Rock & Roll Politics with Steve Richards

Steve Richards speaks to the Labour shadow cabinet member and historian Nick Thomas Symonds.Nick has revised his biography of the former Prime Minister Clement Attlee and included an introduction from Keir Starmer, but can Starmer emulate Attlee? Nick also has responsibility for negotiating a 'better Brexit', Steve asks him how can this be achieved?Support Rock N Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits including bonus episodes and much more:https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPoliticsRock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on October 23rd. Tickets here:https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-10/Steve Richards' book 'Turning Points' is available here:https://www.amazon.co.uk/Turning-Points-Crisis-Change-Britain/dp/1035015358/ref=sr_1_3?qid=1695642519&refinements=p_27%3ASteve+Richards&s=books&sr=1-3Nick Thomas Symonds' book Attlee: A Life in Politics will be available later this month:https://www.amazon.co.uk/Attlee-Life-Politics-Nicklaus-Thomas-Symonds-dp-0755636139/dp/0755636139/ref=dp_ob_title_bk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The tidal waves move away from Thatcherite orthodoxies as the next election moves into view and the consequences of austerity economics and privatised monopolies are playing out. Steve Richards asks; will the UK turn if Labour wins? Support Rock N Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits including bonus episodes and much more:https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPoliticsRock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on October 23rd. Expect high political drama: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-10/Steve’s latest book Turning Points: Crisis and Change in Modern Britain From 1945 to Truss is now available: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Turning-Points-Crisis-Change-Britain/dp/1035015358/ref=sr_1_2?crid=QRFD2ZSG4CJG&keywords=steve+richards+books&qid=1694439462&sprefix=steve+r%2Caps%2C112&sr=8-2The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As the UK is excluded from the latest US/EU initiative, Steve Richards asks what is its role in the world? The same question was asked during the Suez crisis in 1956 and during the rows over Brexit.When the UK reaches crucial turning points does it turn, or do the key questions remain unresolved? Support Rock N Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits including bonus episodes and much more:https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPoliticsAt the start of a new political year Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place this Wednesday. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-9/Steve’s latest book Turning Points: Crisis and Change in Modern Britain From 1945 to Truss is now available for pre-order: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Turning-Points-Crisis-Change-Britain/dp/1035015358/ref=sr_1_2?crid=QRFD2ZSG4CJG&keywords=steve+richards+books&qid=1694439462&sprefix=steve+r%2Caps%2C112&sr=8-2The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today; the closure of schools because of unsafe buildings is emblematic of a country where nothing seems to work. Nothing happens by chance and Rishi Sunak's fiscal conservatism – echoing the early austerity years – has consequences. Plus Steve Richards considers Keir Starmer's reshuffle. Believe it or not the policies will matter more than the personalities.Support Rock N Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits including bonus episodes and much more:https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPoliticsAt the start of a new political year Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on September 13th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-9/The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We are close to the start of a new political year and the Conservatives appear to be as disturbed as ever. Nadine Dorries is stirring, so who is Rishi Sunak turning to for support in this troubled time?Support Rock N Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits including bonus episodes and much more:https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPoliticsAt the start of a new political year Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on September 13th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-9/The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this latest episode Steve Richards reflects on the lessons so far from a vibrant Edinburgh Festival and introduces an episode previously released for Patreon backers on the significance of Prime Ministers appointing allies who they have known and admired for many years. Their chosen confidants tell us much about the character of a PM. In this case we look at the instincts of David Cameron as he turned to his close friend Steve Hilton.Support Rock N Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits including bonus episodes and much more:https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPoliticsRock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13th to Saturday August 26th with a different show every day. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politicsAt the start of a new political year Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on September 13th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-9/The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The 1992 election haunts Keir Starmer and his team. It was an election when Labour was at some points well ahead in the polls and still lost. In this summer special Steve Richards looks at what really happened. Support Rock N Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits including bonus episodes and much more:https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPoliticsRock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13th with a different show every day. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politicsAt the start of a new political year Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on September 13th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-9/The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the first of a series of Summer Specials Steve Richards reflects on the role of troublemakers in British politics. This is the chance for the whole Rock N Roll Politics co-operative to hear an episode from the Patreon series on troublemakers. Today Steve focuses on Enoch Powell who made one speech that rightly led to him being sacked from the front bench, never to return. He still managed to torment Prime Ministers from the backbenches and influenced the outcome of at least one general election. Other episodes in the series are available on Patreon and look at Tony Benn, Robin Cook and Nigel Farage. Support Rock N Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits including bonus episodes and much more:https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPoliticsRock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13th with a different show every day. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politicsAt the start of a new political year Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on September 13th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-9/The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's the height of summer and a chance to explore the many mysteries of British politics via brilliant questions from the Rock N Roll Politics Cooperative. Support Rock N Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits including bonus episodes and much more:https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPoliticsRock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13th with a different show every day. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politicsAt the start of a new political year Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on September 13th.Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-9/The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

While the UK's bonkers pre-election 'tax and spend' debate continues the Chancellor Jeremy Hunt has discovered he has more money to spend than he had expected.Steve Richards considers all this plus the need to avoid being perceived as punitive at the start of the UK's tentative green revolution.Support Rock N Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits including bonus episodes and much more:https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPoliticsRock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13th with a different show every day. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politicsAt the start of a new political year Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on September 13th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-9/The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Labour's gain in Selby was a triumph as was the Liberal Democrat’s victory in Somerset and Frome. In a by-election special Steve Richards considers the fall out from the results, including the Conservatives' win in Uxbridge that will have immediate consequences.Support Rock N Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits, including a LIVE gathering on Zoom on Monday 24th July for more on the by-election fall out: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPoliticsRock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13th with a different show every day. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politicsAt the start of a new political year Rock N Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on September 13th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-9/The New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In a recent article for the Observer, Keir Starmer deployed many phrases that were part of Tony Blair's armoury twenty years ago – or even further back than that. After several Labour defeats is that the smart strategic move, to follow the language and ideas of an election winner? Or is such an unusual act of imitation a sign of weakness?Support Rock N Roll Politics on Patreon and get exclusive benefits, including a LIVE gathering on Monday 24th July for immediate by-election fall out: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPoliticsRock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13th. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politicsThe New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

At the same time that we discovered the police were not investigating allegations surrounding Huw Edwards we also learned that the presenter was in hospital. Unsurprisingly given the media frenzy surrounding him. In this episode Steve Richards asks how big can a story get when involving a presenter's private life?Support Rock N Roll Politics and get episodes early and ad-free on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPoliticsRock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13th.Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politicsThe New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

One of Keir Starmer's key missions is to achieve the highest levels of growth in the G7. Steve Richards asks how? The answer is far from clear, as Starmer and Rachel Reeves highlight their commitment to stick more or less to Tory tax and spend plans, although in the style of New Labour circa 1997.Plus today there’s more brilliant questions and life changing notices.Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13th.Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politicsSubscribe to Patreon for exclusive benefits including the July live event:https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPoliticsThe New European sponsors Rock & Roll Politics - to get full access to the site for just £1 per week PLUS a £25 voucher to spend in their online store, visit www.theneweuropean.co.uk/rock Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Steve Richards is in conversation with the director, Josh Appignanessi, about his new film ‘My Extinction’.The film is both funny and urgently reflective as Josh explores the dilemmas facing each of us in the face of climate change. What does it take for us to act on the climate crisis and is the issue too overwhelming as we contemplate our extinction? Steve asks what is the best way to protest and is there hope amidst the alarm? What has Josh learnt from his own comically erratic climate change journey?https://www.dartmouthfilms.com/myextinctionSupport Rock N Roll Politics and get episodes early and ad-free on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPoliticsRock N Roll Politics is live at the Hitchin Festival on Tuesday July 11. Tickets here:https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/whats-on/hitchin/the-market-theatre/rock-n-roll-politics-with-steve-richards/e-kgvveaeaRock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13th with a different show every day. Tickets here:https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We are now in the pre-election phase, so inevitably tax is a 'burden' that should be cut and 'reforms' will magically improve public services. Steve Richards assesses the consequences for the state that we are in.Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Hitchin Festival on Tuesday July 11. Tickets here:https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/whats-on/hitchin/the-market-theatre/rock-n-roll-politics-with-steve-richards/e-kgvveaeaRock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13th with a different show every day. Tickets here:https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Water privatisation was rushed through after the 1987 election. The many problems were as obvious then as they are now. So why was privatisation proclaimed as a Thatcherite triumph for decades?Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Hitchin Festival on Tuesday July 11. Tickets here:https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/whats-on/hitchin/the-market-theatre/rock-n-roll-politics-with-steve-richards/e-kgvveaeaRock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13th with a different show every day. Tickets here:https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The anti-Tory mood is deep and deepening but amidst the gloom where are the arguments about why nothing works in the UK? And where are the ideas that offer some hope that things can only get better? Plus - What have we learned in the fast moving Putin saga? All this and your brilliant questions too.Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Hitchin Festival on Tuesday July 11. Tickets here:https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/whats-on/hitchin/the-market-theatre/rock-n-roll-politics-with-steve-richards/e-kgvveaea Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13th with a different show every day. Tickets here: https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politicsSubscribe to Patreon for bonus podcasts and exclusive live events: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Martin Rosenbaum was the BBC's Freedom of Information guru, seeking to uncover hidden material via the Freedom of Information Act, an item of legislation Tony Blair deeply regretted passing. Martin became the world expert on using the act and has now written a book called 'Freedom of Information: A Practical Guidebook'. Martin reflects on the dramas leading up to the act becoming law and what happened subsequently. As a former BBC editor he also discusses the political programmes he was involved in making.Book link:https://www.amazon.co.uk/Freedom-Information-practical-Martin-Rosenbaum/dp/1739800540/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It is easy to blame Boris Johnson for everything that has gone wrong but the seeds of the current set of crises go deep, as the Covid Inquiry seems to recognise.Rock n Roll Politics is live at Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13 with a different show each day. Tickets here:https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politicsSupport Rock n Roll Politics on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Following the publication of her book - My Family and Other Radicals, Polly Toynbee reflects on being privileged and on the left, her remarkable family, being on the losing side in politics most of the time and her hopes for Keir Starmer.Rock n Roll Politics is live at Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13 with a different show each day. Tickets here:https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Boris Johnson seeks to cause trouble for Rishi Sunak. Nicola Sturgeon is arrested. These dramas are more nuanced than they appear to be but for now the obvious beneficiary is Keir Starmer. However, Steve Richards asks if Starmer is conceding too much ground in advance of an election he looks like winning? Or does he look like winning because he concedes so much ground?Rock n Roll Politics is live at Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13 with a different show each day. Tickets here:https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It is the most pledged policy in recent decades and yet never delivered … Labour proposed a national care service in 2010, Theresa May had a plan in 2017, Boris Johnson pretended to have one in 2019 … So far nothing. Now the Fabian Society has set out its ideas for a National Care Service with a report broadly welcomed by its shadow Health Secretary, Wes Streeting. But where will the money come from and does Keir Starmer have the political will to deliver finally? That's two of many questions I discuss with Andrew Harrop, General Secretary of the Fabians as we delve deep in thorny areas with the next election moving into view.Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from Sunday August 13th ... a different show every day. Tickets here:https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Boris Johnson is making life hellish for Rishi Sunak..causing trouble in relation to the Covid Inquiry, making the front pages most days of the week, making clear he blames Sunak for his fall. Former PMs make leadership difficult for their successors...does a politically active Johnson make it almost impossible to lead the troubled Conservative party?Support Rock & Roll Politics on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For a few decades the Conservative Party has changed from an expedient political force with MPs and members loyal to the leadership to a more factional and insurrectionary movement. Tim Bale, the author of The Conservative Party After Brexit-Turmoil and Transformation, has followed the changes at every level from the membership to the leadership. To make sense of the current turmoil in the UK's governing party we look back and follow the wild patterns. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Suella Braverman and many others contemplating their leadership ambitions, take note. From Rab Butler to Jeremy Corbyn there are reasons why those seen by some as potential Prime Ministers never make it. Rock N Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival with a different show every day from Sunday August 13th. Tickets here:https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In his new book ‘Politics-A Survivor’s Guide’ the columnist Rafael Behr hails the centre ground in contrast to the populist politics that has flourished in the UK and elsewhere…but the term is imprecise and often applied to justify policies that are far away from the ‘centre’. Also..Can we get angry about the state of politics without nearly killing ourselves??Support Rock N Roll Politics on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s the silliest and most dangerous debate of the lot. "Too many are coming here…" "The wrong people are coming here..." "The right people can come here…" "We need vacancies filled, but they can’t come here…"Will the debate on immigration rise above the vitriol, for a solution that benefits everyone?Plus brilliant questions, and much more. Remember to send in your questions to [email protected]!Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Edinburgh Festival from August 13th, with a different show every day! Tickets here:https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politicsSubscribe to Patreon for bonus episodes, exclusive Zooms and other goodies: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The author of a new book on Boris Johnson reflects on the many reasons why the former prime minister should never have got close to Number 10...and the lessons that need to be learnt when a figure wholly unsuited for leadership acquires near presidential powers.Support Rock & Roll Politics on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There are echoes with the build up to the 1997 election in the insurrectionary stirrings of prominent Tories...Why did they act with reckless disloyalty then... and why are they doing do now? Subscribe to RockN Roll Politics:https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Following the release of his new book "Why is this Lying Bastard Lying to Me?," I speak to Rob Burley, former editor of Marr, The Andrew Neil Show and Newsnight, about the art of the political interview. We reflect on the current state of the BBC, and look back at some of the legendary interviews, including Brian Walden's exchanges with Margaret Thatcher and Tony Benn.Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place this Monday. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-8/Subscribe to Patreon for bonus podcasts, live zooms and much more here: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Much will happen between now and the next general election, making it risky to extrapolate too much from last week's local polls.For Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer, the road ahead will be challenging in different ways... and both are new to the task of leadership in the buildup to an election.Rock & Roll Politics - A New Political Landscape? is live at Kings Place next Monday. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-8/ Subscribe to Patreon for bonus podcast series, live Zoom events, and much more: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When the Queen died, many commentators predicted the country would be traumatised by the loss for a long time. Instead, it was Liz Truss that caused the trauma immediately after the Queen's passing, Charles's accession to the throne causing no fuss at all.What does it tell us about the monarchy, and its capacity to generate feverish commentary now that the "Elizabethan Age" is over?Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place in London on May 15th. There's a lot going on that we need to discuss, and you can get tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-8/Don't forget to send your questions to [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In a video announcing he was standing for a second term, President Biden chose ‘freedom’ as a them – a term normally associated with the Republicans. It’s a vote winner and in the UK the Conservatives have claimed it too. But will Starmer follow Biden in committing to ‘freedom’?Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on May 15th. Tickets here:https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/rocknrollpolitics/And join Steve on a special Zoom for Patreon supporters this Weds 3 May. Sign up to join:https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The dangerous chaos of Johnson's leadership is exposed in a new book by historian Anthony Seldon. Yet, we knew most of the sordid details it all at the time - so how did he get away with it?Plus, a Question Time Special on relations between ministers and civil servants. Where does power lie?Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place on May 15th.Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-8/Join Patreon for our live event next Wednesday: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What is a bully? Dominic Raab has been officially condemned as one, by the inquiry into his conduct in Parliament. But what about Margaret Thatcher, who reduced some colleagues to tears? Was Gordon Brown a 'bully' or simply "demanding" and "emotional?"In this era of deep crises, too many imprecise terms are defining British politics.Many of you will disagree, and I look forward to our debate... don't forget, email [email protected] with your questions!Rock & Roll Politics is live at Kings Place in London on May 15th. Tickets here: https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-8/ Join me on Patreon for bonus podcasts, and the first subscribers' live Zoom next month: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With the SNP in turmoil, former Secretary of State for Scotland Douglas Alexander reflects on the rise of nationalism, the collapse of Labour in Scotland, his hopes for a Labour revival, and his memories of victories and defeats in UK elections.Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Old Market Theatre in Hove on Monday. Tickets here: https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Not known for their militancy, nurses have rejected the government’s latest pay offer. There's a risk strikes could continue all year, telling us much about the state the UK is currently in…Plus, questions on the wider implications of Labour’s attack ads, and an exciting announcement or two!Rock & Roll Politics is live:Old Market Theatre in Hove on Monday April 24th:https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-2023Kings Place, London on May 15th:https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/rock-n-roll-politics-8/Subscribe on Patreon for bonus podcasts, sneak previews and other exclusive extras: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I’m in conversation with Rory Carroll, The Guardian's Ireland correspondent and the author of Killing Thatcher — a brilliant new book on the IRA’s 1984 attempt to assassinate Margaret Thatcher, during the Conservative conference in Brighton.Rock & Roll Politics is live in Brighton on April 24th. You can get tickets here:https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Labour's latest round of attack ads accuse Rishi Sunak of being soft on criminals.It's caused a briefing war in his shadow cabinet and no end of criticism. If the leader of the opposition's attacks aren't credible, they could end up causing more trouble for Starmer himself...Rock & Roll Politics is live at the Old Market Theatre, Brighton on Monday April 24th. Tickets here: https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-2023Don't forget to send in your questions to [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's an Easter Question Time Special! Lessons on Nigel Lawson's career, Brexit, Jeremy Corbyn, the "real" Rishi Sunak... and much more.Remember to send in your questions at [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In which I alienate everyone.I don't believe local parties should have the exclusive right to select candidates; the leadership must have a big say. But I also believe it was an overreaction and strategic misjudgement to suspend Jeremy Corbyn from Labour, and then bar him from being a candidate. What will the consequences be for Keir Starmer?Plus, your brilliant questions.Rock & Roll Politics is live at The Old Market Theatre, Brighton, on Monday April 24th: https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-2023Subscribe to Rock & Roll Politics on Patreon for bonus podcasts and much more. The latest bonus series is The Troublemakers, including Tony Benn, Enoch Powell, Nigel Farage and David Owen: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Danny Blanchflower is a Professor of Economics and was a member of the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee. In our conversation for this week's podcast, he’s both gloomy about the economic future — and optimistic if there’s a bold government that recognises the value of investment.Thanks for listening. Don't forget to send in your questions for Tuesday's podcast at [email protected]!Rock & Roll Politics is live:Witham, Barnard Castle, April 1st:https://thewitham.org.uk/event/steve-richards-rock-and-roll-politics-2/Old Market Theatre, Brighton. April 24th: https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A new narrative is taking shape in the media. Rishi Sunak as a grown up, a marked contrast to Johnson and Truss. His 'good weeks' sorting out the Windsor Framework and publishing his tax returns during the busiest news day of the year are encouraging friendly papers to tell its readers not to write the Tories off at the next election. But can this narrative be sustained, in this last full year before a new general election is held?Rock & Roll Politics is live: Ropetackle, Shoreham Mar 29https://ropetacklecentre.co.uk/events/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics/Witham, Barnard Castle, Apr 1https://thewitham.org.uk/event/steve-richards-rock-and-roll-politics-2/Old Market Theatre, Brighton, Apr 24th https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, the legendary chronicler of Prime Ministers, Michael Cockerell, joins me to discuss the rise and fall of Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak… and a fleeting speculation that he had an affair with Margaret Thatcher.Rock & Roll Politics is live: Black Box, Belfast Mar 26https://imaginebelfast.com/events/steve-richards-the-rocknroll-politics-show/Ropetackle, Shoreham Mar 29https://ropetacklecentre.co.uk/events/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics/Witham, Barnard Castle, Apr 1https://thewitham.org.uk/event/steve-richards-rock-and-roll-politics-2/Old Market Theatre, Brighton, Apr 24th https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Twenty years later the question is still posed. Why did Tony Blair decide to go to war in Iraq? I argue that his decision was not an aberration, but part of his flawed 'third way' approach to leadership — one that appears to be a mighty influence on Keir Starmer now.Rock & Roll Politics is live:Birmingham, March 21 https://1000trades.org.uk/events/King's Place London, Mar 23 https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-2/Belfast Black Box, Hill Street Mar 26 https://imaginebelfast.com/events/steve-richards-the-rocknroll-politics-show/Ropetackle Shoreham Mar 29 https://ropetacklecentre.co.uk/events/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics/Witham Barnard Castle Apr 1 https://thewitham.org.uk/event/steve-richards-rock-and-roll-politics-2/Old Market Theatre Brighton April 24 https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week I'm in conversation with Michael Jacobs, Professor of Political Economy at Sheffield University, and former adviser to Gordon Brown on climate change. He was also chief executive of the Fabian Society in the buildup to 1997 election, and author of an IPPR report on economic policy that was hailed by both former shadow chancellor John McDonnell and his successor, Rachel Reeves. I speak to him about Labour's opposition to the latest budget, and how Keir Starmer's approach may change in the months leading up to the next election...Rock & Roll Politics is live:York, Mar 17th https://www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk/show/the-prime-ministers-reflections-on-leadership-from-harold-wilson-to-rishi-sunak/Birmingham Mar 21 https://1000trades.org.uk/events/King's Place London Mar 23 https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-2/Belfast Black Box, Hill Street Mar 26 https://imaginebelfast.com/events/steve-richards-the-rocknroll-politics-show/Ropetackle Shoreham Mar 29 https://ropetacklecentre.co.uk/events/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics/Witham Barnard Castle Apr 1 https://thewitham.org.uk/event/steve-richards-rock-and-roll-politics-2/Old Market Theatre Brighton April 24 https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The latest self inflicted BBC crisis, over Match of the Day presenter Gary Lineker as his views on the government's immigration policy, has followed the same pattern as previous ones. Can the BBC change this time, or will there be more self harm to come?Rock & Roll Politics is live:York, Mar 17th https://www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk/show/the-prime-ministers-reflections-on-leadership-from-harold-wilson-to-rishi-sunak/Birmingham Mar 21 https://1000trades.org.uk/events/King's Place London Mar 23 https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-2/Belfast Black Box, Hill Street Mar 26 https://imaginebelfast.com/events/steve-richards-the-rocknroll-politics-show/Ropetackle Shoreham Mar 29 https://ropetacklecentre.co.uk/events/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics/Witham Barnard Castle Apr 1 https://thewitham.org.uk/event/steve-richards-rock-and-roll-politics-2/Old Market Theatre Brighton April 24 https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-2023 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lord Finkelstein has had a unique career. A Times columnist, Tory peer and former advisor to Prime Ministers and leaders, he got his start as a member of centre-left SDP. Now, he’s on the board of Chelsea FC — a dream job, but one that brings with it some dilemmas on match day.I speak to him about disagreements with his friends in the country's highest offices, expressing his own views as a Tory Lord and his upcoming book Hitler, Stalin, Mum and Dad...Rock & Roll Politics is live:York, Mar 17th https://www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk/show/the-prime-ministers-reflections-on-leadership-from-harold-wilson-to-rishi-sunak/Birmingham March 21 https://1000trades.org.uk/events/King's Place London Mar 23 https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-2/Belfast Black Box, Hill Street Mar 26 https://imaginebelfast.com/events/steve-richards-the-rocknroll-politics-show/Ropetackle Shoreham Mar 29 https://ropetacklecentre.co.uk/events/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics/Witham Barnard Castle Apr 1 https://thewitham.org.uk/event/steve-richards-rock-and-roll-politics-2/Old Market Theatre Brighton April 24 https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-2023Follow me on Patreon for early access to episodes and bonus podcast series: https://www.patreon.com/RockNRollPolitics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Three candidates seek to replace Nicola Sturgeon as First Minister of Scotland. Why do none of them seem ready for the epic challenges of the role, while Sturgeon was so dominant?Plus, questions on Sue Gray, the DUP and the Northern Ireland Protocol and the state of Labour under Keir Starmer.Rock & Roll Politics is live: Birmingham Mar 21 https://1000trades.org.uk/events/King's Place London Mar 23 https://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/words/steve-richards-presents-rock-n-roll-politics-2/Belfast Black Box, Hill Street Mar 26 https://imaginebelfast.com/events/steve-richards-the-rocknroll-politics-show/Ropetackle Shoreham Mar 29 https://ropetacklecentre.co.uk/events/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics/Witham Barnard Castle Apr 1 https://thewitham.org.uk/event/steve-richards-rock-and-roll-politics-2/Old Market Theatre Brighton April 24 https://www.theoldmarket.com/shows/steve-richards-rock-n-roll-politics-2023Don't forget to send in your questions to [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.