Donald Trump has stunned the world with a raft of extraordinary interventions this week, prompting Keir Starmer to keep his head down. But what happens when it’s Britain’s turn in the new US administration’s headlights? Host Lucy Fisher is joined by Political Fix regulars George Parker and Robert Shrimsley, as well as the FT’s chief foreign affairs commentator Gideon Rachman, to examine the UK government’s options. Plus, days after the first major national opinion poll put Reform ahead of both Labour and the Tories for the first time, the panel examines whether the hype over Nigel Farage’s party is outpacing reality… or whether the UK’s two-party system is in trouble. 

Follow Lucy on Bluesky or X: @lucyfisher.bsky.social, @LOS_Fisher, Robert: @robertshrimsley.bsky.social, @robertshrimsley, George: @georgewparker.bsky.social, @GeorgeWParker, Gideon: @gideonrachman.bsky.social, @gideonrachman 

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Trump is sowing the seeds of an anti-American alliance

Is Nigel Farage’s Reform hype outpacing reality?

In charts: will Reform rock Britain’s two-party system?

Peter Mandelson’s back: The Prince of Darkness returns

Labour cannot afford to look like the status quo party  

You can listen to Gideon’s award-winning podcast The Rachman Review here. Sign up here for 30 free days of Stephen Bush's Inside Politics newsletter, winner of the World Association of News Publishers 2023 ‘Best Newsletter’ award. 

Presented by Lucy Fisher. Produced by Lulu Smyth. The executive producer is Manuela Saragosa. Original music and mixed by Breen Turner. The FT’s head of audio is Cheryl Brumley.

Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com

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Chancellor Rachel Reeves has sought to place rocket-boosters under the UK economy this week – with a vow to prioritise growth over the environment or nimbyism. But how long will her plan take to work, is it too concentrated in the south of England, and what cabinet splits will it spark? Host Lucy Fisher is joined by Political Fix regulars Robert Shrimsley and Miranda Green, as well as the FT’s public policy editor Peter Foster, to dissect Labour’s strategy. Plus, the panel looks ahead to Sir Keir Starmer’s first meeting with EU leaders in Brussels next Monday as he seeks a fresh defence and security pact with the bloc. Will Britain acquiesce to the EU’s key demand for a youth mobility scheme? 

Follow Lucy on Bluesky or X: @lucyfisher.bsky.social, @LOS_Fisher, Robert @robertshrimsley, @robertshrimsley.bsky.social, Peter @pmdfoster @pmdfoster.bskyb.social and Miranda @GreenMiranda @greenmirandahere.bskyb.social

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Labour is facing two ways on growth

The contradictions at the heart of Rachel Reeves’ growth plan

How five years of Brexit reshaped Britain

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Presented by Lucy Fisher. Produced by Laurence Knight. The executive producer is Manuela Saragosa. Audio mix and original music by Breen Turner. The FT’s head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 

Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com

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After winning swaths of rural seats in the general election, Labour’s relationship with the countryside has nosedived, amid a row over the government’s plan to impose inheritance tax on some farms. Host Lucy Fisher is joined by Political Fix regular Jim Pickard and political correspondent Anna Gross to discuss the changes to agricultural property relief and the wider political fallout. The team also dissects the row over Rachel Reeves’ CV edit and scrutinises her past remarks about her career. Plus, FT foreign editor Alec Russell joins to discuss what happens next in the Ukraine war after Kyiv fired US and UK-made long-range missiles into Russia for the first time this week. 

Follow Lucy on X: @LOS_Fisher, Jim @PickardJE, Anna @AnnaSophieGross, Alec @AlecuRussell

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Thousands of farmers protest in London against tax changes

Ukraine fires British Storm Shadow missiles into Russia

Russia fires intercontinental ballistic missile at Ukraine for first time, Kyiv says

New book from UK shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves lifts from Wikipedia

UK government borrowing for October exceeds forecasts at £17.4bn

Join Lucy Fisher, Peter Foster, Stephen Bush and Miranda Green for a Political Fix Live session on December 5, where they will assess Labour's record after five months in office as part of the FT's Global Boardroom online conference. The three-day event features high-level interviews on the big issues of the day and is being held on December 4-6. Register for your free pass at ft.com/tgb

Read the FT’s Best Politics Books of the Year 2024 list, curated by the FT’s chief foreign affairs commentator Gideon Rachman.

Sign up here for 30 free days of Stephen Bush's Inside Politics newsletter, winner of the World Association of News Publishers 2023 ‘Best Newsletter’ award. 

Presented by Lucy Fisher. Produced by Tamara Kormornick. The executive producer is Manuela Saragosa. Audio mix and original music by Breen Turner. The broadcast engineers are Andrew Georgiadis and Petros Giumpassis. The FT’s head of audio is Cheryl Brumley.

Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com

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Rishi Sunak’s government is heading to court to challenge the Covid inquiry’s right to demand ministers’ unredacted messages, following a row over Boris Johnson’s WhatsApp messages. The FT’s Whitehall editor Lucy Fisher is joined by columnist Miranda Green and UK chief political commentator Robert Shrimsley to discuss the saga. Plus, the FT’s global health editor Sarah Neville tells Lucy why more staff alone won’t solve the NHS’s problems. And the panel members reveal their musical tastes - with cultural recommendations for your own downtime. 

Follow Lucy on Twitter @LOS_Fisher

Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com

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UK government takes legal action over Boris Johnson’s Covid messages

NHS productivity lags as recruitment fails to keep pace with demand

How the Thatcherites lost their Brexit dream and their party

The great ‘Brexit’ and ‘coalition’ taboos are holding the Lib Dems back 

Clips from Sky News, BBC.

”Subterranean Homesick Blues” by Bob Dylan. Written by Bob Dylan.  

SME, TuneCore (on behalf of Columbia); UMPG Publishing, CMRRA, LatinAutorPerf, LatinAutor - SonyATV, UNIAO BRASILEIRA DE EDITORAS DE MUSICA - UBEM, SOLAR Music Rights Management

Sign up for 90 free days of Stephen Bush's Inside Politics newsletter, winner of the World Association of News Publishers 2023 ‘Best Newsletter’ award: https://www.ft.com/newsletter-signup/inside-politics 

Presented by Lucy Fisher. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Audrey Tinline. The executive producer is Manuela Saragosa. Audio mix and original music by Breen Turner. The FT’s head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 

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Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has said net migration is too high following data showing that it hit a record last year, but he insists it’s not out of control. The FT’s Whitehall editor Lucy Fisher digs into the political debate over immigration with columnist Stephen Bush and chief political commentator Rober Shrimsley. Also, what to make of the Cabinet Office referring Boris Johnson to the police over further potential breaches of coronavirus regulations? Plus, Northern England correspondent Jennifer Williams gives an update on her scoop about the government’s flagship regeneration scheme - now under scrutiny amid allegations of cronyism and waste.

Follow Lucy on Twitter @LOS_Fisher

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UK net immigration hits record high of 606,000

The old cycle of British immigration policy is unwinding

Yes, Suella Braverman should go, but not for the reason you think

Sign up for 90 free days of Stephen Bush's Inside Politics newsletter, winner of the World Association of News Publishers 2023 ‘Best Newsletter’ award: https://www.ft.com/newsletter-signup/inside-politics 

Presented by Lucy Fisher. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Audrey Tinline. The executive producer is Manuela Saragosa. Mix by Jake Fielding and Breen Turner. Original music by Breen Turner. The FT’s head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 

Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com

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Critics claim the Tories lack an industrial strategy and three former business secretaries have said that this fails to prepare Britain for the future. George Parker, the FT’s political editor, hears from Greg Clark, one of those former ministers, and industry correspondent Sylvia Pfeiffer. Plus, Labour leader Keir Starmer’s recent speeches reveal much about the conservatism of the country - an issue that will be key in the general election expected next year. Chief political commentator Robert Shrimsley and the FT’s new Whitehall editor Lucy Fisher discuss.

Sign up for 90 free days of Stephen Bush's Inside Politics newsletter, winner of the World Association of News Publishers 2023 Best Newsletter award: https://www.ft.com/newsletter-signup/inside-politics 

Presented by George Parker. Produced by Anna Dedhar. The executive producer is Manuela Saragosa. The sound engineer is Breen Turner and the FT’s head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 

Follow @GeorgeWParker on Twitter 

Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com

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Cutting inflation and stopping small-boat migration are two of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s five core priorities, but there's no let-up in inflation or unhappiness with the government's policy on asylum seekers. George Parker, the FT’s political editor, discusses with economics correspondent Delphine Strauss and economics editor Chris Giles how far off target the government is. Plus, the UK’s stretched public finances are braced for a hit of up to £10bn in compensation claims for those affected by a decades-long NHS contaminated blood scandal. How did it happen? George hears from global health editor Sarah Neville and Barry Flynn, one of the victims who has severe haemophilia A and was infected with hepatitis C.

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UK faces bill of up to £10bn to cover blood scandal compensation

Inflation and NHS waiting lists threaten Rishi Sunak’s five-pledge strategy

UK borrowing costs increase to their highest level in almost 15 years

UK plans curbs on visas for overseas students’ family members

Sign up for 90 free days of Stephen Bush's Inside Politics newsletter, winner of the World Association of News Publishers 2023 ‘Best Newsletter’ award: https://www.ft.com/newsletter-signup/inside-politics 

Presented by George Parker. Produced by Anna Dedhar. The executive producer is Manuela Saragosa. The sound engineer is Breen Turner and the FT’s head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 

Follow @GeorgeWParker on Twitter 

Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com

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For Prime Minister Rishi Sunak the results were ‘disappointing’, Labour’s Sir Keir Starmer claimed his party was heading for power and Lib Dem leader Sir Ed Davey wore a ‘Cheshire cat’ grin. What do this week’s local elections in England show about the likely direction of the next general election? Host George Parker discusses with columnist Stephen Bush, Northern England correspondent Jennifer Williams and the FT’s new Whitehall editor Lucy Fisher.

Presented by George Parker. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Josh Gabert-Doyon. The executive producer is Manuela Saragosa. The sound engineer is Breen Turner and the FT’s head of audio is Cheryl Brumley

News clips: Sky, BBC, GB News

Sign up for 90 free days of Stephen Bush's Inside Politics newsletter, winner of the World Association of News Publishers 2023 ‘Best Newsletter’ award: https://www.ft.com/newsletter-signup/inside-politics 

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Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com

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Rishi Sunak has launched a charm offensive to win back the support of business while Labour wines and dines the financial community. Are their efforts to connect with corporate Britain convincing? Host George Parker discusses with the FT’s markets editor Katie Martin and deputy political editor, Jim Pickard. Plus, we look ahead to next week’s local elections. George and political correspondent Jasmine Cameron-Chileshe compare notes on the mood they found on the doorsteps around the country and columnist Robert Shrimsley provides his analysis.

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Why the Tories worry about Labour’s charm offensive with business

Jeremy Hunt admits UK business taxes too high as government pressed on strategy

Sunak aims to woo Britain’s business leaders in corporate reset

Sign up for 90 free days of Stephen Bush's Inside Politics newsletter, winner of the World Association of News Publishers 2023 ‘Best Newsletter’ award: https://www.ft.com/newsletter-signup/inside-politics 

Presented by George Parker. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Josh Gabert-Doyon. The executive producer is Manuela Saragosa. The sound engineer is Jan Sigsworth and the FT’s head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 

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Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com

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This week we’re bringing you an extended edition of the podcast recorded during a webinar from the FT Live events team. Host Miranda Green is joined by FT columnist Stephen Bush, the FT’s public policy editor Peter Foster and Jane Green, professor of political science at Nuffield College, University of Oxford, to answer subscribers’ questions on factors that will shape the outcome of 2024’s UK general election. How much will Brexit matter, who will be more convincing on law and order and immigration, and how will the generation divide play out? 

Presented by Stephen Bush. Produced by Anna Dedhar. The executive producer is Manuela Saragosa. The sound engineer is Breen Turner and the FT’s head of audio is Cheryl Brumley.

Follow @greenmiranda on Twitter 

Sign up for 90 free days of Stephen Bush's Inside Politics newsletter, winner of the World Association of News Publishers 2023 ‘Best Newsletter’ award: https://www.ft.com/newsletter-signup/inside-politics 

Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com 

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Joe Biden’s visit to Northern Ireland was designed to mark the anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement. But it was brief compared with his stay in the Republic of Ireland. Did the US president's presence help or hinder the prime minister’s efforts to restart power-sharing self-government in the Northern Ireland Assembly? Host Miranda Green discusses US-UK relations with Ireland correspondent Jude Webber and the FT’s chief political commentator Robert Shrimsley. Plus, sewage again and everywhere: it's in the UK’s rivers and seas. Is there a risk it could sweep away Conservative councillors and MPs? Columnist Stephen Bush and Gill Plimmer, the FT's expert on the privatised utilities, are on hand to discuss.

Presented by Miranda Green. Produced by Anna Dedhar. The executive producer is Manuela Saragosa. The sound engineer is Breen Turner and the FT’s head of audio is Cheryl Brumley.

News clip: BBC

Want more?

Joe Biden’s long Good Friday 

Joe Biden in Ireland: ‘Your feet will bring you where your heart is’ 

Biden’s ‘homecoming’ Ireland visit mired in post-Brexit politics

Ofwat has fined just one water company over 1994 sewage spill rules

Two water groups blamed for 40% of England’s sewage spills in 2022

Join a panel led by award-winning columnists Miranda Green and Stephen Bush, who writes the daily Inside Politics newsletter, for an FT subscriber webinar on the factors that will shape the outcome of next year's general election here

Follow @greenmiranda on Twitter

Sign up for 90 free days of Stephen Bush's Inside Politics newsletter, winner of the World Association of News Publishers 2023 ‘Best Newsletter’ award: https://www.ft.com/newsletter-signup/inside-politics

Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com 

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Getting out of the UK - and indeed getting in - is becoming more difficult. Host Miranda Green unpicks home secretary Suella Braverman’s tough talk on British borders with FT columnist Stephen Bush and Rhys Clyne, the Institute for Government’s home affairs expert. Plus: this week marked the death of Nigel Lawson, one of the most consequential and longest-serving British chancellors of the 20th century. Miranda discusses his highs and lows with FT economics editor Chris Giles and Patience Wheatcroft, veteran business journalist.

Presented by Miranda Green. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Persis Love. The executive producer is Manuela Saragosa. The sound engineer is Breen Turner.

News clips: Sky, BBC

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Dorset residents unite against plan to moor asylum seekers in port 

UK passport delays hit ‘unacceptable level’ in 2022, says report 

Nigel Lawson, chancellor and journalist, 1932-2023

Brexit gives us a chance to finish the Thatcher revolution - by Nigel Lawson, September 2016 

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Sign up for a free 90 days of Stephen Bush's Inside Politics newsletter, winner of the World Association of News Publishers 2023 ‘Best Newsletter’ award: https://www.ft.com/newsletter-signup/inside-politics

Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com 

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The UK government unveiled a new net zero plan this week after the High Court ruled last year that existing plans were not enough for the UK to reach net zero targets. So is the new plan up to scratch? Host George Parker discusses with the deputy political editor Jim Pickard and climate reporter Camilla Hodgson. Plus, campaigning has kicked off for the May local elections. Labour and the Liberal Democrats have been out on the road but where were the Conservatives? Deputy opinion editor Miranda Green and columnist Stephen Bush look ahead to a vital test of public opinion.

Presented by George Parker. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Manuela Saragosa. The sound engineer was Breen Turner

News clips: BBC

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As Donald Trump makes his first appointments, speculation in Whitehall grows: will the UK move closer to the US or cosy back up with the EU?

The FT’s Lucy Fisher is joined by Political Fix regulars George Parker and Robert Shrimsley, as well as Peter Foster, the FT’s public policy editor, to discuss how Britain might successfully balance its two most important relationships. Plus the panel also discusses Rachel Reeves’s pension megafund reform, and assesses the damage Labour’s employment reforms are doing to the relationship with British business. 

Follow Lucy on X: @LOS_Fisher, George @GeorgeWParker, Peter Foster @pmdfoster, Robert @robertshrimsley 

Want more?  

Join Lucy Fisher, Peter Foster, Stephen Bush and Miranda Green for Political Fix Live session on December 5, where they will assess Labour's record after five months in office as part of the FT's Global Boardroom online conference. The three-day event features high-level interviews on the big issues of the day and is being held on December 4-6. Register for your free pass at ft.com/tgb

Sign up here for 30 free days of Stephen Bush's Inside Politics newsletter, winner of the World Association of News Publishers 2023 ‘Best Newsletter’ award. 

Presented by Lucy Fisher. Produced by Tamara Kormornick. The executive producer is Manuela Saragosa. Audio mix by Sean McGarrity and original music by Breen Turner. The broadcast engineers are Andrew Georgiadis and Petros Giumpassis. The FT’s head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 

Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com

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Boris Johnson testified for his political life this week but was it enough to save his political career? George Parker discusses the former prime minister's future with the FT’s political commentator Stephen Bush and political correspondent Jasmine Cameron-Chileshe. Plus, while the Tory Eurosceptics may have been crushed after Rishi Sunak won a vote on a new post-Brexit deal for Northern Ireland, the Democratic Unionist party is still saying it won’t return to power-sharing in Stormont. The FT’s Ireland correspondent Jude Webber and public policy editor Peter Foster give their analysis.

Produced by Anna Dedhar and Manuela Saragosa. The sound engineer was Breen Turner  

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Why was the chancellor buoyed by forecasts that the UK would avoid a technical recession when the economy is still set to shrink? We dissect the economic and political implications of  Jeremy Hunt’s Budget, including his giveaway on pension limits - set to benefit the country’s richest - which Labour seized on as helping the wrong people. 

Presented by George Parker, with economics editor Chris Giles, political columnist Stephen Bush, consumer editor Claer Barrett and special guest Torsten Bell, chief executive of the Resolution Foundation. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Manuela Saragossa. The sound engineer was Breen Turner 

Claer Barrett’s new book is What They Don’t Teach You About Money: Habits to get you unstuck and on the road to financial freedom  Order the book here

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Even the Home Secretary Suella Braverman admitted there were questions over the legality of the tough new legislation introduced in the House of Commons this week. Others criticised it for being inhumane. We discuss the language and strategy of the policy and ask, is it workable? Plus, the UK-France summit in Paris shines a spotlight on the warmth between Rishi Sunak and Emmanuel Macron and the two countries’ post-Brexit relationship.

Presented by George Parker, with deputy opinion editor Miranda Green, political correspondent Jasmine Cameron-Chileshe, Paris bureau chief Leila Aboud and special guest former UK ambassador to France Lord Peter Ricketts. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Persis Love. The sound engineer was Breen Turner  

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Boris Johnson may have criticised the prime minister’s deal on post-Brexit trading in Northern Ireland but a number of formerly staunch Eurosceptic rebels — including Northern Ireland minister Steve Baker — have enthused about Sunak’s success. How is the PM going to manage dissent within his own ranks, or is Eurosceptic opposition crumbling? Plus, what the deal on the new-look protocol - aka the Windsor framework - means in practice for business.

Presented by George Parker, with political correspondent Jasmine Cameron-Chileshe, Ireland correspondent Jude Webber, Brussels correspondent Andy Bounds and special guest former Tory cabinet minister and New Statesman columnist David Gauke.

Produced by Anna Dedhar and Manuela Saragosa. The sound engineer was Breen Turner

News clips: BBC, GB News, Sky

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A deal to resolve the bitter dispute over post-Brexit trade in Northern Ireland was due this week but the UK prime minister appears to have a fight on his hands to stop it unravelling as he faces opposition from Tory Eurosceptics and the Democratic Unionist party. Is Sunak facing a moment of truth on his authority? Plus, a new report revealed the dire state of Britain’s public services and Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer laid out his five “missions” to sort out the country.

Presented by George Parker, with deputy political editor Jim Pickard, columnist Robert Shrimsley, Ireland correspondent Jude Webber and special guest Hannah White, director of the Institute for Government. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Manuela Saragosa. The sound engineer was Breen Turner. 

-Read the latest on UK politics 

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Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com

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Scotland’s first minister announced this week that she was stepping down after eight years in office. What does her resignation mean for the Scottish National party and Scotland’s independence campaign? We discuss the country’s future. Plus, presenter George Parker talks to Douglas Alexander, former Labour cabinet minister, about his Scottish Labour comeback and his party’s prospects.

With Scottish correspondent Lukanyo Mnyanda and special guest constitutional expert Professor Nicola McEwen. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Manuela Saragosa. The sound engineer was Breen Turner 

We'd like to hear from you. What do you like (or not)? Please help us by filling in our listener survey at ft.com/politicssurvey It will take you around 10 minutes to complete and you will be in with a chance to win a pair of Bose QuietComfort earbuds! 

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Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com

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Liz Truss and Boris Johnson have both been intervening this week. Could they challenge Rishi Sunak? We discuss how much of a threat to him they are. Plus, we delve into the cabinet and Whitehall shake-ups. An industrial strategy was dropped while areas like energy security and technology became priorities. Is this more than a change of labels?

Presented by George Parker, with deputy opinion editor Miranda Green, columnist Robert Shrimsley and special guests Conservative MP Greg Clark and Hannah White, director of the Institute for Government. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Manuela Saragosa. The sound engineer was Breen Turner

We'd like to hear from you. What do you like (or not)? Please help us by filling in our listener survey at ft.com/politicssurvey It will take you around 10 minutes to complete and you will be in with a chance to win a pair of Bose QuietComfort Earbuds!

-Read the latest on UK politics

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Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com

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After a week that’s seen mass strikes and a growing number of bullying allegations against his deputy Dominic Raab, we discuss how Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has fared during his first 100 days in office. Plus, we delve into the government’s approach to net zero and the pressure Sunak is under to ditch the ‘green crap’.

Presented by George Parker, with deputy political editor Jim Pickard, deputy opinion editor Miranda Green and columnists Robert Shrimsley and Stephen Bush. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Manuela Saragosa. The sound engineer was Breen Turner

Credits: Channel 4/BBC

We'd like to hear from you. What do you like (or not)? Please help us by filling in our listener survey at ft.com/politicssurvey It will take you around 10 minutes to complete and you will be in with a chance to win a pair of Bose QuietComfort Earbuds!

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Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com

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Labour’s Sir Keir Starmer attacked Rishi Sunak as ‘weak’ as calls escalated for the Tory party chair Nadhim Zahawi to be sacked over his £5mn settlement with Inland Revenue. How much is the row damaging the PM’s credibility and his vows to clean up parliamentary standards? Plus, as Sunak and his cabinet met for an awayday at Chequers to map out strategy, we discuss the challenge of his rocky ‘narrow path’ to election victory.

Presented by George Parker, with deputy political editor Jim Pickard, political correspondent Jasmine Cameron-Chileshe and columnists Robert Shrimsley and Stephen Bush. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Manuela Saragosa. The sound engineer was Breen Turner

We'd like to hear from you. What do you like (or not)? Please help us by filling in our listener survey at  ft.com/politicssurvey  It will take you around 10 minutes to complete and you will be in with a chance to win a pair of Bose QuietComfort Earbuds!

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Sir Keir Starmer and shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves gave a pre-Davos interview to the FT before setting off to woo the global elite in Switzerland at the World Economic Forum in a remarkable turnround in Labour sentiment. Why were they going, with what message, while Prime Minister Rishi Sunak chose to go to Morecambe instead? And what do the financial titans make of the UK’s prospects? Plus, we discuss the UK’s controversial plans for a bonfire of more than 4,000 EU rules that would put huge power in ministers’ hands, unleash regulatory uncertainty and is causing dismay among businesses.     

Presented by George Parker, with deputy political editor Jim Pickard, markets editor Katie Martin, public policy editor Peter Foster and special guest Professor Catherine Barnard of UK in a Changing Europe. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Manuela Saragosa. The sound engineer was Breen Turner 

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Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com

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Despite past criticism of Donald Trump, Sir Keir Starmer has sent ‘hearty’ praise to the president-elect for his victory this week. But what will transatlantic relations be like in 2025 and what does a Trump presidency mean for a Labour government? And, after Kemi Badenoch won the Tory leadership contest, we assess her first days in the job. Political Fix host Lucy Fisher is joined by US national editor and columnist Ed Luce, Deputy Washington bureau chief Lauren Fedor, Jim Pickard and Katy Balls, political editor of the Spectator.

Follow Lucy on Twitter @LOS_Fisher,  Ed @EdwardGLuce, Lauren @LaurenFedor, Jim @PickardJE

Want more?  

America wants Trump — no ifs or buts

‘They don’t understand my life’: what the Democrats misread about America 

‘Brave new world’: Donald Trump’s victory signals end of US-led postwar order 

Trade, tech, defence: UK braces for policy flashpoints with Trump’s US

Lammy seeks to repair Trump relationship after ‘Nazi’ jibe 

Kemi Badenoch rewards early backers with shadow cabinet posts 

Sign up for 30 free days of Stephen Bush's Inside Politics newsletter, winner of the World Association of News Publishers 2023 ‘Best Newsletter’ award: 

https://ft.com/insidepoliticsoffer

Presented by Lucy Fisher. Produced by Clare Williamson. The executive producer is Manuela Saragosa. Audio mix by Simon Panayi. Original music by Breen Turner. The FT’s head of audio is Cheryl Brumley.

Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com

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Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer clash at PMQs as they set out their plans for a year that could shape the outcome of the general election. The prime minister faces industrial unrest, demands to solve the Northern Ireland standoff and the ever-present threat of a resurgent Boris Johnson, and can the Labour leader show he has any answers? Plus, we look at the outlook for business and the economy.

Presented by George Parker, with columnists Robert Shrimsley and Stephen Bush, chief UK business correspondent Daniel Thomas and special guest Syma Cullasy-Aldridge of the CBI. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Manuela Saragosa. The sound engineer was Breen Turner

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In our final episode of 2022, we look back on an especially turbulent year in Westminster - from partygate to Chris Pincher, Ukraine to market meltdown, Boris Johnson to Rishi Sunak, Kwasi Kwarteng and Jeremy Hunt. 

We reflect on the most significant events, what we got right and wrong at the time, and what British politics will bring in 2023. 

This marks Sebastian Payne's last episode presenting the podcast, but we will be back in the new year with a new host. 

Presented by Sebastian Payne, with political editor George Parker, chief political correspondent Jim Pickard, chief UK political columnists Robert Shrimsley and deputy opinion editor Miranda Green. 

Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth.

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Audio: BBC / Sky / ITV

Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com

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Rishi Sunak confronted a growing wave of industrial unrest facing the UK with tough new proposals for anti-strike laws, but will they work? 

We explore how the prime minister is handling the challenges of the winter ahead and whether we’re any closer to a “Sunakism”. 

Plus, we discuss the Edinburgh Reforms of financial services and whether they will boost growth and help the City of London flourish after Brexit. 

Presented by Sebastian Payne, with chief UK political columnist Robert Shrimsley, deputy opinion editor Miranda Green, political editor George Parker and business editor Dan Thomas. 

Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth.

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Audio: BBC / Sky

Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com

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Britain is seeing a swelling wave of industrial action this winter, from nurses to rail workers. Is the country facing a de facto general strike and is there an economic landing zone for the government and workers? We discuss what the different unions want. Plus, we examine Sir Keir Starmer's strategy for attacking Rishi Sunak - does it amount to class war, or just expose the prime minister's weaknesses? 

Presented by Sebastian Payne, with chief political correspondent Jim Pickard, economic correspondent Delphine Strauss, associate editor and columnist Stephen Bush and special guest political strategist John McTernan. 

Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Howie Shannon and Jan Sigsworth.

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Audio: BBC / Sky

Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com

Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com

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Rishi Sunak's authority with Tory MPs is waning and he is now facing policy battles on almost every front. 

We analyse which fights the new prime minister can win and which aren’t worth engaging in, and whether the Conservative party is serious about the next election. 

Plus, we look at the Tory and Labour wooing of business at this week’s CBI conference and if Sir Keir Starmer is doing enough on immigration to win enterprise over. 

Presented by Sebastian Payne, with columnist and associate editor Stephen Bush, deputy opinion editor Miranda Green, chief political correspondent Jim Pickard and chief business correspondent Dan Thomas. 

Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers are Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth.

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Audio: BBC / Sky

Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com

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The chancellor unveiled a £55bn plan for fiscal tightening this week, with the biggest drop in living standards for 70 years. We unpack all of the fiscal forecasts, tax rises, spending cuts and how Rishi Sunak can navigate the tricky politics. Plus, we also examine whether Hunt has shot Labour’s fox and what alternatives the party might put forward. 

Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Chris Giles, Jim Pickard and special guest Carys Roberts of the IPPR think-tank. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth.

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Audio: BBC

Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com

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Rishi Sunak forced Sir Gavin Williamson out from his government this week, the third time the former cabinet minister has been made to quit. Why did Sunak hire the controversial former chief whip in the first place? And what does his departure say about the prime minister's judgment?

Plus, we look ahead to next week's Autumn Statement and where the Treasury's tax and spend axe will fall.

Presented by Sebastian Payne, with chief UK political commentator Robert Shrimsley, deputy opinion editor Miranda Green, chief political correspondent Jim Pickard and special guest Torsten Bell, chief executive of the Resolution Foundation.

Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Persis Love and Jan Sigswoth.

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Audio: Sky News / BBC / The Bunker

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We ask whether the home secretary Suella Braverman can survive in her post with attacks on multiple fronts. 

Does she have a plan for dealing with backlogged asylum claims? Can she be trusted with national security? And does she have the confidence of prime minister Rishi Sunak?

Plus, the curious and hilarious case of Matt Hancock, the former health secretary who has decided to make good use of his constituents' time by going on the reality show 'I’m A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here!'

Is it ever a good idea for politicians to diddle off from Westminster when parliament is sitting?

Presented by Sebastian Payne with chief political commentator Robert Shrimsley, political correspondent Jasmine Cameron-Chileshe, chief political correspondent Jim Pickard and deputy opinion editor Miranda Green.

Produced by Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Persis Love, Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth.

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Audio: Sky News / BBC / ITV

Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com

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After another turbulent week and the potential return of Boris Johnson. Rishi Sunak became Britain's latest prime minister - its first non-white leader and the youngest in modern history. We discuss how he triumphed in the leadership contest, how Johnson failed to gain momentum, the make-up of Sunak's first cabinet and the options for filling the fiscal blackhole left by “Trussonomics”.

Presented by Sebastian Payne, with political editor George Parker, chief political correspondent Robert Shrimsley, economics editor Chris Giles and special guest former Treasury official Jill Rutter.

Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth.

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Audio: Sky News / BBC

Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com

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We look back on what can only be described as a total bonkers week in Westminster: how Liz Truss became the shortest and one of the worst prime ministers in British history, the very sticky end, and crucially what happens next - including the question on everyone’s lips: will Boris Johnson return? Our political editor George Parker and associate editor Camilla Cavendish will be unpacking it all with special guest Paul Goodman, editor of the Conservative Home website.

Produced by Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth.

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Audio: Sky News / BBC

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It’s been two days since chancellor Rachel Reeves put a £40bn tax increase at the heart of a plan to fix the country’s “broken” finances and public services, and unveiled a sharp increase in borrowing to fund an extra £100bn of capital spending. But will these measures bolster investment and growth in the UK economy? And what does the Budget tell us about the country’s economic direction over the next five years? The FT’s Lucy Fisher discusses these questions and more with UK political editor George Parker, columnist and host of The Economics Show Soumaya Keynes and economics editor Sam Fleming.

This is a recording of an FT Live subscribers’ webinar, recorded on Friday, November 1.

Follow Lucy on X: @LOS_Fisher, George on @GeorgeWParker, Sam @Sam1Fleming and Soumaya @SoumayaKeynes

Want more? Free links:

Budget poses new challenge for UK public finances, Moody’s warns

Business and wealthy bear brunt of £40bn tax increases in UK Budget

The Budget in brief: what you need to know

Reeves has made her choice — but success is not guaranteed

Rachel Reeves defiant after historic tax and spend Budget

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Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com

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A tumultuous week and a dramatic Friday as Liz Truss was forced to reverse on tax cuts again and sacked Kwasi Kwarteng. Doubts are growing over whether she can survive as prime minister.

Presented by Sebastian Payne with political editor George Parker, economics editor Chris Giles and associate editor Camilla Cavendish. 

Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth.

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Audio: Sky News / BBC

Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com

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Liz Truss endured one of the most traumatic Conservative party conferences in living memory, with open revolt from her cabinet and MPs. Can the new prime minister survive and where does her economic reform agenda go next? Plus we discuss whether business is moving its opinions sharply towards Labour with the potential of the party's return to government in sight. 

Presented by Sebastian Payne, with political editor George Parker, associate editor Stephen Bush, chief political correspondent Jim Pickard and business columnist Cat Rutter Pooley. 

Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Persis Love and Jan Sigsworth.

Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk

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Audio: Sky News

Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com

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Markets showed their dismay and the pound crashed to its lowest levels ever as Prime Minister Liz Truss and chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng struggled to defend their economic strategy. Where does the crisis go next? Political editor George Parker and economics editor Chris Giles make sense of it all. We also look back on the Labour party conference in Liverpool and discuss whether Sir Keir Starmer’s party is preparing to return to power. Chief political correspondent Jim Pickard and northern correspondent Jennifer Williams take us into the corridors of the convention centre.

Presented by Sebastian Payne. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon

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Audio: BBC

Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com

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Kwasi Kwarteng delivered his first Budget in all but name this week, with the biggest overhaul in taxes in half a century. We unpack all the major tax cuts and examine whether the Truss government's huge bet on growth will pay off, and what happens if it doesn't. 

Plus, we look at the ABCD plan to see the health service through the winter and whether the UK is losing its focus on science. 

Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Chris Giles, Sarah Neville and Clive Cookson. Produced by Howie Shannon. 

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Audio: House of Commons / BBC

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The UK has experienced an unprecedented week of constitutional upheaval with new national and political leadership. 

We discuss the death and mourning of Queen Elizabeth II, the arrival of King Charles III and what it all means for the new prime minister Liz Truss. 

Presented by Sebastian Payne, with Peter Foster, George Parker, Robert Shrimsley and special guest Hannah White. 

Produced by Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth.

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Audio: House of Commons / BBC

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Following the sad news of the death of Queen Elizabeth II - who died on September 8 2022 at the age of 96 - we are in tribute republishing this platinum jubilee episode, in which we looked back on Her Majesty's 70 years on the throne.

Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Chris Giles and Sarah O'Connor. Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth.

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The Tory leadership race finished this week, with foreign secretary Liz Truss widely expected to triumph. We discuss the final campaign developments, Truss’ pledges on tax, and what Boris Johnson might do next. 

Presented by Sebastian Payne, with George Parker, Robert Shrimsley and Jasmine Cameron-Chileshe. 

Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth. 

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Audio: LBC / BBC

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With energy bills set to soar from October, Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak faced mounting questions about how they would help struggling families, yet neither of the candidates to be the new prime minister has set out detailed plans. We examine the foreign secretary's tax proposals, whether they will address the economic turbulence ahead and if Whitehall needs a new ethics adviser.

Presented by Sebastian Payne, with chief political correspondent Jim Pickard, political correspondent Jasmine Cameron-Chileshe and special guest economist Gerard Lyons.

Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Carlos San Juan. 

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Two new opinion polls put Liz Truss 32 points ahead of her rival Rishi Sunak in the race to be the next Tory leader and prime minister. We analyse whether the contest is over, and the latest clashes between the two contenders on the union and economy. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with Jasmine Cameron-Chileshe and special guest Paul Goodman of ConservativeHome.

Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth

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Audio: BBC + Sky

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As much of the country wilts in a heatwave, the focus in the Tory leadership contest this week has been on colder times to come. The two rivals for UK prime minister have disagreed publicly on how to help the most vulnerable cope with rising energy costs in the autumn. Rishi Sunak is promising direct help, while Liz Truss has criticised what she calls “handouts”, favouring tax cuts instead. But in the face of dire warnings that energy bills could reach more than £4,000 a year, is Truss softening her stance?

The FT’s political editor George Parker is joined by economics editor Chris Giles and political correspondent Jasmine Cameron-Chileshe. The producer was Philippa Goodrich and the sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth.

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Rachel Reeves has rewritten her fiscal rules on the eve of her seismic first Budget next week. She says her new borrowing rule will help get Britain building, but how will it go down with voters – and the markets? Meanwhile, Sir Keir Starmer is in Samoa, where a debate about reparations for slavery has threatened to overshadow the Commonwealth summit. Plus, the PM has had to grapple with Donald Trump’s allegations of illegal election interference by Labour. Host Lucy Fisher is joined by Political Fix regular Stephen Bush and FT political correspondent Anna Gross, along with the FT’s deputy Washington bureau chief Lauren Fedor.

Will Labour’s budget boost growth? Ask the FT’s economics editor Sam Fleming and colleagues at a Political Fix live subscriber webinar, hosted by Lucy Fisher, on Nov 1 at 1300 GMT. Register for your free pass at ft.com/ukgrowth

Follow Lucy on X: @LOS_Fisher, Stephen @stephenkb, Anna @AnnaSophieGross and Lauren @LaurenFedor

Want more?  

Rachel Reeves confirms change to UK fiscal rules to help fund £20bn of annual investment

Rachel Reeves: My fiscal rules will provide the stability on which growth depends

Keir Starmer flies to Samoa to answer tricky questions from Commonwealth allies

Donald Trump accuses UK Labour party of interference in White House race 

Labour paid for top Starmer aide to attend Democratic National Convention

A Trump victory would end ‘normal’ politics between UK and US

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Presented by Lucy Fisher. Produced by Clare Williamson. The executive producer is Manuela Saragosa. Audio mix and original music by Breen Turner. The FT’s head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. 

Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com

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The voting process in the contest for a new Tory leader and prime minister was delayed over security concerns, but the campaign continued with Liz Truss looking all but certain to win. We discuss her lines of attack and her proliferation of new ideas, and delve into why Rishi Sunak is struggling to present himself as the grown-up. Will the delay to voting help him gain ground?

Presented by political editor George Parker, with Robert Shrimsley, chief political commentator, and political correspondent Jasmine Cameron-Chileshe. 

Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth

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Audio: BBC / Sky

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The race to be the next UK prime minister rolled on this week, as foreign secretary Liz Truss firmed up her campaign lead and former chancellor Rishi Sunak struggled to make headway. We delve into the trio of debates, policy clashes on China and taxes, and ask whether the race is all but over. Presented by Sebastian Payne, with political editor George Parker, chief political commentator Robert Shrimsley and political correspondent Jasmine Cameron-Chileshe.

Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth

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Audio: BBC / Talk TV

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In this week’s episode, we delve into the positions and policies of the two final candidates in the contest to succeed Boris Johnson as Conservative leader and UK prime minister.

Who is likely to win the votes of the Tory party membership over the next six weeks?

Political editor George Parker and associate editor Stephen Bush analyse Rishi Sunak while economic editor Chris Giles and special guest Katy Balls, deputy political editor of the Spectator, look at Liz Truss.

Produced by Anna Dedhar and Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Jan Sigsworth

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Audio: BBC / ITV / C4

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