Political Fix

The prime minister concluded a long cabinet debate this week by deciding to work with the Labour party, thus annoying many Tories. Will they broker a cross-party deal? Or is it all politics? Plus, we discuss Theresa May’s latest request to delay Brexit, whether the EU will insist on a longer extension and if a second referendum is becoming more likely. Presented by Sebastian Payne with Alex Barker, Robert Shrimsley, Miranda Green and Henry Mance. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Elliott Kime. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Theresa May brought her Brexit deal for a third vote this week. Once again it failed to get through. Where does this leave Brexit? Is the UK heading for a permanent customs union with the EU? Will MPs direct the process from here? And has Mrs May fired the starting gun on a Conservative party leadership contest that will see her replaced with a harder Brexiter? Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker and James Blitz in Westminster, plus Miranda Green and Robert Shrimsley. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Elliot Kime Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After a tumultuous week in Westminster, Britain's departure from the EU has been delayed until at least April 12, while Theresa May tried to pin the blame on parliament for all the chaos in an extraordinary speech. So where is Brexit heading? And is the prime minister's time in office drawing to a close? Plus, we discuss whether a no-deal Brexit might still happen. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with Alex Barker, Robert Shrimsley, Miranda Green, Jim Pickard and James Blitz. Produced by Anna Dedhar. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The prime minister brokered legal tweaks to her Brexit deal and brought it back for MPs to vote on. It failed to pass once again. We discuss all the Commons votes against a no-deal exit, in favour of an extension to delay leaving the EU and the prospect of indicative votes. Plus, we look at whether Theresa May and Geoffrey Cox can win over more MPs and whether a third or even fourth vote could pass. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Alex Barker, Robert Shrimsley, Miranda Green and James Blitz. Produced by Anna Dedhar Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Geoffrey Cox spent much of this week in Brussels but failed to negotiate any kind of Brexit breakthrough. With another meaningful vote due next week, does the prime minister have any hope of breaking the deadlock? Plus, we discuss the recent rise in violent crime and ask who is to blame. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with Alex Barker, Robert Shrimsley, Miranda Green and Robert Wright. Produced by Anna Dedhar. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Theresa May survived another week of crucial Brexit votes, but only by pledging to delay leaving the EU to avoid a crash exit. What will happen over the next fortnight? And is the UK making any progress in talks with Brussels? Plus, we discuss the Labour party’s abrupt decision to support a second referendum this week. while it continues to battle with its anti-Semitism crisis. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, James Blitz, Miranda Green and Jim Pickard. Produced by Anna Dedhar.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It was a huge week in Westminster as eight Labour MPs broke away to form the Independent Group of MPs along with three Conservatives. Where might the group go next? Will it become a party? And will they work with the Liberal Democrats? Presented by Sebastian Payne. With Laura Hughes and James Blitz. Produced by Caroline Grady and Anna Dedhar. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The prime minister was defeated in another meaningless vote in the House of Commons this week, where does this leave her talks with the EU? We also discuss the rumoured plans for Labour MPs to break away and whether a new political party can succeed. Presented by Sebastian Payne. With George Parker, Robert Shrimsley, Miranda Green and James Blitz. Produced by Caroline Grady.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The prime minister returned to Brussels this week, only to be told once again that the Brexit withdrawal agreement would not happen. When/if might a breakthrough emerge? Plus, Labour shifts its Brexit stance to make life more difficult for the Tories. Presented by Sebastian Payne. With Alex Barker, Robert Shirmsley, Jim Pickard and Miranda Green. Produced by Caroline Grady. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The prime minister staved off defeat in the House of Commons this week, but now faces the daunting challenge of finding compromise changes to the Irish border backstop that work for both the EU and her party. What will happen next? Presented by Sebastian Payne. With Alex Barker, James Blitz, Miranda Green and Robert Shirmsley. Produced by Caroline Grady.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

MPs are likely to demand an end to a no-deal Brexit next week, what does this mean for Theresa May's deal and the Brexit debate? The consequences in Westminster will be huge. Plus is the Labour party shifting towards a second referendum? Or is a general election more likely? Presented by Miranda Green. With Sebastian Payne, James Blitz, Jim Pickard and Paul Mason. Produced by Caroline Grady. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Brexit was finally put to a meaningful vote in the House of Commons this week and MPs gave a resounding no to Theresa May's deal. But her government survived a confidence motion so the stalemate has turned, We discuss what lies ahead for Brexit, the prime minister and the Conservative party. Presented by Sebastian Payne. With George Parker, Alex Barker, Robert Shrimsley and Laura Hughes. Produced by Caroline Grady. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We look back on a traumatic year in British politics for Brexit and the Conservative and Labour parties. Will the UK leave the EU in March? Does Theresa May's deal have any hope of surviving? Does she? Will Jeremy Corbyn become prime minister? Plus, we take a special look at Northern Ireland and whether a united Ireland is now a possibility. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Alex Barker, Robert Shrimsley, Laura Hughes, Jim Pickard and Miranda Green of the FT. Plus special guest Grace Blakeley from IPPR and former No.10 adviser Matthew O'Toole. Produced by Anna Dedhar. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Theresa May endured one of the most difficult weeks of her leadership: delaying the meaningful vote on her Brexit strategy, facing and winning a confidence vote in her leadership and rebuffed by Brussels for trying to improve her deal. Where does this leave the prime minister and can she save her deal? Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Alex Barker, Miranda Green and Robert Shrimsley. Produced by Anna Dedhar. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

MPs began debating Theresa May’s Brexit deal in the Commons this week and there was little sign of a breakthrough for the prime minister. The government’s legal advice on the deal was also made public - but has it set a bad precedent? Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, James Blitz, Miranda Green and Robert Shrimsley. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Harry Robertson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

John McDonnell tipped the Labour party towards supporting a second Brexit referendum this week. Does this make it any more likely to happen? And we dig into the "Norway Plus" model and discuss whether it is the Brexit plan B Westminster is hunting for. Presented by Sebastian Payne. With Jim Pickard, Robert Shrimsley, Martin Sandbu and Miranda Green. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Harry Robertson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The UK prime minister has survived a failed coup, but her Brexit deal is going nowhere. Can she sell it to the nation above the heads of MPs? Plus we discuss what might happen if the House of Commons rejects her plan next month and whether it could pass on a second attempt. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Alex Barker, Robert Shrimsley and James Blitz. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Harry Robertson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Theresa May finally struck a Brexit deal this week, but it did not please much of her Conservative party with two cabinet ministers resigning. Will Mrs May survive? Will she be challenged? Does her deal have any chance of making it through the House of Commons? Or does even more chaos lie ahead? Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Robert Shrimsley, James Blitz and Miranda Green. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Harry Robertson. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Westminster is awaiting a Brexit deal but Theresa May is still facing great challenges. Will she strike a deal that is acceptable to her cabinet as well as the House of Commons? Plus we discuss the troubles of Arron Banks and the investigations into the Leave. EU campaign. Presented by Sebastian Payne. With George Parker, Alex Barker, Miranda Green, Robert Wright and Jim Pickard. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Harry Robertson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Emboldened by an OBR windfall, Britain's chancellor tossed largesse to potential Brexit problem groups and declared austerity was coming to an end. But was he fiscally reckless? Presented by George Parker, with Chris Giles. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Harry Robertson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Negotiations between the UK and the EU are hotting up. A deal might be in sight, but can Theresa May sell it to her sceptical cabinet and party? Plus we examine why the universal credit welfare reforms should be paused and given more money. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Alex Barker, Robert Shrimsley and Miranda Green. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Harry Robertson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The allegations against Sir Philip Green were thrown into the public thanks to Lord Hain's use of parliamentary privilege. Was the businessman wrong to try and gag the press? Plus we discuss whether Theresa May is likely to be challenged in the near future, changes in Whitehall and what lies ahead for the Budget. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, James Blitz, Jonathan Ford and Miranda Green. Produced by Harry Robertson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Theresa May did not achieve a breakthrough in this week’s Brussels summit of EU leaders. So where do the Brexit talks now stand? Plus a new report has unveiled the extent of bullying and sexual harassment in Parliament. Does John Bercow need to resign? Presented by Sebastian Payne, with Alex Barker, Robert Shrimsley, Laura Hughes and Jim Pickard. Produced by Harry Robertson. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Conservative party gathered in Birmingham this week for a broadly successful if uneventful conference. But is Theresa May safe as leader for the duration? Plus we discuss whether there is a compromise in the offing for the Irish border to seal a Brexit deal. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Alex Barker, Laura Hughes and Miranda Green. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Harry Robertson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The opposition party's conference was a success, with Jeremy Corbyn and John McDonnell delivering speeches that continued the party in its radical direction. We also look forward to the Conservative party's annual conference and whether it can ride through its Brexit bumps. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Miranda Green, Robert Shrimsley and Jim Pickard. Produced by Harry Robertson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The British prime minister's hopes of a Brexit breakthrough at a summit this week were dealt a heavy blow. Where does this leave negotiations with the EU and the prospects for a deal this autumn? Plus, we look ahead at what is likely to happen at the Labour's annual conference next week and the issues uniting and dividing the party. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Philip Stephens, Robert Shrimsley and Miranda Green. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Harry Robertson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chatter about a leadership challenge against Theresa May has abounded this week, but is it all talk and no trousers? Plus we discuss John McDonnell's speech to the TUC's annual conference and his plans to significantly beef up workers' rights. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Robert Shrimsley and Laura Hughes. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Harry Robertson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Westminster returned from from its summer break this week and we discuss the two main stories that still dominate the headlines: Labour's travails with anti-Semitism and the government's lack of progress on Brexit. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with Alex Barker, Miranda Green, James Blitz and Jim Pickard of the Financial Times. Produced by Anna Dedhar Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sebastian Payne speaks to the former New Labour minister about his efforts to halt Brexit through another referendum, Theresa May's efforts to strike a withdrawal deal with the EU, his views on Jeremy Corbyn, the state of the party's leadership and how to tackle the anti-Semitism crisis. Produced by Anna Dedhar. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In our fourth summer special, we speak to the Conservative MP for Grantham and Stamford in Lincolnshire about why, as a former Remainer, he is happy to get on with Brexit, how the House of Commons will prevent a ‘no deal’ Brexit and whether the Tories are re-toxifying their image again. Presented by Sebastian Payne. Produced by Anna Dedhar Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In our third episode, we visit the town of Wigan in the north-west of England to speak to its Labour MP. We discuss what should be done to help boost Britain’s provincial towns, why the party is falling out of touch with its heartland supporters and whether Jeremy Corbyn’s leadership approach is too divisive. Presented by Sebastian Payne. Produced by Anna Dedhar.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the second of this series, the Financial Times speaks to the Conservative MP for North East Somerset and ardent Brexit supporter. We discuss whether a ‘no-deal’ exit from the EU could be a good outcome, why passing any exit deal with opposition votes is “dangerous” and whether he aspires to be Speaker of the House of Commons. Presented by Sebastian Payne. Produced by Anna Dedhar. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Westminster is in recess, so this summer we are interviewing interesting MPs who will be setting the political agenda for the rest of the year. First up is Liz Truss, Conservative MP for south-west Norfolk and chief secretary to the Treasury. We discuss the political year so far, whether the Chequers Brexit fudge will hold, what turned her from a Liberal Democrat into a Tory, where the state is too big and why she aspires to be the first female chancellor. Presented by Sebastian Payne. Produced by Anna Dedhar. See our latest discount subscriber offer at ft.com/offer50 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Talk of a crash Brexit has ramped up this week, but how likely is it actually to happen? And how bad would it be for the UK and the EU? Plus we discuss the final week of the political season and where Theresa May and her Brexit plan stand as her MPs head off for the summer. Presented by Sebastian Payne. With George Parker, Alex Barker, Gideon Rachman and Miranda Green of the Financial Times. Produced by Molly Mintz and Anna Dedhar. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The amendment votes in the House of Commons, the likely fate of Theresa May's Brexit plan and the Labour Party's problem with antisemitism. With Miranda Green, James Blitz and Robert Shrimsley of the FT. Presented by Sebastian Payne and produced by Molly Mintz and Anna Dedhar Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The dual departures of two cabinet ministers this week has challenged Theresa May's authority. Where do her Brexit plans stand now? Plus, we discuss Donald Trump's brief visit to the UK and the health of the special relationship. Presented by Sebastian Payne. With Jim Pickard, Miranda Green, Martin Wolf and Gideon Rachman of the Financial Times. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Molly Mintz Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The resignation of Boris Johnson and David Davis have shook both Theresa May and the government. Sebastian Payne discusses what it means and what happens next with George Parker, Robert Shrimsley and Laura Hughes of the Financial Times. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're gearing up for Saturday's World Cup match against Sweden and the announcements coming out of Theresa May's Cabinet meeting at Chequers. Will Britain be able to find its identity, now and after Brexit? Presented by Miranda Green. With the Financial Times' George Parker, Robert Shrimsley and Jonathan Derbyshire, and Sunder Katwala of the think tank British Future. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Molly Mintz Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Collective responsibility has collapsed within Theresa May’s government, so can ministers now do and say whatever they like? Plus, two columnists debate whether a second Brexit referendum is a good idea. Presented by Sebastian Payne. With George Parker, Martin Wolf, Miranda Green and Philip Stephens of the Financial Times. Produced by Molly Mintz. FT podcasts feedback: Please tell us what you like and don’t like about our shows at ft.com/podcastfeedback and enter our prize draw Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Theresa May is giving the NHS an extra £20bn a year for its 70th birthday. Will it help the suffering health service and is it money well spent? Plus, is Britain on course to stay in the EU single market for goods trade? Presented by Sebastian Payne. With George Parker, James Blitz, Miranda Green and Sarah Neville of the Financial Times. Produced by Molly Mintz. We’re asking listeners to rate our podcasts and tell us what you like and don’t like about our shows. Send us your thoughts and enter our prize draw: ft.com/podcastfeedback Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tight votes and compromises dominate this week as Theresa May’s government puts Brexit into law. But has any actual progress been made? Plus, what can be done to tackle bullying and sexual harassment in Westminster? Presented by Sebastian Payne. With George Parker, Miranda Green and Laura Hughes of the Financial Times. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Molly Mintz. We’re asking listeners to rate our podcasts and tell us what you like and don’t like about our shows. Send us your thoughts and enter our prize draw: ft.com/podcastfeedback Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

David Davis and Boris Johnson found themselves falling out with Theresa May this week over her Brexit strategy. But neither resigned and the prime minister faced down their complaints. Plus, we discuss what has, and has not, changed since Britain went to the polls a year ago and deprived the Conservatives of their majority. Presented by Sebastian Payne. With George Parker, James Blitz, Robert Shrimsley and Miranda Green of the Financial Times. Produced by Anna Dedhar. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Irish Republic's vote ​to end the ban on abortion has raised questions about whether their northern​ neighbours are n​ext. Will Theresa May, once again, be blown off course by events? Plus, a new report has said the health service needs at least 3% a year in ​extra ​funding.​ Where can the money be found to sustain it? Presented by Sebastian Payne. With Martin Wolf, Miranda Green, Arthur Beesley and Sarah Neville of the Financial Times. Produced by Anna Dedhar. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Conservative party's efforts to renew themselves while in government are ramping up. But how big is the challenge they face? And with tensions increasing between Eurosceptics and the EU , what kind of Brexit deal will Theresa May be able to broker? Presented by Sebastian Payne. With George Parker, Robert Shrimsley, Miranda Green and Henry Newman. Produced by Anna Dedhar Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The government's decision to bring the East Coast railway back into public ownership has fuelled the debate on nationalisation. Will this be the last franchise to leave the private sector? Plus, Theresa May has convinced her Brexit-supporting colleagues to support another fudge on the customs union. But will Brussels go for it? Presented by Sebastian Payne. With Jonathan Ford, Miranda Green, James Blitz and Gideon Rachman of the Financial Times. Produced by Joshua Oliver. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Another week, another round of infighting about the customs union with no conclusion. How long can the Cabinet remain divided? Plus, we discuss whether millennials need a £10,000 bond to make their lives fairer. Presented by Sebastian Payne. With Chris Giles, Miranda Green, James Blitz and Laura Hughes of the Financial Times. Produced by Joshua Oliver.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Neither Conservatives nor Labour made big gains in this week's local elections. Is there any impetuous for the parties to change course? Plus, Theresa May failed to sell her new customs partnership to the Cabinet on Wednesday - including to the new home secretary. What can the prime minister do next on Brexit? Presented by Sebastian Payne. With George Parker, Jim Pickard, Miranda Green and James Blitz of the Financial Times. Produced by Joshua Oliver. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The May government has yet to fully decide if it will have a customs union with the EU after Brexit. Does it need one and will parliament force her hand? Plus, is Labour set to make big gains in the local elections next Thursday? Presented by Sebastian Payne. With James Blitz, Jim Pickard and Laura Hughes of the Financial Times, plus Henry Newman from the Open Europe think tank. Produced by Joshua Oliver. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Theresa May's government has suffered from one of its worst weeks since the general election, thanks to the uncertainty about the "Windrush generation". What does it say about immigration policy in the future? Plus, lots of Remain-supporters think a second Brexit referendum is on the horizon. Would it do more harm than good? Presented by Sebastian Payne. With George Parker, Martin Wolf and Miranda Green of the Financial Times, plus Sunder Katwala from British Future. Produced by Joshua Oliver. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The latest chemical weapons attack in Syria has shocked the world. Can Theresa May join Donald Trump and Emmanuel Macron in bombing the nation without asking parliament's permission? And two decades on from the Belfast Agreement, how can peaceful politics return to Northern Ireland? Presented by Sebastian Payne. With George Parker, David Gardner and Miranda Green of the Financial Times plus Jonathan Powell, former chief of staff to Tony Blair. Produced by Joshua Oliver.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.