Political Fix

Boris Johnson made it clear this week that he will not rush into easing the nationwide lockdown - what will the UK prime minister set out in his road map next week? Will schools return and when will further measures be eased? Plus, we discuss the surprise appointment of Lord David Frost to Johnson's cabinet and what it says about relations with the EU and the next ministerial reshuffle. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with Sarah Neville, Jasmine Cameron-Chileshe, George Parker and Robert Shrimsley. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Josh de la Mare. The sound engineer was Breen Turner and the editor Liam Nolan.Review clips: Downing Street, Parliament TVFurther reading:-Diplomats and business express caution over Frost cabinet role-The equivalence tussle is giving UK a lesson in Brexit power politics-Johnson puts final touches to cautious easing of English lockdown-Covid infections dropping fast across England, study shows-Read the latest on UK politics-Follow @Seb Payne and @George Parker Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hotel quarantine will finally be introduced to the UK next week, but can the logistics work? Will it stop new variants of the virus spreading - and are enough countries going to be included? Plus, we discuss whether Sir Keir Starmer is stalling as Labour leader and whether he is critical enough of the government's coronavirus policies. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with Jim Pickard, Alice Hancock, Robert Shrimsley and special guest Sienna Rodgers, editor of LabourList. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Josh de la Mare. The sound engineer was Louise Burton and the editor Aimee Keane.Review clips: BBC Radio 4, Parliament TV, PA Media, Novara MediaFurther reading:-UK Covid border measures under increasing strain ahead of rollout-Travel bosses fear summer season at risk after UK warns on holidays-Britain wakes up to the power of border controls-Should Britons abandon hope of a summer holiday?-Labour’s Starmer has no quick fix; Johnson stole his story-Labour party looks to Biden for inspiration-Labour attacks £1bn cuts to flagship green homes scheme Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week the UK faced the prospect of the emergence of new coronavirus mutations while surging past 10m vaccinations. Will this progress speed up the relaxation of the lockdown? What timetable is the prime minister working to? Plus, we discuss how Brexit is affecting trade in Northern Ireland and whether the contentious trade protocol will be suspended or improved to ease tensions. Presented by Sebastian Payne. With Sarah Neville, Clive Cookson, George Parker and Peter Foster. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Josh de la Mare. The sound engineer was Breen Turner and the editor Liam Nolan.Review clips: 10 Downing Street, Parliament TV, BBC Radio UlsterFurther reading:UK coronavirus quarantine system to start on February 15Treasury economists work on plan for phased lifting of Covid restrictionsJohnson remains cautious on easing England’s lockdownCan the Northern Ireland Brexit protocol survive?Brussels pushes back on UK bid to rewrite Northern Ireland protocolJohnson threatens to use emergency powers to avoid barrier in Irish Sea Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Boris Johnson set out how England will exit its nationwide lockdown this week, with schools set to reopen in early March but shops and other businesses due to come later. We speak to Mark Harper, chair of the Covid Recovery Group, about what Tory MPs want to hear from the prime minister. Plus, we examine the Scottish National party's latest push for independence and whether their plan B will run foul of UK law. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with Mure Dickie and special guests Conservative MP Mark Harper and Nicola McEwan from Edinburgh University. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Josh da la Mare. The sound engineer was Breen Turner and the editor Cheryl Brumley.Review clips: UK pool, Scottish governmentFurther reading:A grim accounting of the UK’s virus mishandlingEngland lockdown starts to suppress Covid-19, study suggestsSchools in England to remain closed until at least early MarchTory activists hope for Covid ‘bounce’ if curbs are liftedIndependence vote ‘irrelevant’ to most Scots, says JohnsonThe battle is under way to save the UK unionThere is no cunning wheeze to stop Scottish independence Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joe Biden was inaugurated as the new US president this week - what does it mean for UK-US relations? Can Boris Johnson forge a rapport with him on shared policy areas? Plus, we examine how the UK-EU Brexit trade deal has bedded in and whether the supply disruption in Northern Ireland will be permanent. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Gideon Rachman, Peter Foster and special guest Anna Jerzewska. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Josh de la Mare. The sound engineer was Breen Turner and the editor Liam Nolan.Review clips: US Congress, Sky News, Times Radio, BBCFurther reading:-EU hits back over UK downgrade of its ambassador’s status-First fishermen and now musicians cry ‘betrayal’ over Brexit deal-Labour party looks to Biden for inspiration-Boris Johnson on back foot as UK tries to reset relationship with US-Boris Johnson vows to business he will seize ‘opportunities of Brexit’-Democratic Unionists are now Irish reunification’s secret weapon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The UK's battle against the new strain of Covid-19 has had mixed results this week – deaths continued to be high while infections started to fall. Are enough people following the rules? And is the vaccine rollout going to plan? Plus, we discuss the government's plans to move 22,000 civil servants out of Whitehall and whether it will help the prime minister's "levelling up" agenda. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with Jim Pickard, Jasmine Cameron-Chileshe, Andy Bounds and special guest Jill Rutter of the Institute for Government. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Josh de la Mare. The sound engineer was Breen Turner and the editor Liam Nolan. Review clips: Downing Street, Parliament, BBCFurther reading:-Covid infection trends in England put scientists at odds-UK government pressed to extend free school meals scheme-UK set to step up coronavirus vaccinations-England’s Covid infection rates ease as restrictions are reinforced-Pledge to level-up UK questioned after northern transport budget cuts-‘Treasury North’ leads march of civil servants out of London Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

UK prime minister Boris Johnson put England into its third lockdown this week, as the new strain of coronavirus risked the health service being overwhelmed. How long will it last and why does everything now rely on vaccine roll out? Plus, we discuss Mr Johnson's political struggles with the latest restrictions, the chaos around schools reopening and closing again and whether the local elections in May will become a Covid referendum. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with Sarah Neville, Clive Cookson, George Parker and Robert Shrimsley. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Josh de la Mare. The sound engineer was Breen Turner and editor Aimee Keane. Review clips: Downing Street, Parliament, Sky News.Further reading:-Covid reached UK in three waves from southern Europe, study shows-MPs back England’s third coronavirus lockdown-Rightwing sceptics helped deepen the UK’s Covid crisis-Teacher assessments to replace GCSEs and A-levels in England-Boris Johnson’s abrupt lockdown shift driven by bleak Covid data-Read the latest on UK politics-Follow @Seb Payne and @George Parker Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The UK has fully left the EU, ending 47 years of membership. In this Brexit special, we examine the last-minute trade deal that Prime Minister Boris Johnson brokered last week, the new checks and red tape that have been introduced, how Britain will use its regulatory freedoms and why the future of the United Kingdom will dominate politics in 2021. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Peter Foster and special guest Allie Renison of the Institute of Directors. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Josh de la Mare. The sound engineer was Breen Turner and the editor Aimee Keane. Review clips: Sky News, Parliament.Further reading:-How will Boris Johnson use Britain’s hard won ‘freedom’ from Brussels?-UK and EU agree one-year grace period on rules of origin forms-With Brexit ‘done’, Britain must rebuild trust in Europe-Ministers fear port disruption in January as formal ties with EU end-Exit from single market closes a chapter UK did so much to write-Read the latest on UK politics-Follow @Seb Payne and @George Parker Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Talks between the UK and the EU on a trade deal have reached their final days. Can a deal be agreed, or could an accidental no-deal still occur? Plus, we discuss the latest Covid-19 rules, progress on vaccine plans and whether the easing of restrictions during the Christmas period will lead to a third national lockdown in January. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Jim Brunsden, Sarah Neville and Jasmine Cameron-Chileshe. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Josh de la Mare. The sound engineer was Breen Turner and the editor Liam Nolan. Review clips: BBC/news pool, European Parliament, UK Parliament, Downing Street, BBC Radio Manchester.Further reading:-Michel Barnier warns EU-UK trade deal talks have reached ‘moment of truth’-Boris Johnson refuses to rule out third national lockdown in England-Brexit stockpiling triggers cross-Channel freight crunch-MPs prepare for pre-Christmas push to sign off Brexit trade deal-UK draws up plans to rival Singapore with post-Brexit shipping regime-Johnson defies calls to ‘cancel Christmas’, urging small gatherings-UK government expands strictest Covid restrictions in England-Read the latest on UK politics-Follow @Seb Payne and @George Parker Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With negotiations on a Brexit trade deal between the UK and EU stalled again, and UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson warning of a no-deal outcome, can the process be salvaged? Plus, with the Brexit arrangements for Northern Ireland resolved this week in a new protocol, has the threat of a new trade border in the Irish Sea really been removed? Presented by George Parker, with Jim Brunsden, Peter Foster, Sam Lowe of the Centre for European Reform and Jess Sergeant from the Institute for Government. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Josh de la Mare. The sound engineer was Breen Turner and the editor Liam Nolan. Review clips: Downing Street, European Union, Parliament.And why not join us this Tuesday 15 December, 2020 at 15:00 GMT for an unmissable opportunity to quiz FT Journalists on the plans to prevent short-term Brexit-related chaos and economic disruption. Be part of an interactive discussion on how borders, customs, trade and travel will change in 2021. Find out how supply chains are being impacted and the effect of the negotiations on food, farming and fishing. Join the conversation on the likely effects of the new rules on UK business – from major corporations to SMEs. Register free today hereFurther reading:-Standing on the edge of the Brexit precipice-Nine things you need to know about a no-deal Brexit-Boris Johnson warns Britain to prepare for no-deal Brexit-Brexit border plan leaves Northern Ireland business groups uneasy-Read the latest on UK politics-Follow @Seb Payne and @George Parker Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Britain became the first country to approve a coronavirus vaccine this week. The first doses of the Pfizer/BioNTech jab will arrive soon, but is the UK ready to distribute it? Which groups will get it first and what impact will it have on the Covid-19 restrictions? Plus, we speak to Douglas Ross, leader of the Scottish Conservatives, about his plans to save the United Kingdom, how he intends to take on Nicola Sturgeon and whether he finds Boris Johnson embarrassing. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with Sarah Neville and Clive Cookson plus special guest Douglas Ross. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Josh de la Mare. The sound engineer was Breen Turner and the editor Aimee Keane. Review clips: Parliament, Downing Street, LBC Further reading:-Vaccine approval brings a ray of economic hope-UK set for Covid vaccinations ‘next week’ after regulatory approval-UK regulator defends rapid approval of vaccine after Fauci criticism-Sturgeon tells SNP conference Scots have right to determine their future-Scottish Tory leader issues ‘wake-up call’ to Westminster over union-France issues veto warning as Brexit trade deal talks drag on-Read the latest on UK politics-Follow @Seb Payne and @George Parker Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chancellor Rishi Sunak delivered his spending review this week amid the harsh economic effects of coronavirus and the UK's mounting debt pile. Why was foreign aid cut, should public sector workers have received a pay rise and have all the hard choices been delayed until next year? Plus, we discuss how England will exit its national lockdown next week, what happens at Christmas and why there is much unhappiness about the new system of regional tiers.Presented by Sebastian Payne, with Sarah Neville, Jim Pickard, Chris Giles and George Parker. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Josh de la Mare. The sound engineer was Breen Turner and the editor Liam Nolan. Review clips: BBC Radio 4, ParliamentFurther reading:-‘Economic emergency’ adds pressure for a rethink on fiscal rules-Sunak warns of ‘economic emergency’ as borrowing hits record £394bn-Boris Johnson picks former Treasury adviser as new chief of staff-Boris Johnson facing big backbench revolt over Covid tier system-London set to be spared toughest Covid curbs-UK economy tracker: the tough outlook for jobs-England hit with tough new regional Covid curbs-Someone forgot to tell Covid it’s Christmas-Read the latest on UK politics -Follow @Seb Payne and @George Parker Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In his bid to reset the UK government's image, Boris Johnson announced a 10-point plan for a 'green recovery' costing billions of pounds. Will it do enough to tackle climate change and does it risk alienating Johnson's 'Red Wall' supporters? The prime minister has also pledged the biggest investment in defence since the end of the cold war. But is there any strategy behind the spending, and can the UK afford it? Presented by Sebastian Payne, with Pilita Clark, Jim Pickard, Helen Warrell and George Parker. Produced by Josh de la Mare and Anna Dedhar. The sound engineer was Louise Burton and the editor Liam Nolan. Review clips: BBC Breakfast, Ed Miliband Twitter, Parliament TVFurther reading:-UK government deficit soars to record high on pandemic borrowing-Britain’s military still faces hard choices despite spending boost-Half a cheer for Boris Johnson’s green revolution-Read the latest on UK politics -Follow @Seb Payne and @George Parker Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In a dramatic week, Prime Minister Boris Johnson lost two of his key aides, chief adviser Dominic Cummings and director of communications Lee Cain, both senior forces in the Vote Leave campaign. Will their departure mark a new beginning for Downing Street? Plus, Westminster welcomed the news of a coronavirus vaccine breakthrough from Pfizer, but how much will it allow the UK to relax social distancing rules? Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Robert Shrimsley, Sarah Neville and Clive Cookson. Produced by Josh de la Mare. The sound engineer was Breen Turner and the editor Liam Nolan. Review clips: Sky News, BBC Radio 4, LBC Radio, Parliament TVFurther reading:-Inside the hunt for a Covid-19 vaccine: how BioNTech made the breakthrough-Scientists defend controversial head of UK vaccine task force-Dominic Cummings to leave No 10 by new year-Video: Boris Johnson's battles with coronavirus, Brexit and himself-England’s deputy medical chief proposes ‘mum test’ for Covid vaccine Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With Joe Biden on the cusp of becoming the 46th US president, how will Boris Johnson recalibrate and repair transatlantic relations? We discuss whether the two can overcome their differences on Brexit and how the election result will affect trade talks and diplomatic relations. Plus, we examine Rishi Sunak's latest economic stimulus package, why the chancellor had to extend furlough again and whether the Johnson government is struggling to see obvious policy threats ahead. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with Gideon Rachman, George Parker, Mure Dickie and special guest Bronwen Maddox, director of the Institute for Government think-tank. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Josh de la Mare. The sound engineer was Breen Turner and the editor, Liam Nolan. Review clips: Sky News, Scottish Government, Policy ExchangeFurther reading:-Joe Biden win will reshape the special relationship:https://www.ft.com/content/77ed195c-303e-49cf-adb9-9aadb3f80ba2-Concerns grow inside Downing Street as polls point to Biden victory: https://www.ft.com/content/fbf9461c-9962-4c59-ba10-70911cd4de48- Rishi Sunak extends UK furlough scheme to end of March:https://www.ft.com/content/8f9371a7-e8e2-4a73-b1b6-d2330bb224a3-Three reasons for Rishi Sunak to keep furlough in place:https://www.ft.com/content/b6b16f19-4537-442e-ac26-bd1a1101ec5e-BoE and Sunak join forces to support UK’s Covid economy:https://www.ft.com/content/b9612f86-cf99-4c34-b448-d7b4a9587852 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Keir Starmer made the dramatic move to suspend Jeremy Corbyn from the Labour party this week, following an investigation into anti-Semitism. Is a new and bitter rift about to start within the opposition party? Plus, we speak to Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham about his battles with Boris Johnson, why mayors need more powers and whether he will ever return to Westminster. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with Jim Pickard and special guests Andy Burnham and Sienna Rogers. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Liam Nolan. Sound engineer was Breen Turner and the editor Aimee Keane. Original music by Metaphor Music. Review clips: BBC, 10 Downing Street. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The prime minister found himself at odds with northern leaders this week, as disputes grew over localised coronavirus restrictions. Is Boris Johnson facing a governing crisis with mayors and devolved leaders? Plus, we discuss yet another economic stimulus package from Rishi Sunak to save jobs and whether the Treasury has given up on going for growth this year. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Robert Shrimsley, Chris Giles and special guest Gemma Tetlow. Produced by Anna Dedlar and Liam Nolan. The sound engineer was Breen Turner and the editor, Aimee Keane.Original music by Metaphor Music. Clips: BBC Newsnight, Sky News, Parliament TV Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Boris Johnson's coronavirus strategy was yet again tested to breaking point this week, as Labour opposition leader Keir Starmer and leaders of northern English cities tore into the government's new three-tier alert system. Where does this leave the prime minister's strategy for handling the pandemic? Meanwhile, Brexit talks are set to enter a tense couple of weeks. Following a European Council meeting on Friday, Mr Johnson said he was convinced the EU was not ready to offer the UK a "Canada-style" trade agreement. Will there be a deal by January 1st? Presented by George Parker, with Andy Bounds, Jim Pickard, Peter Foster and special guest Georgina Wright of the Institute for Government. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Josh de la Mare. The sound engineer was Breen Turner and the editor, Liam Nolan. Music by Metaphor Music. Review clips: Parliament TV, Channel 4 News, European Commission Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tension over coronavirus rules pervaded local and national UK politics this week as the north of England faced further restrictions, and pubs and restaurants in central Scotland were closed. Will Westminster now take a more centralised approach to restrictions? Plus, we discuss Prime Minister Boris Johnson's virtual Conservative party conference speech and whether he has any hope of achieving his domestic agenda in the age of coronavirus. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with Sarah Neville, Mure Dickie, George Parker and Robert Shrimsley. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Josh de la Mare. The sound engineer was Louise Burton and the editor, Liam Nolan. Music by Metaphor Music.Review clips: Manchester Evening News, Scottish government, Parliament Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Home secretary Priti Patel's initiative to examine plans for an offshore immigration centre on Ascension Island — more than 4,000 miles from the UK — put the government's asylum policy under the spotlight this week and bore striking similarities with policies adopted by Australia's centre-right Liberal party. Why are the Tories so fond of Australia? Plus, a look at why Downing Street has not shied away from warning the public that tougher coronavirus restrictions may lie ahead this winter.Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Robert Shrimsley, Sarah Neville and special guest, John McTernan. Produced by Josh de la Mare. The sound engineer was Breen Turner and the editor, Liam Nolan. Music by Metaphor Music. Review clips: BBC, Parliament TV. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson introduced further restrictions to halt the spread of Covid-19 in the UK but faced a backlash from Conservative MPs. Chancellor Rishi Sunak's winter economic plan, however, received a much warmer reception. How much will it help the UK economy? We also discuss Keir Starmer's first conference speech as Labour leader and whether the party's grassroots are happy with the direction he is going. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Chris Giles, Jim Pickard and special guest Ellie Mae O'Hagan. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Josh de la Mare. The sound engineer was Breen Turner and the editor Liam Nolan. Music by Metaphor Music.Review clips: Parliament TV, Reuters, BBC Politics Live Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Boris Johnson found himself in another parliamentary stand-off over Brexit legislation this week, and eventually found a compromise with rebellious Conservative MPs. Why is the prime minister struggling with his party and is he becoming a diminished figure in Westminster? Plus, with the takeover by US chipmaker Nvidia of British-based chip designer Arm, and Hitachi's decision to withdraw from a major nuclear power project in Wales, does the UK have a coherent industrial policy?Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Robert Shrimsley, Jim Pickard and Peggy Hollinger. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Josh de la Mare. The sound engineer is Breen Turner. The editors were Liam Nolan and Aimee Keane. Music by Metaphor Music.Review clips: US government, UK Parliament, Sky News Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Boris Johnson's government is bringing in a new law — the internal market bill — that threatens to undermine the UK's withdrawal agreement with the EU. Will this push negotiations for a trade deal between the UK and EU even closer to collapse? Plus, coronavirus is spreading rapidly once more in Britain and, in response, new measures to limit gatherings are to be introduced. But will they be enough to stop the UK heading towards a second national lockdown?Presented by Sebastian Payne, with Peter Foster, George Parker, Sarah Neville and Clive Cookson. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Josh de la Mare. The sound engineer is Breen Turner and the editor Liam Nolan. Music by Metaphor Music.Review clips: Parliament, RTÉ News. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the latest from our special interview series, the FT's Sebastian Payne talks to Bridget Phillipson, Labour's shadow chief secretary to the Treasury, about the government's economic recovery plan, and how Labour would approach it differently. Plus, how the party plans to regain support across the north of England and why it needs to move beyond the Brexit divide.  Produced by Fiona Symon and Liam Nolan, with research by George Steer. The sound engineer is Breen Turner. Theme music by Metaphor Music. Review clip: BBC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chancellor Rishi Sunak has warned both the public and Conservative MPs that difficult decisions must be taken on tax and spending. How dire is the UK economy and will taxes rise? We also discuss the closure of the Department for International Development, which has been rolled into the all-new Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. Will this strengthen the UK's foreign policy, and at what cost to aid projects? Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Chris Giles, Robert Shrimsley and Bronwen Maddox, director of the Institute for Government think-tank. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Josh de la Mare. The sound engineer is Breen Turner and the editor Liam Nolan. Music by Metaphor Music.Review clips: Parliament, ITV News, LabourList, BBC Radio 4 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson made yet another abrupt policy change this week to get pupils in England back to school. Are the wrong people in government making these decisions, and how much is the civil service at fault? Plus, we discuss the election of Ed Davey as the new leader of the Liberal Democrats and whether the party can reclaim the centre ground of British politics. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with Laura Hughes, Robert Shrimsley and special guest Lib Dem MP Daisy Cooper. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Josh de la Mare. The sound engineer is Breen Turner and the editor Liam Nolan. Music by Metaphor Music.Review clips: Parliament, Times Radio, BBC Newsnight Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It has been an embarrassing week for the Johnson government, as education secretary Gavin Williamson was forced into a U-turn on exam results. Will the prime minister rethink his management style and does he face a leadership challenge? Plus, the UK and EU are still struggling to strike a trade deal in the latest Brexit negotiations. Will an agreement be reached in time for the end-of-year deadline? Presented by Sebastian Payne, with Paul Goodman, editor of the ConservativeHome website, and the FT's Laura Hughes, Peter Foster and Sam Fleming. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Josh de la Mare. The sound engineer is Breen Turner and the editor is Liam Nolan. Theme music by Metaphor Music. Review clips: BBC Scotland, Sky News, Reuters, European Union Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the latest from our summer interview series, Sebastian Payne talks to Ed Davey, Liberal Democrat leadership candidate, about why he thinks the party’s “radical reforming agenda” can win over voters at the next election. Produced by Fiona Symon. The sound engineer is Breen Turner and the editor is Liam Nolan. Theme music by Metaphor Music.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The UK is in its deepest recession on record, official data showed this week. Not only does Britain have the worst coronavirus death toll in Europe, but the economy has been harder hit than any other G7 country. Is it Boris Johnson’s fault? Plus, we discuss the exams debacle and the anger at how grades have been awarded to students who couldn’t sit their exams because of Covid-19. Presented by George Parker, with Delphine Strauss, Alice Hancock, Mure Dickie and Bethan Staton. Produced by Anna Dedhar. The sound engineer is Breen Turner and the editor is Liam Nolan. Theme music by Metaphor Music. Review clips: BBC, Scottish Government. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Boris Johnson’s government has been warned by the opposition that it has less than a month to fix the test, track and trace system to get pupils back into schools, while avoiding another coronavirus outbreak. Can it be done? Plus, we delve into the biggest shake-up in England’s housing planning rules since the second world war and whether it will lead to beautiful new buildings or ugly eyesores.Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Sarah Neville, Robert Shrimsley and George Hammond. This episode was produced by Anna Dedhar. Our sound engineer is Breen Turner and our editor is Liam Nolan. Theme music by Metaphor Music. Review clips: BBC and Parliament. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the latest from our summer interview series, former UK chancellor Sajid Javid joins Sebastian Payne for a discussion on whether the government has the right approach to getting the country's economy moving again and why he thinks the civil service could benefit from greater diversity. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson put a brake on the reopening of parts of the UK, as cases of coronavirus began to surge again. Will these localised lockdowns work? Plus, we discuss the chaos over the introduction of quarantine restrictions on tourists returning from countries such as Spain, and whether the traditional “Red Wall” Labour heartlands are still supporting the Conservatives after changing sides in last year’s election. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with Jim Pickard, Laura Hughes, Robert Shrimsley and Andy Bounds. Produced by Anna Dedhar, Josh de la Mare and Breen Turner. The editor is Liam Nolan. Review clips: BBC, Sky and Parliament. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The long-awaited report on Russian interference in British politics was finally released this week. Although it is no smoking gun, what should Westminster do about this real threat? We also discuss the future of the United Kingdom and why Boris Johnson is so worried about Scotland. Sebastian Payne is joined by guests George Parker, Laura Hughes, Robert Shrimsley and Mure Dickie. Produced by Anna Dedhar, Josh de la Mare and Breen Turner. Clip sources: Parliament and Scottish government Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Former home secretary Amber Rudd finds the state of the Conservative party "devastating” and "embarrassing". In the second episode of a special interview series, she tells Sebastian Payne that Boris Johnson’s all-male cabal is promoting inequality, is high-handed with business and is heading for a hard Brexit without appearing to analyse different outcomes on trade.In response to Ms Rudd’s comments, Downing Street said the government was “focused on improving diversity throughout our ministerial ranks and crucially lining up the next generation of female talent”.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Number 10 found itself at odds with its own MPs this week, as its plan to install former minister Chris Grayling as chair of the intelligence committee backfired. With serious questions also raised about the investigation into home secretary Priti Patel, what does it tell us about Downing Street's state of mind and that of prime minister Boris Johnson? Plus we discuss the long-trailed decision to phase out Huawei from the UK’s 5G phone networks and whether the country risks mobile blackouts. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Robert Shrimsley, Helen Warrell and Nic Fildes. Produced by Josh de la Mare and Breen Turner. Review clips: BBC Newsnight, Parliament Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chancellor Rishi Sunak set out a £30bn plan to save British jobs this week, with a big boost for pubs and restaurants, but will it be enough to stem the tide of unemployment? We delve into his summer statement, its impact on public finances and why so much hope is pinned on the hospitality and retail sectors. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Chris Giles, Alice Hancock and Jim Pickard. Produced by Anna Dedhar, Josh de la Mare and Breen Turner. Clip sources: Parliament and Sky News Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the first episode of a special summer interview series, Sebastian Payne talks to Jeremy Hunt, former health secretary and chair of the health select committee, about why the UK was not better prepared for the pandemic and what lessons need to be learnt from the government’s response so far. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The FT politics podcast has relaunched as 'Payne's Politics' and in this first episode presenter Sebastian Payne and his guests analyse Boris Johnson's plan to get his government back on track and radically reform Whitehall. Plus, they discuss the UK's generous offer to the people of Hong Kong facing the latest Chinese clampdown. Seb's guests this week are George Parker, Robert Shrimsley, Laura Hughes and Gideon Rachman. Produced by Anna Dedhar, Josh de la Mare and Breen Turner. Clip sources: Boris Johnson — Reuters and Getty; Theresa May — Parliament; Dominic Raab — Reuters; Lord Heseltine — Today, BBC Radio 4. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Boris Johnson announced this week that July 4 would be the UK’s Independence Day, when swaths of the economy would reopen. But is the prime minister moving too fast and going against scientific and medical advice? Plus, we discuss why Labour leader Keir Starmer sacked Rebecca Long-Bailey from his shadow cabinet, and why Mark Sedwill and Robert Jenrick are both in trouble. Presented by Sebastian Payne with Robert Shrimsley, Sarah Neville, George Parker and Jim Pickard. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Josh de la Mare. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Boris Johnson caved in to Marcus Rashford’s campaign to provide free school meals over the summer holidays, but why did it take so long? No 10 responded by defending the statue of Winston Churchill and engaging further in the ‘war on woke’. Plus, we discuss the merger of DFID and FCO and why the NHS contact-tracing app was binned to be replaced by Apple and Google’s alternative. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Robert Shrimsley, Laura Hughes and Sarah Neville. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Breen Turner. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tory ministers and MPs were furious this week at Downing Street’s refusal to ease the 2m social distancing rule to boost the ailing economy. Will Boris Johnson go against the advice of his scientists and relax it? And is the new track-and-trace programme working as planned? Plus, we discuss the Black Lives Matter protests, the defenestration of Edward Colston in Bristol and whether the UK is descending into a lively debate about its past, or a depressing culture war. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Laura Hughes, Robert Shrimsley and Jim Pickard. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Breen Turner. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Boris Johnson’s government found itself confused this week about why it was introducing a 14-day quarantine for all arrivals in the UK. Ministers and MPs warned it would undermine the economy, while scientists said it was not required. So why is the prime minister pushing ahead with it? Plus, we discuss the farcical scenes in parliament, the reopening of pubs and restaurants this summer and Britain’s offer to the people of Hong Kong. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Jim Pickard and Laura Hughes. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Breen Turner. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Westminster has been engulfed by the extraordinary row over Boris Johnson’s chief adviser Dominic Cummings and whether he broke the UK’s lockdown rules. How long will he now stay in government? Why did the prime minister go to extraordinary lengths to save his adviser? And what does it tell us about the state of Downing Street and the Conservative party? Plus, we discuss the launch of the government’s Covid-19 contact-tracing scheme and look forward to lockdown easing next week. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Robert Shrimsley and Laura Hughes. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Breen Turner. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The government found itself in a mess this week over whether schools can return on June 1, with teaching unions and local authorities arguing it is not safe. What does it say about the plans for lockdown easing? Plus, we discuss the continued tribulations with the NHS’s contact-tracing app, the prime minister’s rapid U-turn on the health service surcharge, his PMQs clash with Labour leader Keir Starmer and the return of Brexit to the political agenda. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Robert Shrimsley and Laura Hughes. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Breen Turner. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Boris Johnson revealed his gradual plan for taking the UK out of lockdown, but his government’s new strategy was undermined by confused messages. Why has Downing Street struggled this week? Is the prime minister favouring white-collar workers over blue? Plus, we discuss Rishi Sunak’s decision to extend the expensive furlough scheme till October and whether he can avoid mass unemployment. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with Jim Pickard, Laura Hughes and Robert Shrimsley. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Breen Turner Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Boris Johnson will finally set his exit strategy this weekend, but any changes will be gradual and limited. Why is the prime minister reluctant to move quickly? We also discuss why the government is failing to continue to meet its 100,000 target for coronavirus tests, growing concerns from the Treasury about the cost of the shutdown and Keir Starmer’s interview with the FT about how he intends to make the Labour party electable again. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Jim Pickard and Laura Hughes. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Breen Turner. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The prime minister returned to Downing Street this week and began to set out how the lockdown will end. Why is Johnson relying on the science and the R rate? Are businesses and Britons ready to go back to work? Plus, we discuss the 100k tests-a-day target, why the UK’s death toll is surpassing other European countries and why Labour leader Keir Starmer is being cautious in his criticism. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Chris Giles and Laura Hughes. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Breen Turner. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The UK government is confident of reaching its target for daily Covid-19 tests by the end of April, but why is it still struggling to use its capacity? Is the NHS ready for nationwide contract tracing through volunteers and a new app? Plus, we look at what the prime minister faces when he is back in Downing Street, what can be done to help struggling small businesses and how the new Labour leader Keir Starmer performed at his first PMQs. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Sarah Neville and Robert Shrimsley. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Breen Turner Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dominic Raab, standing in for Boris Johnson while the prime minister recovers from Covid-19, announced this week another three weeks of social distancing. What can Britain learn from other European countries as they begin tentatively to ease their lockdowns? Plus, we discuss the government’s hardline stance on an extension to the transition period to leave the EU, and what Brussels thinks of it. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with Robert Shrimsley, Laura Hughes and Ben Hall. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Breen Turner.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The health of the prime minister has dominated this week, as the prime minister was admitted to intensive care suffering from Covid-19. Can foreign secretary Dominic Raab fill his shoes? Will the Quad of ministers be important in his absence? Plus, we discuss how and when the UK can exit the lockdown and what Keir Starmer has done in his first week as Labour leader. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Laura Hughes and Robert Shrimsley. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Breen Turner. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.