Political Developments in the UK and Reflections on the First Year of Podcasting: In 2023, Boris Johnson resigned, Nicola Sturgeon stepped down, Matt Hancock faced charges, and Prince Harry testified in court. The Festive Newsagents podcast interviewed Keir Starmer, discussing his efforts to rebrand Labor as a pro-business party. Despite challenges, they conducted insightful conversations with key political figures.
The year 2023 began with significant political developments in the United Kingdom. Boris Johnson resigned as an MP, Nicola Sturgeon stepped down as first minister of Scotland, and Matt Hancock faced criminal charges. Prince Harry became the first member of the British royal family in over a century to testify in court. Amidst these events, the Festive Newsagents team reflected on their first full year of podcasting, sharing stories from their interview with Labor leader Keir Starmer at Davos. Despite challenges like strikes and travel disruptions, they managed to conduct insightful conversations with key political figures. The team's interview with Keir Starmer highlighted his efforts to position the Labor Party as a pro-business entity on the international stage. They also shared an amusing anecdote about trying to arrange a quick-fire interview segment with an Arsenal fan for Keir Starmer, only to be presented with the name of Osama bin Laden. Overall, the podcast episode encapsulates the unpredictability and intrigue of British politics.
A Year of Change for Keir Starmer: Labour Party leader Keir Starmer distanced himself from past controversies, presented himself as business-focused, made internal changes, faced criticism for lack of clear stance, and maintained a poll lead over Conservatives amid ongoing labor strikes.
Keir Starmer, the Labour Party leader, had a significant year in 2023. He distanced himself from the controversies of the Corbyn years, particularly regarding antisemitism and Israel, and presented himself as a business-focused leader. Starmer also made changes within the Labour Party, shaking up the team and getting rid of unpopular policies. However, he faced criticism for his lack of clear policy stance and flip-flopping on certain issues. The year was marked by ongoing labor strikes, which continued into the Christmas period, and the government's refusal to engage in negotiations with strikers, leading to the start of 2024 with more strikes. Despite these challenges, Starmer maintained a substantial poll lead over the Conservatives, making it a generally successful year for him.
SNP Faces Challenges in 2023: Political Trouble and Corruption Scandal: In 2023, the Scottish National Party (SNP) and its leader Nicola Sturgeon faced political trouble over gender self ID legislation and a corruption scandal that led to Sturgeon's resignation, weakening the SNP's grip on power and providing an opportunity for the Labour Party to make gains.
The Scottish National Party (SNP) and its leader Nicola Sturgeon faced significant challenges in 2023, starting with political trouble over gender self ID legislation and culminating in a corruption scandal that led to Sturgeon's resignation. This marked a turning point for Scottish politics, which had been dominated by the SNP since 2007. Sturgeon's resignation came as a surprise, even though she was in political trouble, and was followed by a series of events that enveloped the SNP in a corruption scandal. The scandal involved the search of Sturgeon's former first minister's house and the arrest of her husband. These events significantly weakened the SNP's position in Scottish politics and provided an opportunity for the Labour Party, led by Keir Starmer, to make gains. The year 2023 was a pivotal one for Scottish politics, marking the first time since 2007 that the SNP's grip on power began to weaken.
Significant shifts in Scottish politics create opportunities for Labour: Nicola Sturgeon's resignation led to investigations, arrests, and a messy SNP leadership contest, allowing Labour to potentially gain Scottish seats. The decline of the SNP doesn't mean the end of the independence movement, and the constitutional question of Scottish autonomy resurfaced.
The political landscape in Scotland has undergone significant shifts in 2023, creating opportunities for the Labour Party to gain ground. Nicola Sturgeon's resignation set off a chain reaction of events, including investigations, arrests, and a messy leadership contest within the Scottish National Party (SNP). This instability has allowed Labour to see potential gains in Scottish seats. Moreover, the decline of the SNP's popularity doesn't necessarily mean the end of the independence movement, as it searches for a new political home. Additionally, the constitutional question surrounding Scottish autonomy has resurfaced, as Westminster blocked a law passed by Holyrood for the first time. In an unexpected turn of events, Matt Hancock, a former cabinet minister, made headlines when he came into the studio after appearing on "I'm a Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here," trying to rebuild his image. These events have created a complex political climate in Scotland, with potential tensions between parties in both Holyrood and Westminster.
Facing Challenges Head-On in Modern Politics: Politicians need resilience to navigate modern politics and media, but avoiding tough issues can have consequences. Court appearances can be used strategically for fundraising and campaigning.
Modern politics and the media can be all-consuming, leading to fragility and a need for resilience among politicians. This was evident in the case of Matt Hancock, who expressed a desire to avoid certain topics due to modern psychology and mores. However, his unwillingness to answer covid-related questions during a pandemic highlighted the importance of addressing tough issues, especially for those in key positions. Additionally, the spectacle of former U.S. President Donald Trump's criminal trial in April 2021 demonstrated how court appearances could be used as fundraising and campaign opportunities, even during contentious legal proceedings. Overall, these examples underscore the importance of facing challenges head-on and adapting to the demands of modern politics.
Challenges to US Institutions and Political Climate: The US political landscape is marked by challenges to key institutions, low public support for major parties, and international crises, leading to uncertainty and instability.
The political landscape in the US has seen significant challenges to the independence and confidence in key institutions, including the electoral process and the judicial system. The former president's actions have raised questions about the right way to hold him accountable, with many legal experts debating the effectiveness and fairness of current efforts. Meanwhile, public support for the two major political parties is at an all-time low, and the current president's position has weakened amidst concerns about his age and handling of various crises. The political climate has led to a sense of uncertainty and instability, with many Americans feeling disenfranchised and seeking alternative options. The year has also seen significant international challenges, including the Israel-Gaza conflict and tensions with Ukraine, which have tested the leadership of the current president. Despite these challenges, he has navigated them with some success, but the overall sentiment remains one of instability and uncertainty.
A steady and reassuring first year for King Charles III: King Charles III has proven to be a constitutional monarch, building bridges with Europe, leading on climate change, and maintaining the monarchy's relevance and stability in his first year on the throne.
King Charles III's first full year on the throne has been remarkably steady and reassuring for the British monarchy. Despite some initial doubts about his reign, Charles has proven to be a constitutional monarch who has kept the monarchy turning, built bridges with Europe, and shown leadership on important issues like climate change. However, there is a sense that his reign may be a transitional period due to his age, and some feel that there is a lack of clear strategic direction. Nevertheless, Charles has made a positive impact in his first year, and he is carrying on with the work he started before ascending to the throne. Overall, his reign has been a quiet success in maintaining the monarchy's relevance and stability.
British Monarchy's Consistent Priorities with a New King and Controversial Prince: King Charles III maintains focus on environment, Europe, and Commonwealth while dealing with expectations for assertiveness. Prince Harry's legal battles against Murdoch gain public support.
Despite the change in leadership from Prince Charles to King Charles III, the priorities of the monarchy remain consistent, with a focus on environmental issues, building relations with Europe, and maintaining the Commonwealth. However, King Charles III is facing expectations to be more assertive and create some ripples in the political landscape. Meanwhile, Prince Harry made headlines for his legal battles against the Murdoch empire over phone hacking, which left many people angry and vindicated him. These events underscore the evolving roles and public perceptions of the British monarchy and its prominent figures. Additionally, Boris Johnson's sudden resignation as a conservative MP brought unexpected turmoil to the political scene, adding to the complexity of the year's events. Overall, 2023 was a year marked by significant shifts in leadership and public opinion, with the monarchy and its members continuing to navigate the challenges and expectations of their roles.
Boris Johnson's Defiant Resignation Speech: Boris Johnson unexpectedly resigned in a Trumpian-style speech filled with anger and accusations, overshadowing potential resignations from allies, causing confusion and chaos.
Boris Johnson's resignation speech in 2022 was a Trumpian-style, defiant departure from politics, timed to overshadow other news, including potential resignations from his allies. Johnson, who was under scrutiny for his conduct regarding partygate, decided to resign the week the Privileges Committee report was due, using inflammatory language and attacking his political enemies. This unexpected move caused confusion and required a redo for podcasters, who had been preparing to cover the resignations of Nadine Dorries and Nigel Adams. Johnson's resignation speech was filled with anger and accusations, using language like "witch hunt" and "sad," and he lashed out at institutions and individuals. Despite some support from his acolytes, many were not prepared to stand by him, leading to a chaotic end to his tenure.
Rishi Sunak's Political Year: Changes and Opportunities: Rishi Sunak's failure to clearly distinguish himself from Boris Johnson may lead to ongoing comparisons, despite Johnson's removal from parliament presenting opportunities for Sunak to define himself as a leader.
Rishi Sunak's political year, marked by Boris Johnson's removal from parliament, brought significant changes but also presented opportunities for Sunak to further define himself as a leader. While Johnson's absence removed a substantial internal political threat, Sunak could have made more of the moment to differentiate himself from his predecessor. The political landscape has shifted, but Sunak's failure to clearly distinguish himself from Johnson may leave him facing ongoing comparisons. The conversation also touched on the Republican Party's dilemma with candidates and the importance of defining one's political identity. The discussion will continue from July to December.
2023 In Review: Part One
Recent Episodes from The News Agents
Has Starmer got a sleaze problem?
Just two months on from the landslide general election and Starmer is having to field questions about the 100k worth of freebies he's received since 2019 and why his chief of staff, Sue Gray, is being paid more than the PM.
The story it tells is of frantic briefing around the PM by disgruntled special advisors. Is this a problem he has to fix? Or can he ignore it? And can he withstand accusations of 'sleaze' after labelling the Tories with that for so long? We talk to the Starmer's chief of staff before Sue Gray - Sam White.
And Aggie Chambre, LBC's political correspondent reveals to us the new rules for MPs at Labour conference.
Tickets for The News Agents live on stage at The Royal Albert Hall go on sale Friday morning from 10am on global player.
https://articles.globalplayer.com/2GXq4afyiJDx1xqP7ZMiP9ZVkWQ
Editor: Tom Hughes
Producer: Natalie Indge
Digital Editor: Michaela Walters
Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell
Video Production: Rory Symon, Shane Fennelly & Arvind Badewal
Digital Journalists: Michael Baggs & Jacob Paul
Don’t forget you can also subscribe to our other News Agents podcasts via the link below:
https://linktr.ee/thenewsagents
You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"
The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/
Are the attacks on Hezbollah a breach of international law?
The attacks on Hezbollah operatives were as audacious as they were incredible. Yesterday, targeting four thousand potential terrorists remotely through their pagers. And further attacks today using handheld radios.
But when the dust has settled, how will the world view this move? Was it justifiable? Or a breach of international law? What are the ethics of targeting so large a group? And was it a breach of Lebanese sovereignty?
Jon and Emily talk to former Newsnight defence editor Mark Urban, and Professor of International Law, Philippe Sands.
Tickets to see the News Agents Live on Stage at the Royal Albert Hall go on sale this Friday, September 20th. They will be available via Global Player at the link below.
https://articles.globalplayer.com/2GXq4afyiJDx1xqP7ZMiP9ZVkWQ
Editor: Tom Hughes
Producer: Natalie Indge
Digital Editor: Michaela Walters
Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell
Video Production: Rory Symon, Shane Fennelly & Arvind Badewal
Digital Journalists: Michael Baggs & Jacob Paul
Don’t forget you can also subscribe to our other News Agents podcasts via the link below:
https://linktr.ee/thenewsagents
You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"
The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/
Are the Democrats really inciting violence against Donald Trump?
Donald Trump has blamed Kamala Harris and Joe Biden's rhetoric for the latest assassination attempt, calling them 'Marxist communists'. So how is the rhetoric changing in American politics? And is political violence on the edge of tipping over again?
Later, Keir Starmer is cosying up to Italian Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni. And Jon asks about those donations for the Prime Minister's wife's clothes.
Tickets to see the News Agents Live on Stage at the Royal Albert Hall go on sale this Friday, September 20th. They will be available via Global Player at the link below.
https://articles.globalplayer.com/2GXq4afyiJDx1xqP7ZMiP9ZVkWQ
Editor: Tom Hughes
Producer: Natalie Indge
Digital Editor: Michaela Walters
Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell
Video Production: Rory Symon, Shane Fennelly & Arvind Badewal
Digital Journalists: Michael Baggs & Jacob Paul
Don’t forget you can also subscribe to our other News Agents podcasts via the link below:
https://linktr.ee/thenewsagents
You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"
The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/
Will the second Trump assassination attempt change the US election?
It's the second attempt on Donald Trump's life in just two months, once again calling into to question the security services and the state of gun violence in America. But will this change the course of the US elections?
And, why did JD Vance just admit to making up the story about immigrants eating cats and dogs in Springfield, Ohio?
Editor: Tom Hughes
Producer: Natalie Indge
Digital Editor: Michaela Walters
Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell
Video Production: Rory Symon, Shane Fennelly & Arvind Badewal
Digital Journalists: Michael Baggs & Jacob Paul
Don’t forget you can also subscribe to our other News Agents podcasts via the link below:
https://linktr.ee/thenewsagents
You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"
The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/
Weekend Edition - The Sports Agents
This week on The Sports Agents, Gabby Logan and Mark Chapman are joined by former England rugby captain Will Carling to discuss the future of the game, Spencer Matthews pops by to chat about his successful challenge of running 30 marathons in 30 days and
Executive Producer: Adonis Pratsides
Senior Producer: Adem Waterman
Video Producer: Sam Trudgill
Social Media Editor: Calum Scotland
Tom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast network
Vicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global
You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".
And, the Sports Agents now have merch!
A Very Royal Scandal: Emily Maitlis on Prince Andrew
It was the interview that shook the monarchy and saw the downfall of one of its most senior members.
A brand new drama based on that interview, titled “A Very Royal Scandal” is set to be released on Amazon next week, so Lewis sits down with Emily to talk about Prince Andrew, the shockwaves it triggered, and the new drama.
Editor: Tom Hughes
Producer: Natalie Indge
Digital Editor: Michaela Walters
Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell
Video Production: Rory Symon, Shane Fennelly & Arvind Badewal
Digital Journalists: Michael Baggs & Jacob Paul
Don’t forget you can also subscribe to our other News Agents podcasts via the link below:
https://linktr.ee/thenewsagents
You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"
The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/
Has American politics been taken over by conspiracy theories?
Two days after former president Donald Trump claimed immigrants are eating cats and dogs, and babies are being executed after birth, Jon and Lewis discuss how deep-rooted conspiracy theories have become in American politics.
They're joined in the studio by Gabriel Gatehouse, whose book 'The Coming Storm' delves deep into the world of conspiracy, to find out just how much it is dominating American political discourse.
So why is America so pre-disposed to conspiracy? How will it affect the election? And just how much is it tearing American society apart?
Editor: Tom Hughes
Producer: Natalie Indge
Digital Editor: Michaela Walters
Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell
Video Production: Rory Symon, Shane Fennelly & Arvind Badewal
Digital Journalists: Michael Baggs & Jacob Paul
Don’t forget you can also subscribe to our other News Agents podcasts via the link below:
https://linktr.ee/thenewsagents
You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"
The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/
Does Donald Trump really believe he won last night's debate?
Donald Trump was either up early this morning or didnt go to bed at all after his encounter with Kamala. He appeared on Fox News as they were discussing last night's debate performance - and claimed that 'polls' had called him the winner by 80 percent. Does he really believe it went well? Will he be convinced to do another one in October? And whose mind will have been changed by the performance of either candidate.
There was no rowing back from the 'pet eating migrants' line. No softening on his stance on executed babies. But he took the news of Taylor Swift's endorsement of his opponent by predicting she would 'suffer for it in the marketplace'.
For the first time since July 5th all three News Agents are in the studio together to discuss the fall out. And ask what now for Labour after the cuts to winter fuel bill passed with only one rebellious MP.
Editor: Tom Hughes
Producer: Natalie Indge
Digital Editor: Michaela Walters
Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell
Video Production: Rory Symon, Shane Fennelly & Arvind Badewal
Digital Journalists: Michael Baggs & Jacob Paul
Don’t forget you can also subscribe to our other News Agents podcasts via the link below:
https://linktr.ee/thenewsagents
You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"
The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/
Kamala Harris wins the debate - and a Taylor Swift endorsement - The News Agents - USA
The Presidential debate on Tuesday night was everything that team Harris were praying it would be. Trap after trap laid for Donald Trump which he appeared to walk into.
His areas of strength - the economy and immigration - didn’t really get off the ground. She baited him on his rallies and his racism. And he got very cross.
Moments after the debate ended the Democratic nominee won the support of arguably the most powerful woman alive - Taylor Swift. How will this shift the electoral race?
Editor: Tom Hughes
Producer: Rory Symon
Digital Editor: Michaela Walters
Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell
Video Production: Rory Symon & Shane Fennelly
You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"
The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/
You can also buy your very own News Agents merch at the link below...
Why are people obsessed with the Lucy Letby case?
Health Secretary Wes Streeting has told Lewis that the wishes of the parents of the babies murdered by Lucy Letby must be respected.
And yet - as the inquiry into the hospital culture surrounding those deaths opens in London today, we ask why so many people are refusing to believe the verdict delivered by a jury after a ten month trial.
Have we become too distrustful of our institutions? Or is it endemic to this particular case and context? Journalist David Aaronovitch joins us to discuss the growing internet conspiracies.
Later, the French rape trial that has confounded public opinion - the husband who admitted to drugging his own wife over the course of a decade to invite men to rape her.
Editor: Tom Hughes
Producer: Natalie Indge
Digital Editor: Michaela Walters
Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell
Video Production: Rory Symon, Shane Fennelly & Arvind Badewal
Digital Journalists: Michael Baggs & Jacob Paul
You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"
The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/
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Gaza protests: The new split in British politics?
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Will Labour unity break over Israel-Hamas?
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Evening Briefing Friday 6th October
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Rutherglen by-election: Labour’s key to unlock Scotland?
Yet another by-election could provide a key opportunity for Anas Sarwar’s Scottish Labour to regain lost seats in Scotland.
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