The unpredictable nature of politics: The Tory government's motivations remain uncertain, with some suggesting a lesser defeat or chaos for Labour, while others propose both.
Learning from this discussion on the Newsagents podcast is the unexpected and unpredictable nature of politics, particularly the Tory government and their motivations. While some believe they aim for a lesser defeat or to usher in chaos for a future Labour government, others suggest they may want both. The uncertainty of voting was emphasized, as seen in the surprise outcome of the May election in 1997. Despite the skepticism and curmudgeonly spirit, the panelists acknowledged the appeal of Christmas and the unknowns it brings, much like the uncertainties in politics.
UK Election Uncertainty: Conservatives Rebuild, Labour Faces Cuts: The UK election landscape is uncertain, with the Conservatives focusing on rebuilding and future positioning, and Labour dealing with potential spending cuts due to previous administration targets.
The current political landscape in the UK is filled with uncertainty and speculation, especially as the election approaches. Both the Conservative and Labour parties are dealing with internal tensions and endgame strategies. For the Conservatives, there's a sense of rebuilding and positioning for the future, with some individuals looking for safe seats or even considering stepping aside for others. For Labour, the spending targets set by the previous administration, as accepted by Rachel Reeves, could lead to chaos for the new Secretary of States in making necessary cuts. Additionally, there's a possibility that the US election may not involve either Trump or Biden due to their advanced ages. Overall, the political scene is filled with uncertainty and potential upheaval.
2024 Presidential Race: Uncertainties and Potential Twists: Despite Biden and Trump being likely contenders, uncertainties such as a dead candidate or legal issues could change the course of the 2024 presidential race, making it complex and uncertain.
The 2024 presidential race is likely to be between Joe Biden and Donald Trump, but many uncertainties and potential events could change the course of the election. One of the interlocutors suggested that one of the candidates, Phantom Jimmy, might be dead, but it's unclear if that's the case. Another possibility raised was that Trump could face legal issues that could prevent him from running, and if Biden were unable to continue, there might be maneuvers to replace Kamala Harris on the Democratic ticket. However, the conventional routes for other candidates to enter the race have closed, making it unlikely that anyone other than Biden or Trump will be the nominees. The discussion also touched upon the political situation in the UK, with a question about the possibility of Boris Johnson being appointed prime minister without being elected. Overall, the conversation underscored the complexity and uncertainty of political races and the potential for unexpected twists and turns.
Boris Johnson's Political Future Uncertain: Boris Johnson's past roles don't dictate future prospects, he could be a contender for roles like foreign secretary or leader of opposition
Boris Johnson's past political roles do not necessarily determine his future prospects. Although he was not able to become prime minister directly from the House of Lords, there is speculation that he could be appointed as a foreign secretary or even the leader of the opposition by a Conservative Party colleague, should the opportunity arise. Johnson's political skills and media presence make him a potential contender for these roles, despite the challenges and potential backlash that come with them. Ultimately, Boris Johnson's political future remains uncertain, but his ability to adapt and seize opportunities has been evident throughout his career.
Nigel Farage's Influence on Conservative Party: Despite stepping down from politics, Nigel Farage continues to impact the Conservative Party through media presence and celebrity status, raising doubts about their ability to renew themselves.
Nigel Farage continues to influence the Conservative Party from the sidelines, using his celebrity status and media presence to provoke ideas and potentially return to politics. William Hague's tenure as opposition leader and potential future roles for Farage were discussed, with doubts raised about the Tory party's ability to renew itself if they're still talking about Boris Johnson and Farage in five years. Farage's current position allows him power without responsibility, and his influence is debated among Conservatives, highlighting the party's struggles to move forward.
Discussing Travel Plans: The group discussed their travel plans for the upcoming year, including a ski trip to Chatel, Switzerland for John, and a holiday trip to Australia for Emily and her family. They also joked about John's new show, 'The Travel Agent,' and made plans for a Christmas Day swim.
Despite some playful banter and joking around, the group is discussing their travel plans for the upcoming year. John is planning a ski trip to Chatel, Switzerland, while Emily and her family will be in Australia for the holidays. The conversation also touched upon John's potential new show, "The Travel Agent," and some light-hearted teasing ensued. Additionally, they discussed their Christmas Day plans, with John mentioning a possible Christmas day swim. Overall, the conversation was filled with good-natured humor and planning for future travels.
Oslo family's unique Christmas traditions: Oslo family's Christmas Eve includes tree gathering, dance, and naked swim. Politics discussion touches on Labour Party's removal of Jeremy Corbyn and the need to adapt to changing political landscapes.
The Christmas traditions of some families, like John's in-laws in Oslo, can be quite unusual and different from what people might be used to. John shared that his family has a unique way of celebrating Christmas, which includes a Christmas Eve tree gathering and dance, and even a naked swim. However, John also mentioned that despite the quirks, family visits aren't considered holidays, but rather an opportunity to connect with loved ones. Moving on to politics, the conversation touched on the removal of Jeremy Corbyn from the Labour Party and the impact of his policies on young people. While some believe that Labour made a mistake by abandoning Corbyn's ideological purity, others argue that the center of gravity of British politics is more to the center-right, and that winning an election requires appealing to a broader base of voters. Ultimately, the discussion highlighted the importance of understanding and adapting to changing political landscapes.
Labour's focus on winning back 'lost red wall' voters: Labour's strategy to win back traditional voters and seats, rather than pushing Corbyn-style policies, is paying off due to Conservative Party instability. However, they should still engage in their own campaign and not solely rely on Tory missteps.
Keir Starmer's Labour Party strategy has been focused on winning back "lost red wall" voters and seats, rather than implementing Corbyn-esque policies, due to electability concerns. This decision has paid off so far, as the Conservative Party has faced internal turmoil and instability. The Labour Party may not even need to campaign actively to win the upcoming election, as the Conservative Party's weaknesses could carry them to victory. However, it would be a mistake for Labour to solely rely on the Tories' missteps and not engage in their own campaign. Additionally, there is no indication that Keir Starmer will challenge the monarchy or other British institutions under King Charles III.
Political role of the British monarchy: The monarchy continues to influence diplomacy and repair relationships with European neighbors, but reforms to the House of Lords, including appointments and resignation honors, remain contentious and unlikely.
The constitutional monarchy, personified by the British monarch, continues to play a significant political role, particularly in diplomacy and repairing relationships with European neighbors. However, reforms to the House of Lords, including appointments and the resignation honors list, remain contentious and unlikely to occur due to political and financial considerations. Despite the entertainment value some find in the monarchy, the underlying political implications should not be overlooked. The recent lack of representation of certain political figures in popular media, such as The Crown, also highlights the importance of recognizing the political role of the monarchy and the potential for reforms to address corruption and imbalance in the legislative body.
Politics in the UK vs US: Honor System vs Transactional: UK politics relies on honor system, US is transactional; upcoming live show hinted but no definite date given; merchandise suggested as alternative to touring in 2024
Politics in certain systems, unlike in the US, can't be transactional and instead relies heavily on the honor system. This was evident in the conversation about campaign contributions and the rewards given to donors. Additionally, there was a hint of an upcoming live show on the podcast, but no definitive answer was given as to when it would take place. The hosts jokingly suggested buying merchandise like hoodies or badges as an alternative. Despite the uncertainty, they expressed their hope that they would go on tour at some point in 2024. Overall, the conversation highlighted the unique quirks and nuances of politics in the UK.
Christmas Q&A Special!
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/
Related Episodes
Big Announcement + Scottish Labour... with Jim Murphy
We have a massive announcement for you.
Plus, we preview Scottish Labour Party conference. We're joined by Jim Murphy, former leader of the Scottish Labour Party, who discusses his work advising candidates in elections around the world and navigating political risk. He also addresses the issue of antisemitism in British and Scottish politics and the recent suspension of Labour Party parliamentary candidates. The conversation touches on the relationship between Anas Sarwar and Keir Starmer, the impact of Labour Party policies on the oil and gas industry, and the importance of energy security and global security. Finally, Murphy reflects on the 25th anniversary of the Scottish Parliament and the need for improvement in addressing generational disadvantage.
In association with the Royal Bank of Scotland.
Click holyroodsources.com/live
For a full list of candidates in the Rochdale by-election, click here:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-manchester-68250468
Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/holyroodsources.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
SQUAWK BOX, THURSDAY 7TH NOVEMBER, 2019
The global rally cools as CNBC learns the signing of the first phase of the trade deal between the U.S. and China may now be pushed back to December, with the terms and location still to be decided. The Bank of England is expected to keep rates on hold as the U.K. December election campaigns lurch into gear. Prime Minister Boris Johnson launches the Conservative offensive amid ministerial resignations and senior party member gaffes. In corporate news, Tiffany is reportedly urging LVMH to increase its bid, saying the $14.5bn offer seriously undervalues the luxury group. We also have a glut of German corporate earnings today, including Siemens, ProSiebenSat.1 and Munich Re.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Rutherglen & Hamilton West By-Election
Calum, Geoff and Andy discuss the aftermath of Labour's emphatic victory in the Rutherglen and Hamilton West by-election and what it means for the SNP, for Labour and for the Conservatives.
Email us your analysis: hello@holyroodsources.com
Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/holyroodsources.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Gaza protests: The new split in British politics?
Suella Braverman has accused the Metropolitan Police of “playing favourites” with protesters as she clashed with Britain’s most senior officer over his decision to give the go-ahead to Saturday’s pro-Palestinian march. Her comments come after the government spent much of the past week on a collision course with protesters and the police over the protests planned for Saturday – Armistice Day – which Rishi Sunak confirmed last night would go ahead.
Meanwhile, a Labour frontbencher has resigned over his party’s position on a ceasefire. So, a month into the Israel-Gaza war, we explore how the conflict in the Middle East is exposing divisions in the UK.
This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: thetimes.co.uk/storiesofourtimes.
Guest: Trevor Phillips, columnist, The Times.
Host: Manveen Rana.
Get in touch: storiesofourtimes@thetimes.co.uk
Clips: Times Radio, Sky News, Chatham House, GB News, BBC Newsnight, Global, LBC, AFP.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Afternoon Briefing Thursday 23rd March
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.