Political Fix

We ask whether the home secretary Suella Braverman can survive in her post with attacks on multiple fronts. Does she have a plan for dealing with backlogged asylum claims? Can she be trusted with national security? And does she have the confidence of prime minister Rishi Sunak?Plus, the curious and hilarious case of Matt Hancock, the former health secretary who has decided to make good use of his constituents' time by going on the reality show 'I’m A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here!'Is it ever a good idea for politicians to diddle off from Westminster when parliament is sitting?Presented by Sebastian Payne with chief political commentator Robert Shrimsley, political correspondent Jasmine Cameron-Chileshe, chief political correspondent Jim Pickard and deputy opinion editor Miranda Green.Produced by Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Persis Love, Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth.-Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk-Follow @SebastianEPayne-Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newslettersAudio: Sky News / BBC / ITVRead a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After another turbulent week and the potential return of Boris Johnson. Rishi Sunak became Britain's latest prime minister - its first non-white leader and the youngest in modern history. We discuss how he triumphed in the leadership contest, how Johnson failed to gain momentum, the make-up of Sunak's first cabinet and the options for filling the fiscal blackhole left by “Trussonomics”.Presented by Sebastian Payne, with political editor George Parker, chief political correspondent Robert Shrimsley, economics editor Chris Giles and special guest former Treasury official Jill Rutter.Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth.-Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk-Follow @SebastianEPayne-Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newslettersAudio: Sky News / BBCRead a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We look back on what can only be described as a total bonkers week in Westminster: how Liz Truss became the shortest and one of the worst prime ministers in British history, the very sticky end, and crucially what happens next - including the question on everyone’s lips: will Boris Johnson return? Our political editor George Parker and associate editor Camilla Cavendish will be unpacking it all with special guest Paul Goodman, editor of the Conservative Home website.Produced by Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth.Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/ukFollow @Seb PayneSubscribe to https://www.ft.com/newslettersAudio: Sky News / BBCRead a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A tumultuous week and a dramatic Friday as Liz Truss was forced to reverse on tax cuts again and sacked Kwasi Kwarteng. Doubts are growing over whether she can survive as prime minister.Presented by Sebastian Payne with political editor George Parker, economics editor Chris Giles and associate editor Camilla Cavendish. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth.-Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk-Follow @Seb Payne -Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newslettersAudio: Sky News / BBCRead a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Liz Truss endured one of the most traumatic Conservative party conferences in living memory, with open revolt from her cabinet and MPs. Can the new prime minister survive and where does her economic reform agenda go next? Plus we discuss whether business is moving its opinions sharply towards Labour with the potential of the party's return to government in sight. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with political editor George Parker, associate editor Stephen Bush, chief political correspondent Jim Pickard and business columnist Cat Rutter Pooley. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Persis Love and Jan Sigsworth.Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/ukFollow @Seb PayneSubscribe to https://www.ft.com/newslettersAudio: Sky NewsRead a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Markets showed their dismay and the pound crashed to its lowest levels ever as Prime Minister Liz Truss and chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng struggled to defend their economic strategy. Where does the crisis go next? Political editor George Parker and economics editor Chris Giles make sense of it all. We also look back on the Labour party conference in Liverpool and discuss whether Sir Keir Starmer’s party is preparing to return to power. Chief political correspondent Jim Pickard and northern correspondent Jennifer Williams take us into the corridors of the convention centre.Presented by Sebastian Payne. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon-Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk-Follow @Seb Payne -Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newslettersAudio: BBCRead a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kwasi Kwarteng delivered his first Budget in all but name this week, with the biggest overhaul in taxes in half a century. We unpack all the major tax cuts and examine whether the Truss government's huge bet on growth will pay off, and what happens if it doesn't. Plus, we look at the ABCD plan to see the health service through the winter and whether the UK is losing its focus on science. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Chris Giles, Sarah Neville and Clive Cookson. Produced by Howie Shannon. -Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk-Follow @Seb Payne -Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newslettersAudio: House of Commons / BBC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The UK has experienced an unprecedented week of constitutional upheaval with new national and political leadership. We discuss the death and mourning of Queen Elizabeth II, the arrival of King Charles III and what it all means for the new prime minister Liz Truss. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with Peter Foster, George Parker, Robert Shrimsley and special guest Hannah White. Produced by Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth.-Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk-Follow @Seb Payne -Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newslettersAudio: House of Commons / BBC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Following the sad news of the death of Queen Elizabeth II - who died on September 8 2022 at the age of 96 - we are in tribute republishing this platinum jubilee episode, in which we looked back on Her Majesty's 70 years on the throne.Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Chris Giles and Sarah O'Connor. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth.-Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk-Follow @Seb Payne -Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newsletters Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Tory leadership race finished this week, with foreign secretary Liz Truss widely expected to triumph. We discuss the final campaign developments, Truss’ pledges on tax, and what Boris Johnson might do next. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Robert Shrimsley and Jasmine Cameron-Chileshe. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth. -Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk-Follow @Seb Payne -Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newslettersAudio: LBC / BBC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With energy bills set to soar from October, Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak faced mounting questions about how they would help struggling families, yet neither of the candidates to be the new prime minister has set out detailed plans. We examine the foreign secretary's tax proposals, whether they will address the economic turbulence ahead and if Whitehall needs a new ethics adviser.Presented by Sebastian Payne, with chief political correspondent Jim Pickard, political correspondent Jasmine Cameron-Chileshe and special guest economist Gerard Lyons.Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Carlos San Juan. -Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk-Follow @Seb Payne -Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newsletters Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Two new opinion polls put Liz Truss 32 points ahead of her rival Rishi Sunak in the race to be the next Tory leader and prime minister. We analyse whether the contest is over, and the latest clashes between the two contenders on the union and economy. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with Jasmine Cameron-Chileshe and special guest Paul Goodman of ConservativeHome.Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth-Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk-Follow @Seb Payne -Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newslettersAudio: BBC + Sky Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As much of the country wilts in a heatwave, the focus in the Tory leadership contest this week has been on colder times to come. The two rivals for UK prime minister have disagreed publicly on how to help the most vulnerable cope with rising energy costs in the autumn. Rishi Sunak is promising direct help, while Liz Truss has criticised what she calls “handouts”, favouring tax cuts instead. But in the face of dire warnings that energy bills could reach more than £4,000 a year, is Truss softening her stance?The FT’s political editor George Parker is joined by economics editor Chris Giles and political correspondent Jasmine Cameron-Chileshe. The producer was Philippa Goodrich and the sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth.Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/ukFollow @SebastianEPayne Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The voting process in the contest for a new Tory leader and prime minister was delayed over security concerns, but the campaign continued with Liz Truss looking all but certain to win. We discuss her lines of attack and her proliferation of new ideas, and delve into why Rishi Sunak is struggling to present himself as the grown-up. Will the delay to voting help him gain ground?Presented by political editor George Parker, with Robert Shrimsley, chief political commentator, and political correspondent Jasmine Cameron-Chileshe. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth-Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk-Follow @Seb Payne -Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newslettersAudio: BBC / Sky Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The race to be the next UK prime minister rolled on this week, as foreign secretary Liz Truss firmed up her campaign lead and former chancellor Rishi Sunak struggled to make headway. We delve into the trio of debates, policy clashes on China and taxes, and ask whether the race is all but over. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with political editor George Parker, chief political commentator Robert Shrimsley and political correspondent Jasmine Cameron-Chileshe.Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth-Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk-Follow @Seb Payne -Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newslettersAudio: BBC / Talk TV Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week’s episode, we delve into the positions and policies of the two final candidates in the contest to succeed Boris Johnson as Conservative leader and UK prime minister.Who is likely to win the votes of the Tory party membership over the next six weeks?Political editor George Parker and associate editor Stephen Bush analyse Rishi Sunak while economic editor Chris Giles and special guest Katy Balls, deputy political editor of the Spectator, look at Liz Truss.Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth-Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk-Follow @Seb Payne -Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newslettersAudio: BBC / ITV / C4 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week’s episode, we’ll delve into the two classes of contenders to be the next UK prime minister: the frontrunners and the outsiders. Political editor George Parker and associate editor Stephen Bush will discuss former chancellor Rishi Sunak, who is in pole position, and the surprise surge of Penny Mordaunt. Plus, chief political correspondent Jim Pickard and columnist Camilla Cavendish will look at the three other remaining candidates, Liz Truss, Kemi Badenoch and Tom Tugendhat. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Edwin Lane and Jan Sigsworth-Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk-Follow @Seb Payne -Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newslettersAudio: BBC / LBC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week’s bumper episode, we’ll be taking you behind the scenes on a week that brought Boris Johnson’s time as prime minister to a rather bitter close. We’ll take you through his handling of the Chris Pincher affair, the dramatic Cabinet resignations and the moments the prime minister knew the game was finally over.And we’ll be looking at another Conservative party leadership contest, the candidates already out of the blocks and how the process is going to work.On the panel: political editor George Parker, chief political commentator Robert Shrimsley and special guest Hannah White from the Institute for Government think-tank.Produced by Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth-Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk-Follow @Seb Payne -Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newslettersAudio: BBC / Sky / ITV Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We discuss whether Boris Johnson's Global Britain ambitions were achieved during his recent overseas trip and the fallout from the resignation of deputy chief whip Chris Pincher. Plus, we explore Nicola Sturgeon's plans for a second Scottish independence referendum and whether the next general election will decide the future of the United Kingdom. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with political editor George Parker, political correspondent Jasmine Cameron-Chileshe, UK chief political commentator Robert Shrimsley and Scotland correspondent Lukanyo Mnyanda. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth-Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk-Follow @Seb Payne -Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newslettersAudio: BBC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The FT just launched a new podcast on porn, power and profit. When FT reporter Patricia Nilsson started digging into the porn industry, she made a shocking discovery: nobody knew who controlled the biggest porn company in the world. Now, she and her editor, Alex Barker, reveal who is behind it and much more. This eight-part investigative podcast reveals the secret history of the adult business and the billionaires and financial institutions who shape it. Brought to you by the Financial Times and Pushkin. To listen to new episodes, search ‘Hot Money’ wherever you listen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Conservatives lost two crucial by-elections this week in Yorkshire and Devon, putting UK prime minister Boris Johnson’s leadership under scrutiny. Host Sebastian Payne, the FT’s Whitehall editor, discusses these results — and the resignation of Tory party chair Oliver Dowden — with political editor George Parker and UK chief political commentator Robert Shrimsley. Sebastian is also joined by economics correspondent Delphine Strauss and transport correspondent Philip Georgiadis to talk about the UK rail strikes and what deals ministers might make on public sector pay.  Want more?For the latest from the FT on UK politics: https://www.ft.com/world/uk/politicsFollow @SebastianEPayne @GeorgeWParker and @RobertShrimsleyClips: BBC / Sky News Presented by Sebastian Payne. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Philippa Goodrich. The sound engineers are Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We examine the situation with the Northern Ireland protocol, whether the government’s plans break international law and how the EU might respond. Public policy editor Peter Foster digs into the details with our Ireland correspondent Jude Webber. Plus, the resignation of Lord Christopher Geidt, the prime minister’s independent adviser on ministerial ethics. Why did he quit after a turbulent year? Chief political commentator Robert Shrimsley will chat through with special guest Hannah White from the Institute for Government think-tank.Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth-Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk-Follow @Seb Payne -Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newslettersAudio: BBC / Sky News Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The prime minister had a close shave with his MPs this week when 41 per cent of the Conservative parliamentary party voted to oust him. We discuss how and whether Johnson can renew his leadership and whether he will face another vote of no confidence in the near future. Plus, we look at the government's latest proposals to address the housing crisis - do they go far enough?Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Robert Shrimsley, Jim Pickard and special guest Vicky Spratt. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth-Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk-Follow @Seb Payne -Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newslettersAudio: BBC / LBC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Queen celebrates her platinum jubilee this weekend. To mark 70 years since she took to the throne, we look back on how the country has changed politically, economically and societally since 1952. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Chris Giles and Sarah O'Connor. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Singsworth.-Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk-Follow @Seb Payne -Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newslettersAudio: Movietone News Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We start with that huge bailout package for struggling families announced by the chancellor and the controversial taxes he raised to fund it - a £5bn windfall tax on energy companies with more to come.The FT’s economics correspondent Delphine Strauss and special guest Torsten Bell, director of the Resolution Foundation think-tank, discuss.Next and Sue Gray’s long-awaited report into the Covid parties scandal in Downing Street landed on Wednesday and the prime minister is still there. We’ll be sifting through the debris to assess the damage sustained by the PM after months of scrutiny of his conduct and probity. Jim Pickard and Jasmine Cameron-Chileshe consider whether Boris Johnson really is in the clear or whether this is the start of a long farewell.Presented this week by George Parker.Produced by Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Joshua Gabert-Doyon and Jan Sigsworth. -Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk -Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newslettersAudio: BBC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Behind the Money is back with all-new episodes! From hostile takeovers to C-suite intrigue, Behind the Money takes you inside the business and financial stories of the moment with reporting from Financial Times journalists around the world. The podcast returns May 25. You can follow the show now! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Should the prime minister now fear the fallout from the full investigation by Whitehall official Sue Gray? Or is he safe for now? Chief political commentator Robert Shrimsley will discuss with special guest Paul Goodman from Conservative Home.And then we dig into the economics of the UK’s cost of living crisis. Inflation hit 9% this week and pressure is growing on the government to do more, something, anything, to help those struggling to make ends meet. But what exactly could that mean? Economics editor Chris Giles and consumer editor and host of the FT’s Money Clinic podcast Clear Barrett will explore.Produced by Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth. -Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk-Follow @Seb Payne -Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newslettersAudio: BBC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This year’s Queen Speech was Boris Johnson’s attempt to reset his government’s policy agenda but it did little to tackle the growing cost of living crisis. We look at what the government might do, plus whether the EU and UK are about to enter a trade war over the Northern Ireland protocol. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with Jim Pickard, Robert Shrimsley, George Parker and Jude Webber. Produced by Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth. -Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk-Follow @Seb Payne -Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newslettersAudio: BBC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Conservative party lost hundreds of councillors across the county in this year's local elections, with the Labour party making significant gains in the capital. We analyse the results in London, the red wall, blue wall and beyond, plus what they mean for Boris Johnson and Keir Starmer. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Jasmine Cameron-Chileshe, Jennifer Williams, Jim Pickard and Robert Shrimsley. Produced by Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth.Note: this edition was recorded at 12.00 BST on Friday 6th May.-Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk-Follow @Seb Payne -Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newslettersAudio: Sky / BBC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week’s episode we’ll be looking at why the government is anxious to find ways to fix rising fuel and food prices. Why is the Treasury not doing more? And how does this play into next week’s local elections? Political editor George Parker will provide analysis with chief political commentator Robert Shrimsley. Plus, we discuss the return of “Pestminster”. Why does Westminster have such a problem with sexism and is enough being done to call out bad behaviour? Political correspondent Jasmine Cameron-Chileshe will discuss with special guest Ayesha Hazarika, political commentator and a former Labour party adviser.Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth.Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/ukFollow @Seb Payne Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newslettersAudio: Sky / ITV Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The prime minister came to the House of Commons to apologise for misleading MPs over the partygate scandal, but now faces a third probe into his conduct. We discuss whether support for Boris Johnson is draining away and what might happen next. Plus we dive into the PM's trip to India, what it says about the government's Global Britain ambitions and whether relations with the EU are about to become problematic once again. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with Robert Shrimsley, George Parker, Peter Foster and special guest Hannah White.Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth.-Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk-Follow @Seb Payne -Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newslettersAudio: LBC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

No10 and No11 Downing Street were thrown into chaos when the Met Police issued fines to the prime minister and chancellor. We discuss the seriousness of the lawbreaking, whether Tory MPs are minded to move against Boris Johnson, the public mood and whether the new migration strategy involving Rwanda is a distraction. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with Jim Pickard, Jasmine Cameron-Chileshe and Robert Shrimsley. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Josh Gabert-Doyon and Jan Sigsworth.-Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk-Follow @Seb Payne -Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newslettersAudio: BBC / Sky Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We delve into two messes the government has got itself into, over the tax affairs of Rishi Sunak’s wife and the long-awaited energy white security paper. Will the chancellor’s spouse be forced to give up her non-dom status? And why did Boris Johnson shy away from tough new targets for onshore wind farms? Associate editor and columnist Stephen Bush and energy correspondent Nathalie Thomas will dissect these along with our.Plus, we look at the decision to privatise Channel 4 — which culture secretary Nadine Dorries wrongly claimed receives public sector money.We’ll be exploring what it tells us about the government’s so-called culture wars and whether it is about ideology or pragmatism. Media editor Alex Barker will discuss with our assistant editor Janine Gibson.Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth.-Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk-Follow @Seb Payne -Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newslettersAudio: BBC, Sky Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

London's Metropolitan Police issued the first fines over the Partygate scandal this week. British prime minister Boris Johnson has yet to be fined, but does the scandal still pose a threat to his leadership? We also explore how this will shape the local elections, the internal Tory debate on trans rights and why the government is struggling to publish its new strategy on energy security. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with Laura Hughes, Jim Pickard, Nathalie Thomas and special guest Paul Goodman. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth.-Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk-Follow @Seb Payne -Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newslettersAudio: LBC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rishi Sunak delivered a mini-Budget this week that slashed taxes and attempted to tackle the cost of living crisis and deal with inflation. But the UK chancellor was widely criticised for failing to help the poorest and was told that his measures did not go far enough. We delve into the Spring Statement, including what it means for businesses, the wider economy and workers. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Chris Giles and special guests Frances O'Grady and Tony Danker.Produced by Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Persis Love and Jan Sigsworth.-Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk-Follow @Seb Payne -Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newslettersAudio: LBC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The UK celebrated the return of Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe after six years of imprisonment in Iran. We discuss how she was released and what it says about other parts of foreign policy. Plus we discuss Boris Johnson’s failed visit to Saudi Arabia, the latest sanctions against Russian oligarchs and preview Rishi Sunak’s Spring Statement next week. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Laura Hughes, Robert Shrimsley and special guest Rupert Harrison. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth. Audio: Sky / BBC-Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk-Follow @Seb Payne -Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newsletters Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The UK has been criticised for failing both to fulfil its rhetoric on sanctions and on opening the door to refugees fleeing Vladimir Putin's war in Ukraine. Is it due to Whitehall incompetence, political leadership or domestic politics? We also discuss how the economic isolation of Russia will worsen the cost of living crisis in Britain and what options the Treasury has to ease the pain.Presented by Sebastian Payne, with Laura Hughes, Robert Shrimsley, Chris Giles and Jim Pickard. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Joshua Gabert-Doyon and Jan Sigsworth. Audio: Sky-Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk-Follow @Seb Payne -Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newsletters Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine became more brutal this week, with urban bombardment of civilians. We discuss what is likely to happen next and the west’s response. Plus, we explore whether the UK is doing enough to tackle dodgy Russian money in London and what further sanctions should be introduced. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with Gideon Rachman, Laura Hughes, Tom Burgis and special guest Tom Tugendhat. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth.Audio: BBC-Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk-Follow @Seb Payne Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After weeks of warnings from the west, Russia invaded Ukraine this week, prompting what some say could be the continent's worst conflict since the second world war. We explore why President Vladimir Putin decided to invade, his histrionic explanation, the situation on the ground and how the conflict will pan out. Plus, we examine the response from western nations, whether sanctions will work and what the effect on Britain would be.Presented by Sebastian Payne, with Max Seddon, Ben Hall, George Parker and Laura Hughes. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth.Audio: BBC-Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk-Follow @Seb Payne -Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newsletters Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Parliament may have been in recess this week but the political action hasn't stopped. We discuss our significant story about the next election featuring Labour and the Liberal Democrats. Not since the days of Paddy Ashdown's ultimately unproductive courtship of Tony Blair in the 1990s have relations between the two opposition parties looked so promising.Plus, we look at the Ukraine crisis and the way Boris Johnson's government is handling it, as Germany hosts a very tense Munich Security Conference this weekend. Presented in Sebastian Payne's absence by George Parker with Gideon Rachman, Laura Hughes and Jasmine Cameron-Chileshe of the FT and Ben Bradshaw, Labour MP for Exeter Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth.Audio: BBC-Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk-Follow @Seb Payne -Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newsletters Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We examine the abrupt departure of Met Police commissioner Cressida Dick, what it means for the police investigation into the “partygate” scandal and how it plays into Boris Johnson’s hopes of resetting his government. We also look at the mini Cabinet reshuffle and the new No10 team. Political editor George Parker and chief political commentator Robert Shrimsley discuss.Plus, the government signals an end to all Covid restrictions in England by the end of February. Is it too hasty or a welcome return to normality? Is the decision driven by science or politics? Health editor Sarah Neville and political correspondent Jasmine Cameron-Chileshe explore.Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth.Audio: BBC-Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk-Follow @Seb Payne -Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newsletters Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We ask whether the prime minister can survive the latest scandal engulfing his government. Is the departure of his closest and longstanding aide Munira Mirza the beginning of the end? Or the start of a reset? Chief political correspondent Jim Pickard will discuss with chief political commentator Robert Shrimsley.Plus, we look into the long-awaited levelling up white paper and ask if it delivers on the high promises to rebalance the UK - and will those pro-Brexit first-time Tory voters feel it is delivering for them. Special guests Rachel Wolf, who penned the 2019 Tory manifesto will discuss with the Manchester Evening News’s Jennifer Williams.Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth.Audio: Sky News / Channel 5-Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk-Follow @Seb Payne -Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newsletters Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The official investigation into lockdown Downing Street gatherings was due to be concluded this week, but a criminal probe by the police has thrown Whitehall’s Sue Gray off course. When will the inquiry be released? Plus, we discuss the UK’s involvement in the worsening situation in Ukraine and what it says about post-Brexit foreign policy. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Robert Shirmsley, Laura Hughes and Gideon Rachman. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth.Audio: Sky News-Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk-Follow @Seb Payne -Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newsletters Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The latest twists and turns in the ‘partygate’ drama this week as Conservative MPs threatened a vote of no confidence in Prime Minister Boris Johnson. We explore the progress of Sue Gray’s inquiry into the partygate row, how Johnson will respond and whether he can survive. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Robert Shrimsley and Camilla Cavendish. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth.Audio: Sky News-Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk-Follow @Seb Payne -Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newsletters Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we’re devoting the episode to the “partygate” row which has blown up in Westminster. After the prime minister revealed he attended a party, calls for his resignation grew in and outside of the Tory party. Can he survive? Does his fate lie in the hands of a senior civil servant? Will Rishi Sunak walk out of the cabinet? And where does the story go next?We’ll be unpacking all the news and drama with a top line-up of guests: political editor George Parker, chief political commentator Robert Shrimsley and special guest Hannah White, deputy director of the Institute for Government think-tank.Presented by Sebastian Payne. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Sean McGarrityAudio: BBC-Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk-Follow @Seb Payne -Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newsletters Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We look at the trouble ahead for Boris Johnson, starting with the crisis in the energy market. What can the government do to stop bills doubling in the coming months? Along with sleaze investigations, how much of a threat is this to the PM? Political editor George Parker will discuss, together with chief political correspondent Jim Pickard.And we look at the latest with the spread of Omicron over the festive season and whether the new variant is putting too much pressure on the health service. What will that mean for the NHS? Health editor Sarah Neville and health and science reporter Oliver Barnes will explain.Presented by Sebastian Payne. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Sean McGarrity-Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk-Follow @Seb Payne -Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newsletters Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Michael Cockerell has made some of the best political documentaries about UK politics, covering prime ministers from Harold Macmillan to Boris Johnson. His new book, “Unmasking Our Leaders”, takes us into a career of political journalism and interviews regarding not just politicians and MPs and ministers but also the secret world of Whitehall.Cockerell looks back on the leaders he has met and what he learnt from them.Presented by Sebastian Payne. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Sean McGarrity, Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/ukFollow @Seb Payne Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newsletters Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andrew Mitchell went through many of the UK's most established institutions, from public school to the army to the City of London and parliament, the Whips Office and the cabinet. His new book, “Beyond A Fringe”, refers not only to his distinctive hairstyle but also his insider’s view of Britain. We explore his journey into politics, life in government and where he sees Tory politics going next. Presented by Sebastian Payne. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Sean McGarrity, Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/ukFollow @Seb Payne Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newsletters Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We analyse the remarkable by-election outcome. On top of the two biggest parliamentary defeats of his career as prime minister, we’ll look at just how much trouble Boris Johnson is in and whether he’s about to face a leadership challenge. Political editor George Parker and chief political commentator Robert Shrimsley discuss.And we look at the coronavirus situation following a huge rise in case numbers and whether the NHS is at risk of being overwhelmed this winter. Will plan B work or will plan C be required? What would that look like? And with the Bank of England raising rates for the first time in years, how will the economy cope? Health editor Sarah Neville and economics editor Chris Giles discuss.Audio: Sky News + BBC Presented by Sebastian Payne. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Sean McGarrity, -Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk-Follow @Seb Payne @georgewparker -Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newsletters Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we analyse the new measures abruptly imposed in England in response to the alarming rise in Omicron coronavirus cases. What spooked the government?  Science reporter Oliver Barnes and special guest science commentator Anjana Ahuja explain.Plus, the prime minister faces a Tory rebellion not only over the new Covid rules, but whether parties were held at No 10 last Christmas that broke lockdown rules, and who paid for the refurbishment of his Downing Street flat. Political editor George Parker and political correspondent Laura Hughes look at the scale of the trouble Johnson is in. Audio: Sky News Presented by Sebastian Payne. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Sean McGarrity, -Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk-Follow @Seb Payne @georgewparker -Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newsletters Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.