview and brilliant questions from the Rock & Roll Politics co-operative.

Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts, and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Can a cautious government achieve economic growth?

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Rachel Reeves is going for growth, but will she succeed? Plus, as Channel 4 screen James Graham’s new drama on Brian Walden’s last interview with Margaret Thatcher, what are the lessons for today’s media and top politicians?

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place next Monday 3rd of February for the first live show in what will be a wild political year. Tickets here.

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Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Trump is back. What are the lessons for Starmer?

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Trump has won again as a disruptor, reflecting the mood of an impatient electorate aching for change. Starmer won the election last year arguing for ‘change’ – but can he become a confident changemaker? And why are hardline Brexiteers so content with Trump’s power to determine the fate of the British economy, while obsessing over Westminster sovereignty in relation to the EU?

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on the 3rd of February for the first live show in what will be a wild political year. Tickets here.

Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts, and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Should the Liberal Democrats be getting more media attention?

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Nigel Farage commands the airwaves with only four MPs – and the two bigger parties obsess about the threat posed by Reform. Yet it’s the Lib Dems that made sweeping gains in Tory areas and have 72 MPs. As Keir Starmer’s cautious government gives them space on issues such as social care and Europe, and the media focuses on Reform, could they become a force again?

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on the 3rd of February for the first live show in what will be a wild political year. Tickets here.

Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts, and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Is the government wasting a landslide majority?

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 04:00:00 GMT

The announcement that a national care service will be the subject of another review shines light on a government with a landslide majority, but that is reluctant to use it in order to achieve challenging but historic change. Plus, the Reform UK latest, and Musk disowns Farage.

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on the 3rd of February for the first live show in what will be a wild political year. Tickets here.

Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts, and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Rock & Roll Politics Special: The Troublemakers

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 04:00:00 GMT

Join Steve Richards for a special end of year political deep dive - straight from the Rock & Roll Politics Patreon vaults.

In a bumper double episode Steve looks at the careers of Enoch Powell and Tony Benn - on the face of it, two very different figures. Yet the pair remain connected by their capacity to play the role of political troublemaker - a theme to be explored by Steve in a forthcoming new book.

Thanks to all the listeners in the Rock & Roll Politics co-operative for your support in 2024, and stay tuned for more in the new year.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Rock & Roll Politics Live at Kings Place - The final show of 2024

Mon, 23 Dec 2024 07:00:00 GMT

• Give or get 20% off a year’s Patreon support for the pod in our Black Friday sale.

Here’s a recording of the final live show of 2024, recorded at Kings Place, where we tried to make sense of the epic politics of 2024. Including excellent questions from the Rock & Roll Politics co-operative.

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Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Why Nigel Farage is not as formidable as he appears to be

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 04:00:00 GMT

• Give or get 20% off a year’s Patreon support for the pod in our Black Friday sale.

Farage is a formidable campaigner but the UK has a party based system, and running a party is a nightmare after the early euphoria of making waves has passed. Here’s why.

Plus, the co-operative’s never ending debate on assisted dying, the future of Starmer and much more.

Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts, and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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What happens if thousands flee Syria?

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 04:00:00 GMT

• Give or get 20% off a year’s Patreon support for the pod in our Black Friday sale.

What happens if thousands flee Syria? Where do they go? Can borders be ‘closed’ when asylum demands rise? The movement of people is the second crisis of the global economy after the financial crash, but there has been no global response.

Plus brilliant questions from the Rock & Roll Politics co-operative and important assembly notices.

Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts, and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Will Keir Starmer’s ‘relaunch’ make a difference?

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 04:00:00 GMT

• Give or get 20% off a year’s Patreon support for the pod in our Black Friday sale.

Keir Starmer will make a big speech on Thursday that is being perceived as a ‘relaunch’, though Number 10 are keen to insist it is nothing of the sort. But is this a government with a clear sense of purpose? And if so, do voters know what that purpose is?

Plus brilliant questions from the Rock & Roll Politics co-operative and important assembly notices.

Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts, and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Is Starmer Moving Closer to Europe?

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 04:00:00 GMT

• Give or get 20% off a year’s Patreon support for the pod in our Black Friday sale.

The government is advertising for a senior civil servant to work on a detailed ‘reset’ of the UK’s relations with the EU. Can the changes be of any significance? Will Trump be a factor in limiting the government’s ambitions? And how far will the government dare to go?

Plus brilliant questions from the Rock & Roll Politics co-operative and important assembly notices.

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place this Wednesday 27th of November for the last show of 2024. There’s only a handful of tickets left, get yours here.

Subscribe to Patreon for live events, bonus podcasts, and to get the regular podcast a day early and ad free.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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What’s Wes Streeting up to?

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 04:00:00 GMT

• Give or get 20% off a year’s Patreon support for the pod in our Black Friday sale.

Wes Streeting has enjoyed a high profile under Keir Starmer so far. Recently he made a significant intervention in the debate over assisted dying, while announcing the first Alan Milburn inspired NHS reforms. What will the consequences be?

Plus brilliant questions from the Rock & Roll Politics co-operative – and important assembly notices.

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on November 27th for the last show of 2024, the year of Trump, Starmer and Badenoch. There’s a lot to make sense of. Tickets here.

• Subscribe to Patreon here for bonus podcasts and much more.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Can Starmer connect with “the left behind”?

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 04:00:00 GMT

• Give or get 20% off a year’s Patreon support for the pod in our Black Friday sale..

Increasing numbers of voters feel disconnected from what happens in Westminster, Washington D.C, and most places where democratic politics is played out, leaving space for populists to feed off the angry indifference. Can the likes of Keir Starmer address the ‘people’s revolt’? Plus brilliant questions from the Rock & Roll Politics co-operative and important assembly notices.

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on November 27th for the last show of 2024, the year of Trump, Starmer and Badenoch. So there’s a lot to make sense of. Tickets here.

• Subscribe to Patreon here for bonus podcasts and much more.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Can Kemi Badenoch revive the Tories?

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 04:00:00 GMT

The Conservatives have elected yet another leader in yet another challenging context. Does Kemi Badenoch have the epic qualities required to revive the party’s fortunes? Plus: the Budget, Harris v Trump, more brilliant questions from the Rock & Roll Politics co-operative, and important assembly notices.

See Rock & Roll Politics live:

• The Ropetackle in Shoreham on Weds 6 Nov. Tickets here.

• Kings Place on Weds 27 Nov, the last show of the year. Tickets here.

Back the podcast on Patreon here for bonus editions and much more.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Will the budget be a historic turning point?

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 04:00:00 GMT

This week Rachel Reeves will deliver the most anticipated budget in modern times. Can she significantly change the UK’s economic prospects and the course of a wobbly government? Plus brilliant questions from the Rock& Roll Politics co-operative, and important assembly notices.

Rock & Roll Politics Live:

• The Ropetackle in Shoreham, Weds 6 Nov. Tickets here.

• Kings Place London, Weds 27 November – the last show of the year. Tickets here.

Support us on Patreon here for bonus podcasts and much more.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Are some chancellors more powerful than their prime ministers?

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 03:00:00 GMT

Some chancellors determine the fate of their governments with their budget – and Rachel Reeves may do so on October 30th. But prime ministers have no equivalent levers. Does this make some chancellors more powerful than their prime ministers?

Support Rock & Roll politics on Patreon.

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on November 27th. Come and join Steve for the final show of the year. Tickets here.

Written and presented by Steve Richards

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What is the most underrated quality in a leader?

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 03:00:00 GMT

I am obsessed by the qualities required to be an effective leader, as members of the co-operative know. On reflecting on the death of Alex Salmond I discovered another underexplored quality in leadership – and I discuss the significance of Labour’s attempt to create an active state.

Plus brilliant questions from the Rock n Roll Politics co-operative, and important assembly notices.

Rock n Roll Politics is live at the Ropetackle in Shoreham on November 6th. Tickets here.

…and is live at Kings Place on November 27th.. the last show of the year. Tickets here.

Subscribe to Patreon here for bonus podcasts and much more.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Will the departure of Sue Gray boost Starmer’s government?

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 03:00:00 GMT

Sue Gray has gone and Morgan Mcsweeney is in charge. Where does this leave Keir Starmer and his confused and confusing government? Plus brilliant questions from the Rock n Roll Politics co-operative, and important assembly notices.

Subscribe to Patreon here for bonus podcasts and much more.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Why Are The Conservatives Still Talking To Themselves?

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 03:00:00 GMT

The Conservatives were slaughtered at the latest election, and yet its leadership candidates are still singing the same old tune. Is the party weaker now than it was in 1997?

Plus brilliant questions from the Rock & Roll Politics co-operative, and important assembly notices.

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place next Monday. Tickets here:

https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-7-oct-in-hall/

Subscribe to Patreon here for bonus podcasts and much more.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Can Labour recover from its wobbly start?

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 03:00:00 GMT

The first Labour conference after a landslide win should be celebratory, but in Liverpool the mood is uncertain. Can Keir Starmer give his government a clearer sense of purpose?

Rock n Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on October 7th. Tickets here!

Subscribe to Patreon here for bonus podcasts and much more.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Can the Lib Dems Make Any Impact on a Landslide Government?

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 03:00:00 GMT

The Lib Dems won 72 seats at the election. While this is an epic achievement, it will have little influence over a government with a commanding majority. But is there one policy where they could play an historic role?

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on October 7th. Tickets here.

Subscribe to Patreon here for bonus podcasts and much more.

Written and presented by Steve Richards.

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Does the government need to be unpopular?

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 03:00:00 GMT

Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves are refusing to budge over the winter fuel payment saga – and both argue they are willing to be unpopular if the decision is the 'right one'. But is this the smart strategic course? And is unpopularity an inevitable consequence of 'tough' leadership? Plus, answers to brilliant listener questions and some vital assembly notices...

Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on Oct 7... a lot going on by then. Tickets here

Please subscribe to Patreon for ad free podcasts a day early and bonus podcasts every month. Subscribe here

Written and presented by Steve Richards

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Will the next Tory leader ever be prime minister?

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 03:00:00 GMT

Whoever wins the Tory leadership contest will face a titanic task. Are any of the six candidates up to it? And can Labour make the most of the political space while they decide?

Support Rock & Roll politics on Patreon.

Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on Oct 7th after the party conferences. Tickets here.

Written and presented by Steve Richards

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Do things have to get worse?

Tue, 27 Aug 2024 11:23:00 GMT

In Keir Starmer’s first major speech as Prime Minister he argues things will get worse before they will get better… Is this the right message and approach? Why are incoming Labour governments so much more cautious than their Conservative equivalents?

Rock & Roll Politics is live at King’s Place London on Mon October 7. Tickets here

Support the podcast on Patreon here for live events, bonus podcasts, the main podcast ad-free and a day early, and more…

Written and presented by Steve Richards

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The briefings against Sue Gray

Tue, 20 Aug 2024 03:00:00 GMT

The macho briefings against Sue Gray have echoes with those against Marcia Williams in the Harold Wilson era, and could have disruptive consequences. Plus latest from the Edinburgh Festival.

Rock & Roll Politics is at the Edinburgh Festival every day until August 24, with a different show every time for the whole festival. Tickets here

Support the podcast on Patreon here for live events, bonus podcasts, the main podcast ad-free and a day early, and more…

Written and presented by Steve Richards

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Are the Tories doomed whoever is the next leader?

Tue, 13 Aug 2024 03:00:00 GMT

With Reform breathing down their necks should the next Tory leader seek to work with Farage or try to destroy him? Either route is fraught with explosive problems…

Rock & Roll Politics is at the Edinburgh Festival every day until August 24, with a different show every time for the whole festival. Tickets here

Support the podcast on Patreon here for live events, bonus podcasts, the main podcast ad-free and a day early, and more…

Written and presented by Steve Richards

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Are the riots more than a law and order issue?

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 03:00:00 GMT

There are attempts to elevate the activities of criminal thugs by suggesting that they are “on to something”. Are they? Plus brilliant questions on the riots, Rachel Reeves, and how to pronounce Kamala.

Rock & Roll Politics is at the Edinburgh Festival from Sun Aug 11th and then every day, with a different show every time for the whole festival. Tickets here.

Back the podcast on Patreon here for live events, bonus podcasts, the main podcast ad-free and a day early, and more…

Written and presented by Steve Richards

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Has Rachel Reeves won the case for tax rises?

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 03:00:00 GMT

Labour was not candid about the state of public finances before the election. Can it be so now, without losing public trust?

Back us on Patreon to join the Post-Election Post-Mortem on ZOOM on Tue 30 July – plus you’ll get bonus podcasts, live events, exclusive merchandise and much more.

Rock & Roll Politics is at the Edinburgh Festival from Aug 11th and then every day, with a different show every time. Tickets here

Written and presented by Steve Richards

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Why do doomed leaders struggle to quit?

Tue, 23 Jul 2024 03:00:00 GMT

President Biden will not fight a second term… but it's taken him a long time to reach an obvious conclusion that was right in front of us. And he’s not alone. Most leaders do not dare to accept that it’s over when it is. Plus, more on Labour's foreign policy, your questions and much more.

Back us on Patreon to join the Post-Election Post-Mortem on ZOOM on Tue 30 July: https://www.patreon.com/posts/join-steve-for-108244685 – plus you get bonus podcasts, live events, exclusive merchandise and much more. https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Rock & Roll Politics is at the Edinburgh Festival from Aug 11th and then every day, with a different show every time. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics

Written and presented by Steve Richards

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Where next for the ‘Special Relationship’ amid US turmoil?

Tue, 16 Jul 2024 03:00:00 GMT

The attempted assassination of Donald Trump is a symbol of a disturbed democracy and will be another destabilising factor for the US. UK Prime Ministers choose to hug the US close, but how reliable an ally is the US for a British government seeking a more mature foreign policy after the reckless misrule of recent years? Plus: Why England losing is part of a reassuring pattern…your brilliant questions… and much more.

Rock & Roll Politics is at the Edinburgh Festival from Aug 11th and then every day… with a LOT to make sense of. Tickets here

Back us on Patreon for bonus podcasts, live events, exclusive merchandise and much more.

Written and presented by Steve Richards

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Has Keir Starmer won the political space to be daring?

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 03:00:00 GMT

Keir Starmer is only the third Labour leader to enter Number 10 having won a landslide. Only Attlee and Blair achieved similar results. Starmer has the bonus of facing a demoralised and divided Tory party. How will he make use of rare political space? Plus, as ever, your brilliant questions.

Rock & Roll Politics is live daily at the Edinburgh Festival with a brand new show every day from Aug 11th. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics

Back us on Patreon for bonus podcasts, live events, exclusive merchandise and much more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Written and presented by Steve Richards

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What have we learnt from this strange election?

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 03:00:00 GMT

Labour's mammoth lead has been virtually unchanged from the start of the campaign six weeks ago. Despite this the election has been full of surprises and if we look closely enough there is much to discover from the oddest campaign in decades.

Support Rock & Roll politics on Patreon.

Rock & Roll Politics – the post election special is live at Kings Place on July 10th. If the polls are right it will be the first live show at Kings Place under a Labour government:. Tickets here.

Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival in a new political landscape from Aug 11th. Tickets here.

Written and presented by Steve Richards

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Rock & Roll Politics Live – The election bonus

Thu, 27 Jun 2024 15:30:00 GMT

A special bonus episode! We recorded the Rock & Roll Politics live show at Kings Place in London on the 24th of June for all to listen back to. It’s the only show of the election campaign, complete with unreliable predictions, reflections on all the main parties and audience questions.

Support Rock & Roll politics on Patreon.

Rock & Roll Politics – the post election special is live at Kings Place on July 10th. If the polls are right it will be the first live show at Kings Place under a Labour government. Tickets here

Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival in a new political landscape from Aug 11th. Tickets here

Written and presented by Steve Richards

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Will Labour get the economic growth they need?

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 03:00:00 GMT

Most Labour leaders have argued that economic growth is the key to improving public services but will the distinct policies of Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves deliver?

Support Rock & Roll politics on Patreon.

Rock n Roll Politics – the post election special is live at Kings Place on July 10th. If the polls are right it will be the first live show at Kings Place under a Labour government. Tickets here.

Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival in a new political landscape from Aug 11th. Tickets here

Written and presented by Steve Richards

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

How will the Tory media deal with a Labour landslide?

Tue, 18 Jun 2024 03:00:00 GMT

The Tory papers and their online equivalents are used to setting the agenda, having played their part in successive election victories for the Conservatives. The BBC has tended to be heavily influenced by these newspapers. So how will they respond to a transformed political landscape and how should a Labour government deal with the media?

Plus brilliant questions on Farage, the implications of a big majority for Labour and much more.

Rock & Roll Politics: The Bonus Election Special is live at Kings Place on June 24th - Tickets here.

Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival in a new political landscape from Aug11th. Tickets here.

Written and presented by Steve Richards

Back us on Patreon for bonus podcasts on all the recent strange election campaigns and much more.

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Why is the election 'tax and spend' debate dangerous and bonkers?

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 03:00:00 GMT

Look at the government's own figures and it's obvious that taxes and borrowing will have to rise or else there will be further cuts to the UK's decaying public services. Why can't the parties be more honest? Has it always been like this in elections? What are the consequences?

Plus brilliant questions and a key notice for the Rock N Roll Politics co-operative. Rock N Roll Politics – The Election Bonus is live at Kings Place on June 24th and there are only a few tickets left!

Rock & Roll Politics: The Bonus Election Special is live at Kings Place on June 24th

Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival in a new political landscape from Aug 11th. Tickets here

Back us on Patreon for bonus podcasts on all the recent strange election campaigns and much more.

Written and presented by Steve Richards

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What are the deeper lessons of the Diane Abbott saga?

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 11:57:00 GMT

Behind the surface frenzy of the Diane Abbott saga are two overlooked questions. Does a leader have a right to have a say who is selected as candidates? What is the role of an MP? The ambition of all candidates is to be an MP, but is there any clear sense of what's expected of an MP? In this case also there are questions about how Keir Starmer and his unelected allies manage or mismanage their party.

Rock & Roll Politics: The Bonus Election Special is live at Kings Place on June 24th. Tickets here.
Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival in a new political landscape from Aug 11th. Tickets here.
Back us on Patreon for bonus podcasts on all the recent strange election campaigns and much more.

Written and presented by Steve Richards

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The Tory Campaign – Why is it the most calamitous start in modern times?

Tue, 28 May 2024 11:55:00 GMT

So far the Conservative campaign makes Labour’s in 1983 and Theresa May’s in 2017 seem slick and confident. Why does it seem so indisciplined and ill thought-through? The answer lies in the mind of Rishi Sunak.

Rock & Roll Politics: The Bonus Election Special is live at Kings Place, London on June 24th. Tickets here.

Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival in a new political landscape from Aug 11th. Tickets here.

Back us on Patreon for bonus podcasts on all the recent strange election campaigns and much more.

Written and presented by Steve Richards

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The Election Bonus

Thu, 23 May 2024 08:54:00 GMT

Rishi Sunak surprised most of us by calling an election for July 4th. Why has he done it when he's 20 points behind? What will happen in the campaign and how will the parties handle the new levels of intense scrutiny? It’s time for the Rock N Roll Politics co-operative to gather more often than usual to make sense of the suddenly changed political context… The election is only six weeks away!

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on July 10th

I'm also live at the Edinburgh Festival from Sun Aug 11th with a new show every day. Get tickets here.

Written and presented by Steve Richards

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Contaminated Blood – Will the familiar lessons ever be learnt?

Tue, 21 May 2024 11:13:00 GMT

A familiar pattern forms again: scandals, cover up, victims struggling to prove the truth and an inquiry that reveals a dysfunctional state. Where does power lie in the UK? And what happens next?

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on July 10th

I'm also live at the Edinburgh Festival from Sun Aug 11th with a new show every day. Get tickets here.

Written and presented by Steve Richards

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Can Keir Starmer stop the boats?

Tue, 14 May 2024 03:00:00 GMT

What a silly question. We all know the answer to that one. And yet that was what was asked of Starmer at a point of unusual distinctiveness. He reiterated his unqualified opposition to the Rwanda populism, but did so at that moment of ambiguity. Plus, the defection of Natalie Elphicke: there are many lessons, not least for the media asking the silly question.

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on July 10th. Tickets here.

I’m live at the Edinburgh Festival with a different show each day. Tickets here.

Back Rock & Roll Politics on Patreon and get early, ad-free episodes, live Zooms, merchandise and much more.

Image: Keir Starmer takes a boat trip on the River Tees during a visit to PD Ports on April 18, 2024 in Teesside, England. (Photo by Ian Forsyth/Getty Images)

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Do the Tory Right know what they want?

Tue, 07 May 2024 14:28:00 GMT

After the elections, Sunak’s right wing dissenters called off their planned coup even though the results were disastrous for the Tories, while outlining their agenda for the future… which is similar to the one Sunak is pursuing. Do they know what they are doing?

Plus, the dangers of Keir Starmer walking into traps in his attempt to avoid others, and brilliant questions from the Rock & Roll Politics Co-operative.

Rock & Roll Politics – The Pre-Election Special is live at Kings Place on July 10th. Tickets here.

Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Sat Aug 11th. A different show every day. Tickets here.

Support the podcast on Patreon for early, ad-free episodes, merchandise, special events and more.

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Has the SNP become impossible to lead?

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 03:00:00 GMT

A First Minister and SNP leader falls after a short tenure. Like the Tory party’s problems in Westminster, does the SNP leadership crisis raise thorny questions well beyond the flaws of one leader? And with what implications?

Rock & Roll Politics: The Pre-Election Special is live at Kings Place on July 10th. Tickets here

Back Rock & Roll Politics on Patreon here to get exclusive live events, bonus podcasts, free entry to Steve’s local elections post-mortem, and much more.

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Who is Winning The Battle of Ideas?

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 03:00:00 GMT

Nigel Lawson once noted that the party that wins the battle of ideas wins elections. He was right. Ideas matter and yet play little part in the contest between Sunak and Starmer. But the Right remain ideologically confident. Will a Labour government be able to counter the anti-state onslaught that is bound to happen? Plus exciting notices and brilliant questions from the Rock & Roll Politics co-operative.

Rock & Roll Politics is live at King’s Place, London, on Wed 10 July for a pre-election special. Get tickets here.

Back Rock & Roll Politics on Patreon and get FREE access to Steve’s 2024 Local Elections Post-Mortem live on Zoom, 5pm on Friday 3 May. Analysis, projections and your questions – all free to Patreon people.

Written and presented by Steve Richards

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Harold Wilson’s affair and how we misread leaders

Tue, 16 Apr 2024 03:00:00 GMT

In his last term as Prime Minister, Harold Wilson was seen as old, paranoid and ineffective… yet now we discover he was lively enough to be having an affair. This suggests the caricature might be wrong. What if Wilson was livelier politically too? And what if we choose to see other leaders as stereotypes which do not present anything like the full picture?

Support Rock & Roll Politics on Patreon for early episodes, exclusive merchandise and more.

PLUS get free admission to Steve’s Local Elections 2024 Post-Mortem, live on Zoom at 5pm on Friday 3 May.

https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

See Rock & Roll Politics live at King's Place on the 10th of July.

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This Time No Mistakes – In Conversation with Will Hutton

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 03:00:00 GMT

The journalist and author Will Hutton has written an important new book on the eve of what’s likely to be a Labour government. The title is stark: This Time No Mistakes. But what mistakes were made? What are the lessons of the past? What are his hopes and fears for a Keir Starmer government?

This Time No Mistakes is published on April 11th. Buy it through our affiliate bookshop and you’ll help fund Rock & Roll Politics by earning us a small commission for every sale. Bookshop.org’s fees help support independent bookshops too.

Support Rock & Roll Politics on Patreon for early episodes, exclusive merchandise and free admission to Steve’s Local Elections 2024 Post-Mortem, live on Zoom at 5pm on Friday 3 May.

https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

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Rock & Roll Politics Live – The Easter Special

Sun, 31 Mar 2024 03:00:00 GMT

A rare chance to hear a live show… this one recorded in the main concert hall at Kings Place, London. On the agenda: How do the dramas around the current government compare with other ‘fin de siecle’ administrations? How does Keir Starmer compare with Harold Wilson and Tony Blair when they were on the edge of power? Plus unreliable predictions… Question Time… and much more.

Support the podcast Patreon for bonus editions, special merchandise and exclusive live events for subscribers. Our next one will be the day after the May local elections so sign up to find out first.

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Can Rachel Reeves win the battle of ideas?

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 04:00:00 GMT

Nigel Lawson once said a party that wins the battle of ideas wins the election... Rachel Reeves has started to engage in this battle of ideas during her Mais Lecture. Labour are way ahead in the polls, so is this a battle they can win?

Support Rock & Roll Politics on Patreon for bonus podcasts, special events and much more.

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Is Sunak's time up?

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 04:00:00 GMT

With polls suggesting a slaughter at the election will Tory MPs seek to replace Sunak … and should they?

Tickets for the next Rock n Roll Politics Live: Kings Place on 26th March 2024

Support Rock & Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits including bonus episodes and exclusive merchandise only available to subscribers.

Buy Steve’s book Turning Points: Crisis and Change in Modern Britain, from 1945 to Truss through our affiliate bookshop and you’ll help fund the podcast by earning us a small commission for every sale. Bookshop.org’s fees help support independent bookshops too.

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From Johnson to Starmer – How much does character matter?

Tue, 12 Mar 2024 04:00:00 GMT

We are obsessed by the character of leaders, even if context, ideas and external circumstances can determine the fate of a government as much as character. Keir Starmer has been unusually hard to pin down, which is why I was keen to speak to Tom Baldwin. Although he has done many interviews to promote his new book on the Labour leader, I sensed there was more to explore – and we do. Plus, reflections on the challenge for Labour after the budget and major assembly notices for the co-operative.

Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Ropetackle Arts Centre in Shoreham on Weds March 13.

Steve is speaking at the York Literature Festival on Sat Mar 16. Tickets £10.

Venue: Memorial Hall, St Peter's School, Clifton, York, YO30 6AB

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place London on Tue March 26.

Support the podcast on Patreon for bonus podcasts and much more.

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Where’s the passionate anger over the crisis in UK?

Tue, 05 Mar 2024 10:46:00 GMT

The nightmare in Gaza triggers chaos in the Commons, a victory for George Galloway and apocalyptic warnings from Rishi Sunak… and yet there’s broad agreement in the UK about the need for a ceasefire. Meanwhile on most domestic issues where there should be an intense political battle, there seems to be a passive consensus.

Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Ropetackle Arts Centre in Shoreham on Weds March 13.

Steve is speaking at the York Literature Festival on Sat Mar 16. Tickets £10.

Venue: Memorial Hall, St Peter's School, Clifton, York, YO30 6AB

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place London on Tue March 26.

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Has Liz Truss got a point?

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 04:00:00 GMT

Amidst the delusional craziness of Liz Truss’s interventions, she raises one valid question: Does too much power lie in unelected institutions? Since 1979 a huge amount of power has been handed over by elected politicians, and only Truss explores the implications as she sees them. Time for the Rock & Roll Politics co-operative to step in and save an important question from the fleeting Prime Minister.

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place London on March 26. Tickets here.

Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Ropetackle, Shoreham on March 13th. Tickets here.

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Starmer and Rayner – What does she think of him?

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 04:00:00 GMT

In Tom Baldwin's new biography of Keir Starmer, Angela Rayner describes the Labour leader as “the least political person I know in politics”. What does she mean? Is she right about Starmer? And what are the implications?

Rock & Roll Politics is live in March:

The Ropetackle, Shoreham, Wed Mar 13th: https://ropetacklecentre.co.uk/events/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-2/

Kings Place, London, March 26th: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-march-2024/

Support the podcast on Patreon for bonus editions, live events and much more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Buy Keir Starmer: The Biography by Tom Baldwin through our affiliate bookshop and you’ll help fund Rock & Roll Politics by earning us a small commission for every sale. Bookshop.org’s fees help support independent bookshops too.

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Why are the Tories bolder when on the verge of power?

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 04:00:00 GMT

Labour is way ahead in the polls and has dropped its most radical policy, the £28 billion green recovery plan. But in opposition, in the build up to the 1979 and 2010 elections, the Conservatives put forward radical right wing programmes – and won from opposition. They did not retreat. Why is Labour more cautious and less confident?

Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on March 26th with a brand new show. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-march-2024/

Support the show on Patreon for bonus podcasts, live events and much more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

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Labour’s £28 billion saga – Has an exciting policy become a threat?

Tue, 06 Feb 2024 04:00:00 GMT

Starmer and Reeves have got in a mess over their pledge to borrow £28 billion for a green recovery programme. The proposal has been marked by defensive ‘retreats’ when it would enable UK to compete with the US and EU and bring good news to every voter. Why has this happened, and what can be done about it?

Plus, points from the Rock N Roll Co-operative on the return of the Northern Ireland Assembly, Lord Frosty Frost and more

Back the podcast on Patreon for bonus editions and much more too.

Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on March 26th with a brand new show. Get your tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-march-2024/

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Will Tory MPs dump Sunak?

Tue, 30 Jan 2024 04:00:00 GMT

Attempted coups against PMs and leaders are becoming increasingly familiar. Will the current plot against Sunak succeed?

Support Rock N Roll Politics on Patreon to get bonus editions, merchandise and more.

Rock N Roll Politics is live with a brand new show at Kings Place on March 26th. Get in-person or streaming tickets here

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The myths of Blair’s ‘97 campaign – and why Starmer is being judged unfairly.

Tue, 23 Jan 2024 04:00:00 GMT

It’s become a cliché that Keir Starmer's pitch lacks the clarity and sense of purpose that marked New Labour's victory in 1997. But Blair’s over-mythologised win was a lot lighter on specifics than we tend to remember, says Steve Richards.

Support Rock & Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits including bonus episodes and exclusive merchandise only available to subscribers: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Tickets for the next Rock n Roll Politics Live: Kings Place on 26th March 2024

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How can Britain start working again?

Tue, 16 Jan 2024 04:00:00 GMT

Last week Steve Richards asked what the deeper lessons were from the Post Office scandal. The responses from the Rock N Roll Politics Co-operative suggests it merely reflects a much wider problem. How do we even begin to fix Britain? Or to be more precise; how does a future Labour government fix it?

Plus important notices on exclusive new content for Patreons, live events and brilliant questions.

Support Rock & Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits including a bonus series on Labour in 1997, exclusive merchandise and live events only available to subscribers:

https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Tickets for live event including a Q+A to celebrate 'Turning Points': Hornsey Library on January 28th

Tickets for the next Rock n Roll Politics Live: Kings Place on 26th March 2024

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The Post Office scandal-What are the deeper lessons?

Tue, 09 Jan 2024 04:00:00 GMT

The indifference of ministers in the coalition government to the Post Office scandal is becoming a big story. But the indifference was not accidental, it was a deliberate act and part of a wider culture that is still pervasive: The state should step back and give 'operational independence' to non-elected figures. Steve Richards assesses how when things go wrong, as they often do in this culture, ministers become responsible, and whether these vague lines of accountability are part of the reason why nothing works in the UK.

Plus we hear brilliant questions on Labour's election slogan and much more.

Tickets for the next Rock n Roll Politics Live: Kings Place on 26th March 2024

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How can Rishi Sunak cut Labour's lead?

Wed, 03 Jan 2024 15:49:00 GMT

A bonus New Year episode for all in the Rock N Roll Politics Co-operative: With Keir Starmer following a Blairite pre-election strategy, Steve Richards thinks Rishi Sunak has only one route to reduce Labour's lead. But will he fail to take it?

Tickets for the next Rock n Roll Politics Live: Kings Place on 26th March 2024

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Christmas Special: Rock N Roll Politics Live At Kings Place

Wed, 27 Dec 2023 04:00:00 GMT

It was a packed house at Kings Place this December for a live Rock N Roll Politics: The Festive Special. As a special Christmas gift from Steve Richards we have the live recording for those in the Rock N Roll Politics Co-operative who couldn't be there, and for those who could.

Tickets for the next Rock n Roll Politics Live: Kings Place on 26th March 2024

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Are you driving home this Xmas (because the trains are useless)?

Tue, 19 Dec 2023 04:00:00 GMT

A small but emblematic announcement highlights why public services are so poor in the UK; the government has scrapped plans for an app to make booking train tickets easier.

Steve Richards explores why public services are not structured for the benefit of the public.

All this plus brilliant listener questions and notices for the Rock & Roll Politics co-operative and a Happy Christmas to you all!

Support Rock & Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits including bonus episodes and exclusive merchandise only available to subscribers: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Buy Steve’s book Turning Points: Crisis and Change in Modern Britain, from 1945 to Truss through our affiliate bookshop and you’ll help fund the podcast by earning us a small commission for every sale. Bookshop.org’s fees help support independent bookshops too.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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Why is the Rwanda plan sucking up all political energy?

Tue, 12 Dec 2023 04:00:00 GMT

NHS waiting lists spiralling out of control. A crisis in social care. Station boards full of cancelled trains. Creaking schools. But somehow, Rishi Sunak's future depends on flying a single plane full of migrants to Rwanda. How do we get a more grown-up politics in the UK?

Plus your brilliant questions, notices from the Rock & Roll Politics co-operative, and much more.

Tickets for Rock & Roll Politics Live: Kings Place London on Dec 18th.

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Are we heading for an early election?

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 12:55:32 GMT

After the resignation of Robert Jenrick, plus Suella Braverman's opposition to his new Rwanda legislation, can Rishi Sunak govern any more? If not, will he call an early election next year? Steve Richards assesses another Westminster drama with a special bonus podcast.

Tickets for Rock & Roll Politics Live: Kings Place London on Dec 18th.

Get Steve Richards’ book Turning Points: Crisis and Change in Modern Britain from 1945 to Truss here.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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Boris Johnson Vs. The Covid-19 Inquiry

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 04:00:00 GMT

It’s a new week and Boris Johnson will finally be held to account for his leadership during the pandemic at the Covid-19 Inquiry this week.

Steve Richards imagines how different and more effective the response would have been if Gordon Brown and Alastair Darling were in charge. Would they have handled it as well as they did the financial crash?

All this plus reflections on Glenys Kinnock, Keir Starmer and Margaret Thatcher, the demise of Newsnight and the BBC and brilliant questions from the Rock & Roll co-operative.

Tickets for Rock & Roll Politics Live: Kings Place London on Dec 18th.

Get Steve Richards’ book Turning Points: Crisis and Change in Modern Britain from 1945 to Truss here.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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Why Are Right Wing Populists Winning Again?

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 04:00:00 GMT

Now even Holland is under the rule of a right wing populist, it might be time to admit that they are winning again. Argentina has elected another. Trump might win next year. And Farage is in the jungle watched by millions. Steve Richards asks what's happening and why?

Plus Steve answers brilliant listener questions and important notices for the Rock N Roll Politics co-operative.

Tickets for Rock & Roll Politics Live: Kings Place London on Dec 18th.

Get Steve Richards’ book Turning Points: Crisis and Change in Modern Britain from 1945 to Truss here.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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Why Tax Cuts Now?

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 04:00:00 GMT

The UK government is presiding over a crumbling, broken country and investment is required urgently. Steve Richards asks why are Rishi Sunak and Jeremy Hunt focussing instead on tax cuts?

Plus Steve answers brilliant listener questions and important notices for the Rock N Roll Politics co-operative.

Support Rock & Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits including bonus episodes and an exclusive Live Zoom Q+A only available to subscribers: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Tickets for Rock & Roll Politics Live:

Kings Place London on Dec 18th.

Get Steve Richards’ book Turning Points: Crisis and Change in Modern Britain from 1945 to Truss

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Get Ready For Another Tory Psychodrama

Fri, 17 Nov 2023 04:00:00 GMT

Rishi Sunak's desperate attempt to fly asylum seekers to Rwanda will be the dominant political theme for months, sucking up all energy as Brexit did.

Steve Richards considers how this is political madness at the best of times, but what is prompting this lunacy now when so much in the UK doesn't work?

Plus Steve answers brilliant listener questions and important notices for the Rock N Roll Politics co-operative.

Support Rock & Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits including bonus episodes and an exclusive live Zoom Q+A only available to subscribers: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Tickets for Rock & Roll Politics Live:

Ropetackle Arts Centre in Shoreham on Nov 20th.

Kings Place London on Dec 18th.

Get Steve Richards’ book Turning Points: Crisis and Change in Modern Britain from 1945 to Truss here.

The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics. To get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/roc

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Will Sunak's reshuffle improve the party's prospects?

Tue, 14 Nov 2023 04:00:00 GMT

Rishi Sunak has sacked Suella Braverman and brought back David Cameron. But in terms of party management and the direction of policy, do these seemingly dramatic changes make much difference? Steve Richards considers all this plus news of an upcoming special Patreon-only Zoom event coming soon.

Support Rock & Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits including bonus episodes and an exclusive live Zoom Q+A only available to subscribers: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Tickets for Rock & Roll Politics Live:

Ropetackle Arts Centre in Shoreham on Nov 20th.

Kings Place London on Dec 18th.

Get Steve Richards’ book Turning Points: Crisis and Change in Modern Britain from 1945 to Truss here.

The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics. To get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/roc

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Where does power lie in the UK?

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 04:00:00 GMT

Steve Richards considers how Rishi Sunak pays homage to Elon Musk, and discusses the confirmation from the Covid inquiry that no one and no agency was in control during a national emergency. A King's Speech is unveiled, most of which will not be implemented plus Sunak and Starmer follow the United States in their attitude to the Israel/Hamas conflict. All this begs the question who actually wields power in the UK?

Tickets for Rock & Roll Politics Live:

Ropetackle Arts Centre in Shoreham on Nov 20th.

Kings Place London on Dec 18th.

Get Steve Richards’ book Turning Points: Crisis and Change in Modern Britain from 1945 to Truss here.

The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics. To get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

The Covid Inquiry and The Fatal Chaos in Johnson's Number 10

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 04:00:00 GMT

Covid struck the UK at the worst possible time. Johnson was governing amidst casual chaos and yet he was popular and this popularity made him dangerously powerful. Neither his subservient cabinet nor a parliament with a big Tory Majority dared to challenge him. Now we are discovering quite how bad things were.

Plus brilliant questions on Keir Starmer and the Israel Gaza conflict, Brexit, the leadership of Heath compared with Sunak and whether I want to be an MP.

Rock & Roll Politics -the Xmas Special is live at Kings Place on Dec 18th when we look back at another wild year and look ahead to 2024, the likely election year. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-11/

Support Rock & Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits including bonus episodes and much more The latest episode in the series on political rivals is Denis Healy vs. Tony Benn. Other series include epic general elections, prime ministers' chosen advisers and apparent government cock ups, all exclusively available to subscribers:

https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Steve Richards' book 'Turning Points' is available here:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Turning-Points-Crisis-Change-Britain/dp/1035015358/ref=sr_1_3?qid=1695642519&refinements=p_27%3ASteve+Richards&s=books&sr=1-3

The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Does Northern Ireland offer any lessons for the Middle East?

Fri, 27 Oct 2023 03:00:00 GMT

In this Question Time Special, Rock & Roll Politics explores the Israel/Gaza nightmare, the origins of Brexit and the crises facing the Conservative party. Plus, will Labour win an overall majority?

Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Ropetackle, Shoreham this Wednesday 1 November. Tickets here: https://ropetacklecentre.co.uk/events/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics/

Back us on Patreon for bonus podcasts and much more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Steve Richards' book 'Turning Points' is available here:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Turning-Points-Crisis-Change-Britain/dp/1035015358/ref=sr_1_3?qid=1695642519&refinements=p_27%3ASteve+Richards&s=books&sr=1-3

The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics. To get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Will the Tories be wiped out?

Tue, 24 Oct 2023 03:00:00 GMT

The Conservative Party has a reputation for adapting ruthlessly to changing times, but is it deserved? After the two historic by-election defeats last week, the United Kingdom's governing party of choice faces the possibility of a calamitous defeat at the next general election.

Steve Richards asks; did the Tories ever learn the full lessons from the election slaughter in 1997 and what have they done for voters since 2010 that can give them hope of a fifth term next year?

Plus brilliant questions from the listeners on Israel and Gaza and much more.

Support Rock N Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits including bonus episodes and much more The latest episode in the series on political rivals is Denis Healy vs. Tony Benn. Other series include epic general elections, prime ministers' chosen advisers and apparent government cock ups, all exclusively available to subscribers:

https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Steve Richards' book 'Turning Points' is available here:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Turning-Points-Crisis-Change-Britain/dp/1035015358/ref=sr_1_3?qid=1695642519&refinements=p_27%3ASteve+Richards&s=books&sr=1-3

The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Israel & Gaza: Is there space for nuance?

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 04:00:00 GMT

Tensions are high in the UK and yet virtually everyone condemns the brutal atrocities in Israel while warning about the horrors in Gaza. Steve Richards asks; amidst a consensus over the horror, why is there such angry disagreement?

Support Rock N Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits including bonus episodes and much more:

https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on October 23rd. Tickets here:

https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-10/

Steve Richards' book 'Turning Points' is available here:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Turning-Points-Crisis-Change-Britain/dp/1035015358/ref=sr_1_3?qid=1695642519&refinements=p_27%3ASteve+Richards&s=books&sr=1-3

The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

The Labour Party conference part 2: Keir Starmer makes his pitch

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 11:30:00 GMT

Keir Starmer framed a powerful and coherent argument in his conference speech, but what about the gaps? Steve Richards asks; What have we learnt from the conference season so far? The SNP is coming up next.

All this plus brilliant listener questions and notices for the Rock n Roll Politics Co-operative.

Support Rock N Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits including bonus episodes and much more:

https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on October 23rd. Tickets here:

https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-10/

Steve Richards' book 'Turning Points' is available here:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Turning-Points-Crisis-Change-Britain/dp/1035015358/ref=sr_1_3?qid=1695642519&refinements=p_27%3ASteve+Richards&s=books&sr=1-3

The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

The Labour Party conference part 1: Labour moves closer to power

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 15:29:20 GMT

Steve Richards is at the Labour Party conference in Liverpool. The mood is disciplined and yet ebullient and businesses have flocked to the conference assuming Keir Starmer will be prime minister next year. Are Labour ready for the challenges of power?

Support Rock N Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits including bonus episodes and much more:

https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on October 23rd. Tickets here:

https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-10/

Steve Richards' book 'Turning Points' is available here:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Turning-Points-Crisis-Change-Britain/dp/1035015358/ref=sr_1_3?qid=1695642519&refinements=p_27%3ASteve+Richards&s=books&sr=1-3

The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Sunak and the Tory Conference: Can Rishi Sunak be the candidate for change?

Wed, 04 Oct 2023 14:30:00 GMT

In his party conference speech, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak claimed to be the “change-maker” who was moving Britain on from “the last thirty years”. Steve Richards asks, did he pull his speech off?

Support Rock N Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits including bonus episodes and much more:

https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on October 23rd. Tickets here:

https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-10/

Steve Richards' book 'Turning Points' is available here:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Turning-Points-Crisis-Change-Britain/dp/1035015358/ref=sr_1_3?qid=1695642519&refinements=p_27%3ASteve+Richards&s=books&sr=1-3

The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Sunak and the Tory Conference: Why has Rishi Sunak failed to learn the art of leadership?

Tue, 03 Oct 2023 03:00:00 GMT

The pre-election Conservative Party conference manages to be both noisy and subdued. The autumnal gloom has set in, there's a pervasive sense that defeat looms and that sense makes defeat more likely.

It is true that Sunak inherited a nightmare, but why has he failed to rise to the challenge?

All this from Steve Richards, plus more brilliant questions and notices for the Rock N Roll Politics co-operative.

Support Rock N Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits including bonus episodes and much more:

https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on October 23rd. Tickets here:

https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-10/

Steve Richards' book 'Turning Points' is available here:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Turning-Points-Crisis-Change-Britain/dp/1035015358/ref=sr_1_3?qid=1695642519&refinements=p_27%3ASteve+Richards&s=books&sr=1-3

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Nick Thomas Symonds on Clem Attlee, Keir Starmer and Brexit

Tue, 26 Sep 2023 03:00:00 GMT

Steve Richards speaks to the Labour shadow cabinet member and historian Nick Thomas Symonds.

Nick has revised his biography of the former Prime Minister Clement Attlee and included an introduction from Keir Starmer, but can Starmer emulate Attlee?

Nick also has responsibility for negotiating a 'better Brexit', Steve asks him how can this be achieved?

Support Rock N Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits including bonus episodes and much more:

https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on October 23rd. Tickets here:

https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-10/

Steve Richards' book 'Turning Points' is available here:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Turning-Points-Crisis-Change-Britain/dp/1035015358/ref=sr_1_3?qid=1695642519&refinements=p_27%3ASteve+Richards&s=books&sr=1-3

Nick Thomas Symonds' book Attlee: A Life in Politics will be available later this month:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Attlee-Life-Politics-Nicklaus-Thomas-Symonds-dp-0755636139/dp/0755636139/ref=dp_ob_title_bk

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Is the UK On The Edge of An Historic Turning Point?

Tue, 19 Sep 2023 03:00:00 GMT

The tidal waves move away from Thatcherite orthodoxies as the next election moves into view and the consequences of austerity economics and privatised monopolies are playing out.

Steve Richards asks; will the UK turn if Labour wins?

Support Rock N Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits including bonus episodes and much more:

https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on October 23rd.

Expect high political drama: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-10/

Steve’s latest book Turning Points: Crisis and Change in Modern Britain From 1945 to Truss is now available: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Turning-Points-Crisis-Change-Britain/dp/1035015358/ref=sr_1_2?crid=QRFD2ZSG4CJG&keywords=steve+richards+books&qid=1694439462&sprefix=steve+r%2Caps%2C112&sr=8-2

The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Has The UK got a foreign policy? If so, what is it?

Tue, 12 Sep 2023 03:00:00 GMT

As the UK is excluded from the latest US/EU initiative, Steve Richards asks what is its role in the world? The same question was asked during the Suez crisis in 1956 and during the rows over Brexit.

When the UK reaches crucial turning points does it turn, or do the key questions remain unresolved?

Support Rock N Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits including bonus episodes and much more:

https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

At the start of a new political year Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place this Wednesday. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-9/

Steve’s latest book Turning Points: Crisis and Change in Modern Britain From 1945 to Truss is now available for pre-order: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Turning-Points-Crisis-Change-Britain/dp/1035015358/ref=sr_1_2?crid=QRFD2ZSG4CJG&keywords=steve+richards+books&qid=1694439462&sprefix=steve+r%2Caps%2C112&sr=8-2

The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

When governments fall - plus Starmer's pre-election reshuffle

Tue, 05 Sep 2023 03:00:00 GMT

Today; the closure of schools because of unsafe buildings is emblematic of a country where nothing seems to work. Nothing happens by chance and Rishi Sunak's fiscal conservatism – echoing the early austerity years – has consequences.

Plus Steve Richards considers Keir Starmer's reshuffle. Believe it or not the policies will matter more than the personalities.

Support Rock N Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits including bonus episodes and much more:

https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

At the start of a new political year Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on September 13th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-9/

The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Who Does Rishi Sunak Rely On Most?

Tue, 29 Aug 2023 14:02:00 GMT

We are close to the start of a new political year and the Conservatives appear to be as disturbed as ever. Nadine Dorries is stirring, so who is Rishi Sunak turning to for support in this troubled time?

Support Rock N Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits including bonus episodes and much more:

https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

At the start of a new political year Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on September 13th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-9/

The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Summer Special - Prime Ministers and Their Special Confidants: David Cameron

Tue, 22 Aug 2023 03:00:00 GMT

In this latest episode Steve Richards reflects on the lessons so far from a vibrant Edinburgh Festival and introduces an episode previously released for Patreon backers on the significance of Prime Ministers appointing allies who they have known and admired for many years. Their chosen confidants tell us much about the character of a PM. In this case we look at the instincts of David Cameron as he turned to his close friend Steve Hilton.

Support Rock N Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits including bonus episodes and much more:

https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13th to Saturday August 26th with a different show every day. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics

At the start of a new political year Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on September 13th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-9/

The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Summer Special: The 1992 Election

Tue, 15 Aug 2023 03:00:00 GMT

The 1992 election haunts Keir Starmer and his team. It was an election when Labour was at some points well ahead in the polls and still lost. In this summer special Steve Richards looks at what really happened.

Support Rock N Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits including bonus episodes and much more:

https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13th with a different show every day. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics

At the start of a new political year Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on September 13th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-9/

The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Summer Special! Troublemakers: Enoch Powell

Tue, 08 Aug 2023 03:00:00 GMT

In the first of a series of Summer Specials Steve Richards reflects on the role of troublemakers in British politics. This is the chance for the whole Rock N Roll Politics co-operative to hear an episode from the Patreon series on troublemakers.

Today Steve focuses on Enoch Powell who made one speech that rightly led to him being sacked from the front bench, never to return. He still managed to torment Prime Ministers from the backbenches and influenced the outcome of at least one general election.

Other episodes in the series are available on Patreon and look at Tony Benn, Robin Cook and Nigel Farage.

Support Rock N Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits including bonus episodes and much more:

https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

At the start of a new political year Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on September 13th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-9/

The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Question Time Special

Tue, 01 Aug 2023 03:00:00 GMT

It's the height of summer and a chance to explore the many mysteries of British politics via brilliant questions from the Rock N Roll Politics Cooperative.

Support Rock N Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits including bonus episodes and much more:

https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

At the start of a new political year Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on September 13th.

Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-9/

The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

A Revealing Twist in the Mad ’Tax and Spend’ Debate

Tue, 25 Jul 2023 03:00:00 GMT

While the UK's bonkers pre-election 'tax and spend' debate continues the Chancellor Jeremy Hunt has discovered he has more money to spend than he had expected.

Steve Richards considers all this plus the need to avoid being perceived as punitive at the start of the UK's tentative green revolution.

Support Rock N Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits including bonus episodes and much more:

https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

At the start of a new political year Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on September 13th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-9/

The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

The three by-elections and the consequences

Fri, 21 Jul 2023 10:07:31 GMT

Labour's gain in Selby was a triumph as was the Liberal Democrat’s victory in Somerset and Frome. In a by-election special Steve Richards considers the fall out from the results, including the Conservatives' win in Uxbridge that will have immediate consequences.

Support Rock N Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits, including a LIVE gathering on Zoom on Monday 24th July for more on the by-election fall out: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

At the start of a new political year Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on September 13th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-9/

The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Keir Starmer: Is he right to copy Tony Blair's language and ideas?

Tue, 18 Jul 2023 03:00:00 GMT

In a recent article for the Observer, Keir Starmer deployed many phrases that were part of Tony Blair's armoury twenty years ago – or even further back than that. After several Labour defeats is that the smart strategic move, to follow the language and ideas of an election winner? Or is such an unusual act of imitation a sign of weakness?

Support Rock N Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits, including a LIVE gathering on Monday 24th July for immediate by-election fall out: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13th. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics

The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

The BBC and The Sun – A dark dance

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 13:37:59 GMT

At the same time that we discovered the police were not investigating allegations surrounding Huw Edwards we also learned that the presenter was in hospital. Unsurprisingly given the media frenzy surrounding him.

In this episode Steve Richards asks how big can a story get when involving a presenter's private life?

Support Rock N Roll Politics and get episodes early and ad-free on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13th.

Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics

The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

'Tax Burden' and 'Reform' part 2 - Where is the economic growth going to come from?

Tue, 11 Jul 2023 03:00:00 GMT

One of Keir Starmer's key missions is to achieve the highest levels of growth in the G7. Steve Richards asks how? The answer is far from clear, as Starmer and Rachel Reeves highlight their commitment to stick more or less to Tory tax and spend plans, although in the style of New Labour circa 1997.

Plus today there’s more brilliant questions and life changing notices.

Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13th.

Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics

Subscribe to Patreon for exclusive benefits including the July live event:

https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

My Extinction: Climate Change Special

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 03:00:00 GMT

Steve Richards is in conversation with the director, Josh Appignanessi, about his new film ‘My Extinction’.

The film is both funny and urgently reflective as Josh explores the dilemmas facing each of us in the face of climate change. What does it take for us to act on the climate crisis and is the issue too overwhelming as we contemplate our extinction?

Steve asks what is the best way to protest and is there hope amidst the alarm? What has Josh learnt from his own comically erratic climate change journey?

https://www.dartmouthfilms.com/myextinction

Support Rock N Roll Politics and get episodes early and ad-free on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Hitchin Festival on Tuesday July 11. Tickets here:

https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/whats-on/hitchin/the-market-theatre/rock-n-roll-politics-with-steve-richards/e-kgvveaea

Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13th with a different show every day. Tickets here:

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

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

'Tax Burden' and 'Reform' - What Do These Ubiquitous Terms Really Mean?

Tue, 04 Jul 2023 03:00:00 GMT

We are now in the pre-election phase, so inevitably tax is a 'burden' that should be cut and 'reforms' will magically improve public services.

Steve Richards assesses the consequences for the state that we are in.

Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Hitchin Festival on Tuesday July 11. Tickets here:

https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/whats-on/hitchin/the-market-theatre/rock-n-roll-politics-with-steve-richards/e-kgvveaea

Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13th with a different show every day. Tickets here:

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

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Dirty Water – What Does It Tell Us About British Politics?

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 03:00:00 GMT

Water privatisation was rushed through after the 1987 election. The many problems were as obvious then as they are now. So why was privatisation proclaimed as a Thatcherite triumph for decades?

Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Hitchin Festival on Tuesday July 11. Tickets here:

https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/whats-on/hitchin/the-market-theatre/rock-n-roll-politics-with-steve-richards/e-kgvveaea

Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13th with a different show every day. Tickets here:

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

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Where's The Hope?

Tue, 27 Jun 2023 03:00:00 GMT

The anti-Tory mood is deep and deepening but amidst the gloom where are the arguments about why nothing works in the UK? And where are the ideas that offer some hope that things can only get better?

Plus - What have we learned in the fast moving Putin saga? All this and your brilliant questions too.

Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Hitchin Festival on Tuesday July 11. Tickets here:

https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/whats-on/hitchin/the-market-theatre/rock-n-roll-politics-with-steve-richards/e-kgvveaea

Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13th with a different show every day. Tickets here:

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

Subscribe to Patreon for bonus podcasts and exclusive live events:

https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

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Secret State? The pros and cons of freedom of information

Fri, 23 Jun 2023 03:00:00 GMT

Martin Rosenbaum was the BBC's Freedom of Information guru, seeking to uncover hidden material via the Freedom of Information Act, an item of legislation Tony Blair deeply regretted passing. Martin became the world expert on using the act and has now written a book called 'Freedom of Information: A Practical Guidebook'. Martin reflects on the dramas leading up to the act becoming law and what happened subsequently. As a former BBC editor he also discusses the political programmes he was involved in making.

Book link:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Freedom-Information-practical-Martin-Rosenbaum/dp/1739800540/

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Don't forget David Cameron and George Osborne

Tue, 20 Jun 2023 03:00:00 GMT

It is easy to blame Boris Johnson for everything that has gone wrong but the seeds of the current set of crises go deep, as the Covid Inquiry seems to recognise.

Rock n Roll Politics is live at Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13 with a different show each day. Tickets here:

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

Support Rock n Roll Politics on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

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Being Privileged and on the Left - In Conversation with Polly Toynbee

Fri, 16 Jun 2023 03:00:00 GMT

Following the publication of her book - My Family and Other Radicals, Polly Toynbee reflects on being privileged and on the left, her remarkable family, being on the losing side in politics most of the time and her hopes for Keir Starmer.

Rock n Roll Politics is live at Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13 with a different show each day. Tickets here:

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

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Keir Starmer Moves Closer to Number 10

Tue, 13 Jun 2023 03:00:00 GMT

Boris Johnson seeks to cause trouble for Rishi Sunak. Nicola Sturgeon is arrested. These dramas are more nuanced than they appear to be but for now the obvious beneficiary is Keir Starmer. However, Steve Richards asks if Starmer is conceding too much ground in advance of an election he looks like winning? Or does he look like winning because he concedes so much ground?

Rock n Roll Politics is live at Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13 with a different show each day. Tickets here:

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

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Will There Ever Be A National Care Service?

Fri, 09 Jun 2023 03:00:00 GMT

It is the most pledged policy in recent decades and yet never delivered … Labour proposed a national care service in 2010, Theresa May had a plan in 2017, Boris Johnson pretended to have one in 2019 … So far nothing. Now the Fabian Society has set out its ideas for a National Care Service with a report broadly welcomed by its shadow Health Secretary, Wes Streeting. But where will the money come from and does Keir Starmer have the political will to deliver finally? That's two of many questions I discuss with Andrew Harrop, General Secretary of the Fabians as we delve deep in thorny areas with the next election moving into view.

Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13th ... a different show every day. Tickets here:

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

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Can The Tories Recover While Boris Johnson Remains An MP?

Tue, 06 Jun 2023 03:00:00 GMT

Boris Johnson is making life hellish for Rishi Sunak..causing trouble in relation to the Covid Inquiry, making the front pages most days of the week, making clear he blames Sunak for his fall. Former PMs make leadership difficult for their successors...does a politically active Johnson make it almost impossible to lead the troubled Conservative party?

Support Rock & Roll Politics on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

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The Transformation of the Conservative Party-In Conversation with Tim Bale

Fri, 02 Jun 2023 03:00:00 GMT

For a few decades the Conservative Party has changed from an expedient political force with MPs and members loyal to the leadership to a more factional and insurrectionary movement. Tim Bale, the author of The Conservative Party After Brexit-Turmoil and Transformation, has followed the changes at every level from the membership to the leadership. To make sense of the current turmoil in the UK's governing party we look back and follow the wild patterns.

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The Prime Ministers we never had: Why did they fail to seize the crown?

Tue, 30 May 2023 03:00:00 GMT

Suella Braverman and many others contemplating their leadership ambitions, take note. From Rab Butler to Jeremy Corbyn there are reasons why those seen by some as potential Prime Ministers never make it.

Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival with a different show every day from Sunday August 13th. Tickets here:

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

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What is the ‘centre ground’? In conversation with Rafael Behr

Fri, 26 May 2023 03:00:00 GMT

In his new book ‘Politics-A Survivor’s Guide’ the columnist Rafael Behr hails the centre ground in contrast to the populist politics that has flourished in the UK and elsewhere…but the term is imprecise and often applied to justify policies that are far away from the ‘centre’. Also..Can we get angry about the state of politics without nearly killing ourselves??

Support Rock N Roll Politics on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

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Immigration: Will there ever be a grown up debate?

Tue, 23 May 2023 03:00:00 GMT

It’s the silliest and most dangerous debate of the lot. "Too many are coming here…" "The wrong people are coming here..." "The right people can come here…" "We need vacancies filled, but they can’t come here…"

Will the debate on immigration rise above the vitriol, for a solution that benefits everyone?

Plus brilliant questions, and much more. Remember to send in your questions to steveric14@icloud.com!

Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from August 13th, with a different show every day! Tickets here:

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

Subscribe to Patreon for bonus episodes, exclusive Zooms and other goodies: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

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In Conversation with Sir Antony Seldon

Fri, 19 May 2023 03:00:00 GMT

The author of a new book on Boris Johnson reflects on the many reasons why the former prime minister should never have got close to Number 10...and the lessons that need to be learnt when a figure wholly unsuited for leadership acquires near presidential powers.

Support Rock & Roll Politics on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

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The Tory Right Stir...Yet Again

Tue, 16 May 2023 03:00:00 GMT

There are echoes with the build up to the 1997 election in the insurrectionary stirrings of prominent Tories...Why did they act with reckless disloyalty then... and why are they doing do now?

Subscribe to RockN Roll Politics:

https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

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In Conversation with Rob Burley

Fri, 12 May 2023 03:00:00 GMT

Following the release of his new book "Why is this Lying Bastard Lying to Me?," I speak to Rob Burley, former editor of Marr, The Andrew Neil Show and Newsnight, about the art of the political interview. We reflect on the current state of the BBC, and look back at some of the legendary interviews, including Brian Walden's exchanges with Margaret Thatcher and Tony Benn.

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place this Monday. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-8/

Subscribe to Patreon for bonus podcasts, live zooms and much more here: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

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A Long Road To The Next General Election

Tue, 09 May 2023 12:06:00 GMT

Much will happen between now and the next general election, making it risky to extrapolate too much from last week's local polls.

For Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer, the road ahead will be challenging in different ways... and both are new to the task of leadership in the buildup to an election.

Rock & Roll Politics - A New Political Landscape? is live at Kings Place next Monday. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-8/

Subscribe to Patreon for bonus podcast series, live Zoom events, and much more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

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Long Live The King

Fri, 05 May 2023 02:00:00 GMT

When the Queen died, many commentators predicted the country would be traumatised by the loss for a long time. Instead, it was Liz Truss that caused the trauma immediately after the Queen's passing, Charles's accession to the throne causing no fuss at all.

What does it tell us about the monarchy, and its capacity to generate feverish commentary now that the "Elizabethan Age" is over?

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place in London on May 15th. There's a lot going on that we need to discuss, and you can get tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-8/

Don't forget to send your questions to steveric14@icloud.com!

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Who owns ‘Freedom’?

Tue, 02 May 2023 11:32:00 GMT

In a video announcing he was standing for a second term, President Biden chose ‘freedom’ as a them – a term normally associated with the Republicans. It’s a vote winner and in the UK the Conservatives have claimed it too. But will Starmer follow Biden in committing to ‘freedom’?

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on May 15th. Tickets here:

https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/rocknrollpolitics/

And join Steve on a special Zoom for Patreon supporters this Weds 3 May. Sign up to join:

https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

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How Did Boris Johnson Last As Long As He Did?

Fri, 28 Apr 2023 06:51:00 GMT

The dangerous chaos of Johnson's leadership is exposed in a new book by historian Anthony Seldon. Yet, we knew most of the sordid details it all at the time - so how did he get away with it?

Plus, a Question Time Special on relations between ministers and civil servants. Where does power lie?

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on May 15th.

Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-8/

Join Patreon for our live event next Wednesday: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

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What Makes a Bully?

Tue, 25 Apr 2023 03:00:00 GMT

What is a bully? Dominic Raab has been officially condemned as one, by the inquiry into his conduct in Parliament. But what about Margaret Thatcher, who reduced some colleagues to tears? Was Gordon Brown a 'bully' or simply "demanding" and "emotional?"

In this era of deep crises, too many imprecise terms are defining British politics.

Many of you will disagree, and I look forward to our debate... don't forget, email steveric14@icloud.com with your questions!

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place in London on May 15th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-8/

Join me on Patreon for bonus podcasts, and the first subscribers' live Zoom next month: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

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Douglas Alexander in Conversation

Fri, 21 Apr 2023 03:00:00 GMT

With the SNP in turmoil, former Secretary of State for Scotland Douglas Alexander reflects on the rise of nationalism, the collapse of Labour in Scotland, his hopes for a Labour revival, and his memories of victories and defeats in UK elections.

Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Old Market Theatre in Hove on Monday. Tickets here: https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-2023

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Striking Nurses and The State We’re In

Tue, 18 Apr 2023 03:00:00 GMT

Not known for their militancy, nurses have rejected the government’s latest pay offer. There's a risk strikes could continue all year, telling us much about the state the UK is currently in…

Plus, questions on the wider implications of Labour’s attack ads, and an exciting announcement or two!

Rock & Roll Politics is live:

Old Market Theatre in Hove on Monday April 24th:

https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-2023

Kings Place, London on May 15th:

https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-8/

Subscribe on Patreon for bonus podcasts, sneak previews and other exclusive extras: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

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Northern Ireland, Then & Now

Fri, 14 Apr 2023 03:00:00 GMT

I’m in conversation with Rory Carroll, The Guardian's Ireland correspondent and the author of Killing Thatcher — a brilliant new book on the IRA’s 1984 attempt to assassinate Margaret Thatcher, during the Conservative conference in Brighton.

Rock & Roll Politics is live in Brighton on April 24th. You can get tickets here:

https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-2023

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Labour's Attack Ads - Will They Work?

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 14:43:00 GMT

Labour's latest round of attack ads accuse Rishi Sunak of being soft on criminals.

It's caused a briefing war in his shadow cabinet and no end of criticism. If the leader of the opposition's attacks aren't credible, they could end up causing more trouble for Starmer himself...

Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Old Market Theatre, Brighton on Monday April 24th. Tickets here: https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-2023

Don't forget to send in your questions to steveric14@icloud.com!

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Question Time Special

Fri, 07 Apr 2023 03:00:00 GMT

It's an Easter Question Time Special! Lessons on Nigel Lawson's career, Brexit, Jeremy Corbyn, the "real" Rishi Sunak... and much more.

Remember to send in your questions at steveric14@icloud.com!

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Keir Starmer vs Jeremy Corbyn

Tue, 04 Apr 2023 03:00:00 GMT

In which I alienate everyone.

I don't believe local parties should have the exclusive right to select candidates; the leadership must have a big say. But I also believe it was an overreaction and strategic misjudgement to suspend Jeremy Corbyn from Labour, and then bar him from being a candidate. What will the consequences be for Keir Starmer?

Plus, your brilliant questions.

Rock & Roll Politics is live at The Old Market Theatre, Brighton, on Monday April 24th: https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-2023

Subscribe to Rock & Roll Politics on Patreon for bonus podcasts and much more. The latest bonus series is The Troublemakers, including Tony Benn, Enoch Powell, Nigel Farage and David Owen: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

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Is The UK Economy Doomed? In Conversation with Danny Blanchflower

Fri, 31 Mar 2023 03:00:00 GMT

Danny Blanchflower is a Professor of Economics and was a member of the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee. In our conversation for this week's podcast, he’s both gloomy about the economic future — and optimistic if there’s a bold government that recognises the value of investment.

Thanks for listening. Don't forget to send in your questions for Tuesday's podcast at steveric14@icloud.com!

Rock & Roll Politics is live:

Witham, Barnard Castle, April 1st:

https://thewitham.org.uk/event/steve-richards-rock-and-roll-politics-2/

Old Market Theatre, Brighton. April 24th:

https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-2023

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Can Rishi Sunak Win the Next Election?

Tue, 28 Mar 2023 03:00:00 GMT

A new narrative is taking shape in the media. Rishi Sunak as a grown up, a marked contrast to Johnson and Truss. His 'good weeks' sorting out the Windsor Framework and publishing his tax returns during the busiest news day of the year are encouraging friendly papers to tell its readers not to write the Tories off at the next election. But can this narrative be sustained, in this last full year before a new general election is held?

Rock & Roll Politics is live:

Ropetackle, Shoreham Mar 29

https://ropetacklecentre.co.uk/events/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics/

Witham, Barnard Castle, Apr 1

https://thewitham.org.uk/event/steve-richards-rock-and-roll-politics-2/

Old Market Theatre, Brighton, Apr 24th

https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-2023

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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Michael Cockerell in conversation

Fri, 24 Mar 2023 04:00:00 GMT

This week, the legendary chronicler of Prime Ministers, Michael Cockerell, joins me to discuss the rise and fall of Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak… and a fleeting speculation that he had an affair with Margaret Thatcher.

Rock & Roll Politics is live:

Black Box, Belfast Mar 26

https://imaginebelfast.com/events/steve-richards-the-rocknroll-politics-show/

Ropetackle, Shoreham Mar 29

https://ropetacklecentre.co.uk/events/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics/

Witham, Barnard Castle, Apr 1

https://thewitham.org.uk/event/steve-richards-rock-and-roll-politics-2/

Old Market Theatre, Brighton, Apr 24th

https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-2023

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Tony Blair, Iraq.... and the Lessons for Labour Now

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 04:00:00 GMT

Twenty years later the question is still posed. Why did Tony Blair decide to go to war in Iraq? I argue that his decision was not an aberration, but part of his flawed 'third way' approach to leadership — one that appears to be a mighty influence on Keir Starmer now.

Rock & Roll Politics is live:

Birmingham, March 21 https://1000trades.org.uk/events/

King's Place London, Mar 23 https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-2/

Belfast Black Box, Hill Street Mar 26 https://imaginebelfast.com/events/steve-richards-the-rocknroll-politics-show/

Ropetackle Shoreham Mar 29 https://ropetacklecentre.co.uk/events/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics/

Witham Barnard Castle Apr 1 https://thewitham.org.uk/event/steve-richards-rock-and-roll-politics-2/

Old Market Theatre Brighton April 24 https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-2023

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Winning and Governing - Can Keir Starmer be Bolder?

Fri, 17 Mar 2023 04:00:00 GMT

This week I'm in conversation with Michael Jacobs, Professor of Political Economy at Sheffield University, and former adviser to Gordon Brown on climate change. He was also chief executive of the Fabian Society in the buildup to 1997 election, and author of an IPPR report on economic policy that was hailed by both former shadow chancellor John McDonnell and his successor, Rachel Reeves. I speak to him about Labour's opposition to the latest budget, and how Keir Starmer's approach may change in the months leading up to the next election...

Rock & Roll Politics is live:

York, Mar 17th https://www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk/show/the-prime-ministers-reflections-on-leadership-from-harold-wilson-to-rishi-sunak/

Birmingham Mar 21 https://1000trades.org.uk/events/

King's Place London Mar 23 https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-2/

Belfast Black Box, Hill Street Mar 26 https://imaginebelfast.com/events/steve-richards-the-rocknroll-politics-show/

Ropetackle Shoreham Mar 29 https://ropetacklecentre.co.uk/events/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics/

Witham Barnard Castle Apr 1 https://thewitham.org.uk/event/steve-richards-rock-and-roll-politics-2/

Old Market Theatre Brighton April 24 https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-2023

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Gary Lineker and the BBC - Will the Lessons be Learnt?

Tue, 14 Mar 2023 04:00:00 GMT

The latest self inflicted BBC crisis, over Match of the Day presenter Gary Lineker as his views on the government's immigration policy, has followed the same pattern as previous ones. Can the BBC change this time, or will there be more self harm to come?

Rock & Roll Politics is live:

York, Mar 17th https://www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk/show/the-prime-ministers-reflections-on-leadership-from-harold-wilson-to-rishi-sunak/

Birmingham Mar 21 https://1000trades.org.uk/events/

King's Place London Mar 23 https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-2/

Belfast Black Box, Hill Street Mar 26 https://imaginebelfast.com/events/steve-richards-the-rocknroll-politics-show/

Ropetackle Shoreham Mar 29 https://ropetacklecentre.co.uk/events/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics/

Witham Barnard Castle Apr 1 https://thewitham.org.uk/event/steve-richards-rock-and-roll-politics-2/

Old Market Theatre Brighton April 24 https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-2023

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Danny Finkelstein in conversation

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 04:00:00 GMT

Lord Finkelstein has had a unique career. A Times columnist, Tory peer and former advisor to Prime Ministers and leaders, he got his start as a member of centre-left SDP. Now, he’s on the board of Chelsea FC — a dream job, but one that brings with it some dilemmas on match day.

I speak to him about disagreements with his friends in the country's highest offices, expressing his own views as a Tory Lord and his upcoming book Hitler, Stalin, Mum and Dad...

Rock & Roll Politics is live:

York, Mar 17th https://www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk/show/the-prime-ministers-reflections-on-leadership-from-harold-wilson-to-rishi-sunak/

Birmingham March 21 https://1000trades.org.uk/events/

King's Place London Mar 23 https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-2/

Belfast Black Box, Hill Street Mar 26 https://imaginebelfast.com/events/steve-richards-the-rocknroll-politics-show/

Ropetackle Shoreham Mar 29 https://ropetacklecentre.co.uk/events/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics/

Witham Barnard Castle Apr 1 https://thewitham.org.uk/event/steve-richards-rock-and-roll-politics-2/

Old Market Theatre Brighton April 24 https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-2023

Follow me on Patreon for early access to episodes and bonus podcast series: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Reflections on Leadership and the SNP Contest

Tue, 07 Mar 2023 04:00:00 GMT

Three candidates seek to replace Nicola Sturgeon as First Minister of Scotland. Why do none of them seem ready for the epic challenges of the role, while Sturgeon was so dominant?

Plus, questions on Sue Gray, the DUP and the Northern Ireland Protocol and the state of Labour under Keir Starmer.

Rock & Roll Politics is live:

Birmingham Mar 21 https://1000trades.org.uk/events/

King's Place London Mar 23 https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-2/

Belfast Black Box, Hill Street Mar 26 https://imaginebelfast.com/events/steve-richards-the-rocknroll-politics-show/

Ropetackle Shoreham Mar 29 https://ropetacklecentre.co.uk/events/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics/

Witham Barnard Castle Apr 1 https://thewitham.org.uk/event/steve-richards-rock-and-roll-politics-2/

Old Market Theatre Brighton April 24 https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-2023

Don't forget to send in your questions to steveric14@icloud.com!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Reviving New Labour: Starmer’s Only Path to Victory?

Fri, 03 Mar 2023 04:00:00 GMT

This week, I’m in conversation with the chair of Compass, Neal Lawson, who argues the current challenges facing the UK are incomparably different to 1997 — and demand more daring solutions from Keir Starmer.

Rock & Roll Politics is live:

Birmingham March 21 https://1000trades.org.uk/events/

King's Place London Mar 23 https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-2/

Belfast Black Box, Hill Street Mar 26 https://imaginebelfast.com/events/steve-richards-the-rocknroll-politics-show/

Ropetackle Shoreham Mar 29 https://ropetacklecentre.co.uk/events/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics/

Witham Barnard Castle Apr 1 https://thewitham.org.uk/event/steve-richards-rock-and-roll-politics-2/

Old Market Theatre Brighton April 24 https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-2023

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Can Labour Make Expensive Promises?

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 04:00:00 GMT

In last week’s podcast, the Shadow Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson, outlined her plans for childcare. But how will they be paid for? Do Labour dare to give details in advance of an election? Will such details help Labour win — or will they become a vote losing ‘tax bombshell’?

Rock & Roll Politics is live:

Birmingham March 21 https://1000trades.org.uk/events/

King's Place London Mar 23 https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-2/

Belfast Black Box, Hill Street Mar 26 https://imaginebelfast.com/events/steve-richards-the-rocknroll-politics-show/

Ropetackle Shoreham Mar 29 https://ropetacklecentre.co.uk/events/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics/

Witham Barnard Castle Apr 1 https://thewitham.org.uk/event/steve-richards-rock-and-roll-politics-2/

Old Market Theatre Brighton April 24 https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-2023

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Bridget Phillipson: Preparing For Power

Fri, 24 Feb 2023 11:06:00 GMT

The Shadow Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson, joins me this week to discuss her plans for childcare, the ending of tuition fees, new roles for schools and the mood of Sunderland voters that supported the Conservatives in 2019.

Rock & Roll Politics is live:

Birmingham March 21 https://1000trades.org.uk/events/

King's Place London Mar 23 https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-2/

Belfast Black Box, Hill Street Mar 26 https://imaginebelfast.com/events/steve-richards-the-rocknroll-politics-show/

Ropetackle Shoreham March 29 https://ropetacklecentre.co.uk/events/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics/

Witham Barnard Castle April https://thewitham.org.uk/event/steve-richards-rock-and-roll-politics-2/

Old Market Theatre Brighton April 24 https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-2023

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Can Brexit Ever Be 'Done?'

Tue, 21 Feb 2023 04:00:00 GMT

Rishi Sunak seeks a deal on the Northern Ireland protocol, but faces familiar obstacles in the form of rebels in his own party and the DUP.

Plus, Keir Starmer's barring of Jeremy Corbyn from standing for Labour in next year's general election — and the future of Scottish independence after Nicola Sturgeon.

Rock & Roll Politics is live:

Birmingham March 21 https://1000trades.org.uk/events/

King's Place London Mar 23 https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-2/

Belfast Black Box, Hill Street Mar 26 https://imaginebelfast.com/events/steve-richards-the-rocknroll-politics-show/

Ropetackle Shoreham March 29 https://ropetacklecentre.co.uk/events/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics/

Witham Barnard Castle April https://thewitham.org.uk/event/steve-richards-rock-and-roll-politics-2/

Old Market Theatre Brighton April 24 https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-2023

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

What the Butler Saw – Lord Butler on life in No.10

Fri, 17 Feb 2023 04:00:00 GMT

The current Cabinet Secretary, Simon Case, is in the news most days of the week. Lord Robin Butler, who served under Thatcher, Major and Blair, joins me this week to reflect on his time in the Cabinet Office, comparing parliamentary dramas then and now...

Plus, reflections on NIcola Sturgeon's shock resignation, and the consequences likely to stem from it...

Rock & Roll Politics is live:

Birmingham March 21 https://1000trades.org.uk/events/

King's Place London Mar 23 https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-2/

Belfast Black Box, Hill Street Mar 26 https://imaginebelfast.com/events/steve-richards-the-rocknroll-politics-show/

Ropetackle Shoreham March 29 https://ropetacklecentre.co.uk/events/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics/

Witham Barnard Castle April https://thewitham.org.uk/event/steve-richards-rock-and-roll-politics-2/

Old Market Theatre Brighton April 24 https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-2023

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

The BBC, Richard Sharp and ‘Impartiality’

Tue, 14 Feb 2023 09:16:21 GMT

The BBC chair Richard Sharp has lost authority whether he stays or goes. Where does that leave his search for ‘impartiality’? Plus brilliant questions on Brexit, Andy Burnham and much more..

Back the podcast on Patreon for bonus content, early editions and more. Current series of Patreon exclusives is The Troublemakers. Episode 2: Enoch Powell: https://www.patreon.com/posts/subscriber-ep-2-78365294

Rock & Roll Politics is live at

Birmingham March 21 https://1000trades.org.uk/events/

King's Place London Mar 23 https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-2/

Belfast Black Box, Hill Street Mar 26 https://imaginebelfast.com/events/steve-richards-the-rocknroll-politics-show/

Ropetackle Shoreham March 29 https://ropetacklecentre.co.uk/events/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics/

Witham Barnard Castle April https://thewitham.org.uk/event/steve-richards-rock-and-roll-politics-2/

Old Market Theatre Brighton April 24 https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-2023

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Andy Burnham in conversation

Fri, 10 Feb 2023 04:00:00 GMT

In my conversation with Andy Burnham, we discuss whether he had more power as a cabinet minister, or now as Mayor of Greater Manchester, his policies since becoming mayor, whether he has become more radical... and the similarities - or lack of them - with the build up to Labour's victory in 1997.

Rock & Roll Politics is live:

Birmingham, March 21st: https://1000trades.org.uk/events/

London, March 23rd: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-2/

Belfast, March 26th: https://imaginebelfast.com/events/steve-richards-the-rocknroll-politics-show/

Shoreham, March 29th: https://ropetacklecentre.co.uk/events/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics/

Barnard Castle, April 1st: https://thewitham.org.uk/event/steve-richards-rock-and-roll-politics-2/

Brighton, April 24th: https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-2023

Subscribe to Patreon for this month's bonus show, Episode 2 of "The Troublemakers" on Enoch Powell, and much more here: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Liz Truss and Her Tiny Target Audience

Tue, 07 Feb 2023 04:00:00 GMT

Liz Truss's comeback was delusional in its lofty grandeur, yet also very narrow. Why did she choose outlets with limited audiences? The answer tells us much about the modern Conservative Party.

Rock & Roll Politics is live:

Birmingham, March 21st: https://1000trades.org.uk/events/

London, March 23rd: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-2/

Belfast, March 26th: https://imaginebelfast.com/events/steve-richards-the-rocknroll-politics-show/

Shoreham, March 29th: https://ropetacklecentre.co.uk/events/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics/

Barnard Castle, April 1st: https://thewitham.org.uk/event/steve-richards-rock-and-roll-politics-2/

Brighton, April 24th: https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-2023

Subscribe to Patreon for this month's bonus show, Episode 2 of "The Changemakers" on Enoch Powell, and much more here: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Christian Wolmar and The UK's Chaotic Railways

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 04:00:00 GMT

I speak to the the transport expert and host of the Calling All Stations podcast, Christian Wolmar, about the state of the railways, the all-important context going back to British Rail, and his hopes and fears for the future.

https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Rock & Roll Politics is live:

Birmingham March 21st: https://1000trades.org.uk/events/

London, March 23th Kings Place https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-2/

Belfast, March 26th, Black Box https://imaginebelfast.com/events/steve-richards-the-rocknroll-politics-show/

Shoreham, March 29th, Ropetackle https://ropetacklecentre.co.uk/events/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics/

Barnard Castle, April 1st, Witham https://thewitham.org.uk/event/steve-richards-rock-and-roll-politics-2/

Brighton, April 24th, The Old Market Theatre https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-2023

Send your questions to steveric14@icloud.com!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

The Fatal Legacy of Boris Johnson

Tue, 31 Jan 2023 04:00:00 GMT

There are deep reasons for the crises erupting around Rishi Sunak, but there is also an immediate one — Boris Johnson.

https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Rock N Roll Politics is live:

Birmingham March 21st: https://1000trades.org.uk/events/

London, March 23th Kings Place https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-2/

Belfast, March 26th, Black Box https://imaginebelfast.com/events/steve-richards-the-rocknroll-politics-show/

Shoreham, March 29th, Ropetackle https://ropetacklecentre.co.uk/events/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics/

Barnard Castle, April 1st, Witham https://thewitham.org.uk/event/steve-richards-rock-and-roll-politics-2/

Brighton, April 24th, The Old Market Theatre https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-2023

Send your questions to steveric14@icloud.com!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Nick Timothy on the modern Conservative Party

Fri, 27 Jan 2023 04:00:00 GMT

Nick Timothy, Theresa May's joint chief of staff during her first phase in Number 10, remains a strong believer in the "good that government can do.”

He still sees support for a more active state as the most fruitful route for his party, despite the state-shrinking campaigns of Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak. Does his view have much support amongst Tory MPs, and was Theresa May ever fully committed to his approach?

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on March 23rd: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-2/

The Ropetackle, Shoreham on March 29th: https://ropetacklecentre.co.uk/events/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics/

The Witham, Barnard Castle April 1st: https://thewitham.org.uk/event/steve-richards-rock-and-roll-politics-2/

The Old Market Theatre, Brighton April 24th: https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-2023

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

The Real Reason For the Return of 'Tory Sleaze'

Tue, 24 Jan 2023 02:00:00 GMT

In the run up to the 1997 election, the Conservative government was falling apart over 'sleaze' and rows over Europe. Nearly three decades later, we're back there again. How did it come to this?

Plus brilliant questions on my interview with Lisa Nandy, levelling up and much more...

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on March 23rd: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-2/

The Ropetackle, Shoreham on March 29th: https://ropetacklecentre.co.uk/events/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics/

The Witham, Barnard Castle April 1st: https://thewitham.org.uk/event/steve-richards-rock-and-roll-politics-2/

The Old Market Theatre, Brighton April 24th: https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-2023

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Lisa Nandy on ‘Taking Back Control’

Fri, 20 Jan 2023 04:00:00 GMT

For the first time the podcast is twice-weekly. We’re joined by shadow Levelling Up Secretary Lisa Nandy to explore how a Labour government would give back control to local communities.

Back us on Patreon to get all our podcasts early, bonus editions and much more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Tickets for Rock & Roll Politics Live are available now. Come and see Steve at…

Kings Place, London – live and streaming online on Thur 21 March

The Ropetackle, Shoreham – Wed 29 March

The Witham, Barnard Castle – Sat 1 April

The Old Market Theatre, Brighton – Monday 24 Apr

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Brexit and Scotland: When Leaders Become Trapped

Tue, 17 Jan 2023 04:00:00 GMT

It looks as if agreement can be reached on the Northern Ireland Protocol. But will Rishi Sunak's hardline Brexiteers back a deal? And how does Nicola Sturgeon find a route to independence? Plus brilliant questions and a big announcement.

Back the podcast on Patreon for bonus podcasts and much more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Tickets for Rock & Roll Politics Live are available now. Come and see Steve at…

Kings Place, London – live and streaming online on Thur 21 March

The Ropetackle, Shoreham – Wed 29 March

The Witham, Barnard Castle – Sat 1 April

The Old Market Theatre, Brighton (well, Hove actually) – Monday 24 Apr

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Keir Starmer and The Year Ahead

Tue, 10 Jan 2023 04:00:00 GMT

The last full year before the General Election is the defining one for a leader of the opposition. Is Starmer ready for the challenges ahead? Plus brilliant questions on Rishi Sunak, the NHS, trust and authenticity… and much more.

Tickets for Rock & Roll Politics Live are available now. Come and see Steve at…

Kings Place, London – live and streaming online on Thur 21 March

The Ropetackle, Shoreham – Wed 29 March

The Witham, Barnard Castle – Sat 1 April

The Old Market Theatre, Brighton (well, Hove actually) – Monday 24 April

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Rishi Sunak and The Year Ahead

Tue, 03 Jan 2023 17:24:00 GMT

So far, Rishi Sunak has been a ghostly prime minister, but also a stubborn one.

Does he understand the scale of the crisis in the UK, and has he the ideological flexibility to adapt?

The answers will determine whether he has a chance of narrowing the gap in the opinion polls, and in the quality of all our lives...

Plus, brilliant questions and much more.

Rock & Roll Politics is live in March and April. Tickets below:

Kings Place, London, March 23rd:

https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-2/

Ropetackle Arts Centre, Shoreham, March 29th:

https://ropetacklecentre.co.uk/events/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics/

The Witham, Barnard Castle, April 1st:

https://thewitham.org.uk/event/steve-richards-rock-and-roll-politics-2/

Old Market Theatre Brighton, April 24th: https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-2023

Subscribe to Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Can we trust elected politicians?

Tue, 27 Dec 2022 04:00:00 GMT

At the end of a year when Boris Johnson fell over issues relating to trust and the likes of Trump have tried to launch a comeback, I reflect on the issue of trust in the era of globalisation. It takes the form of a talk I gave at Newcastle University recently. ‘Trust’ is one of the most interesting terms because the nature of politics demands some evasiveness at least. But has trust between voters and elected politicians ever been so low?

Back the podcast on Patreon and get early episodes plus extras too: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Live at Kings Place, London, Thur 23 March 2023: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-2/

Live at The Old Market Theatre, Hove, Mon 24 April 2023: https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-2023

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

What do Sunak, Streeting and everyone else mean by REFORM?

Tue, 20 Dec 2022 04:00:00 GMT

It’s back. One of the most ubiquitous terms in British politics, “reform”, is in fashion again – but like most prominent terms it is imprecise to the point of absurdity. Plus more brilliant questions from our listeners.

Treat yourself and friends to festive gifts like tickets for Rock & Roll Politics Live, the dream Xmas present…

Live at Kings Place, London, Thur 23 March 2023: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-2/

Live at The Old Market Theatre, Hove, Mon 24 April 2023: https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-2023

Support the podcast by backing us on Patreon and get fabulous benefits: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

A Winter of Discontent... and Consequences

Tue, 13 Dec 2022 16:15:00 GMT

Inflation and the cost of living are the immediate causes of this winter's strikes... but there are much deeper currents.

Subscribe to Patreon here for bonus podcasts and much more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Keir Starmer and the Art of Winning

Tue, 06 Dec 2022 04:00:00 GMT

Well ahead in the polls, Keir Starmer becomes more confident and authoritative. He has learnt the lesson that ‘tax and spend’ debate is impossible for Labour to win in opposition but can be won in government. In my view the opposite applies to constitutional reform…Plus, brilliant responses to Hancock in the jungle and whether trains are better in Europe.

Rock & Roll Politics – The Christmas Special is live at the Market Theatre, Brighton on Mon Dec 12th. Tickets here: https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics

Support the podcast on Patreon and get exclusive extra episodes, ad-free editions and much more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

A Train Journey, the Exodus of Tory MPs and Hancock in the Jungle

Tue, 29 Nov 2022 04:00:00 GMT

The three themes are connected… download this week's Rock & Roll Politics to discover how.

Plus brilliant questions and much more!

Rock & Roll Politics - The Christmas Special is live at Kings Place on Monday December 5th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-christmas-special-2/

The Christmas Special is also live at the Old Market Theatre, Brighton on Monday December 12th. Tickets here: https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics

Don't forget to rate the podcast and send your questions to steveric14@icloud.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Brexit: The Beginning Of The End?

Tue, 22 Nov 2022 04:00:00 GMT

WIth government sources briefing that they want a closer relationship with the Single Market, it looks as if questions are finally being asked about Lord "Frosty" Frost's disastrous hard Brexit. But where will they lead?

Rock & Roll Politics - The Christmas Special is live at Kings Place on Monday December 5th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-christmas-special-2/

The Christmas Special is also live at the Old Market Theatre, Brighton on Monday December 12th. Tickets here: https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics

Don't forget to rate the podcast and send your questions to steveric14@icloud.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

BONUS PODCAST: Electoral Reform - The Question Time Special

Thu, 17 Nov 2022 13:57:00 GMT

So many questions were triggered by last week's Electoral Reform Special that they merit a bonus podcast.

The epic themes: Fairness, how to bring about change, wider constitutional reform, the broader context, and more...

Rock & Roll Politics - The Christmas Special is live at Kings Place on December 5th: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-christmas-special-2/

I'm also live at the Old Market Theatre, Brighton on Dec 12th: https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics

The Patreon version with bonus podcasts and much more is available here: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Sunak, Hunt, and The Dangerous Allure of the Past

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 04:00:00 GMT

Paying homage to their fiscal conservatism, Rishi Sunak and Jeremy Hunt turn to recent history for inspiration. But the past is a fickle guide…

Rock & Roll Politics - The Christmas Special is live at Kings Place on December 5th: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-christmas-special-2/

I'm also live at the Old Market Theatre, Brighton on Dec 12th: https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics

The Patreon version with bonus podcasts and much more is available here: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Has the Time Come For Electoral Reform?

Mon, 14 Nov 2022 16:50:35 GMT

So here it is ...The Electoral Reform Special!

I reflect on why I have been an opponent, and my latest position. And now... over to you!

Rock & Roll Politics - The Christmas Special is live at Kings Place on December 5th: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-christmas-special-2/

I'm also live at the Old Market Theatre, Brighton on Dec 12th: https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics

The Patreon version with bonus podcasts and much more is available here: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

How Rishi Sunak Can Win the Next Election

Tue, 01 Nov 2022 04:00:00 GMT

With the Conservatives miles behind in the polls, the route to election victory is narrow... but not entirely blocked.

Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Old Market Theatre Brighton for a Christmas Special on December 12th: https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics

Subscribe on Patreon for the new, exclusive series on governmental cock-ups - new episode on Tony Blair and the Iraq War coming soon! https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

And don't forget to send your questions in to steveric14@icloud.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

The Rishi Sunak Era

Tue, 25 Oct 2022 03:00:00 GMT

Rishi Sunak, the self-declared fiscal conservative, becomes Prime Minister having lost the summer's leadership contest. But will his Thatcherite instincts allow him to rise to the epic challenges ahead?

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on Oct 26th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-7/

I’m also live at the Ropetackle, Shoreham on Oct 27th; just a few tickets left: https://ropetacklecentre.co.uk/events/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-the-liz-truss-special/

And live at the Old Market Theatre Brighton for a Christmas Special on December 12th: https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics

Subscribe on Patreon for exclusive podcast series and more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

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The Fall Of Truss: Emergency Podcast

Thu, 20 Oct 2022 17:16:44 GMT

The Liz Truss era is over after just a few weeks. Since 2010, four Conservative Prime Ministers have fallen between general elections, suggesting that Truss is part of a deeper pattern...

Rock & Roll Politics: The (Post) Liz Truss Era is live at Kings Place on October Weds 26th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-7/

Back the podcast for early, ad-free episodes and more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

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Liz Truss and Consequences

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 12:47:00 GMT

Liz Truss is in the untenable position of supporting an economic policy she opposed with revolutionary disdain during the leadership contest. But can Tory MPs agree on an alternative?

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on Oct 26th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-7/

I’m also live at the Ropetackle, Shoreham on Oct 27th; just a few tickets left: https://ropetacklecentre.co.uk/events/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-the-liz-truss-special/

And live at the Old Market Theatre Brighton for a Christmas Special on December 12th: https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics

Subscribe on Patreon for exclusive podcast series and more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

The Next Labour Government and the Power of Markets

Tue, 11 Oct 2022 13:04:00 GMT

The mighty markets have wrecked the Truss/Kwarteng shallow revolution… but how will they constrain a Labour government if Keir Starmer wins the next election? Plus brilliant questions and much more.

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place London on October 26: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-7/

And Rock & Roll Politics: The Christmas Special is live for the very first time at the Old Market Theatre Brighton on Dec 12: https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics

Support the show on Patreon to get early editions, bonus podcasts, merchandise and much more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

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The Truss & Kwarteng U-Turn, and Political Space

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 11:26:00 GMT

The Truss and Kwarteng u-turn on tax shows they failed to read the space available to them. How many consequences will there be?

This week, there will be analysis, brilliant questions, and much more.

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on Wed Oct 26th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-7/

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The Revolutionary Conservative Party

Tue, 27 Sep 2022 03:00:00 GMT

Liz Truss and Kwasi Kwarteng have unleashed another shallow revolution, the third since 2010. The pound sinks and public services are on their knees. For 12 years, the UK has become a laboratory for whacky economic experiments. But will passive England vote for more?

Rock n Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on October 26th, as the drama intensifies… https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-7/

And don’t forget, join the Rock & Roll Politics co-operative by sending your questions to steveric14@icloud.com !

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The Return of The Truss Era

Tue, 20 Sep 2022 03:00:00 GMT

The Liz Truss era resumes at breakneck speed. How should Labour respond?

In this week's podcast, I reflect on the lessons of Harold Wilson's much-overlooked leadership with Nick Thomas-Symonds, shadow International Trade Secretary and author of Harold Wilson - The Winner.

Plus, brilliant questions on the monarch and much more.

Rock & Roll Politics is live - and streaming - this Thursday at Kings Place. Tickets available at kingsplace.co.uk

Email me and the Rock & Roll Politics Co-operative: steveric14@icloud.com

Subscribe to Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

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The Queen, The King – and How An Era Is Defined

Tue, 13 Sep 2022 03:00:00 GMT

Can a monarch genuinely define an era while being unable to express a view or implement policies that can change lives? Plus more brilliant questions from our listeners. Email yours to steveric14@icloud.com

Rock & Roll Politics: The Start of the Liz Truss Era is live at Kings Place London on Thursday September 22nd and streaming live. Tickets here:

https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-6/

Support the podcast, help us grow and get each week’s edition early plus bonus episodes: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Audio production by Robin Leeburn

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Liz Truss is Prime Minister

Mon, 05 Sep 2022 16:11:00 GMT

New Prime Minister Liz Truss is set to overturn Tory orthodoxies in place since this long-serving government was elected in 2010. What will the consequences be and what are the implications for Labour?

Rock & Roll Politics is live - and streaming - at Kings Place on Monday September 19th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-6/

Join as a patron for exclusive bonus podcasts, on Prime Ministers and their special advisors: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

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The BBC and Bias - Plus a special bonus listeners' Question Time

Fri, 02 Sep 2022 11:45:36 GMT

We had no time for listeners' questions earlier this week, so here's a bonus podcast with some of the brilliant ones I received, plus my reflections on the BBC and its board member, former Tory strategist Sir Robbie Gibb.

Rock & Roll Politics - The Liz Truss Special is live at Kings Place on Monday Sept 19th: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-6

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Rock & Roll Politics: Live at the Edinburgh Festival

Tue, 30 Aug 2022 14:58:50 GMT

Here is the 14th and final show at this year's Edinburgh Festival, in which the audience makes predictions on Liz Truss and Nicola Sturgeon, and I reflect on the ultimate irony of the Tory Leadership contest.

Rock & Roll Politics - The Liz Truss Special is live at Kings Place on Monday Sept 19th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-6/

Subscribe on Patreon for early episode releases and special series: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

And don't forget to send your questions to steveric14@icloud.com

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Reflections at the Edinburgh Festival

Mon, 22 Aug 2022 11:22:00 GMT

Meeting some of the members of the Rock & Roll Politics Co-operative has got me thinking, and so have the audiences at my live shows…

Plus, I review some of the events and shows I've seen at the Fringe, including those in which Nicola Sturgeon and Keir Starmer were centre stage.

Send your questions to steveric14@icloud.com, and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify to grow the Co-operative further!

Tickets for Rock & Roll Politics live at the Edinburgh Festival: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics

Tickets for Rock & Roll Politics 'The Liz Truss Era Special' on Sept 19th at Kings Place are here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-6/

The Patreon version of the podcast is here: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

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Energy prices… and Consequences

Tue, 16 Aug 2022 04:00:00 GMT

As in the 1970s, soaring fuel bills are transforming political assumptions and orthodoxies, with only the candidates to be the next PM struggling to catch up.

And as always, your questions. Send them in to steveric14@icloud.com!

Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival. Tickets here:

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

Rock & Roll Politics - The Liz Truss Era is live at Kings Place on Sept 19:

https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-6/

Subscribe on Patreon for early episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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UK Economy Hurtling Towards the Cliff's Edge

Tue, 09 Aug 2022 03:00:00 GMT

While the Tory leadership candidates row over tax cuts, there are bigger questions: what to do about Brexit labour shortages, and how will the war in Ukraine end?

Plus brilliant questions from the importance of a leader's chosen confidant and adviser to the essence of 'authenticity'.

Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Mon Aug 15th. Tickets here:

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

Rock & Roll Politics: 'The Liz Truss Era' is live at Kings Place on Sept 19th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-6/

Patreon backers get exclusive access to episodes early, plus bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

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Lessons for Keir Starmer in The Rise Of Liz Truss

Tue, 02 Aug 2022 03:00:00 GMT

Liz Truss presents herself as the change maker in a time of turmoil. Keir Starmer must do the same, even if the focus groups and the influence of mid-’90s New Labour point to an alternative, risky route of extreme caution…

Plus brilliant listener questions.

Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival every day from Mon Aug 15th. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics

Join Patreon for early access to episodes, bonus content and more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

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Can Boris Johnson Make A Comeback?

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 12:47:00 GMT

Some Conservative members want their next Prime Minister to be... Boris Johnson. A man who shares this view is... Boris Johnson himself, who anticipates a return to Number 10 despite the current race to replace him.

Plus the undeserved elevation of Margaret Thatcher to god-like levels, even among non-Conservatives, and brilliant audience questions.

Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Aug 15. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics

Patreon here for bonus podcasts and much more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

And don't forget to send your questions into steveric14@icloud.com.

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The Tory Leadership Contest

Tue, 19 Jul 2022 03:00:00 GMT

To my surprise we are learning a lot from the contest even though the candidates are saying very little. The biggest lesson so far: Get ready of political storms this autumn when the winner seeks to implement their economic policies. Also this week, more of your brilliant questions.

Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Monday August 15th. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics

Back us on Patreon for early, ad-free episodes, exclusive merchandise and more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

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The Conservatives Choose Another Prime Minister

Tue, 12 Jul 2022 03:00:00 GMT

For the third time since 2016 the Conservatives alone will elect a new Prime Minister. Yet the rest of us are excluded from the tax cutting, small state fantasy. In this episode: how the party has changed since the contest that followed the fall of Margaret Thatcher.

Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Aug 15th. Tickets here:

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

Join Patreon here::

https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

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Boris Johnson and Judgement

Tue, 05 Jul 2022 06:39:10 GMT

For understandable reasons, there are more raging questions about Johnson’s lack of a moral compass. His hesitation in responding to the allegations about former deputy whip Chris Pincher relate to his tendency to misjudge the nature of every challenge, from Covid to Brexit…

Plus, your brilliant questions on the ill defined ‘centre ground’.

Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from August 15th. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics

Join Patreon for bonus podcasts and much more. Next up, a special episode on Harold Wilson and Marcia Williams: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

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The Dangerous Allure of ‘The Centre Ground’

Tue, 28 Jun 2022 03:00:00 GMT

In a week when Matthew Parris claimed Rishi Sunak was a ‘centrist’ and Keir Starmer proclaimed that Labour was on the ‘centre ground’ I wonder where the ‘centre’ is and what it means… if anything. Plus your brilliant questions on Mick Lynch, Boris Johnson, the by-elections and much more.

Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Monday Aug 15th. Tickets here:

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

Patreon for bonus podcasts and much more is here:

https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

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

Who’s In Charge?

Tue, 21 Jun 2022 03:00:00 GMT

In my reflections I suggest that the fragmentation of the railways – with no clear lines of responsibility – is the biggest cause of the current crisis… plus brilliant questions on a range of urgent issues from the BBC’s choice of panellists to Northern Ireland to what happens if the Conservatives win the next election but Johnson loses his seat.

Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Mon Aug 15th. Tickets here:

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

Back us on Patreon to get the podcast early and ad-free plus exclusive bonus editions and much more:

https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

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Cries For ‘Tax Cuts’ and a ‘Battle with Europe‘

Tue, 14 Jun 2022 03:00:00 GMT

The confidence vote that Boris Johnson won narrowly is already having consequences.

Tory MPs deploy their new leverage to demand vaguely-defined tax cuts and a new war with the EU over the Northern Ireland protocol …but what about the spending increases the same Tory MPs also want?

And as the UK economy totters on the cliff’s edge, how would it cope with an economic battle with the EU?

Rock & Roll Politics is live daily at the Edinburgh Festival from Monday August 15th. Tickets here:

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

Back the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Patreon to get exclusive early episodes, bonus podcasts and more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

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Boris Johnson Limps On

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 11:33:00 GMT

Boris Johnson 'won' the vote of confidence in his leadership, but voters will note that many of his MPs don't support him and will wonder why they should, either.

If there is a leadership contest most voters will not have a role - and all candidates will pitch to the right in order to win.

Rock & Roll Politics is live and streaming live on Wed June 8th - A Tory Leadership Special. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-8-jun/

Back the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Patreon to get exclusive early episodes, bonus podcasts and more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

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The Jubilee and the State of England

Mon, 30 May 2022 15:21:08 GMT

As millions enjoy street parties and raise a glass to the Queen - what exactly are they celebrating?

Plus, brilliant questions on Partygate and Johnson’s survival.

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on Wed June 8th. Tickets here:

https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-8-jun/

My new series on Prime Ministers and their advisers, starting with Boris Johnson and Dominic Cummings, is exclusively on my Patreon page from the 1st of June:

https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

And don't forget to send your questions in to steveric14@gmail.com !

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Sue Gray… and Consequences

Mon, 23 May 2022 13:00:00 GMT

Time moves on and other issues erupt. But should that reduce the potency of the lockdown parties at Downing Street, and reduce the pressure on the inept Metropolitan Police?

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place at June 8th, and we have a lot to pack in. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-8-jun/

Sign up to Patreon for bonus podcasts and much more:

And don't forget to send your questions in to steveric14@gmail.com !

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Brexit: Far From Done

Tue, 17 May 2022 03:00:00 GMT

Boris Johnson chose to place a border between Northern Ireland and Great Britain. Now, he faces the dark consequences…

Plus, the hidden risk of Keir Starmer’s pledge to resign if he’s issued with a penalty charge notice for Beergate, and brilliant questions from the UK and around the world.

Send in your questions from your runs, bakes, and rows to steveric14@icloud.com

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on June 8. Tickets here:

https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-8-jun/

You can back Rock & Roll Politics on Patreon to get episodes early, plus exclusive podcasts, merchandise and more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

You can also become a Premium Subscriber on Apple Podcasts for early access. Search Rock & Roll Politics in the app for more information

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Keir Starmer and 'Beergate' - What We Already Know

Mon, 09 May 2022 15:47:49 GMT

This week, I reflect on the many lessons arising from the local elections, from the sudden focus on Starmer's future to the fractured state of the UK. Plus, more of your brilliant questions.

Rock & Roll Politics returns to Kings Place on June 8th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-8-jun/

Tickets for my live shows at the Edinburgh Festival are also on sale: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics

You can back Rock & Roll Politics on Patreon to get episodes early, plus exclusive podcasts, merchandise and more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

You can also become a Premium Subscriber on Apple Podcasts for early access. Search Rock & Roll Politics in the app for more information

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The lessons of Labour’s landslide win in 1997

Tue, 03 May 2022 07:33:33 GMT

I reflect on Ukraine and the origins of World War One… plus the lessons of Labour’s victory 25 years ago this week. Also, brilliant questions on issues from sex pests at Westminster to how to fund the NHS…

Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on June 8th: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-8jun/

Support us on Patreon and get bonus podcasts, early editions and more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Enjoy the podcast and want a simple way to access bonus content as well as ad-free episodes? Rock & Roll Politics Patreon content is now also available via Apple Podcasts too. Click here to find out more: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/rock-roll-politics-with-steve-richards/id1384867286

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When Prime Ministers Fall

Tue, 26 Apr 2022 03:00:00 GMT

The mood amongst some Conservative MPs has turned against Boris Johnson, but what are the conditions that bring about the toppling of a Prime Minister by their own party?

Plus brilliant questions on the passivity of voters, NHS co-payments, Union Jack socks and much more.

Patrons to Rock & Roll Politics get episodes early and an exclusive podcast on the 2017 general election, out this Friday! Subscribe here: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Apple Podcasts listeners can also now receive exclusive content. Find out more here: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/rock-roll-politics-with-steve-richards/id1384867286

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The Return of Partygate

Mon, 18 Apr 2022 03:00:00 GMT

This week, I get angry…

Plus brilliant questions on all the big themes, and the latest on my Union Jack socks.

On Patreon there are bonus podcasts on the Feb ‘74, ‘83 and ‘92 elections. Back us on Patreon, help us grow, and get amazing merchandise and perks too:

https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

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The long search for the BBC’s Political Editor

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 03:00:00 GMT

In a packed podcast we reflect on the lessons for the BBC in its never-ending attempt to find a Political Editor… Plus, Rishi Sunak, the French Elections, Labour and the need to excite as well as reassure. Plus brilliant questions and why all of us at Rock’n’Roll Politics should form a co-operative.

Back Rock’n’Roll Politics on Patreon, help us grow, and get amazing merchandise and perks too: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

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Cost of Living Crisis - How Should Labour Respond?

Tue, 05 Apr 2022 03:00:00 GMT

A drop in living standards and the return of inflation should be an open goal for Labour, but there are huge challenges for ahead for Labour as well as opportunities presented by the cost of living crisis.

Plus, as always, your brilliant questions…

There’s a new bonus podcast on the Patreon version of Rock n Roll Politics, discussing the 1992 General Election. Sign up now to listen! https://www.patreon.com/posts/64700914

Send your questions to Steve at steveric14@icloud.com

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Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak

Tue, 29 Mar 2022 03:00:00 GMT

Both Boris Johnson and Theresa May half-wanted to move their party on from Thatcherism… and yet they both appointed Thatcherite Chancellors. Why did they do so? What were the consequences? Plus brilliant questions ranging from how Labour can oppose Brexit, to why Prime Ministers make terrible mistakes, and on to a new favourite theme of listeners: tuition fees. Good or bad?

Support Rock’n’Roll Politics on Patreon for bonus podcasts, exclusive Rock’n’Roll Politics mugs and much more:

https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

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Boris Johnson: A Columnist as Prime Minister

Tue, 22 Mar 2022 04:00:00 GMT

Boris Johnson's comments linking Ukraine with Brexit show that he is still writing Daily Telegraph columns as a form of leadership.

Plus the P&O fire-and-rehire crisis, the language of ‘regulations’ and ‘freedom,’ and your brilliant questions...

Join Rock N Roll Politics the Patreon version here for lots of bonuses: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Send your questions to Steve at steveric14@icloud.com

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Boris Johnson, Ukraine and the Falklands Factor

Tue, 15 Mar 2022 04:00:00 GMT

This week’s podcast out early for Patreon followers. Number 10 is briefing that Boris Johnson is proving to be a world leader in the Ukraine crisis, and implying that perceptions of him will improve as they did in relation to Margaret Thatcher after the Falklands. Will they? And what really happened in 1982, when Thatcher went to war?

Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place this Thursday, March 17th, and streaming live: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-17-mar/

Join Rock N Roll Politics the Patreon version here for lots of bonuses: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Don’t forget to add your personal RSS for the podcast to your favourite app so you can listen wherever you are…

Email: steveric14@icloud.com

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Jonathan Powell on Ukraine, Putin and UK Foreign Policy

Tue, 08 Mar 2022 04:00:00 GMT

This week on the podcast, Tony Blair’s former chief of staff, Jonathan Powell, reflects on the current international crisis. Jonathan met Putin several times during different phases of his leadership, and has been involved in negotiations - including in Northern Ireland - where resolution in any form seemed close to impossible.

Plus brilliant questions, and news of my Union Jack socks, arriving soon.

Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on Thursday March 17th, and streaming live:

https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-17-mar/

Get Rock'n'Roll Politics early when you back the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Jonathan Powell’s books include: Great Hatred, Little Room: Making Peace in Northern Ireland

Don’t forget to add your personal RSS for the podcast to your favourite app so you can listen wherever you are…

Email: steveric14@icloud.com

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Views of the Past, National Identity… and War

Tue, 01 Mar 2022 04:00:00 GMT

Putin’s view of his country’s recent past propels him to invade Ukraine – and yet his sense of the past is in many ways a wilful misreading. On this at least, he is not alone. Many leaders are burdened by a misreading of their country’s past… with consequences. Plus, brilliant questions from listeners and your suggestions for general election bonus podcasts for Patreon supporters.

Help Rock’n’Roll Politics by backing us on Patreon here. You’ll get extra podcasts, mugs, free tickets and even (for top tier backers) a live show in your own home…

Rock’n’Roll Politics is live at Kings Place, London on Monday March 17th: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-17-mar/

Email: steveric14@icloud.com

https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

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Freedom

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 11:26:31 GMT

I reflect on that most potent and misleading word in British politics, ‘freedom’ – and then we go over to some brilliant questions ranging from Sunak’s chances of becoming PM to latest on UK foreign policy, plus great suggestions for General Elections in forthcoming Patreon podcast episodes.

Rock’n’Roll Politics is live at Kings Place London, and streaming live, on Monday Feb 21st. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-mon-21-feb

Support Rock’n’Roll Politics on Patreon here to help us keep growing and also get bonus podcasts, mugs, complimentary live tickets and much more.

Email: steveric14@icloud.com

https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

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Global Britain’s Foreign Policy – Posturing And Weakness

Mon, 14 Feb 2022 14:09:29 GMT

This week I reflect on British foreign policy in the light of the Ukraine crisis and other sagas in which the UK has played a haphazard role… and Keir Starmer follows a pattern in speaking about foreign policy solely in terms of the never-ending vote losing factionalism in his party. Plus, brilliant questions on the police investigation re Downing Street parties and much more.

Help the podcast to grow by supporting us on Patreon, the crowdfunding platform. You’ll get bonus podcasts, mugs, free tickets for live shows and much more. https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Rock’n’Roll Politics is live at Kings Place, London on Monday Feb 21st at 7pm..a brand new show and streaming live too. Tickets here : https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-mon-21-feb/

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Prime Ministers and Number Ten

Tue, 08 Feb 2022 04:00:00 GMT

As politics gets even wilder, I reflect on how the make-up and effectiveness of the No.10 operation tells us much about the character of a Prime Minister. Based on the recent past, the structure of Number Ten will neither save a Prime Minister nor lead them to their doom. The wider political context always determines their fate… Plus, more brilliant questions from the UK and around the world.

You can now support the podcast on Patreon with options that include special bonus podcasts – the first series is on epic General Elections – plus Rock’n’Roll Politics mugs, free tickets and much more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics

Rock’n’Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on Mon Feb 21 and streaming live too:

https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-mon-21-feb/

Audio production by Alex Rees for Podmasters

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Sue Gray Speaks Her Mind

Tue, 01 Feb 2022 10:24:00 GMT

The Sue Gray ‘update’ was more dramatic than expected, but only Conservative MPs have the power to act. Will they?

Plus, brilliant questions from around the UK and the rest of the world.

Rock’n’Roll Politics is live – and streaming – at Kings Place on Monday Feb 21st: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-mon-21-feb/

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Boris Johnson: Parties and Rules

Tue, 18 Jan 2022 05:00:00 GMT

Boris Johnson totters precariously because of the parties in Number 10… even though he himself has never been a great party lover. Why did he not think through those famous consequences? Did he not consider what would happen if the gatherings were leaked? Plus brilliant questions from all parts of the UK, Germany, Poland, Brussels and beyond.

Rock’n’Roll Politics is live at Kings Place London next Monday Jan 24. Join us for an epic political night – and we’re streaming live too. Tickets for either option here:

https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-24-01/

Written and presented by Steve Richards. Recorded at Podmasters Studios, Highbury, London. Audio production by Alex Rees.

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Keir Starmer Makes His Pitch

Tue, 11 Jan 2022 04:00:00 GMT

I analyse Keir Starmer's latest pitch as if it were a classic literary text - which it is not - but there clues in it that are interesting. Speeches are always more revealing than they seem.

Plus, brilliant questions from Portugal, Holland, France and of course the UK.

Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on Mon Jan 24th and also streams live. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-24-01/

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Two Predictions for 2022

Tue, 04 Jan 2022 04:00:00 GMT

In the first podcast of the New Year, I reflect on two big political taboos that I predict will be broken in 2022, and brilliant questions on the politics of Tony Blair, when governments fall and the latest on Covid. Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on Jan 24th.

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Lord Frosty Resigns

Tue, 21 Dec 2021 08:29:09 GMT

Why the resignation of Lord Frosty Frost shines light on a vast range of the current political landscape… also Covid latest, the North Shropshire by-election, and how they all connect… plus brilliant questions from across the UK and around the world.

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The ‘Freedom’ To Be Selfish

Tue, 14 Dec 2021 04:00:00 GMT

I reflect on the state of the modern Conservative party when so many of its MPs fervently oppose modest protections against Covid at a point when the virus is raging once more…plus brilliant questions, reports on the recent live shows and much more.

Recorded at Podmasters Studios. Audio production by Robin Leeburn

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Rishi, Keir and the Times Newspaper

Tue, 07 Dec 2021 04:00:00 GMT

Rishi Sunak briefs the Times about his plans to cut taxes as taxes are about to rise… Keir Starmer gives an interview to the paper that makes no waves… plus brilliant questions.

Rock’n’Roll Politics: The Christmas Special is live at the Ropetackle Arts Centre, Shoreham on Wed Dec 8th: https://ropetacklecentre.co.uk/events/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-christmas-special/

And live at Kings Place London on Thursday Dec 9th (also streaming live): https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-christmas-special/

Audio production by Alex Rees at Podmasters Studios.

Podmasters.co.uk

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Keir Starmer Reshuffles His Shadow Cabinet

Tue, 30 Nov 2021 11:52:00 GMT

Keir Starmer has conducted a wide ranging shadow cabinet reshuffle-How significant will the changes be? Plus brilliant questions from around the UK...and the rest of the world. Rock N Roll Politics- The Xmas Special is live at Kings Place on Dec 9th..and also streaming live: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-christmas-special/

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Trains, Dacre and Marr

Sun, 21 Nov 2021 23:58:00 GMT

My reflections on the government's plans for trains in the north of England, Paul Dacre's revealing reasons for pulling out of the OFCOM post and Andrew Marr's equally illuminating statement on why he's living the BBC...plus brilliant questions. Rock N Roll Politics-the Xmas Special is live at Kings Place on Dec 9th. https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-christmas-special/

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A Shift In The Opinon Polls

Sun, 14 Nov 2021 15:58:00 GMT

The opinion polls- accurate or not- determine the political mood, how leaders are perceived by their parties and the media. What is the significance when some polls show Labour in a rare lead? Plus brilliant questions from across the UK and the world.. Rock N Roll Politics-The Xmas Special is live on Dec 9th at Kings Place. Tkts here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-christmas-special/

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Boris Johnson and 'Sleaze"

Mon, 08 Nov 2021 15:20:27 GMT

The episode explores why long serving Conservative governments become vulnerable when stories about 'sleaze' become a dominant theme...and why B Johnson has distinct cause to be worried...plus brilliant questions from around the UK and the world.Rock N Roll Politics-the Xmas Special is live at the Ropetackle Arts Centre on Dec 8th and Kings Place on Dec 9th

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The BBC and 'Impartiality'

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 12:44:45 GMT

Rishi Sunak's budget has become mythologised as a 'tax and spend' programme..'a Labour budget'...but is it...? The question highlights issues around 'impartiality' and the BBC.Rock N Roll Politics- The Barnard Castle Special is live at Witham Arts Centre on Sat Nov 6thhttps://thewitham.org.uk/event/steve-richards-rock-and-roll-politics/Rock N Roll Politics-The Xmas Special is live on Dec 9thhttps://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/

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Rishi Sunak and Rachel Reeves

Mon, 25 Oct 2021 08:50:19 GMT

An analysis of the political duel between the Chancellor and the Shadow Chancellor ..with more to come...plus brilliant questions from around the UK and the rest of the world.Tkts here for Rock N Roll Politics-The Barnard Castle Special on Sat Nov 6thhttps://thewitham.org.uk/event/steve-richards-rock-and-roll-politics/And for Rock N Roll Politics-The Xmas Special at Kings Place on Dec 9https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-christmas-special/

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A Review: Blair and Brown-The New Labour Revolution

Sun, 17 Oct 2021 19:50:00 GMT

After the unbearable murder of David Amess-a. defence of politics and elected representatives...and a review of the BBC series on New Labour...that is getting rave plaudits, partly undeserved... Plus brilliant questions...Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Witham Arts Centre in Barnard Castle on Saturday Nov 6th. Tickets here:https://thewitham.org.uk/event/steve-richards-rock-and-roll-politics/

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Brexit and Consequences

Sun, 10 Oct 2021 13:43:26 GMT

Looking ahead to the live show at Kings Place....Tickets here for live in the hall:https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-live-in-hall/ And here for the live stream:https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-online-streaming-event/

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B Johnson and his Cabinet espouse the policies of Tony Benn

Sun, 03 Oct 2021 18:57:24 GMT

Boris Johnson has become a fan of import controls as a way of increasing wages- a key part of Tony Benn's Alternative Economic Strategy in the the late 70s and early 80s. But in another bizarre twist they are both Bennite and Thatcherite.Rock N Roll Politics is live on October 11 at Kings Place..and there's a live stream too:https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-live-in-hall/

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Keir Starmer Makes His Moves

Mon, 27 Sep 2021 08:53:17 GMT

K Starmer aches to engage with the wider electorate...but with the government facing several deep crises is he right to focus on internal issues at the start of the conference? Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on Mon Oct 11th:https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-live-in-hall/And is streaming live:https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-online-streaming-event/

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Boris Johnson-The most powerful PM in modern times

Mon, 20 Sep 2021 08:46:59 GMT

Boris Johnson's reshuffle shows that he is in total command of his government and party....more so than any other recent Prime Minister...at least for now...Plus Andrew Neil and GB News...and an amazing array of questions.Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on Oct 11https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-13-08/

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Is Boris Johnson Moving The Conservatives To The Left?

Sun, 12 Sep 2021 18:22:59 GMT

A look ahead to the Rock N Roll Politics Special streaming live from Kings Place on Sept 13th at 7pm...There's a lot going on!https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-live-in-hall-13-sep/Streaming tickets : https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-online-streaming-event-13sep/

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Social Care and the Lack of Political Will

Mon, 06 Sep 2021 11:32:09 GMT

Most voters agree that a government must raise taxes to pay for social care.In effect an insurance for care does not come for nothing. Yet the government-like previous administrations- has failed to implement an effective plan even though Boris Johnson pretended he had one when he became PM.Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on Mon Sept 13th ..and streamed live too....https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-live-in-hall-one-13-sep/

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Prime Ministers We Never Had-Part 2

Mon, 30 Aug 2021 21:31:51 GMT

After a short summer break we all need to get together to prepare for an epic autumn...I reflect on Afghanistan and reveal some of the figures included in 'The Prime Ministers We Never Had'..in bookshops from this Thursday..plus brilliant questions. And Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on Mon Sept 13...and there's also a live stream..the start of a dramatic new political year-https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-live-in-hall-one-13-sep/

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Prime Ministers We Never Had-Part One

Mon, 09 Aug 2021 13:38:11 GMT

Who qualifies for the dubious honour of being a Prime Minister We Never Had? In my new book I argue that there are two qualifications. They must have been seen as a possible PM AND had a feasible chance of seizing the crown. I discuss some of those that are often cited as 'PMs We Never Had' but who do not qualify. Plus your brilliant questions..and you can pre order a signed copy of the book here:https://www.waterstones.com/book/the-prime-ministers-we-never-had/steve-richards/9781838955946

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Is Rishi Sunak the Next Prime Minister?

Mon, 02 Aug 2021 15:02:34 GMT

Rishi Sunak is spoken of as Boris Johnson's likely successor...Chancellors are often seen as the next Prime Minister..and yet quite a few of them fail to seize the crown and become instead Prime Ministers We Never Had. Is Sunak the next Prime Minister or one of those who won't get to the very top?My latest book 'The Prime Ministers We Never Had' can be pre-orderered here:https://www.waterstones.com/book/the-prime-ministers-we-never-had/steve-richards/9781838955946

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What should the state be doing and how?

Sun, 25 Jul 2021 14:45:18 GMT

For the first time since 1979 some Conservatives, including Boris Johnson, seem to be looking towards a more active state...while others, including Rishi Sunak, continue to put the case for 'fiscal conservatism'. How significant is this divide in the modern Conservative party and where does it leave Labour?

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'Freedom'

Sun, 18 Jul 2021 09:55:53 GMT

Boris Johnson's 'Freedom Day' has become a dangerous farce, with Johnson, Sunak and Javid self isolating..raising big questions about what the complex term 'freedom' means...plus brilliant question on politics and sport, Jeremy Corbyn, what happens to those that defect to other parties... and much more.Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Greenwich Theatre on Sunday evening, July 18

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Boris Johnson's ' Freedom to Be Irresponsible Day'

Mon, 12 Jul 2021 13:51:51 GMT

B Johnson 'advises' mask wearing should continue in crowded indoor spaces...so the freedom not to do so is granted to the irresponsible who will ignore the advice...limiting the freedom of others..plus brilliant questions on MPs in the wrong parties to England's defeat against Italy.Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Greenwich Theatre next Sunday..a few tickets left for sale: https://greenwichtheatre.org.uk/events/rock-n-roll-politics-with-steve-richards/

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K Starmer Needs To Change Labour Without 'Taking His Party On'

Sun, 04 Jul 2021 16:48:46 GMT

Labour won the Batley and Spen by-election against expectations..immediately K Starmer was urged to use his new space to 'take on his party'. But what does that mean? And what evidence is there that an opposition leader that triggers a 'row' goes on to win an election? Plus brilliant questions...Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Greenwich Theatre on Sun July 18-https://greenwichtheatre.org.uk/events/rock-n-roll-politics-with-steve-richards/

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Matt Hancock-A Saga With Many Lessons And Consequences

Sun, 27 Jun 2021 13:33:00 GMT

The Kings Place show on Monday-live in the hall and streamed-will focus on the Hancock saga, delving deep into the many themes, and move on to Cummings and segue into Lord Frosty...We'll reflect on the by-election in Batley and Spen and what it tells us, the Blue Wall, plus live questions and unreliable predictions...Tickets here for the streamed and live event. https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-28-jun/

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The significance of a dramatic by-election result

Sun, 20 Jun 2021 15:00:49 GMT

What will be the consequences of the Conservatives' surprise loss of a by-election? Perhaps there will be none...but I argue that the Lib Dems' victory challenges Boris Johnson's main source of political strength-the perception that he's a winner....plus brilliant questions and bread recipes. Rock N Roll Politics is live in the main hall of Kings Place on Monday June 28th...and streamed live. Tkts here:https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/?kw=2021-06-28

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Boris Johnson seeks to disown his chosen Brexit route

Mon, 14 Jun 2021 13:07:47 GMT

With breathtaking but unsurprising chutzpah B Johnson and Lord 'Frosty' blame the EU for their own chosen Brexit route. The EU had agreed to T May's Brexit that avoided a border between GB and N.Ireland. Johnson proposed the border to get a deal that was different to May's...hoping to escape later from the consequences, or not realising what they were.Rock N Roll Politics is live in the main hall at Kings Place on June 28. Tkts: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/?kw=2021-06-28

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Lockdown 'Freedom' Day-A Familiar Pattern

Mon, 07 Jun 2021 14:28:44 GMT

Like a dark thriller the lockdown exits have a familiar pattern-the frenzied focus on a date-Xmas Day, June 21st. Meanwhile the same newspapers and Tory MPs demand 'freedom' irrespective of the data, and B Johnson is inclined to agree with them as a new variant appears to be taking hold...Plus your brilliant questions on D Cummings, E Miliband, and much more. Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on June 28th. Tkts here:https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/?kw=2021-06-28

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Ed Miliband-Ideas and Leadership ..And Is D Cummings on the left?

Mon, 31 May 2021 14:46:52 GMT

Ed Miliband discusses some of the ideas in his new book 'Go Big' and why he feels freer to express his thoughts now compared with when he was Labour leader...Plus reflections on Dominic Cummings...and your latest questions on Labour's future, G7 and T Blair's foreign policyRock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on Monday June 28th:https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/?kw=2021-06-28

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The BBC In Crisis- A Familiar Pattern

Sun, 23 May 2021 11:38:57 GMT

The Diana/Bashir crisis is more nuanced than the media frenzy suggests but the layers of BBC 'senior managers', where lines of responsibility are blurred and the output is often a distant consideration, are the constant factors in the various avoidable crises-Diana, Cliff, Gilligan/Kelly etc. Plus brilliant questions on Labour, Brexit and much more.Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on June 28thhttps://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/?kw=2021-06-28

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Keir Starmer Gets Advice..From Virtually Everyone

Sat, 15 May 2021 18:08:57 GMT

It is a sign that Labour is in crisis when its leader is inundated with advice...much of it contradictory and more vague than the assertive tone of the many contributors to the debate about Labour's future..Listen or read carefully to the likes of Tony Blair, Peter Mandelson, Angela Rayner and John McDonnell ...and their proposed paths towards recovery are more foggy than they appear to be.

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Streaming live tonight...the historic finale

Wed, 12 May 2021 11:34:01 GMT

Rock N Roll Politics is streaming live from my boudoir for the last time tonight...the theatres are reopening soon!Get you tickets here and see you at 7pm:https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics/

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Labour turmoil

Mon, 10 May 2021 14:08:24 GMT

The current political situation is like the best political thrillers where nothing is quite what it seems...a contrast to Brexit which was a rollercoaster thriller but all of it on the surface. There were no mysteries. There are now. We will crack them live on Wed night....Rock N Roll Politics is streaming from a room in my house for the last time before the theatres re-open. Tickets here...get the wine ready:https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics/

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Does the 'centre ground' exist?

Mon, 03 May 2021 12:09:26 GMT

The 'centre ground' is the most overused and imprecise term in British politics. Cameron, Osborne and Blair claim to be on 'the centre ground'. So do most political columnists. But what if these economic liberals are nowhere near the centre ground... if it exists at all?Tickets for the final historic show being streamed live from my boudoir on Wed May 12 are here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics/

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Boris Johnson and Dominic Cummings

Mon, 26 Apr 2021 14:10:58 GMT

Even if most voters are paying no attention the allegations around B Johnson's integrity and judgement will destabilise Number 10, the wider government...and, indeed, B Johnson, a figure unused to facing consequences of earlier decisions and conduct.The historic final live show from a room in my house takes place on Wednesday May 12. Tickets here:https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics/

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David Cameron and A Long Serving Government

Tue, 20 Apr 2021 09:39:00 GMT

Imagine if Ed Balls or John McDonnell had been Chancellor. Cameron would've been in no position to text them. This is partly a saga of one party rule at Westminster..plus your questions and who will win the Hartlepool by-election? The historic final live streamed show from my boudoir is on May 12th. Tkts:https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics/steveric14@icloud.com

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Tonight's live show

Thu, 15 Apr 2021 08:46:21 GMT

Just a quick reminder about tonight's live show and what we'll be doing...including the lessons from the contrasting careers of David Cameron and Shirley Williams, live questions and unreliable predictions..Tickets here:https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-1504/

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A Prince Dies

Mon, 12 Apr 2021 11:42:58 GMT

Such a lot to cram in..BBC's response to Prince Phillip's death, Northern Ireland, Sturgeon v Salmond latest...and I reveal what I'll be covering on this Thursday's Rock N Roll Politics streaming live at 7pm and then available for another week.https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-1504/

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Alastair Campbell On K Starmer, T Blair and the leadership of E Miliband

Mon, 05 Apr 2021 08:55:15 GMT

I'm joined by Alastair Campbell to reflect on Ed Miliband's leadership, Keir Starmer and Tony Blair as he publishes his revelatory diaries that span 2010-2015..plus brilliant questions on A Salmond, K Starmer and the Covid Inquiry...and the latest from listeners in rural Australia and idyllic Portugal. Rock N Roll Politics is streaming live on April 15th. https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-1504/

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Salmond V Sturgeon-The Most Significant Twist So Far

Mon, 29 Mar 2021 09:36:06 GMT

A Salmond sets up a new party and some SNP figures defect. Defections will be destabilising for N Sturgeon.. Tory defections to UKIP freaked out D Cameron and in the early 80s defections to the SDP doomed Labour ...PLUS a recipe from one of our listeners in Italy..Rock N Roll Politics is streaming live at Kings Place on April 15th. You need to get a ticket in advance. https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-1504/

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Flying the Flag

Mon, 22 Mar 2021 16:40:24 GMT

The greater the doubt about the UK's place in the world the more it seeks to fly the flag....since the Suez Crisis the UK's sense of itself has been a contradictory mix of jingoism and extreme insecurity.....It's more straightforward for believers in 'British exceptionalism' to get worked up about the Union Jack rather than assess the role of a middle ranking power ....plus brilliant questions on all the urgently topical issues.

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A Quick Reminder

Wed, 17 Mar 2021 10:39:51 GMT

Rock n Roll Politics is streaming live tonight at 7pm...My themes:Covid, Voters and The State; Rishi Sunak-Who is He?; Met Police-Who's in Charge? Plus Predictions, live questions and much more.Tickets here for live show and valid for a week-https://shop.kingsplace.co.uk/26461/26462

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The Vaccine, Voters and a Reconnection With The State

Mon, 15 Mar 2021 11:23:22 GMT

A preview of Wednesday evening's livestream plus questions on whether the fashion for localism is misplaced, Keir Starmer, the vaccine 'war' and why we should be alarmed that most people in the UK have little or no interest in politics.Tickets for Wednesday evening's Rock N Roll Politics are available here. The show is then available for another week. https://shop.kingsplace.co.uk/26461/26462

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Personalities or Policies-What Matters More?

Mon, 08 Mar 2021 13:49:28 GMT

Tony Benn used to argue it was the policies and not the personalities that mattered. Was he right-with reference to Alex Salmond, Nicola Sturgeon, RIshi Sunak and Boris Johnson?Rock N Roll Politics is streaming live at 7 on Mar 17th. Tickets here:https://shop.kingsplace.co.uk/26461/26462

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Prime Ministers and Chancellors

Mon, 01 Mar 2021 13:41:21 GMT

The defining relationships in British politics is that between Prime Minister and Chancellor and Opposition leader/ Shadow Chancellor....In budget week how do Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak compare with past duos ..and Keir Starmer and Annelise Dodds...?Rock N Roll Politics is streaming live on Mar 17th. Book here:https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-online-streaming-march-17/

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The Bizarre Rise of Lord 'Frosty' Frost-an Emblematic Tale

Sun, 21 Feb 2021 17:34:27 GMT

Lord 'Frosty' Frost is now in the cabinet responsible for Brexit negotiations t...Having negotiated a deal that is causing chaos. B Johnson is not a good judge of people...he thought Cummings was his saviour and has yet to see that 'Frosty' is a puny courtier in his increasingly frenzied court.Send questions to steveric14@icloud.comTickets for the next live show on Mar 17-https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-online-streaming-march-17/

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A few words about tonight's Rock N Roll Politics live stream

Wed, 17 Feb 2021 10:05:00 GMT

My theme for tonight's live stream-Can Keir Starmer win? Plus questions and unreliable predictions...book in advance and get the wine ready for tonight. The show will then be available for seven days if it clashes with anyone's packed evening schedules.https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-feb-2021-online-streaming/

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Listening to Rock N Roll Politics while walking along rivers, canals, the sea..and eating scallops

Sun, 14 Feb 2021 09:44:56 GMT

Brilliant questions and a mini travelogue as we find out more where we listen to the podcast...from Australia to Germany and on to the great Manchester canal.Join me for the live stream next Wednesday at 7pm. I'll be reflecting on the leadership of K Starmer- Can he win the next general election...and how? Plus questions, points, and unreliable predictions. Details here:https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-feb-2021-online-streaming/

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Boris Johnson Takes Control of the NHS

Mon, 08 Feb 2021 17:13:49 GMT

B Johnson proposes to take back control of the NHS - A reform of reforms introduced in the first term of this long serving government. It is right to do so..and it was always absurd for D Cameron to give away significant powers while retaining responsibility....Plus great questions.Rock N Roll Politics is streaming live at 7pm on Wed Feb 17th. There'll be twists and turns...Tickets here:https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-feb-2021-online-streaming/

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Vaccines, Brexit and the Irish Question

Mon, 01 Feb 2021 16:23:56 GMT

The Northern Ireland protocol is looking wobbly already...that's because it doesn't answer the Irish Question arising from Brexit...Plus the lessons of UK's vaccine triumph..brilliant questions and the definitive answer to B Johnson's hair style.Tickets for the next live streaming of Rock N Roll Politics on Feb 17th here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-feb-2021-online-streaming/

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Covid, Brexit And A Fear of Contemplating Consequences

Mon, 25 Jan 2021 16:06:21 GMT

Boris Johnson speaks and acts on a daily basis...but why does he show little sign of thinking through the consequences of what he says and does? Plus new questions on the implications of the Biden presidency, referendums, the art of leadership, Jeremy Corbyn and ...the latest on Johnson's hair style.https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-feb-2021-online-streaming/

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B Johnson's Hair And The Other Big Issues Of Our Times

Sun, 17 Jan 2021 21:58:23 GMT

n this week's episode we focus on listeners' brilliant questions including ones on referendums and how they might work, Joe Biden...and B Johnson's hair style.Rock N Roll Politics- the Latest Lockdown Special streams live at Kings Place this Wednesday at 7pm-Reflectons on Joe Biden hours after inauguration , Donald Trump. Keir Starmer, unreliable predictions and live questions. Tkts here:https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-2001/

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Trump and 'the Special Relationship'

Mon, 11 Jan 2021 12:43:47 GMT

Is the 'special relationship' of such value to the UK that it prevents British Prime Ministers from making critical judgements about US Presidents and their administrations? Plus..more U turns from B Johnson ...brilliant questions about referendums, why Johnson is a winner and much more...Rock N Roll Politics-the Latest Lockdown Special is streaming live on Jan 20th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-2001/

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Brexit Far From Done..And Another Late Lockdown

Mon, 04 Jan 2021 15:37:34 GMT

When I heard that the Brexit deal was 'done' I wondered how all the fundamental conflicts had been resolved. The answer is that they have not been..all the thorny questions have been kicked in to the long grass...and B Johnson stumbles belatedly in to lockdown...the dark sequence recurs...plus brilliant questions and points of order. Tickets for the next live streamed show are here:https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-2001/ steveric14@icloud.com

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My favourite Political Interview..Ever

Tue, 22 Dec 2020 15:50:08 GMT

For the Rock N Roll Politics Podcast Brexit/Covid Festive Special I reflect on my favourite political interview ...at the suggestion of a listener. Thanks to all of you for listening in 2020..and the for the brilliant questions..what a year..and we're going to need to stick together via the podcast and shows in 2021 to make sense of the ongoing epic dramas. ..and to hopefully have a few laughs as well.

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The No Deal/Bad Deal (but better than a no deal) Brexit Special

Sun, 13 Dec 2020 20:02:38 GMT

We explore the layers of tragic irony as the UK heads for the cliff's edge . Tickets for Rock N Roll Politics live at Kings Place and the live stream are available here.https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/?kw=2020-12-16The Prime Ministers-Reflections on Leadership from Wilson to Johnson is available here and of course at local bookshops.https://www.amazon.co.uk/Prime-Ministers-Reflections-Leadership-Johnson/dp/1786495880/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

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The Dangerous Self- Confidence of Etonian Prime Ministers

Tue, 08 Dec 2020 21:29:33 GMT

One of the biggest differences between Conservative Prime Ministers and the few Labour leaders that have made it to Number 10 is their level of self confidence. B Johnson has pursued the hardest possible Brexit without agonising about its impact on the UK economy and his own position. D Cameron failed to win a majority in 2010 but pursued an agenda on the radical right as if he had won a landslide.Rock N Roll Politics is live/live streamed at Kings Place on Dec 16: www.kingsplace.co.uk/RNRP

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Boris Johnson, Michael Gove and Rebel Tory MPs

Sun, 29 Nov 2020 20:11:01 GMT

M Gove wrote a well argued essay in the Times explaining the new tier system. Within hours a panic stricken B Johnson implicitly undermined the arguments to appease Conservative MPs.....plus your brilliant questions. Tickets for the live show at Kings Place on Dec 16th and the live stream are here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/rocknrollpolitics/The email for signed messages re my book on Prime Ministers, and for questions /thoughts: steveric14@icloud.com

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Form A Square Around the Pritster

Sun, 22 Nov 2020 15:15:05 GMT

With Rock N Roll Politics streaming live on Monday at 7 here's a great chance to have more time for your brilliant questions... Keep the questions and points coming..the email: steveric14@icloud.comTickets for the live streamed show on Monday are here..a chance to ask questions and raise points live...There'll be much to discuss:https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-online-streaming-23-nov/

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Boris Johnson, Dominic Cummings and a Downing Street 'Reset'

Mon, 16 Nov 2020 18:56:45 GMT

With the departure of Dominic Cummings there is much talk of a 'reset' in Downing Street... But how much will really change or can change? Plus more brilliant questions..keep them coming : steveric14@icloud.com. Tickets for Rock N Roll Politics the live lockdown special on Monday Nov 23rd are here:https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-online-streaming-23-nov/

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Biden, Merkel, Macron....and Brexit Johnson.

Sun, 08 Nov 2020 22:22:01 GMT

The victory of Joe Biden and the fall of Donald Trump raise many questions: What's the impact on the increasingly isolated B Johnson? Will 'Trumpism' flourish without Trump ( I doubt it)? Are there lessons for the BBC in CNN's grown up coverage (Yes)? Plus your brilliant questions at at time of historic upheaval.

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Johnson and Lockdown; Starmer and Corbyn

Sun, 01 Nov 2020 22:01:14 GMT

We're living through epic times...B Johnson calls a second national lockdown inevitably. Yet he acts weeks after he was advised to do so..the same dark sequence as in the spring. When leaders are out of their depth they repeat past misjudgements almost knowingly. Meanwhile K Starmer suspends J Corbyn to the predictable cheers of the fickle Greek Chorus of commentators-but was he right to do so? And the minor matter of the US presidential election..plus your brilliant questions

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Boris Johnson V Andy Burnham and Marcus Rashford

Mon, 26 Oct 2020 16:42:15 GMT

A government with a big majority faces a dizzying array of critics less than a year since its election victory -some of its own MPs highlight forensically what's wrong with the 'world beating Test and Trace' system, Marcus Rashford is once again the voice of the poor with support across the country and Andy Burnham becomes a potent voice of protest but-in muddled Britain- without much power.

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Covid Response in the UK and the Consequences of Devolution

Sun, 18 Oct 2020 15:49:34 GMT

A preview of the live stream of Rock N Roll Politics from the Kings Place Website at 7pm on Monday (and available for a few days after the live event). There'a lot to catch up on..Brexit, Covid latest, your questions and much more. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-online-streaming/See you there!

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Steve Richards Presents Rock n Roll Politics

Tue, 13 Oct 2020 16:02:50 GMT

Boris Johnson claims a balanced approach in response to the second wave of Covid...in doing so he repeats the same mistakes of earlier this year and will be tormented again with the words "too little ...too late"...I explore why Prime Ministers succumb to the dangerous allure of policies that have failed in the past...plus your questions and how to watch the live Rock N Roll Politics on Monday Oct 19th

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Test and Trace-The Reasons for The World Beating Cock Ups

Tue, 06 Oct 2020 20:42:13 GMT

In another packed episode-latest on Covid testing, B Johnson's conference speech crammed with objectives without explaining how he'll meet any of them-and your brilliant questions inc Andrew Neil's new channel, Keir Starmer's knighthood..and pro-Europeans without a voice...and what you're up to while listening to this podcast..plus details of next live show at Kings Place on October 19th.

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Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak-Nothing is What It Seems

Tue, 29 Sep 2020 10:40:34 GMT

The media is trained to spot tensions between PMs and Chancellors, but often gets the complex relationship wrong...plus Covid, the government's response and Monty Python's Flying Circus...and your brilliant questions.

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The Tory Papers Turn on Boris Johnson

Mon, 21 Sep 2020 18:07:28 GMT

As the virus wreaks havoc again, why some MPs call for the army to intervene ...and why there'll be significant consequences as some Tory newspapers give B Johnson a hard time (though nowhere near as hard as they would have done to a Labour PM)...Plus your brilliant questions....

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Boris Seeks to Break the Law

Mon, 14 Sep 2020 17:02:34 GMT

The government's 'oven ready' deal that would 'get Brexit done' is now being violated...by the government...and your brilliant questions on Boris Johnson, Brexit, Keir Starmer and much more.

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Brexit is back (it never went away)

Mon, 07 Sep 2020 07:54:07 GMT

The Number 10 that presided chaotically over Covid and its consequences does not go for introspective humility...Instead of learning lessons from its failures it moves on with naive self-confidence and counterproductive machismo as it threatens to renege on its own 'oven ready' Brexit deal....plus some of your brilliant questions answered.

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Prime Ministers and the Misery of Power

Thu, 03 Sep 2020 06:27:35 GMT

Boris Johnson is struggling. Does he realise yet that he is not equipped to meet the epic demands of leadership? Writing the paperback version of 'The Prime Ministers- Reflections on Leadership from Wilson to Johnson' I am struck by how miserable Prime Ministers are a lot of the time. They get to the top, feel euphoric...and then all hell breaks loose. Also given the performance of the government....should Labour be doing even better in the polls?

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The most significant political year since 1945

Sun, 26 Jul 2020 14:59:12 GMT

Have the last twelve months been the most historic since the end of World War Two? Covid, Brexit, a big Tory election win....that takes a lot of beating..there's been the Suez Crisis, Sterling Crises, Three Day Weeks, Winter of Discontent, Iraq, Financial Crash...and what about the epic dramas of the early 1980s?

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Boris Johnson and A Fear of Scrutiny

Wed, 22 Jul 2020 16:30:48 GMT

In UK politics B Johnson can escape scrutiny more easily than D Trump, Johnson's model of leadership in some respects. Johnson does not like being challenged and in one huge policy area he is getting his way. The UK economy faces another big hit because of the Johnson/Cummings approach to talks with the EU, but few are questioning what they are doing and what the likely consequences will be. On this Johnson has no need to fear scrutiny...and that is very dangerous.

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Keir Starmer's 100 days and How to Challenge Rishi Sunak

Tue, 14 Jul 2020 10:38:08 GMT

Rishi Sunak walks on water but he does so by putting the case for borrowing and spending. How should Labour respond? There are big risks and opportunities for Starmer and his new team.

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Prime Ministers and the Favourite Special Advisers

Sun, 05 Jul 2020 16:23:00 GMT

Is Dominic Cummings the most powerful Number 10 special adviser of modern times? I reflect on the relationship between PMs and their favourite special advisers. From Harold Wilson and Marcia Williams to Johnson and Cummings...the most illuminating relationships in politics.

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Boris Johnson as Churchill, Roosevelt and Jose Mourinho

Tue, 30 Jun 2020 14:52:39 GMT

This week I reflect on the chasm between B Johnson's bold objectives and his capacity to deliver..plus Dominic Cummings, the shallow revolutionary with angry, contradictory plans...and K Starmer's sacking of RLB and the complex implications.

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Will Boris Johnson be PM at the time of the next election?

Mon, 22 Jun 2020 17:44:57 GMT

In this episode I reflect on the contradictory leaks coming from Number 10, the Treasury and the wider government..and reveal the outcome of my exclusive poll on the fate of Boris Johnson.

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The Virtual Live Show

Mon, 15 Jun 2020 19:49:53 GMT

A lookahead to the next virtual live Rock N Roll Politics on Wednesday June 17th.

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Boris Johnson And The Question of Competence

Mon, 08 Jun 2020 20:33:18 GMT

In England voters only turn against Conservative governments when they are seen as incompetent. With one of the highest virus death tolls and a hard Brexit looming is B Johnson in danger of losing the battle of competence..with electoral consequences? Also some thoughts on the BBC's new DG.

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Boris Johnson, the Scientists and 'the science'

Tue, 02 Jun 2020 10:37:00 GMT

There are signs of tension between Johnson, ministers and some of the scientists over the lockdown exit and the Cummings' affair. At first they appeared to be dancing together as ministers proclaimed absurdly that they were 'following the science', but now the mood on the dance floor darkens...plus Emily Maitlis and the BBC

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Boris Johnson and Dominic Cummings

Tue, 26 May 2020 21:13:29 GMT

Why is B Johnson so dependent on D Cummings? Is his determination to keep him a sign of strength or weakness? The saga of Cummings dash to Durham shows at the very least that the Vote Leave campaign runs Number Ten.

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Lockdown Special-The Sequel

Sun, 17 May 2020 15:35:59 GMT

A preview of the live virtual show on the Kings Place website at 7pm on Monday May 18th. The last live virtual show was on the day B.Johnson returned to work..how is he doing? How is K Starmer doing? And will the UK and politics in the UK change permanently and if so in what way?

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Steve Richards Presents Rock N Roll Politics

Sun, 17 May 2020 07:07:16 GMT

A look ahead to Monday's virtual show on the Kings Place website starting at 7 pm...The last live virtual show was on the day B Johnson returned to work...How's he doing? How's K Starmer doing? And will the virus emergency change the UK and politics permanently ..and in what way?

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B Johnson- A Curious Indifference to 'Bombproofing' a TV Address

Tue, 12 May 2020 10:20:21 GMT

Boris Johnson outlined the Lockdown exit strategy in a grand televised address to the nation. Yet avoidable confusion followed. Why? I reflect on how Tony Blair and others in the New Labour era would 'bombproof' every statement before a public word was uttered and seek to answer why B Johnson and his team are more casual in their approach. Also my verdict on Keir Starmer's early days...

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Lockdown Special: The Lessons From Setting a Target For Tests

Mon, 04 May 2020 11:13:25 GMT

This week I reflect on Matt Hancock not meeting his testing target, claiming to do so..and the triumph he could have claimed for getting close to his goal. Targets work..and the scrapping of targets was one of the many calamitous decisions taken by the coalition government... Plus Brexit latest..and thoughts on my virtual live show from a room in my house.

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Rock N Roll Politics The Virtual Show-A Trail

Sun, 26 Apr 2020 07:20:13 GMT

Rock n Roll Politics the Lockdown Special is on the Kings Place website at 7pm on Monday April 27th.

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Coronavirus-The daily press conferences v reality on the frontline

Sat, 18 Apr 2020 15:13:54 GMT

I am hooked on the Number 10 daily press conferences even though they are dull and reveal little..perhaps my addiction is explained by the gap between the eerie, subdued mood at the conferences with the epic crisis being played out..it's a darkly compelling disjunction..and on other matters the former Cabinet minister Peter Hain reflects on Labour's decline and the need for radical Keynesian economic policies under Keir Starmer.

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B Johnson- A PM in hospital ; An interview with T Blair on Labour

Sat, 11 Apr 2020 10:34:48 GMT

In this episode I look at how perceptions of B Johnson changed in terms of his role as a Prime Minister when he was moved to Intensive Care-he was viewed suddenly as more leadenly than he was; I interviewed T Blair for my Radio 4 programme on Labour's challenges 'Left out of Power'- here is the interview in full.

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Virus: Powerless ministers in 'reformed' NHS and Keir Starmer

Sun, 05 Apr 2020 12:19:51 GMT

Not for the first time ministers are hoist by their own petard as they try to exert control over the NHS only to discover they gave away their powers to do so..and Keir Starmer wins by a landslide.

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Johnson and The Virus; Starmer and Leadership

Mon, 30 Mar 2020 17:06:13 GMT

B Johnson has been famous for so long it is easy to forget how inexperienced he is as a PM facing the big challenge since 1945...and now he gets the virus along with other key players. Keir Starmer faces a different challenge..making his mark at a time of national emergency.

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The State Is Back In Fashion

Sun, 22 Mar 2020 17:16:10 GMT

n this episode: The coronavirus means all fashionable assumptions are turned on their head. We turn to the state to come to our rescue after decades in the UK when big government and public spending were seen as a threat...but even so B Johnson's confused libertarianism allows many fools to be 'free' to get the virus and pass it on...not so many laughs this time.

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The Virus becomes political and the Budget changes politics

Fri, 13 Mar 2020 07:52:05 GMT

n the latest episode of Rock N Roll Politics I conclude I was wrong a week ago in suggesting that the virus would not become political...and a Tory Chancellor contradicts his predecessors and media orthodoxy by arguing that higher spending boosts economic growth-quite a moment

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Steve Richards Presents Rock N Roll Politics

Fri, 06 Mar 2020 15:58:27 GMT

Brexit not done, a virus spreading across the globe, a Labour leader soon to be elected-what is the most politically significant?

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Steve Richards Presents Rock N Roll Politics

Mon, 30 Sep 2019 12:29:53 GMT

B Johnson began his leadership acting as if was a Prime Minister with a landslide majority. Machismo and assertions of 'strong leadership' become problematic when he has no majority at all. Meanwhile I'm the only person in the UK who can see a case for J Corbyn's Brexit proposition.

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Steve Richards Presents Rock N Roll Politics

Tue, 30 Jul 2019 17:00:20 GMT

Boris Johnson is Prime Ministers and forms his Brexit cabinet ready to plan for a 'no deal' Brexit. The juxtaposition of.a government with a crusading mission and a hung parliament sets the scene for a period of epic political drama...and I'm getting ready for the Edinburgh Festival.

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Steve Richards Presents Rock N Roll Politics

Wed, 17 Jul 2019 17:49:12 GMT

As a new Prime Minister prepares to acquire the crown Steve Richards reflects on Boris, the fantasy of scrutiny in the Tory Leadership contest or any leadership contest, and the latest on internal Labour traumas.

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Steve Richards Presents Rock N Roll Politics-the Podcast

Fri, 05 Jul 2019 12:34:15 GMT

Steve Richards reflects on the gaping gap between the Tory leadership battle and the parliamentary reality the winner will face- and why an early election may not solve the hell of leading in a hung parliament..plus Labour latest and the lessons of the BBC's leadership debate.

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Steve Richards presents Rock N Roll Politics

Sun, 10 Feb 2019 17:05:09 GMT

The importance of a leader's character is often overplayed but not at the moment. Theresa May presses on with her version of Brexit with a ruthless determination that defies her fragile position. So far she has continued to prevail because she is more wilful than the weakest House of Commons in modern times.

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Rock N Roll Politics

Thu, 24 Jan 2019 12:18:28 GMT

I explain why T May still holds most of the Brexit cards even if MPs get an extension to Article 50..most likely outcome of this very early Brexit phase is that a version of her deal passes and UK is out by June..then the nightmarish trade talks begin.. BUT I'm more excited by citizens' juries leading to an informed referendum. An informed referendum in the UK is a contradiction in terms but these juries can work as a way of engaging voters before the mendacious political battle gets formally underway.

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Steve Richards Presents Rock N Roll Politics

Sun, 13 Jan 2019 18:50:16 GMT

At an epic point in the Brexit saga I reflect on the still pivotal role of T May, the less pivotal but vital stance of J Corbyn, J Bercow and all MPs: Parliament might want to take us back from the cliff's edge but will the weak but obstinate May be willing to be an instrument of parliament? Can you hear her utter the words " I will negotiate Norway Plus" or "I'll call a referendum". If not-what will happen? As a bonus I watched Fiona Bruce present Question Time.

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Steve Richards Presents Rock N Roll Politics

Thu, 06 Dec 2018 14:54:45 GMT

In the latest podcast I try and struggle to make sense of crazy Brexit events- T May goes on to Today programme for a silly interview, the Attorney General spends explaining why he wont publish predictable legal advice before the government publishes the advice, and the government is first in history to propose a policy that makes the economy poorer. We haven't even had the vote on May's deal.

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Steve Richards Presents Rock N Roll Politics

Wed, 28 Nov 2018 14:48:08 GMT

Why the transformation of the Conservative parliamentary party over recent decades means T May will lose the vote on her deal...plus the reason why she could not have posed a simple question: What Brexit deal could have won a majority in this parliament? After the election the answer would have brought her down. By then she was trapped and on a course towards the vote on Dec 11th...and why a TV debate between her and J Corbyn is the reddest of red herrings.

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Episode 18

Tue, 13 Nov 2018 14:37:07 GMT

As the Brexit drama reaches a nerve shredding and unpredictable climactic I reflect on the roles of T May, J Corbyn and G Brown's recent Brexit speech....and pledge to update regularly while UK at cliff's edge...get ready for bonus podcasts, the only upside to a national emergency.

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Rock N Roll Politics Episode 16

Fri, 02 Nov 2018 09:35:41 GMT

In this latest episode I reflect on wider implications of the Newsnight interview with George Osborne and the subsequent glorious response of Polly Toynbee- when it was suggested that she and the former Chancellor were now relatively 'close' politically...and related to this: Who's winning the battle of ideas? The winner of this battle also wins elections.

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Rock N Roll Politics Episode 15

Tue, 18 Sep 2018 16:29:04 GMT

In this week's podcast I explore the most destructive and potent theme in UK politics -'betrayal'. If T May insists on the false Brexit choice of 'her deal v no deal' those feeling 'betrayed' will be Hardline Brexiteers, Soft Brexiteers and Remainers. Even May wins the Commons' vote on her deal the story of 'betrayal' will trigger a thousand more political explosions...and also the Liberal Democrats struggling to become significant and more on my unscripted TV Talks.

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Rock N Roll Politics-- Episode 14

Thu, 13 Sep 2018 13:10:58 GMT

In this week's episode I explore the Prime Ministers we never had. All the factors that blocked them apply to Boris Johnson making it much less likely that he will be the next PM. In connection with Boris' fate I also reflect on my next BBC series of unscripted TV talks on the theme of 'PMs We Never Had' and why ad libbing to camera in a single take is a good way-in my view- of conveying the drama and epic significance of politics.

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Rock N Roll Politics- Episode 13

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 16:05:39 GMT

In this week's episode-Referendums are a nightmare and yet a second Brexit referendum is both desirable and feasible; Corbyn and anti semitism-the furore over the latest imprecise British political scandal becomes even less focussed and more vague; the hidden divide that is more significant than 'open versus closed'...and I apologise for failing to meet a pledge.

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Episode 12

Thu, 02 Aug 2018 12:06:31 GMT

My reflections on Brexit latest and the Labour anti semitism row-another in a long line of imprecise UK political scandals...and then a chance to hear Andrew Adonis in spellbinding form live at the recent Kings Place Politics Festival. One pro- European said to me afterwards 'For one hour I believed everything was possible'.

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Episode 11

Thu, 26 Jul 2018 14:24:07 GMT

What are the merits, flaws and chances of a new political party being formed? At the recent Kings Place Politics Festival Ian Birrell, Rachel Sylvester, Jonathan Freedland and I explored the ups and downs of a new party. As part of this podcast the event is broadcast. Relax on a beach-or anywhere- and listen!

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Episode 10

Wed, 18 Jul 2018 19:38:24 GMT

Reflections on what will not happen in the Brexit saga. There'll be no National Government. There'll be no election. Theresa May's Brexit Plan will not last, but her Plan is a battered shield while the rest of us search for an alternative plan...And the BBC needs some much deeper thinking on what means is to be a publicly funded organisation reporting in wild times.

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Episode 9. Brexit Drama

Wed, 11 Jul 2018 09:26:15 GMT

Reflections on latest Brexit eruptions... two cabinet resignations, the possibility of parliamentary paralysis in relation to Brexit and why a schism in the Conservative party is more likely than an early election

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Episode 8. Railway Chaos

Tue, 03 Jul 2018 13:07:13 GMT

There are many lessons from the shambolic introduction of new railway timetables and most of them apply to all public services in the UK. They are so obvious and yet political and media culture in the UK -or England- does not all allow us to go near the obvious...and only a very little bit this week on Brexit before a very big bit to come.

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Episode 7. Keir Starmer

Tue, 26 Jun 2018 19:03:06 GMT

The Shadow Brexit Secretary, Keir Starmer, was one of the many star guests at the recent Kings Place Politics Festival. Speaking to me as around 100 000 people were marching in London calling for a 'people's referendum' on Brexit Keir Starmer explains how and why the Labour leadership takes a different position. He also talks about the leap from being the Director of Public Prosecutions to a Labour politician in a pivotal post...

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Episode 6. Theresa May and Question Time

Thu, 21 Jun 2018 12:05:51 GMT

What this week's NHS announcement tells us about the fragility of Theresa May and how the insights of Bruce Forsyth could save BBC's Question Time.

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Episode 5. Brexit Latest and the World Cup

Thu, 14 Jun 2018 11:51:31 GMT

I reveal exclusively that the meaningful vote on the Brexit deal will be …meaningful… look forward to England being knocked out of the World Cup and reflect on the glorious TV panels of the 1970s that were often better than the games

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Episode 4. Reflections on Jeremy Thorpe... and Brexit

Mon, 04 Jun 2018 20:15:24 GMT

Reflections on the real Jeremy Thorpe after the concluding episode of the brilliant BBC drama and the lessons to be learnt from the brief phase when he lit up the political stage. Somehow or other I move on from Thorpe to Brexit... all paths lead to Brexit. This will be a month of heightened drama in the Brexit saga. No wonder Brexit is already being turned into a TV serial. I wonder if it will be as good as A Very English Scandal - although the creators of the Brexit drama could use the same title.

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Episode 3. Rock N Roll Politics Live

Mon, 28 May 2018 21:01:25 GMT

A recording of a recent one man show at Kings Place, London - the wild world of politics reflected in relation to Brexit, Jeremy Corbyn, Royal Weddings, the chances of a new party, and much more

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Episode 2. Reflections on Labour and William Keegan

Mon, 21 May 2018 22:11:31 GMT

Steve Richards questions some of the fashionable assumptions about Labour's Jeremy Corbyn and John McDonnell and talks to the legendary Observer columnist William Keegan about Brexit and the Chancellors he has known

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Episode 1. Theresa May, Brexit and a conversation with Andrew Adonis

Mon, 14 May 2018 21:18:54 GMT

In this first weekly podcast Steve Richards reflects on why Theresa May is no different from all other Prime Ministers in twisting and turning over Europe - while being more trapped than any of her predecessors. He speaks to Andrew Adonis about Brexit, the BBC, lessons from speaking to Brexiteers around the country and his journey to the left in some policy areas.

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