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Newscast

Newscast

2,151 episodes — Page 6 of 44

US-Venezuela: Who’s in charge of Venezuela now?

Today, we look at who’s in power now in Venezuela, after President Donald Trump said the US will ‘run’ the country.Maduro's Vice-President Delcy Rodríguez has been named interim president, who Trump says is talking to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.Chief political correspondent Henry Zeffman is also in the studio to talk through Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s interview with Laura in which he reacted to the news from South America, as well as his future and the UK’s relationship with the EU.You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers.You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscord Get in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXdNewscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenters were Laura Kuenssberg and Paddy O’Connell. The weekend series producer is Chris Flynn. The social producer was Gabriel Purcell-Davis. The technical producer was James Piper. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Jan 4, 202634 min

The Keir Starmer 2026 Interview

As the new year begins, Laura's had a long chat with the Prime Minister Keir Starmer. There's speculation about his future, but he says he'll see out the year in the job.The interview was recorded on Saturday, as the news about President Nicolás Maduro's capture was breaking. Laura also asks Starmer if he's is supportive of Donald Trump's actions.And, how does he see the UK's future relationship with the EU?This is the interview in full. There's a regular episode of Newscast on the way later today!

Jan 4, 202646 min

US-Venezuela: Trump strikes, captures the President and says the US will take over

Today, the United States dropped bombs on Venezuela and captured its president, before Donald Trump announced that the US will “run” the country until “safe transition can take place”.He also said US oil companies will fix Venezuela's "broken infrastructure" and "start making money for the country".Chief international correspondent Lyse Doucet joins Laura and Paddy to talk through how and why Trump took the action. They also discuss what could happen next, and what it means for the rest of the world.You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers.You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscord Get in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXdNewscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenters were Laura Kuenssberg and Paddy O’Connell. The weekend series producer is Chris Flynn. The social producer was Gabriel Purcell-Davis. The technical producer was Dafydd Evans. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Jan 3, 202632 min

Old Newscast: How Donald Trump Won The Republican Nomination 2016 (Part 2)

Today, we look at how Donald Trump won the Republican nomination to be President in 2016 (Part 2). Adam is joined by chief presenter in Washington Caitriona Perry, and Anthony Zurcher from Americast. In part 2 they discuss the unique approach Donald Trump took to the debates? Why the likes of Jeb Bush, Ted Cruz and Marco Rubio failed to shine? And, why the late attempt by a Republican grandee to stop Trump failed?You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers.You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXdNewscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Jack Maclaren. The technical producer was Michael Regaard. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Jan 2, 202638 min

Old Newscast: How Donald Trump Won The Republican Nomination 2016 (Part 1)

Today, we look at how Donald Trump won the Republican nomination to be President in 2016 (Part 1). Adam is joined by chief presenter in Washington Caitriona Perry, and Anthony Zurcher from Americast. In part 1 they discuss whether a speech by Barack Obama convinced Trump to run? Who his main competition would be? And, what made his campaign so different?You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers.You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXdNewscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Jack Maclaren. The technical producer was Michael Regaard. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Dec 31, 202529 min

Old Newscast: How Jeremy Corbyn Won The Labour Leadership 2015 (Part 2)

In Part Two of this Old Newscast, we pick up with Jeremy Corbyn on the campaign trail. Veteran left-winger Jeremy Corbyn entered the leadership contest with many doubting he would win the necessary 35 nominations from Labour MPs to make it on to the ballot. Three months later, on the 12th September 2015, he was elected as leader with almost 60% of the vote.Adam is joined by two journalists who followed each twist and turn of the 2015 Labour leadership contest, Jane Merrick and Nick Watt, to revisit how the Corbyn campaign won.You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers.You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXdNewscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Shiler Mahmoudi. The technical producer was Michael Regaard. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Dec 30, 202533 min

Old Newscast: How Jeremy Corbyn Won The Labour Leadership 2015 (Part 1)

Today’s Old Newscast is travelling all the way back to 2015: it’s the morning after the general election, and Ed Miliband resigns as leader of the Labour party. Veteran left-winger Jeremy Corbyn entered the leadership contest with many doubting he would win the necessary 35 nominations from Labour MPs to make it on to the ballot. Three months later, on the 12th September 2015, he was elected as leader with almost 60% of the vote.Adam is joined by two journalists who followed each twist and turn of the 2015 Labour leadership contest, Jane Merrick and Nick Watt, to revisit how the Corbyn campaign won.You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers.You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXdNewscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Shiler Mahmoudi. The technical producer was Michael Regaard. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Dec 29, 202531 min

The Newscast Review of the Year 2025

Adam, Chris, Laura and Paddy go through the biggest stories of 2025 with the help of economics editor Faisal Islam and international editor Jeremy Bowen.They also reveal what it was like to be on the inside as they happened, and discuss how Keir Starmer will reflect on his first full year as prime minister, how Donald Trump's tariffs reshaped the world's economy, and how a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas was reached.And we look at where the rise of Nigel Farage’s Reform UK and Zack Polanski’s Green Party have left politics in the UK.You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXdNewscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenters were Adam Fleming, Chris Mason, Laura Kuenssberg and Paddy O’Connell. It was made by Chris Flynn. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Dec 24, 202552 min

The Epstein Files And "The Invisible Man"

Today, the US department of justice has released the largest amount of so-called “Epstein files” so far - but what exactly is in the latest batch? Among the latest files is an email from someone called ‘A’ from ‘Balmoral’ asking Ghislaine Maxwell for ‘inappropriate friends’. Adam is joined by Sumi Somaskanda, the BBC's Chief News Presenter in Washington D.C.Plus, the Government has watered down their inheritance tax plan for farms. Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds says the government has “listened closely to farmers across the country” and that they want to support the farms and businesses “that are the backbone of Britain's rural communities.” Adam and Alex Forsyth discuss where this policy climbdown has come from, and why now? You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXd Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Rufus Gray and Grace Reeve. The social producer were Joe Wilkinson, Sophie Millward, and Gabriel Purcell-Davis. The technical producer was Ricardo McCarthy. The assistant editor was Jack Maclaren. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Dec 23, 202525 min

The Labour Deputy Leader Interview

Today, Adam is joined by Labour’s deputy leader Lucy Powell to reflect on her first few weeks in the role and what lies ahead for the Labour government in 2026.The pair also discuss Health Secretary Wes Streeting’s new comments on the UK’s relationship with the EU, his leadership ambitions, and the importance of the party sticking together and showing a united front.Plus, how will Labour take on the political challenge represented by the Reform party and Nigel Farage next year? And, crucially, does she think that Keir Starmer will still be Prime Minister by next Christmas?You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXd Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Rufus Gray with Adriana urbano. The social producer was Joe Wilkinson. The technical producer was Stephen Bailey. The assistant editor was Jack Maclaren. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Dec 22, 202531 min

The Best Bits of Newscast's Podcast-a-Thon (Part Two)

Today, we’re bringing you some of the best bits from Newscast’s 25-hour Podcast-A-Thon!Back in November, Adam was challenged by Pudsey Bear to record a 25-hour long episode of Newscast in aid of Children In Need. Members of the Newscast family dropped by throughout the day and night to cheer Adam on. Including when Laura and Paddy met Pudsey, voice coaching with Chris and a midnight snack session with Lyse Doucet chatting about how she spends her down time with her family in Canada. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXdNewscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Dec 21, 202538 min

The Best Bits of Newscast's Podcast-a-Thon (Part One)

Today, we’re bringing you some of the best bits from Newscast’s 25-hour Podcast-A-Thon!Back in November, Adam was challenged by Pudsey Bear to record a 25-hour long episode of Newscast in aid of Children In Need. Keeping Adam company were many friends of the podcast including paranormal podcasters Danny Robins and Tristan Redman, satirist Armando Iannucci, The Traitors star Alexander Dragonetti and Lisa Costello delivering a masterclass in the Shipping Forecast!You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXdNewscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Dec 20, 202528 min

The Week: The State of British Politics in 2025

Today, Chris is joined by Ailbhe Rea from the New Statesman and Tim Shipman from the Spectator to review the year in politics and hazard a guess at what to expect in 2026.They discuss a shaky year for Keir Starmer’s leadership, the (almost) welfare rebellion and the rise of the “funky fringe”. Plus what can this year tell us about next years local elections?You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXd Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Chris Mason. It was made by Anna Harris and Miranda Slade. The social producer was Joe Wilkinson. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Dec 19, 202536 min

Is The Economy On The Up?

Today, the Bank of England has cut interest rates to the lowest level since early 2023. Chancellor Rachel Reeves calls it "good news for families with mortgages and businesses with loans" - but says there's "more to do". Meanwhile, the Bank now expects no economic growth at the end of this year. Faisal is with Tristan in the studio to talk it through.And, tension is still building between the US and Venezuela. President Donald Trump has ordered "a total and complete" blockade of all sanctioned oil tankers entering and leaving Venezuela - a move denounced by Caracas as "warmongering threats". Tristan is joined by his global story host Asma Khalid and Vanessa Buschschlüter Latin America and Caribbean Editor for the BBC News website. You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXd Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Tristan Redman. It was made by Jack Maclaren and Jem Westgate. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Dec 18, 202533 min

Is The Erasmus Student Scheme Worth The Money?

Today, the UK government announced it is set to rejoin the Erasmus study scheme. Victoria is joined Joe Pike to discuss - and they speak to Nick Thomas-Symonds, minister for EU relations about whether it’s worth the £570m cost.Plus, Andrea Egan becomes the new secretary general of the UK’s biggest union - Unison. We explain what that could mean for the Labour party and Keir Starmer’s leadership.You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXd Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenters were Victoria Derbyshire and Joe Pike. It was made by Jem Westgate and Laura Cain. The social producer was Beth Pritchard. The technical producer was Philip Bull. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Dec 17, 202525 min

Are Foreign Countries Interfering in UK Politics?

Today, the government has ordered an independent review into foreign financial interference in UK politics. The government say this is in response to what it called the “shocking” case of Nathan Gill, the former leader of Reform UK in Wales. Gill was jailed in November, after admitting to taking bribes for pro-Russian interviews and speeches when he was a Member of the European Parliament (MEP).Announcing the review, Communities Secretary Steve Reed said the government must "learn the lessons" from the case so "this can never happen again". Responding to Reed's statement in the Commons, Reform UK's deputy leader Richard Tice said his party welcomed the review but called on the government to also make sure it looked into the influence of China on the Labour Party. Victoria and Chris discuss what the review could meanPlus, President Trump has filed, what is being reported as, a $5 billion dollar lawsuit against the BBC. Caitríona Perry and the FT’s global media editor Daniel Thomas explain what’s in the lawsuit and why the BBC has said it plans to fight it. You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXd Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Victoria Derbyshire. It was made by Jack Maclaren with Anna Harris and Jem Westgate. The social producer was Sophie Millward. The technical producer was Jonny Hall. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Dec 16, 202537 min

Doctors Vote To Strike (Again)

Today, doctors in England have decided to strike for 5 days this week despite a new offer from the government. The British Medical Association said 83% of its members had voted to continue with the walkout in an online poll over the weekend, with a turnout of 65%.Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said he was "gutted" by the result, describing it as "irresponsible" given the rising pressure from flu.The BMA argues that, despite previous pay rises, resident doctors' pay is still a fifth lower than it was in 2008, once inflation is taken into account. Adam and Chris are joined in the studio by BBC health editor Hugh Pym. Plus, we talk to BBC europe editor, Katya Adler about the seemingly positive peace talks today in Berlin.You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXd Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Jack Maclaren with Anna Harris and Jem Westgate. The social producer was Sophie Millward. The technical producer was Rohan Madison. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Dec 15, 202531 min

'National Emergency' for Violence Against Women

Today, Laura, Paddy and Henry speak about the Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood’s plans to set up specialist rape and sexual offence investigation teams in every police force in England and Wales by 2029.We also discuss her ambitions as conversations about Keir Starmer’s future continue.And as it’s the last time Laura, Paddy and Henry get together in 2025, the team have a look forward to 2026 to predict what they think the biggest stories of next year might be.You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXd Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenters were Laura Kuenssberg and Paddy O’Connell. It was made by Chris Flynn with Rufus Gray. The weekend series producer is Chris Flynn. The social producer was Joe Wilkinson. The technical producer was Ricardo McCarthy. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Dec 14, 202532 min

​​Starmer Says a Doctor Strike Would be 'Reckless'

​​Today, the Prime Minister Keir Starmer has written in the Guardian Newspaper urging members of the British Medical Association to rethink planned strikes. ​​ ​​Possible strikes coincide with flu-related illnesses and hospitalisations at a higher rate than usual for this time of year, which have led to worries that a strike would lead to problems for the NHS. ​​ ​​Also, Laura has spoken to the new chair of the Equality and Human Rights Commission, Dr Mary-Ann Stephenson. Since the Supreme Court ruling over the definition of a woman in April they have been working on new guidance on who can access single-sex spaces. So how might the guidance be implemented? ​​ ​​You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. ​​ ​​You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscord ​​ ​​Get in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480. ​​ ​​New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXd ​​ ​​Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenters were Laura Kuenssberg and Paddy O'Connell It was made by Chris Flynn with Rufus Gray. The social producer was Joe Wilkinson. The technical producer was Michael Regaard. The weekend series producer is Chris Flynn. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Dec 13, 202526 min

The Week: How Much Pressure Is Keir Starmer Under?

Today, the Health Secretary Wes Streeting has given a very broad and far reaching interview to the New Statesman which some are seeing as an attack on Starmer’s leadership.Adam, Chris, Faisal and Alex discuss this, as well as the on going pressure on the PM. Plus, the team also pick out something we should be looking out for in 2026 in politics. You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXd Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Jack Maclaren. The social producer was Joe Wilkinson. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Dec 12, 202529 min

Is Flu Different This Winter?

Today, the number of people in hospital with the flu has risen by more than half this week.Doctors say an earlier start to the flu season plus an unexpected mutation in this years primary strain has led to a lower rate of immunity amongst the general public for this time of year. BBC health editor Hugh Pym and Doctor Jamie Lopez Bernal, consultant epidemiologist from the UK Health Security Agency breakdown the data.Plus, US forces have seized an oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela in an escalation of the US government’s pressure campaign against Venezuelan president Nicolás Maduro. The news came as Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado collected her Nobel Peace Prize in Norway, appearing despite a travel ban and a threat from the Venezuelan government that she would be labelled as a fugitiveBBC News presenter, Lucy Hockings and Latin America editor for BBC Online Vanessa Buschschlüter explain the situation in Venezuela and the story behind Miss Machado’s journey to Oslo. You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXd Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Anna Harris with Adam Chowdhury. The social producers were Sophie Millward and Beth Pritchard. The technical producer was Philip Bull. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Dec 11, 202539 min

Starmer's Plan To Fight The Right On Migration

Today, Sir Keir Starmer and Danish leader Mette Frederiksen published a joint article arguing for urgent modernisation of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), which has an impact on how a country can tackle illegal migration.David Lammy is in Strasbourg with European counterparts, beginning negotiations to change how the continent’s main human rights treaty is interpreted by judges, following political pressure from right wing parties who are calling for a complete withdrawal from the treaty. This comes just after the Trump administration’s security strategy hammered Europe, calling it weak, and warning of European decline and “civilisational erasure.”Adam is joined by Henry Zeffman, chief political correspondent to discuss the domestic politics of revamping the treaty. Then, Tom Bateman, BBC state department correspondent joins for analysis of what Trump’s latest strategy means for European politics. You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXd Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Rufus Gray and Kris Jalowiecki. The social producer was Sophie Millward. The technical producer was Philip Bull. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Dec 10, 202531 min

Where Did The Covid Fraud Cash Go?

Today, a report into almost £11 billion of Covid scheme fraud has found that most of it is beyond recovery.Covid Counter Fraud Commissioner, Tom Hayhoe said that a lack of accountability, bad quality data and poor contracting during the pandemic had led to £10.9 billion being lost to fraud or error.Simon Jack joins Adam to explain where the money’s gone and what, if anything, the government can do to recover it.Plus Baroness Amos, who is leading a review into maternity care in England, has said that she has seen “much worse” things than she had anticipated. Her interim findings of a review launched by the Health Secretary last year, have found evidence of hungry mothers, dirty wards and poor care. Social affairs correspondent Michael Buchanan and lawyer and campaigner Suzanne White join Adam. You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXd Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Jack Maclaren with Anna Harris and Jem Westgate. The social producer was Joe Wilkinson. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Dec 9, 202532 min

Trump v Europe?

Today, we discuss President Trump’s new vision for global security, one that is creating a lot of criticism in Europe.The 33-page document called the National Security Strategy suggests Europe is facing "civilisational erasure" and does not cast Russia as a threat to the US. Russia says the strategy is “largely consistent” with their vision.Security correspondent Frank Gardner and former UK ambassador to the US Lord Kim Darroch join Adam to discuss what this means for Europe.Plus, we discuss what has happened in Syria a year after former President Bashar al-Assad was overthrown. Adam chats with Mina Al-Lami from BBC Monitoring.You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXd Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Jack Maclaren with Adam Chowdhury. The social producer was Gabriel Purcell-Davis. The technical producer was Dafydd Evans. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Dec 8, 202538 min

The Plan To Get Work Working Again For Young People

Today, Laura and Paddy are joined by Joe Pike to look at government plans to offer young people on benefits taxpayer funded jobs in areas such as construction and hospitality. The goal is to tackle rising unemployment, with over 900,000 young people on Universal Credit looking for work. Plus, the team discuss Zarah Sultana’s interview with Laura on the bumpy establishment of Your Party as well as the latest defection from the tories to Reform.You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers.You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXdNewscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenters were Laura Kuenssberg and Paddy O'Connell, joined by Joe Pike. It was made by Anna Harris with Sophie Millward. The social producer was Darren Dutton. The technical producer was Jonny Hall. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Dec 7, 202541 min

Will The Netflix-Warner Bros. Deal Change Hollywood Forever?

Today, Laura and Paddy are joined by TV critic and broadcaster Scott Bryan to discuss the future of the entertainment industry after Netflix agreed to buy the film and streaming businesses of Warner Bros Discovery for $72 billion. But with regulators and rivals still waiting in the wings, it might just be the start of the saga.And one of the biggest controversies in Eurovision history has been in the news. Four countries (Spain, Netherlands, Slovenia and Ireland) have pulled out over Israel's continued participation in the competition. Remaining countries have until next week to confirm whether they will participate but it raises some difficult questions for the BBC amidst petitions for the them to boycott too.You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers.You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXdNewscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenters were Laura Kuenssberg and Paddy O'Connell It was made by Rufus Gray with Gabriel Purcell-Davis. The social producer was Darren Dutton. The technical producer was Jonny Hall. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Dec 6, 202529 min

The Week: Starmer’s Budget Defence, Donations, and is Brexit Back?

The Prime Minister backed Rachel Reeves’ budget on Monday. On the same day, Keir Starmer, not once, not twice, but on three separate occasions spoke about Brexit. We discuss what’s actually going on…You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers.You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXdNewscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Jack McLaren with Joe Wilkinson. The social producer was Sophie Millward. The technical producer was Michael Regaard. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Dec 5, 202529 min

Putin ‘Morally Responsible’ For Novichok Death

An inquiry into the death of Dawn Sturgess, the woman who died after she came into contact with poison intended for a former Russian agent, has reached the conclusion that President Putin was “morally responsible for her death”. Adam is joined by Marie Lennon the host of the BBC’s podcast Crime Next Door: The Salisbury Poisonings and news correspondent, Tom Symonds to explore what else the inquiry found out. Plus, Alex drops by to unpack why the government has postponed four mayoral elections that were set to take place next year. They say they need more time to prepare for the changes, but some of the candidates preparing to run in opposition have accused the government of being afraid of poor results.You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXd Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Anna Harris with Jem Westgate. The social producer was Beth Pritchard. The technical producer was Michael Regaard. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Dec 4, 202533 min

Is Russia Really Ready For War With Europe?

Today, NATO ministers have been meeting to discuss the US’s 28-point plan for peace between Russia and Ukraine after Russia rejected the plan and said it was “ready” for war with Europe.Adam is joined by Europe editor, Katya Adler and the Economist’s defence editor, Shashank Joshi to discuss what President Putin’s statement means for a divided NATO.Plus Faisal Islam, BBC Economics Editor, joins the conversation to discuss the UK’s possible involvement in a new European defence fund and the government’s latest suggestions it could be looking to get closer to the EU again. You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXd Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Anna Harris with Kris Jalowiecki. The social producer was Joe Wilkinson. The technical producer was Dafydd Evans. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Dec 3, 202544 min

The Jury’s (Kind Of) Out

Today, David Lammy has confirmed plans to get rid of jury trials for crimes with sentences of less than three years.The reforms to the justice system include creating "swift courts" under the government's plan to tackle unprecedented delays in the court system. Serious offences including murder, robbery and rape will still go before a jury. Lammy has said the reforms were “bold” but “necessary”. Adam is joined by home and legal correspondent Dominic Casciani.And, amidst all the noise around last week’s budget you may have missed the Prime Ministers suggestion that he will accept all the recomendations made in a report that criticised the UK’s nuclear power industry as expensive and “overly complex”. The man who wrote it, John Fingleton tells Adam about what he found and what he thinks it tells us about the UK’s approach to regulation. You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXd Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Jack Maclaren with Anna Harris and Shiler Mahmoudi. The social producer was Joe Wilkinson. The technical producer was Ricardo McCarthy. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Dec 2, 202538 min

The Budget: Starmer Defends The Chancellor

Today, the Prime Minister has defended Reeves saying she did not mislead the public.Pressure has been building over the chancellor this weekend after Reeves was accused of misleading the public and the cabinet, something she denied. She is accused of of not giving the upsides to forecasts in a speech on 4 November. Adam and Chris is joined by Dharshini David deputy economics editor. And, the UK and US have agreed a deal to keep tariffs on pharmaceutical shipments from the UK to America. Under the agreement the UK will pay more for medicines through the NHS in return for a guarantee that US import taxes on pharmaceuticals made in the UK will remain at zero for three years. Adam is joined by Simon Jack, business editor. You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXd Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Jack Maclaren. The social producer was Gabriel Purcell-Davis. The technical producer was Dafydd Evans. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Dec 1, 202538 min

The Budget: Rachel Reeves Denies Claims She Lied in the Run-Up

Today, the Chancellor Rachel Reeves responds to claims she lied about the state of the public finances in the run up to her Budget.Laura speaks to Paddy and chief political correspondent Henry Zeffman about her interview with Reeves, in which she also faced questions about whether her policies matched up with Labour’s manifesto promise, and ultimately, whether she could be trusted.You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXdNewscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenters were Paddy O’Connell and Laura Kuenssberg. It was made by Chris Flynn with Rufus Gray. The social producer was Grace Braddock. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The weekend series producer is Chris Flynn. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Nov 30, 202532 min

The Budget: Did Rachel Reeves Mislead the Public in the Run-Up?

Today, Laura and Paddy look at claims that Rachel Reeves misled the public after it emerged that she knew the outlook for the government’s finances had improved before giving a downcast pre-Budget speech.Downing Street has denied the allegations.Luke Sullivan, Keir Starmer's former political director, is also in the Newscast studio to give his assessment on those accusations, and how the budget has been received inside the Labour Party.You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers.You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXdNewscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenters were Paddy O’Connell and Laura Kuenssberg. It was made by Chris Flynn with Rufus Gray. The social producer was Sophie Millward. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The weekend series producer is Chris Flynn. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Nov 29, 202542 min

The Week: Send Funding, Workers Rights And A Big Drop In Legal Migration

Today, are the changes to Send funding the big change from the budget that not enough people are talking about?Adam, Chris, Alex and Faisal discuss some of the big consequences of the news this week which may have been initially missed. What do the changes to Send funding mean for children across the country? Are Labour giving themselves the room to cancel some of the tax rises later in the parliament? And, what does the big drop in legal migration mean?You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXd Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Jack Maclaren with Joe Wilkinson. The social producer was Sophie Millward. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Nov 28, 202528 min

The Budget: What Does It Actually Mean For You?

Today, Adam is joined by Claer Barrett, Consumer Editor at the Financial Times and Helen Miller, Director at the Institute for Fiscal Studies to unpack how the budget will impact you. The Prime Minister Keir Starmer defended the government's tax-raising budget, saying it will help lift hundreds of thousands of children out of poverty - with the IFS saying households face a ‘truly dismal’ rise in their spending power. You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXd Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Jack MacLaren and Adriana Urbano. The social producer was Sophie Millward. The technical producer was Dafydd Evans. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Nov 27, 202534 min

The Budget: It’s Finally Here!

Today, Adam and Chris are joined by Ben Chu, Policy and analysis correspondent BBC Verify, and Dharshini David, Deputy Economics Editor, to discuss the budget. This afternoon, Chancellor Rachel Reeves delivered a ‘smorgasbord’ of tax increases. Announcements also included a cap on pension salary sacrifices, and abolishing the two child benefit cap.What do today’s measures mean for people’s pay packets? How has this gone down with the other parties, and what challenges still remain for the Chancellor?You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXd Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Rufus Gray with Kris Jalowiecki and Shiler Mahmoudi. The social producer was Joe Wilkinson. The technical producer was Stephen Bailey. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Nov 26, 202534 min

The Budget: What To Watch Out For

Today, with rumours circulating about the budget, what are the changes that could impact you?On the eve of the budget it has confirmed that more drinks will be included in the so called “sugar tax” and there will be an increase in the minimum + living wage. But what other changes could happen? Will there be changes to the way you can save into an ISA? Could a “tourist tax” be introduced in some cities? And, will there be changes to council tax?Adam and Chris are joined by Claer Barrett, consumer editor at the FT.You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXd Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Jack Maclaren with Anna Harris and Shiler Mahmoudi. The social producer was Joe Wilkinson. The technical producer was Dafydd Evans. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Nov 25, 202533 min

Another Trump Ukraine Peace Plan

Today, after President Trump hints at “big process” in Ukraine talks, are we actually any closer to peace?The US and Ukraine have held weekend talks in Geneva over a possible peace plan. European leaders criticised the 28-point peace plan when it emerged last week, saying it was too favourable to Russia. Since then the US has said “revisions and clarifications” were made. Adam is joined by diplomatic correspondent James Landale and chief presenter Caitriona Perry. And, just days before the budget Adam speaks to president of the British Polling Council Professor Jane Green about what the link is between public attitudes towards the economy and immigration. You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXd Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Jack Maclaren with Shiler Mahmoudi. The social producer was Joe Wilkinson and Gabriel Purcell-Davis. The technical producer was Dafydd Evans . The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Nov 24, 202544 min

The Budget: Rumours And Reality (The Big Weekend Debate)

Today, Laura and Paddy speak to a packed sofa of financial experts ahead of the government’s crucial budget announcement. Former Conservative Chancellor Jeremy Hunt, General Secretary of Unite the Union Sharon Graham, and former Chief Economist at the Bank of England Andy Haldane are in the Newscast studio to assess the runners and riders of economic policy that could be announced by Rachel Reeves on Wednesday.Plus, how much of a moment of political jeopardy is this for the government? And what happens if they don’t pull it off?You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers.You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXdNewscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenters were Paddy O'Connell and Laura Kuenssberg. It was made by Rufus Gray. The social producers were Darren Dutton and Grace Braddock. The technical producer was Antonio Fernandes. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Nov 23, 202532 min

The Covid Inquiry Report: What Really Happened Inside Downing Street?

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Today, the former deputy cabinet secretary, Helen Macnamara, speaks to Newscast about the findings of the recent module of the covid inquiry which found that the UK did "too little, too late".Helen had a front seat for those momentous decisions that shaped the direction of the country during the pandemic, and has previously told the inquiry herself that a "toxic" environment affected decision-making during the crisis. She gives her reflections on life inside Downing Street at the time, the inquiry’s findings, and how much has changed 5 years on.Warning: this podcast contains strong languageYou can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXd Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Rufus Gray. The social producers were Darren Dutton and Grace Braddoc. The technical producer was Antonio Fernandes. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Nov 22, 202543 min

The Week: Immigration Reform, Burnham And The Budget

Today, the home secretary makes second big change to migration policy in a week. Shabana Mahmood has announced the qualifying period for indefinite leave to remain will be extended from five to 10 years, and will apply to the estimated 2.6 million who arrived since 2021. The changes will not apply to people who had already obtained settlement. Adam, Joe, Faisal and Sarah Montague, presenter of the World at One, discuss this plus more Labour leadership questions and preview the budget.You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXd Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Jack Maclaren with Shiler Mahmoudi. The social producers were Joe Wilkinson and Beth Pritchard. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Nov 21, 202528 min

The Covid Inquiry Report: 'Too Little, Too Late'

Today, the latest report from the covid inquiry has found that the government did “too little, too late” to prevent deaths during the pandemic. Chair of the inquiry, Baroness Hallett acknowleged that Boris Johnson’s government faced “unenviable choices” but said that 23 000 deaths could have been potentially avoided and added that regular rule breaking by officials undermined the public’s trust.BBC health reporter Jim Reed and Dr Catherine Haddon programme, director at the Institue for Government, join Adam to unpick the report. Plus, Adam is joined by Rachel Kyte UK special representative for climate who’s leading the UK’s delegation in Brazil at COP 30. You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers.You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXd Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Anna Harris. The social producer was Joe Wilkinson and Beth Pritchard. The technical producer was Hannah Montgomery. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Nov 20, 202549 min

Are Russian Ships Threatening The UK?

Today, John Healey joins the podcast after a Russian ship suspected of mapping undersea cables pointed lasers at RAF pilots tracking its activity near UK waters. The Defence Secretary gave a speech at Downing Street that morning describing the move as “deeply dangerous.” It comes on the same day that a report from MPs says that the UK lacks a plan to defend itself from a military attack.Adam and Chris speak to John Healey about the escalating threat to the UK, lifting the lid on what conflict looks like in a world of undersea drones and cables, and what is being done to shore up UK military defences in what Healey calls a “new era of threat.”You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXd Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Rufus Gray with Shiler Mahmoudi and Kris Jalowiecki. The social producer was Beth Pritchard. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Nov 19, 202528 min

The Google Boss And The Massive AI Gamble

Today, the CEO of Google gives a rare interview to discuss AI, economic risk, climate change and much more. Faisal Islam has been speaking to Sundar Pichai, the head of Google’s parent company Alphabet, about the future of the AI bubble.The tech boss warned that “no company is going to be immune” if the AI bubble bursts after its current period of boom. This comes as some analysts expressed fear that stock markets are heading for a repeat of the dotcom bubble burst of the late 1990s.They also discussed the environmental cost of powering AI, the potential risks to jobs and whether the UK will benefit from the current boom. BBC economics editor Faisal Islam joins Adam in the studio.You can listen to a longer version of the interview with Sundar Pichai here - https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p0mh56kjYou can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXd Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Jack Maclaren with Shiler Mahmoudi and Anna Harris. The social producer was Beth Pritchard. The technical producer was James Piper. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Nov 18, 202533 min

Will The (Latest) Asylum System Reforms Work?

Today, the home secretary Shabana Mahmood announced sweeping changes to the UK's asylum policy, including plans to return asylum seekers to their home country if it is deemed safe. Under the new plans, most people will have to wait 20 years to apply for settled status, and the deportation process will be sped up for failed cases, including for families with children. The reforms have recieved tentative support from the oppostion but will likely face resistance closer to home, with a number of Labour MPs publicly criticising them.Adam and Chris break down the politics and director of the Migration Observatory Madeleine Sumption joins Adam to dive deep into the white paper. You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXd Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Anna Harris with Shiler Mahmoudi and Adriana Urbano. The social producer was Beth Pritchard. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Nov 17, 202537 min

The UK’s New Asylum System

Today, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood speaks to Laura about the government’s new immigration plans.Under the plans, people who are granted asylum will need to wait 20 years before they can apply to settle permanently. Plus, refugee status will be cut from five year to two-and-a-half years and then regularly reviewed thereafter.Laura, Paddy and Henry discuss the new proposals, plus the ongoing rumours about the Labour leadership.You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers.You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXdNewscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Laura Kuenssberg and Paddy O’Connell. It was made by Chris Flynn with Adam Chowdhury. The weekend series producer is Chris Flynn. The social producer was Joe Wilkinson. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Nov 16, 202531 min

Trump Says He'll Sue the BBC for up to $5 Billion

Today, Laura and Paddy discuss President Donald Trump’s decision to continue with legal action.The BBC apologised to the president, saying it had unintentionally given "the mistaken impression that President Trump had made a direct call for violent action" and said it would not be broadcast again. However, they would not pay financial compensation.Chief North America correspondent Gary O'Donoghue joins us to talk about where we are with the legal proceedings, how much Americans care about this issue, and the political impacts after Trump said that Sir Keir Starmer was “embarrassed”.You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers.You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXdNewscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Laura Kuenssberg and Paddy O’Connell. It was made by Chris Flynn with Adam Chowdhury. The weekend series producer is Chris Flynn. The social producer was Joe Wilkinson. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Nov 15, 202533 min

The Week: Is Starmer's Leadership In Question?

Adam is joined by Chris, Faisal and Ailbhe Rae, Political Editor of The New Statesman to wrap up the week. This episode of Newscast was recorded as part of our 25-hour Podcast-a-thon for Children in Need.Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Jack Maclaren with Joe Wilkinson. The social producer was Grace Braddock. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Nov 14, 202529 min

The Keir Starmer Briefing Wars

Today we look at the latest in claims of briefings coming out of Number 10.The prime minister's chief of staff Morgan McSweeney was not involved "directly or indirectly" in briefings against cabinet ministers and will not be leaving his job, sources have told the BBC.Some in government have blamed McSweeney for being the source of the briefings.McSweeney has not responded to calls for comment but people who have spoken to him have told the BBC: "He's done absolutely nothing wrong. He's not going anywhere."To discuss it, Adam is joined by chief political correspondent, Henry Zeffman and Tom Baldwin, former senior Labour adviser and author of ‘Keir Starmer: The Biography’.This episode of Newscast was recorded as part of our 25-hour Podcast-a-thon for Children in Need.Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Jack Maclaren with Anna Harris and Shiler Shiler Mahmoudi. The social producer was Grace Braddock. The technical producer was Hannah Montgomery. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Nov 13, 202534 min

Has Keir Starmer Lost Control Of No.10?

Today, there has been extensive speculation about the extent to which Sir Keir Starmer was aware of the anonymous briefings attacking potential leadership challengers in his own party. Sir Keir Starmer has insisted he has "never authorised" attacks on his cabinet ministers, calling briefings against them "unacceptable".Adam and Chris are joined by Alex Forsyth to discuss why this could be a sign of deeper problems for the Labour government, rather than just Westminster bubble gossip.Plus Adam and Alex give an update on Donald Trump’s threat of legal action against the BBC, after Ed Davey questioned Keir Starmer on the matter at PMQs. You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing [email protected] or send us a WhatsApp on +44 0330 123 9480.New episodes released every day. If you're in the UK, for more News and Current Affairs podcasts from the BBC, listen on BBC Sounds: https://bbc.in/4guXgXd Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenter was Adam Fleming. It was made by Rufus Gray with Kris Jalowiecki and Jem Westgate. The social producer was Grace Braddock. The technical producer was Ricardo McCarthy. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

Nov 12, 202534 min